200,002

Small celebrations... The Thursday (early 7/24) morning as I approached the airport for my quick trip to OK, the odometer rolled over 200,000. Ken pointed over (he kindly drove my truck back at 6am) and looked down to see 200,002.

I often refer to my pickup as the "little pickup that could" and my buddy Ken refers to it as the "sample truck" (as in sample size). The little miracle truck keeps on truckin'!

Tomorrow, we all head back up to Dryridge, KY while I lead worship for the two congregations (Mt. Pisgah & Jonesville). Earlier today I visited with the DS about filling the pastoral role at these two churches while I attend seminary. We will meet with representatives from both churches and discuss the prospect (I feel confident I will be offered the position).

But just when you don't think things can get any better... Amy accepts a part-time afternoon Kindergarten position at the Early Learning Village very close to home. The part-time position works absolutely well due to the fact that Logan is only going half-time this next year as well (no daycare!!!). It was hard not to think that Amy would get this position because I know how well qualified she is (whether she believes it or not).

From a $450 pickup to sufficient income that provides for our family while working around my seminary and Amy's masters program, God has proven faithful!

A Day in the LIfe...

Our second Sunday in Wilmore our family attended Wilmore United Methodist Church downtown. We met a young lady whose husband works construction. She stopped by the house later that week to see if I would be interested in working with her husband who prefers to hire seminary students. So Friday I was roofing from about 10:30 to 6:00. I rather enjoyed the change of pace.

Saturday, we went shopping at the mall in nearby Lexington (25 min). We really enjoyed the bookstore Joseph-Beth's just North of the mall. That evening we toured downtown Wilmore during their Christmas at Wilmore Celebration. This was a really neat experience and the boys loved it. Logan caught the attention of many attendees while he conducted the orchestra from the third row back at the church finale music program.

Sunday, we went back to Wilmore UMC and stayed for a potluck. We enjoyed ourselves and were able to visit with several young families.

Today (Monday), Logan's teacher(s) came for a home visit. We had a wonderful visit and the ladies were ever amused by the little entertainer. After lunch I spent two more hours up on the roof top removing shingles and laying paper. I got to use a nail gun (so... cool!).

Then, I hopped off the roof and showered up to ride "shotgun" in a UPS truck. The driver seemed impressed by my motivation and unfortunately I helped him finish my route in an hour and a half instead of two hours. I try to slow down just a little next time. I hope to ride with the same driver again. He was very nice and enjoyed showing me a few things to help me out.

Amy has been busy as well (Other than trying to keep up with the boys). In order to renew her teaching certificate in the state of Kentucky, Amy needs 6 graduate hours. Amy has always wanted to pursue a Masters in Reading to become a Reading Specialist. So, the natural course of action, Amy is looking to enroll at Asbury College to begin her Masters while I across the street at Asbury Seminary begin my Master of Divinity.

Amy also starts tomorrow working at the Wilmore Daycare adjoining the Seminary campus as a Math Curriculem Teacher. She is very excited while missing her boys and homeschooling terribly. The director of the daycare is very sweet and personable.

Keep our family in our prayers as we attempt a mad dash to Oklahoma after or on Christmas to be with family and friends.

God bless,

Mark, Amy & the boys