Chasing Cars...

If you have ever been to our house then you will be familiar with Erin's way of saying goodbye. She likes to "chase" any visitors down the street as they are leaving. I took this the other day as she was returning from a chase. Remember she is only 2 and therefore likes to dress herself. So never mind the pink t-shirt, emma's size 6 tinkerbell undies, red socks, & the hair that just never got brushed this particular day. Totally ghetto I know, but hey she is my little miss independent and she is Happy! Her little ritual reminds me of the McClellan wave.......the McClellans waving goodbye will continue to wave or just hold up their hand till you are no longer in sight - and those in the car also continue waving till no longer in sight - however long that may be! Grandpa Mac & Uncle Bruce are pros at this and it has been a fun little tradition that is now part of our family.
In other new around here, If you haven't heard I am now a crossing guard for the Allen ISD. It is a great little part time job that doesn't take much time away from my family - about 1 1/2 a day. This morning as I was at my corner I got bit by a yappy little dog! Enough to even break a little skin through my jeans. Crazy dog! That wasn't in the job description. I have been scared of getting hit by some car but never attacked by a puppy.
Today is also Seth's Birthday....so we are off to celebrate! I'm sure I'll post more later. I still can't believe I have a 10 year old.

Special Sunday Meeting

This past week we were truly blessed to have been taught by living disciples of Christ. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, we believe that just as there were prophets in the days of old that the Lord has not forsaken us in our day now. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf (the 2nd counselor to President Monson) along with Elder D.Chad Richardson spoke to just the Allen, Tx stake. It was amazing to be present in such an intimate gathering, well there were actually 1400 in the stake center and others joined through broadcast in different buildings. The messages were wonderful! It was a mini General Conference. Elder Richardson focused on the plan our Father in Heaven has for each of us and that none are beyond His reach. He promised that if we do our best Christ will meet us and make up the rest. Grace is a daily gift and He will bless us in every affliction & sickness. We were also addressed by Brother Gerard who is the Dallas Temple Pres. He reminded us that we are not immune to discouragement and to "Cowboy up & Soldier on" - to live by faith not fear as we see the happenings in the world around us! And lastly, President Uctdorf was such a neat and very personal kinda guy! His personality and smile are infectious. He counseled us to remember who we are, to search for truth and to stand up for it! He also went over the importance of the "For the Strength of Youth" guidelines and need to Follow the Standards. He spoke of reaching out to one another & to forgive. He promised us that the Lord is aware of our challenges and that we are in His hands & through prayer the things of concern in our lives will be answered. I know that I personally left with the desire to recommit myself to stand a little taller & do a little more. As he was leaving he blew kisses to all. It was a neat experience not to be forgotten.

A good lookin' Emma & Seth as we waited in line....yes, there was a line! The mtg. started at 10am and we were in line by 8:15. Thankfully, they opened the doors at 8:30 although they only allowed 12 people through every 30 seconds so there was no stampede into the chapel.

Back to School..

We are in our second week of school now and it feels so good to finally get back into a routine. So far, so good! The kids are enjoying their classes. They each have great teachers. Emma was a little bummed that none of her good buddies were in her new 2nd grade class this year, so it has been an adjustment to go outside of her little comfort zone and make new friends. This will be her first year she will be getting grades too! She came home with her first 'homework packet' and has been working very hard each day. Seth began 4th grade this year and is an old pro at this school thing. He is even rotating classes this year. My babies are growing up too fast!!! As for my little Erin, she is loving having the house & mommy all to herself during the day. She keeps busy with playing dress-up, babies, and playdates with friends.