7 In Family/ Marriage/ My Journey

The Story of Us – Our engagement story

It was Father’s Day 2001.

My step-mom Deb was so excited to get to the lake that afternoon.

“We are surprising your dad with a sailboat for Father’s Day!” she said.

My dad loves to sail and I was excited to see his reaction to this Father’s day gift.

We piled in the car and headed to Grand Lake after lunch.

As we were walking down the pier, my step-mom smiled and said, “There’s the boat!”

I was confused. It wasn’t a sailboat. It was a large white boat with a banner across the side that read:

Kathryn, will you marry me?

Love forever, Ted

I stood there in shock. Reading it. Re-reading it. Looking around at the smiling faces of my family, then reading it again.

Finally, I see Ted walk out of the boat, step onto the pier, and get on his knee in front of me. He opened a little black box, revealing the prettiest diamond ring I’d ever seen, and asked the question every girl waits to hear …

“Kathryn, will you marry me?”

I covered my mouth with both hands in shock. No one had prepared me or warned me. Was this really happening?

And why hadn’t someone suggested I do my hair or wear a cute outfit on what would be one of the most memorable days of my life.

Ted asked again,

“Kathryn, will you marry me?”

I was speechless. I honestly couldn’t get words to come out of my mouth so I shook my head up and down – the only “YES” I could communicate in that moment.

He gently pulled my hand away from my face, put a ring on my finger and hugged me tightly.

My family cheered. Ted’s family and some of our friends came out of hiding and cheered.

There was no boat for Dad. (Sorry Dad!) This Father’s day he sacrificed HIS day for ME – to throw me off course and to be a part of an engagement surprise and celebration.

After hugs all around and a few pictures, our families left and Ted and I got to spend the day on the lake. He had rented the boat. So with the “Kathryn will you marry me?” banner still attached, we sailed off into the sunset…and celebrated one of our happiest days yet!

Click here to read the story of our wedding day!

Click here to read the story of how we met!

June 16, 2018 By Kathryn

0 In Colorado/ Family/ Joy/ My Journey/ Peek into our Week/ Things to do in Colorado/ Traveling

Learning not to DREAD another trip around the sun

Another year has come and gone. (They just keep coming faster and faster!)

42 trips around the sun.

I don’t love getting older. I’m trying to learn how to embrace it and even enjoy it. I do enjoy life in general; I just don’t like the idea of getting older. I used to get so excited about my birthday and would count the days until I turned 10, 15, 20, 25…

Now, I wish it wouldn’t come so fast. I don’t like the new wrinkles I see; I don’t like that my metabolism isn’t working as fast. I don’t like saying that I’m in my 40s.

I’m sure if you’re older than me, you’re rolling your eyes over my complaints. And if you are in your twenties, you may be wondering if the arthritis has set in. (No, it has not, thank you)

Though I dread getting another year older, I’m incredibly grateful to have another year of life, of health, and memories. Another year of marriage and motherhood. A year to grow wiser and kinder.

Though I may not get excited about turning another year OLDER, it is always fun to celebrate and be celebrated.

This year I got to spend my birthday in Vail, CO.

My husband’s cousin invited us to rent a condo with them in this beautiful mountain town. It was a perfect weekend! It was fun getting to explore with people who know this town so well – where to eat, where to play, and what to do/when to do it! All of us had a GREAT time!

The last time Luke played on this playground, he was ONE, now he’s FOUR. How does time pass so quickly?

George loved the water features around town!

I went to the Starbucks in Vail and ordered a super fancy birthday drink. Because I’m a Gold Card Member, I get a drink for free on my birthday. Because I knew it would be free, I ordered a super fancy, LARGE coffee. Everything costs more in Vail, so when the Barista rang me up and told me my coffee would be almost $10, I didn’t care – I would redeem my FREE BIRTHDAY DRINK. I showed her my Gold Card and she said, “Oh, we don’t accept those here.” So…not only did I not get a free drink…I had to dish out almost $10 for COFFEE on my birthday!!!! From now on, I will ASK before I ORDER!!!

Birthday #43 was even more unique than 42. I decided to make it about giving, instead of receiving. Click here to read about it.

Please subscribe so you don’t miss a post!

June 11, 2018 By Kathryn

6 In Memories/ Motherhood/ My Journey

To My Mom … who Survived Parenthood without Amazon, Pinterest OR Google!

When I was a young girl, my mom got to play the role she always wanted – that of a full-time mother.

She had 5 daughters and loved us well. She prayed for us and with us. She sang to us and with us. She only played uplifting music in our home (and in the station wagon).

She had a garden and made our food from scratch, but I didn’t appreciate this at all. I’d cry on “meatloaf” night. I preferred McDonald’s or Taco Bell over her homemade food. Now that I’m an adult, I’d pick a home cooked meal at mom’s over any restaurant!

She didn’t have “Pinterest” – but made birthdays special for us. I do use Pinterest, but still can’t seem to make my cakes as pretty and tasty as hers!

She taught us how to eat healthily and exercise. (Thank you Jane Fonda!)

There was no internet, so nothing could be ordered online. Instead, she took all five of us with her to do all the errands and shopping on a weekly basis. She taught us how to make a little money go far. We went to garage sales together and always used coupons.

She made our clothes (with fabric and a sewing machine!) and did our hair.

She took us to the library and allowed us to check out lots of books – even though that meant keeping track of all those books for all those girls! (I LOVE books!)

Mother’s Days as a single mom passed without much celebration or appreciation for the hard work she did all day, every day. She continued to love us, care for us, and provide for us. The investment she made in us, and prayers she prayed for us, have resulted in five daughters that love her, love God, and love others.

I pray that my four sons will grow into men who do the same – love their family, love God, and love others!

Mom, I’m not sure how much I said “thank you” growing up…or if I showed you any appreciation for all that you did for me when I was young. However, now that I am a mother, I’m so incredibly grateful for the incalculable investment you made in my life (and continue to make) – and for teaching me how to be a mom!

May 12, 2018 By Kathryn

8 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Family/ Food/ Free stuff/ Memories/ Motherhood/ My Journey/ Peek into our Week/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Colorado

Peek into my week with Mom! (And my traumatic pedicure)

It’s always a good week when Mom’s in town. She only comes to Colorado once a year, so we make the most of our time together when she’s here.

She flew in Tuesday night, and the first thing she got to do was babysit my kids!

WEDNESDAY

I work on Wednesdays and thankfully, she loves to spend time with her grandkids.

That night we went to New Life for the First Wednesday service. It was an incredible night of worship. We went with all four boys – thankfully it’s a relaxed family service, so they got to dance around with their friends. If you live in Colorado Springs, you’ve got to come! It’s the First Wednesday of each month at 6:30 PM.

THURSDAY

Thursday morning Luke had preschool, so mom and I got to go our Mom’s group/Bible study. Up until now, my mom has only participated with the group online, so I loved getting to introduce her to so many of the ladies in person!

Thursday afternoon my mom kindly offered to pay for a pedicure while she watched the kids. (I’ve got a good mom!)

George decorating cookies with Grandma

I went to a salon close by that I’d never been to before. My pedicure was a little uncomfortable … at one point I felt a sharp stab in the corner of my toe. By that night, my toe was swollen.

FRIDAY

Friday my toe was still hurting but I got through the day by wearing comfy shoes. At church that night we baptized about 30 people. I love being a part of those special nights. Two of my sons were baptized a few months ago (I wrote about it here).

All the people getting baptized Friday night came up on the stage for prayer.

SATURDAY

We to the Pioneer Museum and then to LarkBurger for dinner. My mom agreed that their chicken sandwiches and fries are some of the best things she’s ever eaten!

That night, Ted stayed home with the boys and my mom and I went to see The Apostle Paul movie. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it was a GREAT movie…I recommend you see it! It truly brings the Bible to life and I hope more movies like this are made! There are some frightening parts, so it’s probably best for children 12 and up.

Pioneer Museum

Paul playing at the Pioneer Museum

SUNDAY

We explored Helen Hunt Falls and Cheyenne canyon, then went to Modern Market for dinner. (Kids eat FREE at Modern Market on Sundays!)

