Jill is trying new things!

Well, I am finally opening myself up to trying some new things. Unlike most people who try things when they are young and stupid, I have decided to go ahead and do new things when I am old and stupid. :)

I have decided that after about 7 years of not golfing that I am ready to try to master this sport again. This will probably end up being a little bit expensive of a hobby to start up as I have no clubs, bag, shoes, gloves, clothes or talent! I think that Craig and I are going to take some lessons together to try to get a head start. I am looking forward to participating in an activity that Craig enjoys so that we can spend time together.

Back in late June I went on my first motorcycle ride with Craig. It wasn't very long as I am concerned about writing our will before we both go for a long ride together. I did drive my car up to Johnson City, TN to meet Craig and his buddies for their annual rally. It was a lot of fun to meet his friends and learn about his motorcycle. It was also the first time we have left both girls overnight!

Another new thing for me is that I finally tried Sushi! Craig has been trying to get me to try it for years and I have always said no. I really don't know why. So last night I thought I would give it a try. Craig ordered me some spicy tuna rolls. I tried one dipped in soy sauce and wasabi, which was a little spicy for me and another one that was plain. I actually thought they were very good. Craig is now very encouraged that we can have sushi more often! It seems like it might be a pretty healthy food, too.

I've also been doing my work with the PTA. We had our first big meeting at the Open House night last week. My PTA president asked me to speak about 10 minutes before the meeting started. I couldn't believe it! What a dirty trick. I guess I did ok. I only had to remind the parents about the fundraiser we are having and ask for their support. Craig and Kaylee said no one was listening so it didn't really matter. Isn't that supportive of them?

I have also been volunteering at the hospital on Thursday evenings. I have enjoyed the experience of holding the babies in the NICU. The nurses are so busy taking care of the kids that they don't get a chance to hold them. Some of the parents don't live very close to the hospital and don't get to visit often, especially if the kids have been there for a while. Most of the kids I've held are the bigger ones that are closer to going home. Now when I say bigger, I'm talking in the 5 lb range. I did get to hold one sweet little girl that was super tiny. When I was done holding the nurse came over to weigh her and she was only 3lbs 5oz. So tiny! I am enjoying getting to hold them. Although when I get home Morgan seems like a giant!

Well, I better go get ready for Football! I have a fantasy football team so I have to pay attention to my players. