Barack Obama

We have a new president. I guess I am in a little bit of denial because I still can't believe that America elected Barack Obama, a man with no substantial leadership experience, as president of this country. People can argue all they want, but race was a huge factor in his election. He promised the world on a silver platter and is already starting to back down on some of those things. Those who voted for him with the idea that he would make everything all "better" will be sadly mistaken. I pray that God will watch over our nation and not allow this new president to drive us into oblivion. We are blessed with agency to make our own choices and God allows people to make mistakes - I just hope that He doesn't allow Obama to make too many costly ones. We watched the inauguration on Tuesday because, regardless of my political views and opinions, he is our new president and it was a historical moment - the changing of power and the first African American president.

I believe it was Karl Rove who recently said that he hopes Obama fails. I do not hope he fails - that would mean our country was damaged. I hope Americans can see him for what he truly is - someone inexperienced, wearing rose-colored glasses.

Happy Birthday Scott & "Stella"

We celebrated Scott's 40th birthday and Gissella's 29-again birthday on Saturday. Unfortunately, Kim, Sheri and Lynda were unable to make it, but we still had a great time. I don't know how we forgot to get pictures of our little Rock Star/Guitar Hero session, but trust me - it was a sight to be seen (and unfortunately heard).

(from left to right) Cristina, Randy, Gissella, Mary, Debbie, Ron & Donna

Scott will be enjoying some time at Pole Position thanks to Randy.

Don't let this photo fool you - Randy & Mary are usually giving each other a difficult time.

Ron, Gissella & Randy (Gissella's husband)

Homeschool Survival

I have survived the first week of homeschooling (and so have the kids). I was really stressed about how it would go, but was pleasantly surprised by how we all adapted. The kids really liked being able to work at their own pace and work ahead if they so chose. They went to homeschool P.E. through L.I.G.H.T which is a Christian homeschool group on the southside of OKC. I think they both enjoyed it. I really enjoyed having them home this week. How long will that last?? Time will tell.

Even though the temperature was in the teens with the windchill, we ran this morning. I'm so proud of Cori and I for sticking it out for 8 miles even though we were chilled to the bone. Carrie ran with us for 6 miles. I think I know what hypothermia feels like. Even with two pairs of gloves on my hands hurt from the cold. It felt like pins & needles in my legs. Next week we are scheduled for 10 miles and the weather isn't supposed to be much better! Gotta do what ya gotta do. The OKC Memorial Marathon is what I am training for & it is in about 15 weeks. Keep your fingers crossed that I don't hurt anything!!! If I didn't have Cori or other people to run with - I'd never make it through the training. That is a fact!!!

Merry Christmas

I hope everyone had an enjoyable Christmas. I took Christmas Eve off which was the first day off (other than weekends) I've had since July when we went on our cruise. I still went to the Y to workout, but got to sleep in!!! YEAH!!

We spent Christmas Eve at my parents' house. My sister, Chris, and her husband and boys were there.

Morgan & Travis

My nephew, Shane, - 4 yrs. old.


My brother-in-law, Mike Huntington, and nephew, Daniel (1 1/2 yrs.)

Scott and my sister, Chris, with Travis giving the "peace" sign

My parents bought the kids Guitar Hero - Rock Star for the Wii and they've been rockin' out ever since.

Now that the holidays are over, with the exception of New Years, I can get back to my normal diet and regime (I hope). I'm planning on running the full marathon in April for the OKC Memorial Marathon - if my body cooperates! I have a full calendar of duathlons & mini-triathlons that I plan to participate in - so it should be a busy year.

We're taking a cruise with the kids and my parents in March so stay tuned for that.

God Bless & I hope 2009 brings much joy, love & success (despite who is in the White House).

Busy Pre-holiday Weekend!!

Morgan and I went to see the movie, Twilight, yesterday which is based on the book series by Stephanie Meyer. Many of our friends said that the movie was pretty bad and not at all like the book; however, I tried to keep an open mind. I loved the books so was looking forward to the movie. I really liked it!!! There is no way to cover every detail in a book, but I thought the movie did a really good job at depicting the story line.

I went to Sheri's house for holiday brunch yesterday - girls only. Sherri is like Martha Stewart. There is nothing she can't cook, sew, create, etc. I am the most uncreative female on the planet so I just watch her in awe. She's my hero!!! It makes me strive for more creativity.

Party!!!

Last Saturday we had a birthday party for our friend, Randy (a.k.a. Lonny), at Gissella's house. The Big 12 game - OU v. Missouri was also on which was why Kim was missing from the picture - she went to the game.

I went to my employee Christmas party for the YMCA last night at Johnny Carinos. I got to sit and chat with a few of the girls that I rarely get to talk to - so it was nice getting to know them a little better. It is nice that the Y takes us out for Christmas, but it is a bummer that we can't include our spouses. I guess that is what happens when you work for a non-profit organization.

Things at the studio have been slow unfortunately. I think everyone is freaking out about the economy and what the new Obama administration will mean for their finances. Tanya, the owner of the studio and the most awesome mentor (a.k.a. Yoda), says things will pick up so I am just teaching my classes and working with my few private clients.

The kids have only one week left in school and they are excited. I don't really think they understand that homeschooling will still be work!!

Daddy-Daughter Nerd Night

Scott & Morgan had a fun activity a few weeks ago. The Young Women at church hosted a Daddy and Daughter Nerd Night. The daddies and daughters did hair (Scott did a great job on Morgan's pony tails), played games, had snacks (of course) and participated in other activities.

It makes me feel so blessed to have a husband who is so involved in the lives of our children - even if it means dressing up like a nerd and acting silly. I know Morgan will always remember these times with her dad.