Helen Hunt Falls

Toe is still sore – wearing comfy shoes and limping.

MONDAY

The boys took the day off school to spend time with Grandma. We planned to visit Cave of the Winds, but Luke was up sick the night before, my mom wasn’t feeling good, and my foot was only getting worse, so we decided to stay closer to home and hike in the Garden of the Gods. That’s always an amazing place to visit.

Mom and Luke resting

That afternoon I decided to go back to the nail salon to show them my swelling toe and they told me it was an ingrown toe nail. They soaked it and then DUG at it with a knife. This is the toe that I didn’t want to touch because it was hurting so bad. The lady DUG at it with a knife. And she wouldn’t stop. She kept digging until she got a piece of my toenail free. It hurt so bad I just start crying right there in front of everyone. She squeezed it at the end and asked if it was better. “NO! You just dug at it with a knife – please stop SQUEEZING it!”

TUESDAY

Luke had preschool so mom, and I got to be Tourists in our Town. I got to show her all around town and drop copies of “Climb, Soar, Swim, Soar” off at Terra Verde and the Pioneer Museum who now have them available for sale! I’ll write about where we ate and what we did in a future post.

Mom and me time!

That night mom watched the boys so Ted and I could go to dinner.

WEDNESDAY

I had to take my mom to the airport. It’s so hard letting her leave because I’m not sure when I’ll see her again. Mom, I love you and visit again soon! Thank you for spending the week with us!

TOE UPDATE:

My toe continued to get worse. I should have gone to the doctor rather than back to the scene of the crime. The lady who was digging at my foot caused a serious infection. My entire foot got so swollen that I couldn’t wear shoes. It hurt to walk. I was putting everything on it to make it heal, but nothing worked so I finally went to the doctor and got antibiotics. The doctor said I could lose my toenail. What was supposed to be a nice, relaxing gesture from my mom – turned into two weeks of severe pain and possibly the loss of my toenail?! I’m not sure I’ll ever get another pedicure!? Have any of you ever had that happen? I have pictures, but they are really gross. If you want to see a picture – I am going to post some under my review of this nail salon here: YELP REVIEW. https://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=GrsJ5Nir8YjXaNN91ZzTUg

Thanks for following along on week with mom! I’ll post out our DAY DOWNTOWN soon! Subscribe so you don’t miss a post.

April 21, 2018 By Kathryn

5 In Colorado Springs/ Family/ Making money/ Motherhood/ My Journey/ Product Recommendations/ Review

Stitch Fix vs Sister Fix Disclaimer: Sister is HORRIFIED

Two of my friends were wearing the cutest outfits recently and I asked where they shopped. “Stitch Fix!” They both responded.

I decided to check this thing out.

I have four boys and shopping for clothes is not an easy or enjoyable thing for me – Stitch Fix is what I needed. No shopping required!

I got my first box of clothes and it felt like Christmas. I posted about it here.

A few months later I asked my sister if she would shop for me. I wanted to know how a “sister fix” would compare to a “stitch fix.” My sister enjoys shopping, knows my style, and I like that she knows how to find a bargain. She agreed to do it.

Below are my “Sister Fix” outfits that cost about the same as a box from Stitch Fix.

SISTER FIX PROS:

Sister buys things on sale – I get more for my money.
She knows my style.
She shopped, took pictures of outfits and mailed everything to me.
I loved nearly everything she purchased. I couple of items did not fit or didn’t look as good on me as they did on the hanger.

STITCH FIX PROS:

They ask lots of questions to understand your style.
They mail everything to you.
I spend NO time shopping or returning items.
I can try things on right in my own home and pair them with things I already own.
The box is fun to receive – it’s like Christmas morning.
They include a picture/style card of exactly how to wear each item.
They include an envelope to ship anything you want back at no additional cost.
If you refer people, you earn money towards free clothes!
$15 dollar credit towards your first FIX: http://stitchfix.com/referral/14898853 if you use that code to save yourself money and try Stitch Fix, I’ll earn money too!

