Weighing heavy on my heart

It's hard for people to understand what has been weighing so heavy on my heart lately. I just feel so sad for Denny. I'm sad that he has been so undervalued and underappreciated for a job he loves so much.

This week is his final run with the Nature Conservancy of Michigan. He had an excellent run with them for more than six years. It just saddens me that they have never made him a permanent employee and now they feel the need to cease paying the wage he has earned through moderate raises over the years--in an effort to save money.

I will never claim to understand the changes going on within the healthcare field, but if that is part of the issue, again, they are crazy (or I just don't understand, which might very well be the case). He has never used their health insurance--we have always used mine. He has used vacation days and has taken advantage of the retirement plan.

Anyway, the hurt is so much deeper.

His love for nature and his work is so evident to me, and it seems, to all who work with him. A year or two ago, a gentleman he and his supervisor work with, wrote such a nice letter on their behalf. And everyone who has encountered Denny and Rodolfo have great things to say. It boggles my mind that more resources aren't used for the type of field work they do.

I feel sad for Denny in that sense, but I am also hopeful that he will be rewarded for his hard work and dedication in his next job.

Colt's first haircut

Denny cut Colt Buddy's hair a few nights ago. He is growing up so fast! Love him!

50 weeks from today ...

I will have a master's degree ... finally! I also believe we will be credit card debt free.

The stress has been all-consuming lately, but something made me look ahead, and it provided some pretty powerful insight. I am in the midst of a difficult season in life, but it's just a season. And it's one that will literally pay off in the end.

I can't wait to celebrate with my family after Denny and I reach these important milestones!

The other beautiful part of those 50 weeks is the fact that I will only be in class during 37 of those weeks. I have built-in breaks.

I can do this. I can do this! I will do this!

Memories from today

Today was such a great day! I was able to get some yard work done and then we participated in the Rose Parade. We walked with Home.FM. Emma went up to so many kids to hand them candy... that is a big deal for my shy little sweetie!

Another fun memory was hearing the kids laugh at each other...cutest sound ever!

Tonight we enjoyed a summer dinner together and just loved eating together.

Finally, when I went to lay Colt in his crib, I found a pink bunny all tucked in. Emma is such a little mommy. Love her! Love Colt! And I love Denny. I love being able to feel how blessed I am.

My worries didn't defeat me today.