Bummer!

We have been SO enjoying the Spring weather this month. It came unusually early, and was SO wonderful~ 60 degree days and SUNSHINE! Anyway, the sad weather predictions came true this morning and the weather that two days ago at Katie's soccer practice looked like this...

became this.

As the saying goes, "This IS Michigan, you know." ( I don't know if that is really a saying, but it seems that I hear that a lot!) As you can see I couldn't resist putting out my new red patio chair cushions. Might have to pull those inside again soon.

Life Continues...

So now we are in the mode of life after oral comps. We are busy with kids' activities-birthday parties, soccer practice, homework, forensics tournaments, etc. We continue to seek God's will for life after Seminary. We are excited about some possibilities that seem to be opening up. Scott is trying to focus on his studies, but is very ready to be done with school and get back into full-time ministry! We are enjoying the beautiful weather that has shown itself early this year. What a gift!

Katie has been involved in Forensics at school this year. It is basically public speaking tournaments each Saturday. She is in the poetry category and is doing a monologue from a one act play called, "Radium Girls". She has made progress each week. Last Saturday she got second place in the whole poetry category! Here she is with her trophy.

Katie is also very excited about the fact that she now has her driver's permit. I have to get used to the idea of being driven around town now by my daughter (and trying to keep my mouth shut!). It's a whole new world!

Troy wanted me to take this picture of his Star Wars guy. Not sure which one it is, but he could tell you many interesting facts about him, I'm sure. At 5 years old, Troy is already a Star Wars enthusiast and has only seen one of the movies. (We have read many books!)

Sustained!

The big news today is that Scott survived his oral comps! They tell you that you "sustained" at the end if you pass. It was definitely a challenging experience. He was grilled by two of his toughest professors. He said he broke down crying three times earlier today because of the overwhelming stress of it all. But it's over now and it was amazing to feel the love and support of so many people. We had a great celebration dinner out tonight and I think we'll all sleep well. ( I think I have sympathetic exhaustion.) When Scott got home after his examination he called Troy in from playing outside. After greeting him, Scott said, "I passed my test!" Troy replied, "Hmmm. Was it boring?"

Today's The Big Day!

Hey! If you're checking this out on Tuesday, say a prayer for Scott today. He's got his big oral comp. exam at the Seminary. This is what Seminary students hear about and dread from the first day they step foot on seminary soil. There have been long days and study groups in preparation. It's already been overwhelming how many people are covering him with prayer and kind words-thank you! He's studied hard, slept some, and now is anxiously awaiting the four o'clock hour where he will face two professors and a pastor who can drill him on anything! (Fun stuff, huh?!)

A Studious Saturday

This Saturday morning finds Scott at the kitchen table in serious study. He has some assignments to work on and the ever-looming ORAL COMP. exam this coming Tuesday afternoon. We will all be rejoicing when Tuesday afternoon is behind us! I'm more than confident Scott will do a fine job, but he is a bit anxious about standing before his panel of two Seminary professors and a local pastor to answer questions on whatever they see pertinent! We covet your prayers for a clear mind and calm spirit for Scott on Tuesday. Thanks!

Yes, this smile seems and is forced. He said he will look happier when Tuesday is over. :)

The Boy Smoked Me!

Troy challenged me to a game of Memory the other night. We'll just say he smoked me! Scott and I laugh because all of our kids at this age were/are awesome at memory. Their parents-not so much! Troy's comment while we were playing, "Mom, I'm just on fire!" I would have to agree! :)

Success!

Piggy Opera

Last evening we had the privilege of attending the Three Piggy Opera performance by Troy's Kindergarten and two other classes. We have a wonderful music teacher who has blessed our kids immensely. Troy was chosen to be the "straw peddler" which involved a solo. He did a wonderful job and sang his part clearly and on pitch. He acted real sly about it all and would not sing his part for us at home. I was anxious to see how he would actually do in front of an audience! Kamryn and a few other blossoming recorder players were chosen to play along with the piggy waltz. They did great too. Here are the highlights.

Kam and fourth grade buddies.

Troy (in the cowboy hat) performing the waltz.

Troy playing his part as the straw peddler.

The whole group.

Troy and his friend, Jacob, enjoying "piggy food."

Troy and Boppa and Grandma.

Troy and his accompianist.