SISTER FIX CONS:

Sister spent a lot of time picking out clothes for me – not convenient for her.
She took pictures, boxed and shipped everything – more of her time.
I had to go and return everything I didn’t like – my time doing stuff I don’t enjoy.
She sent me pictures of how to ‘style’ the items she sent, but I accidentally deleted it before the clothes arrived. (She resent them later!)

STITCH FIX CONS:

Items can be pricier than what I’d normally spend. I’m a TJ Maxx, Target and thrift store shopper!
I’ve heard it takes 2-3 shipments before they really start to understand what you want and like.
I only kept 1 item from my first “fix” – because I didn’t love the other items, and they were more than what I wanted to spend

Have you tried Stitch Fix yet? If you’d like to try it, click here for $15 off your first fix!

Below is the video of me trying everything on.

DISCLAIMER: My sister was partially horrified and partially cracking up when she watched this video below. She does not want her name attached to it!

She said I did NOT follow her advice in how to WeAR/Style the items she sent! We LAUGHED together about this – we are so different. She is a perfectionist when it comes to STYLE, and I did not LAYER and STYLE the items correctly. Sorry Sis! I need you to come and “style” me … I guess sending me clothes is not the answer – you actually need to come to Colorado and show me HOW to wear my clothes!

Anyway … the pictures above show the styling, the video shows the individual pieces and the fit!

Leave me a comment and let me know what you think! What should I keep? What should I never wear again!

April 17, 2018 By Kathryn

7 In Faith/ Family/ My Journey

GOOD NEWS!!!

Everybody expected Jesus to do what dead people usually do – stay dead. For what they intended as the end, was actually just the beginning. – Andy Stanley

Deb and Kathryn – December 2017

Today I’ve invited my step-mom Deb Freeman to write a guest post. I’m grateful for her love for me and her love for Jesus! Being a step-mom is not easy, but she’s done a wonderful job of teaching, encouraging, and being there for me and my siblings. I think it’s her relationship with Jesus that’s given her the strength and wisdom she’s needed to be a mom of EIGHT – three of her own, plus FIVE step-daugthers. This is her first guest post but definitely not her last!

______________________________________________________________________________________________

The Good News of Easter continues for all who have simply asked Jesus to be their Savior.

In the fall of 1980, my world started to spin out of control. Actually … it started to do that many years before, but now, it had reached break-away velocity, and a major UNRAVEL was taking place. I desperately needed help for a world I could no longer understand. I had come to the end of myself. I was 22, tired and exasperated. I NEEDED – HAD to have HELP to make it through the next day.

No matter how you would describe your story right now, there’s good news. Your story is not over. It’s not too late to change the story you’ll tell in the future. – Craig Groeschel

In all of the church services I had been in, all of the ruffly Easter dresses with red patent leather shoes I put on. All of the Vacation Bible school perfect attendance certificates I’d received and tucked into my desk; and all of the crafts about Jesus I had made ~~ no one had ever asked me if I wanted to ask Jesus into my heart. In an attempt to ease the pain, I even tried to read the Bible. Ohhhhh my goodness ~~~ DRY and BORING…like crispy dry & cardboard boring! Three minutes of reading, turned into a great NAP.

While attending a little church in North Webster, Indiana, on Sunday, November 9th, 1980 ~ Someone finally asked. The pastor wanted anyone interested in a New Life, Peace of Mind, Salvation in Jesus, to walk forward to the altar for prayer. Well, I wanted to, so very badly, but I was petrified. I couldn’t budge from where I sat. I can still see it in my mind ~~ the altar down at the front of the church looked like it was ten miles away, and I just knew that if I walked that distance, EVERYONE in that church would know just how creepy I was. How dirty I felt. What a loser I was, every failure I had in my life…. and …. I couldn’t do it. I was frozen in fear. So I stayed in my seat.

The end.

No, not really.

Two days later that little church sent some people to my home to pray with me. A simple PRAYER changed my life. The same Bible I used to think was DRY and BORING, would now cause me to stay up ALL NIGHT reading!! Goodness, Jesus changed Me!!

That simple prayer sent me on a GREAT adventure! I’m still on it.

So. How was Church this morning? Did someone ask you if you wanted to receive Jesus into your heart? ~~ Do you? Too scared? I get it. But listen to me, the ADVENTURE is TOO GREAT, the peace is magnificent and I don’t want you to miss it !! I mean…….wayyyyy too great …
Send a message if you want more info!
Hugs, Deb

God is not in love with some future version of you. It’s not you tomorrow that He loves and delights in. It’s not you when you get your act together….If you believe that Christ’s love for you is a future love for you, then you dismiss the cross of Christ. – Matt Chandler

Deb and a few of her grandchildren

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Hey friends, it’s Kathryn again! I wanted to share this post because, just like Deb, my life has been positively impacted by having a relationship with God, my Creator!

He is my Father, Friend, Wisdom, Peace, and Hope.

If those words describe something you WANT, then tell God you want to KNOW HIM! You can have a personal relationship with Him that will fill you will unspeakable JOY and PEACE in the midst of whatever you are facing.

Send me a message so I can encourage you.

March 31, 2018 By Kathryn

5 In Faith/ Family/ Motherhood/ My Journey

My BAD habit…and why Mary and Martha really BUG me!

I have a hard time being “still.” My mind is always thinking and my hands are always moving. There’s always more work to be done than there is the time in the day. I have a job that I love where people depend on me. At home, the laundry and dishes are never done. There are always crumbs on the floor and hungry boys to feed. I have a really hard time sitting and being still.

This is why the story of Mary and Martha has always bugged me (Luke 10:38:42). If you aren’t familiar with the story, Jesus comes to the home of Mary and Martha. Martha is the one doing all the work and Mary is just sitting by Jesus. Martha asks Jesus to tell Mary to help her. Jesus tells Martha that MARY has chosen what is BETTER!!!!

I read this and thought, “What?! Doesn’t Jesus understand? Why did he say that Mary was making the better choice? Mary was just SITTING down! Not doing anything productive. She was just sitting at Jesus’ feet.”

I want to say, “Jesus, that’s not fair! You wouldn’t have LUNCH if it weren’t for Martha. The house wouldn’t be clean and presentable if it weren’t for Martha. How could a person just SIT in this situation? Tell Mary to get up and HELP!!”

However, I’m beginning to understand why Jesus said Mary made the better choice. She chose relationships over tasks. She chose people over projects.

I went from being irritated by this story to being so grateful that I follow a Jesus who invites us to rest. To sit. To listen. Jesus doesn’t need us to do anything for him. He just wants a relationship with us. Martha was doing so much, working so hard – for Him! Yet Jesus said that Mary chose what was better. Mary was sitting at his feet, listening. Growing in her relationship with Him.

That story would always sting because I’m Martha. I choose to get work done when I could be connecting with my kids. My husband comes home from a long day at work and I continue to stay focused on a task (or hand him a list of things to do) rather than just stopping to connect, to make eye contact and ask about his day.

Ouch. Sorry Ted.

I’m learning that it’s good to be still. It’s okay that the house stays messy so I can invest in my kids. The dishes and laundry will eventually get done (or not?), but people are the only things that are eternal. My children need me to be present and engaged. My husband needs my heart and attention. Jesus wants me to ‘sit at his feet’ so that He can refresh my soul.

Mary chose what was better because she chose to stop, listen, and get to know Jesus.

Today I’m choosing to be more like Mary. I will STOP what I’m doing, look my husband and children in the eyes…LISTEN to them and TALK with them. That is the better choice.

Today I choose RELATIONSHIPS and CONNECTION over tasks.

I choose PEOPLE over projects.

Have you found yourself trying to just “get stuff done”? What have you found that helps you overcome this and just “BE STILL?”

February 28, 2018 By Kathryn

2 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Family/ Motherhood/ My Journey/ Raising boys

A Peek into our Week(end)

Today the weather is COLD, but we had a BEAUTIFUL weekend in Colorado Springs!

Saturday we went exploring in Garden of the Gods. Paul found a large hole and decided that, “a bear must live there…but he’s out hiking right now.” (Watch out for the hiking bear!)

Thankfully, we never found the hiking bear, but we did find a herd of Big Horn Sheep!

