Hey Everyone!

Sorry it’s been a while since I’ve emailed. Life has been busy. We’ve not had any major changes since I last wrote, but everyday life is hopping!

Mitch is still working with his parents at the church. Recently, we’ve been helping out with the youth. (Fun, but challenging, so if anyone has any advice…!) He’s also started working odd jobs at random times with a neighbor who does carpentry. We’re still living with Mitch’s parents– amazingly still going really well– remember the one bathroom! I just got back from a Women of Faith conference in Philadelphia which was fun– 2 days and a night all to myself– Refreshing!

The kids are doing well. Elias just finished his first week of preschool. He goes 9-2 Monday through Thursday. He loves it so far. You can pray for his parents, though! We really struggled with the decision to start him in school 1) because we wondered if it was too much time in school for a 4 year old, and 2) because we have treasured this time where we are intimately involved in every choice he makes and every person he spends time with. We are impressed with the program and his teachers, though, and feel at peace that this is a good step for Elias.

Elias in school has significantly cut down on the amount of time I put into my referee job! I kind of feel lost. I’ve forgotten what I can accomplish with only 2 kids as opposed to 3. I think Loren is enjoying having Mommy more to herself, but I can tell she misses Elias’ energy– she’s always asking to “go” somewhere, and after her nap today she was practically begging me to go wake Elias up so they could play.

Loren is such a sweetie! She loves hugs and kisses. She loves to sing and dance. She likes makeup and jewelry and “pink.” She’s really into imitating “mommy,” especially with her dolls. What fun little girls are!

Aiden has changed ALOT! He’s crawling and walking around furniture. He waves and says “hi.” He calls for “mama” and “dada.” He folds his hands together when we pray. (You just have to say the word “pray,” and he claps them together.) When he gets a phone, he holds it up to his ear. He covers his face when we say “where’s Aiden?” and then takes his hands off for “peek-a-boo.” He loves to play ball. (He’s got quite an arm!) He still smiles at everyone and everything. I just took him to the Dr. yesterday, and he weighed 24 lbs (the 95th percentile).

Alright, that’s enough about us. I’d love to hear updates from you guys. I still miss everyone and still think of you often even if I don’t do a good job of communicating.

Love,

Mary Ellen