Two Tired Doggies...

Meet our two dogs...Rusty, a chocolate lab and Zeus, a german shepherd. They are wonderful and very much a part of our family. When they are not in the yard, we worry and have spent many an hour searching...even though we know they always come home, we still search as though they won't.

Until recently, Zeus, who is 2 years old, was the only one who could get out. He can effortlessly leap our 4 ft. fence in one single bound. Rusty, who we sometimes call "Brisket", is far too fat to leap even his food dish.

They are brothers, though...when they get out, Zeus is usually the leader; however, he will not wander far unless Rusty is by his side. Zeus seems to never tire. He will walk far in front of poor 'ol Rusty, who is always dragging behind. Every 1/4 mile or so though, Zeus will look back to check on Rusty and then run back and give him a shoulder nudge, as if to say..."c'mon brother, I'm here with ya...you can do it", then he runs ahead again. Every time the two pass a puddle of water, muddy or otherwise, Rusty (9 years old) will stop and lay in it as long as Zeus will let him.

One of our MANY projects is to fix our short and ailing fence. Until then, more "tired doggy" pictures will follow...

WHEN did it happen???

Michael, now a Junior in High School, is well...still my sweet little boy (whatever, it's true!); however, there is now a really grown-up version that is so cool to spend time with. I am not certain when this happened, and while it is kind of bittersweet, I am so glad it did.

One of the most amazing people I have met, Michael is passionate about art and music, he is kind, thoughtful, and always so considerate of everyone around him. From the first time I met him (July 25, 1991 at 2:24 pm) he has had my complete heart! Michael is by far the best friend you could ask for.

Through the years Michael has tried many things...soccer, trombone, art club, drama (I was shocked at how good he is at acting!), triathlon, football. He is well-rounded. Michael played Dr. Seward in Dracula and was amazing!!!

Last year, Michael played football (JV and some Varsity). He did ok, played a little, but really didn't get it...

This year, Michael got it. First Varsity game he played a little at the very end, but the second JV game...he absolutely unleased whatever uncertainties he had. Michael, the Defensive Tackle, debued for the first time. They won the game 40-14, and even the cheerleaders were chanting his name. Mi-chael Pratt...Mi-chael Pratt...Mi-chael Pratt.

If you ask him why he plays (he almost didn't this year), he'll tell you "friends, games, homecoming, and jerseys on game day". Basically summed up, it's being part of a team. Being one part of a larger entity. It is a rush and something I hope every kid gets to experience. Whether it's on a football team or a chess team, there is nothing like it.

Not sure when it happened, but it did nonetheless. My baby grew up into an incredible young man. I am so very proud of him and each and every accomplishment.

I took pictures and will post them soon. If you get a chance, give him a call and ask him about the game.

Pele scores!

Matthew & Morgan Paulk

Matthew & Zefaniah

Our "non-stop" boy has started his second season of soccer. Matthew's first game was this past Saturday. On the way to games and practices Matthew's usually inquisitive nature turns very pensive. It's almost like he's mentally preparing...

Last season Matthew didn't score any goals; however, being one of the fastest on his team, he was always right along-side the ball. He just rarely touched it. This year things are completely different. Matthew now scores 6-7 goals each game (sometimes more) and his footwork is amazing!

Out of 9 kids on our team (4 girls & 5 boys), two little girls are more interested in the half-time snack then actually playing. They are so cute.

After the game, on the way home, Matthew said, "I like Daddy being the coach". I think Daddy liked it too...

I really wish I had some pictures to share with you. I will take some this next Saturday.