A purchaser from Garden of the Gods trading post asked me to drop off a copy of my book so that she could review it to consider selling in their store! We dropped it off and then went to our favorite spot to take in the view. George watched his VERY first sunset and was SO excited! He said, “Did you see that? The sun just dropped behind the mountain, that was SOOO cool!” I love experiencing things through my kids eyes!

At home, Clark built his own Bear Cave:

Sunday we went to the Cottonwood Creek Rec Center – it’s part of the YMCA, so as members of the Y, we get to use this awesome facility. It’s almost as nice as Great Wolf Lodge!

That afternoon lots of the neighborhood kids played in our cul-de-sac while the parents gathered to catch up and chat.

Monday the kids were out of school for President’s day so we met some friends and played at Monkey Bizness. Afterwards we came home and made some cookies. While Luke napped, George and I edited a video for their YouTube Channel – Free Range Eglys.

What did you do over the weekend!? Leave me a comment!

February 22, 2018 By Kathryn

5 In Joy/ My Journey

Comparison is a thief of Joy – Teddy Roosevelt

Do you struggle with comparison? I do.

I see one lady who is incredibly fit and wish I had her body.

I see another lady who always dresses so cute and wish I had her clothes.

Another friend has the PERFECT house and I wish mine looked like that.

I read blogs and books and wish I could write as good as those writers.

I hear someone speak well and wish I was articulate as them.

But all of these comparisons leave me feeling like I’m not good enough and don’t have enough.

Comparison is a thief – it’s stealing my joy one thought at a time.

How do I conquer this? I stop myself from thinking about what I don’t have and begin to focus on all that I DO have.

I may not be as fit and strong as some ladies I know but I am healthy.

I don’t have the the world’s best wardrobe but I do have so have some incredibly cute things that I’ve found at the thrift store.

I don’t have a picture perfect home but the home we have is very nice and filled with love and happiness.

I’m not the world’s best writer but I keep writing and I’m getting better.

When I change my thoughts from what I don’t have to what I DO have…my heart fills with gratitude. When I focus on what is going well and the gifts God has given me, I begin to experience peace and JOY.

When you are looking at those posts on social media and beginning to compare your life to theirs – stop and remember your blessings. Put down the phone and pick up a good book. Call a friend for encouragement. Ask God to show you what He has put inside YOU – then develop and use those gifts! The more you use YOUR gifts, the stronger they become.

I’m grateful that this world is made up of individuals with such diverse talents who each make the world better with their gifts and contributions. Some of you are using your talent for design and making this world more beautiful – one space at a time. Others are speakers, spreading encouragement and hope, one message at a time. Some are photographers – capturing those beautiful moments one snapshot at a time. Some of you are moms – investing in young lives, one hour at a time.

We each have blessing, gifts, and talents and those are for us to enjoy and to share with others!

“A FLOWER DOES NOT THINK OF COMPETING WITH THE FLOWER NEXT TO IT. IT JUST BLOOMS.” – ZEN SHIN

“For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.”
‭‭II Corinthians‬ ‭10:12‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

If you know your gift – leave a comment and share it with me! If you aren’t sure, take some time to ask God and others to help you discover it!

February 19, 2018 By Kathryn

2 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Family/ My Journey/ Raising boys

A Peek into our Week

Saturday was a day we were going all different directions! I went to a friend’s baby shower in the morning, then took the 3 big boys to a birthday party at SkyZone. Luke and I ran errands while they were at the party. That evening I spent some time with my Help Club friends, celebrating their birthdays. We had a great dinner then made Bath Bombs together.

Can I give you moms a tip? If your kids fight you on bath time – introduce them to The Bath Bomb. All the sudden, bath time becomes the best time!

Sunday we went to church where Pastor Brady taught on Psalm 23. After church I made some snacks for the Super Bowl game. We set up a table in the living room (Clark’s request – he wanted to eat and not miss a second of the game). I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the game! I can’t believe that the Eagles beat the Patriots.

Monday the boys went to school and Luke and I went to the store, then I let him play and eat at ChickFila. That evening we did homework and the boys played outside. The weather here has felt like spring and I love it!

Luke Loves Chick Fil A – especially their ice cream.

