2007 has been a very interesting year so far.  Rhonda (mom) had full hip replacement surgery in April and spent the next several months recuperating.  Because of this, Jessica stepped up and took over the kitchen & food prep duties as well as caring for Dakoda, a darling little 2 year old boy we baby-sat.  She did a great job and learned a lot.  Jessica also volunteered at the Olathe Main Library 4 hours each week and for Oak Hills PCA Vacation Bible School (opening skits).  They all loved her, of course!

Christopher spent the summer holding down jobs for the first time.  Each week he worked approximately 15 hours at the Gardner Library and 15 hours for Kaleidoscope Painting.  He decided to give his notice at the library but plans to keep the painting job throughout the year and, God willing, throughout college, as well.  Christopher also volunteered for the Oak Hills PCA Vacation Bible School planning committee and worked with Jessica to do the opening skits.  They were a riot!

Thomas offered his services to two of our neighbors this year, mowing lawns and doing odd jobs free of charge.  He also began his web design study this summer, using Dreamweaver and Photoshop.  This creative site is the result of all his learning and effort.  What a great service he has provided!

We have several new & exciting classes going on this year.  Jessica is busy with a home-based study entitled "Kitchen Chemistry" in which she studies the scientific theory behind food preparation using Alton Brown's Good Eats episodes & various books, as well as much hands on experience.  Both Christopher and Jessica are enrolled in several Greenleaf Music & Arts Academy classes this year including Comedy Improv (both), Comedy One-Acts (Jessica), and Choir (Christopher).  They will be involved in several performances for these classes, as well as the big spring musical in March.

Perhaps the biggest event for our family this year will be Christopher's graduation from high school and entry into college.  He will be working with the MPE Senior Class (50+ students) throughout the year planning the graduation ceremony for May 2008.  At present, his plan is to enter JCCC in the Fall of 2008.

Following are a few documents that further detail our plans for the year: