Long time no blog!

Ok, so this will be a long one because I have been so neglectful. Feel free to just skim :)

I did get one unit of blood which brought me up to an 8.7. I went ahead the next week and got another one. That one started to make a difference in my energy levels, but I ran into some other problems. I appreciate all the offers to donate, but I am set for now. My type is A+ (like a teacher!) and my sister, brother, dad, and several uncles match.

You know by now that my life cold not just be that easy! I've  had a pain in my lower back for a while now. Over the last month, it got more frequent and more intense. An MRI was finally ordered.  The bad news is it turns out I have bulging disks from L5 - S1; my lower back. The Good news is there is no tumor pinching nerves around my spine.

On the home front, my parents have finished their business with the ranch. They are now full-time horse ranchers! Ry's garage is almost done so he can start another house project, and Stac is on the conference circuit for school based community medical clinics. Chad's brother and family will be in town from Colorado for the July 23rd benefit and are trying to work it out to move back to Illinois. Anyone know of some jobs for a certified prek-3 teacher? She could teach at a preschool/kindergarten or be director for a daycare center. Kelsey got her acceptance letter for ISU! We had a great visit with some of my dad's family and are working on plans to visit Alabama.

We can't seem to get the pool going. The weather keeps putting gunk in the pool and every time Chad tries to work on it, he breaks something! My nephew Chris has had a little more luck inside learning to hang things and keep a house going between drippy ceilings, broken tiles, and overflowing toilets!

Last Friday, I gave a speech at the Relay for Life at Mineral Springs Park. It was a lovely ceremony for which I was honorary survivor. I appreciate the nice comments about my speech. I had prayed it would be just what people needed to hear.

This Friday will be my Hall of Fame party for my students. It's probably naive to think the pool will be ready, but I, of course, have a back up plan.

I am still so blessed by the number of people helping us and reaching out. It makes our burden so much lighter when we are able to share it!

Have a great 4th of July holiday! Don't forget to honor/thank a veteran!