Unfortunately, Monday night we lost a great man named Micah Flick. Micah is local police detective, a father, and husband and was shot while serving our city. He, his wife and two children attended New Life and are a precious family. I am heart broken for them. However, I have been astounded by how our community is gathering around them with love and support. One of our moms from church has created a spread sheet for Micah’s wife with information on every person who has expressed an interested in supporting her long term! The sheet includes our names, numbers and how we will help. Our church and the local police force are setting aside money for the family as well. These are the times when I see how important it is to be a part of a community.

Tuesday I stopped by the Garden of The Gods Trading Post (the largest and oldest gift shop in Colorado) to talk to them about carrying my book. Unfortunately, the person I needed to speak to was not there. I got her info and emailed her and she said she does want to get a copy of the book to review for the store! After that, I drove over to New Life to get some work done until Luke was done with preschool.

Tuesday evening I took George to Cotillion where he’s learning manners, etiquette, and ballroom dancing. I love watching these young men and women learn to be leaders!

Wednesday I worked for part of the day, then picked the boys up from school. One of our favorite restaurants, Larkburger, was having a customer appreciation day. If you wore green, you got a free side item with your sandwich. We went during happy hour (3-5pm every day) – so the sandwiches are only $3! Then we got some incredible Truffle Fries and Edamame for free!! My friend Leah and her children met us there. We posted pictures on instagram with #LarkBurgerLove because they will choose one of the posts and give that person free food for a year! With four sons – I can use all the free food I can get.

After dinner, I dropped the kids and some food off for Ted, and went back to New Life for “First Wednesday.” It’s a monthly night of worship (and a few words from one of our pastors). It was extra special this week as we mourned the loss of Micah and worshiped God in spite of the pain.

Thursday, George and I both woke up not feeling that well. We took some Tylenol and I felt completely better and it helped George a little. In fourth grade, they do most of their work on iPads and computers and he knows that being on electronics make his head feel worse, so I let him stay home and hang out with me. We took Luke to preschool and took copies of “Climb, Soar, Swim, Explore!” to the first store in town that asked to carry my books! Why Not Books? is a cute bookstore that specializes in used books and new books by local authors! George and I found a couple books to buy and left some to sell!!

Next, went to Safeway and George was so excited that the “monopoly” game is back. With every purchase you make at Safeway, you get little prize tickets. George is SURE that we are going to win a million dollars. (I like his positivity!) He’s also decided that we are going to divide it equally between the six of us since he’s the one taking care of the tickets. Clark is hoping we will win a sports car. I’m wishing for a family vacation (but I’d happily take a million dollars)!

That evening we tried out Prime Jui Juitsu. George, Clark and Paul all got to participate in a class together. They loved it. I loved it! Not only do they teach self-defense, but they work with them on respect, team work, and your attitude. The teachers were incredible and if it weren’t so dang expensive, I would have signed them up that night! (However, if we win that million…)

Friday Luke and I stayed home and cleaned. Ugh, I hate cleaning. I mean, I LOVE a CLEAN house, but don’t like that it’s a NEVER-ENDING JOB! Thankfully, a sweet girl named Idera came and helped me to earn money for an upcoming missions trip she’s taking.

That afternoon we went to Clark’s school to watch his 2nd grade performance.

George and his friends, waiting at school for Clark’s performance

Friday night I trained several new volunteers for New Life and then heard Andrew preach on Psalm 22 – a great message on mourning. So timely for this difficult week.

Saturday was Deputy Micah Flick’s funeral at New LIfe Church. I was overwhelmed to tears with the number of Police Officers that came to show their love and respect for him (thousands!). The staff at New Life set up every room in the church with breakfast, snacks, lunch, pastries and hot coffee for all of the officers. I had the honor of hosting a room set up for Micah’s team – the men and women who were his partners – who were there on the night he died. Please pray for them as you pray for Micah’s family. They considered Micah a brother and are hurting. The service was powerful and I was so thankful to be a part of such a beautiful day.

Thanks for stopping by! I’d love for YOU to share with me something about your week. You can leave a comment by clicking on that little box beside the title of this post.

February 10, 2018 By Kathryn

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