Random, because that's the way I roll.

My world is SO BUSY right now. Each school year I make a vow to slow down, simplify and not spread myself so thin. Once again, though, I have broken my vow. I think I am busier than I have EVER been. So, I will update with bullet points.

• Last Monday I, with the help of Nancy, started a walking/running club every morning before school starts. Our thought was to have the kids get up and moving in the mornings instead of sitting in the gym. We workout in the mornings and feel so much better in the mornings, so we thought the kids at school could benefit from some morning activity. I didn't know exactly how to start a program like this (I tend to get hung up on the little details), so I found a program that is already established. It is called Mighty Milers and is sponsored by New York Road Runners. Since our school has a high percentage of kids on free and reduced lunch, it is doesn't cost us anything. The kids are trying to walk/run enough to earn a marathon medal. Each time they run/walk 26.2 miles they earn a medal. They can earn up to 4 in a school year. We weren't sure what the response would be, but we have been pleasantly surprised! So far, we have had 175 kids come out to run/walk in the mornings and they have run about 400 miles combined! We have two kids who are already about half-way to their first medal! It is amazing to see 100+ kids running, walking and getting their minds and bodies ready for the day. So far, it has exceeded my expectations. The only down side to it is all the data I have to input each week. Last Friday I stayed at school until after 5:30 just to get their names in the data base. I could only do 100 before I ran out of space. I have had to request more space in the data base and will probably have to stay until 5:00 or so again tomorrow. Once I get everyone entered, though, it shouldn't take that long each week. At least that is what I am hoping!
• Drew is almost finished with football season. This time of year is always so hard for me, but I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Football takes up so much of his time, but I know he loves doing it. As long as he is happy I will do whatever I need to do. He does so much for me each day that I can atleast hold down the fort while he is off coaching and scouting.
• This year I have a split conference period. That just adds to my already tight schedule. I only have 20-30 minutes of uninterrupted time and I just can't seem to get anything done. I also have crosswalk duty after school. It's only 10-15 minutes, but that's just one more thing to do. Oh well, it's a give and take. Give a little here, take a little there.
• I am teaching a Boot Camp class after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays for our parents/staff and whoever else wants to join us. At first I was scared to do this. I am NOT a certifed trainer or expert by any means. I just know what works or has worked for me. I was very self-conscious about it at first, but I am starting to gain some confidence. The ladies who come to the class are hard working and will do anything I ask them to do. I know what they hate to do (froggers and pushups), but they will still do them if I ask them to! I really hope they are getting something out of it and I am enjoying working with them each week.
• I have been doing a Beth Moore study at church on Wednesdays. Drew's mom is one of the facilitators. It has been challenging to do the homework each week, but it has so been worth it. I am learning a lot about myself and my relationship with God. We have 3 weeks to go and I am hoping to finish strong! Bryson has been attending the youth group on Wednesday nights and Drew helps with that. Jackson and Addison go to their classes, too, and seem to be enjoying them.
• Jackson has made a profession of faith (He actually did it last Spring, but never wanted to go to the front of the church to make it public.) and will be baptized soon. I am proud of the sweet boy he is and look forward to watching him grow in his faith.
• Addison is still her crazy self! I have so much fun talking with her and spending time with her. I just love her at 4 years old! She is funny, quirky, sweet, spunky, sensitive, tough, girly and tomboyish. She is the perfect little girl for me!
• Drew got Addie and I tickets to Casa Manana this season so we have some planned "Ladies Days." I love getting to take her out to lunch and to see a show. She loves going and is just the happiest little thing while we are together. I hope we get to do this for many more years. I know I will cherish our time together.
• Bryson is loving middle school and is doing great. He made the "A" honor roll for the first six weeks and seems to have adjusted well. I was worried about how he was going to do in a new school where he didn't know anyone, but he has done just fine.

So, as you can see we are busy, but busy with good things. I can't believe how fast the year is going. It will be summer before I know it. And just in case you were wondering, there are 211 days until Summer 2012!!!