Beginning Again

Tomorrow morning begins the Fall semester for me. I am taking 11 credits this term: Greek 3, Christian Worship, Covenant Theology 1, and Preparation and Delivery of Sermons. It's been a very long time since I've taken more than one class at a time - 13 years to be exact. And back then, I had no real financial commitments to worry about and no wife and children to tend to. Life was simpler then, but it is much more rewarding now.

Earlier this week, my son came home with a note taped to his chest. As he got off the bus, all I could think of was that he had got himself into some serious trouble at school and we'd have to spend a lot of time talking about his behavior and how to manage certain situations, etc. etc. But much to my surprise, as he got closer I saw that the note card read "Music MVP." Now I know what you're probably thinking, "He's a chip off the old block - just like his dad!" While I'd like that to be true, let's hold off on that for a little bit. His award was more related to his excellent behavior and doing what he was supposed to be doing in class. And because of this recognition, he was entered to be the "Wildcat Of the Week" (WOW) ... we'll have to wait and see if he gets it! In any case, in a situation where it would understandable for him to have behavioral problems this year (in light of our move and all of the changes these past several months), I think it is simply outstanding that he is adjusting to his new school very well. The Lord has blessed us with wonderful children who are healthy and well-behaved ... there's a lot to be said for not under-valuing that blessing.

We are about 5 weeks away from the arrival of baby #3. Yes we have names picked out. No we won't share them until the baby is born. My bride is starting to feel the weight - pun intended. I have a feeling that she will be more than glad to have this baby born as soon as possible.

Next week my daughter will begin weekly ballet lessons. She is very excited as she has been requesting dance lessons for some time now. She already has the outfit and shoes, so she's ready to go. There will be a recital in December which should be interesting and entertaining to say the least.

Finally, I started a morning exercise regimen this week. Nothing too strenuous just yet, but I've been doing 30 minutes of cardio each morning with the hopes of slowing increasing the time and intensity. As long as the weather is good, I shouldn't have a problem walking down to the workout room, but once it gets cold out, that might be a different story. Hopefully this will help me shed a few more pounds. So far I have avoided putting on the "sympathy weight" like I have the other times my wife has been pregnant. I'd like to keep it that way.