The Old is Washed Away...

Well...I did something on Sunday morning that I've been wanting to do for a VERY long time, but have been putting it off because it is way, completely, out of my comfort zone, which is often the case when you are doing something for God...

I was baptized by my father in law on Sunday morning. I was baptized when I was around 5 (the Lutheran sprinkle kind) because my mom just thought it was the right thing to do...it wasn't a choice of mine, or an "outward profession of inward faith" as it needs to be. I accepted Christ when I was 11 and began a journey that has definitely had it's ups and downs, times of great growth, and times of stagnation. This year I've REALLY been praying for a year of growth. I feel like it's time for me to "step it up" and really get to know God. Becoming a junior high youth leader, and joining Bible Study Fellowship were definitely two things that were working towards this goal. Being baptized was a third. I know that Jesus commands us to follow his example and announce publicly that we are followers of him, but it was just so scary and uncomfortable to me that I kept putting it off. I knew that we were coming to Northern California to visit, and knew that John did baptisms, so thought I would ask...(I was honestly hoping he would say no...), but conveniently, he said yes. = ) So I did it. Took the "plunge", literally. = ) I feel it was an important step for me doing something uncomfortable, but something also that God commands. I know that God will reward my obedience. It was cool to do it in front of my family, so now...the "old" is washed away...

P.S. Abbie's reaction: "Mommy fell in the wa-wa! Mommy get towel!"

Fall Photo Shoot

Oh my gosh, it's been a while. I think I temporarily forgot I had a blog...anyway, I don't even know who is still checking this, but I thought I'd update it anyway...mostly for the Kerr's I think. HA! We just had a photo shoot with a photographer I found in Milwaukee. It was SO nice not to be the one taking the pictures and editing them! And...even better...she totally taught me some things. We've been corresponding via email, and she has given me so many "gems" of information about how to get pictures of this quality...not only with shooting with the camera, but also with photo editing techniques with photo shop. I'm excited to try some things out...I have a few shoots coming up next month...5 to be exact, so I can't wait to try out my new found knowledge...


Let's see, what else is going on? Brady is 19lbs, 27in. Yes, he is HUGE...well, not obese or anything, but the kid is definitely solid. He's scrumptious, I seriously want to inhale his cheeks. Abbie is talking up a storm (and repeating everything I say, so I have learned to be very careful), and she is a little princess. Shocker, she's my kid, isn't she??? We went on a cruise, and she was a doll the whole time...I'll post those pics later.

I am still in search of a part time teaching job. I'm subbing right now, but really would like to have a set schedule of time I get to be out of the house and teach. So, we'll see. I have a feeling the perfect thing is right around the corner, I'm trusting God.

I am starting BSF (Bible Study Fellowship, a national, intense bible study) this Wednesday, and am REALLY excited about where God is going to take me on this study. While I"m doing that, Abbie will be in her toddler class, which I heard is phenomenal. Brady will be with a friend...(thanks Amy!) I've also joined the leadership team at church and will be a small group junior high leader this year. I know, I'm insane, but I love that age group. They are so messed up. HA! I'm also on the steering committee for our MOPS group. I'm staying busy, taking after my "big sister" Wendy. = ) I can't have another year like I did last year where I felt like I was literally STUCK inside all year with nothing going on...so hopefully these things will remedy the situation. It's good for me, (and the kids.)

Blessings--
Jenn and fam