First though, the big news, if you haven't already heard....I was offered, and accepted a full time position at Oregon Community Credit Union. Same job, just full time. I'm loving it, and if it wasn't for the 2 hour drive (one hour each way) I would put in as many hours as they'd let me! One benefit to a two hour drive....I can listen to at least one good message a day from Tom. (Click here if interested!) One HUGE benefit to full time...INSURANCE!! We've been without for 18 months, and it's time...the kids and Bill are extra, but we're looking into separate policies for them, as it's 900 per month to insure then through my job. I believe we can get insurance for about 450 a month for all three of them.
I knew this was a possibility a few weeks ago, but had no idea if it would even be offered to me. It was, and I accepted...with a heavy heart though, because this meant I had to give up Monday Home School group that I have taught for 7 year now. It's a passion, and my love for the kids and the learning is at the top of my list, and it was bittersweet that I took the position and had to let this go. I felt it was all orchestrated by God..because here is how it played out.... LAST Wednesday...August 11th, I was offered and accepted the position at OCCU....Wednesday afternoon, I was called by the secretary for the Superintendent of the school district for a meeting on Friday. News was minutes old when she called, and it was only fair to speak to my teaching partner Dana first...so I called Dana and let her know, as we were both busy Wednesday and Thursday nights. Friday was our meeting..so by phone it was. We both cried...and of course was tough. She went to church on Wednesday night, and found out that her friend was interested and has taught before...what a perfect fit. Heaven sent...and what a blessing. I felt at peace, and knew that only God could have worked all this out to make me feel comfortable in leaving.
We shared the news with Mr Curtis on Friday at our meeting, and he liked our choice. We then had the meeting with the home school families yesterday (Wednesday 18th), in one short week I resigned, found a replacement, got lesson plans laid out, and advised our group...only God could have pulled all that together!! I am still sad, but yet excited to see what is in store for me this next few months as I settle into a full time position.
After the meeting, Ryan & I went out to lunch, and enjoyed an afternoon of shoppping together for school clothes and supplies. This is the first time ever as a parent, I've had to "school shop" I quickly realized how much money we've saved in shoes, clothes, and "STUFF" for school!! Not that we don't clothe our kids...it's just it's not all purchased in August, and home school attire is sometimes jammies!! We never required the latest & greatest stuff. However, I was very proud of Ryan when we had looked at many shoes,and he said "Mom, lets go to Walmart...they have the shoes I want for half the price (or 1/8 of the price) of other shoes we looked at. He was happy, I was happy, and it was a good day.
We met up with Bill & Kristin for dinner...and Bill headed to bible study, while Kristin, Ryan & I headed off to do some wedding shower shopping. While Ryan wasn't too excited about it..he did have some good ideas. Kristin is in charge of the games, and has come up with some great ones. Praying for it all to come together for Lindsay's shower (Robert's (AKA our 'other son') fiance-) for a good turn out, and a well mapped out shower!
Lexxi...our new addition has fit in so well! She is learning to trust the rest of us, but is still glued to Bill. She has learned to play fetch....and loves to chase after the stick with JayDee...we must make sure to get a long enough stick to share!!
Kristin had a few great days with friends. Tanya (One of the O'Hara's) and McKenzie (Grandaughter of neighbor from WA) had a great time for three days of fun together. I caught them all "hanging out" and just having fun. They had tea parties, and some good "girl time". A much needed time for them!
Charlie, (our oldest) is moving to the Portland area to be with family. He's gotten a job, and will be leaving us. Sad that he's going, but happy that he's being guided by God in this decision. Praying for his safety, and for God to keep him focused. We'll miss you Charlie!
We also had a great camp out on our church property with friends. For the full run down, and more fun pictures, click HERE.
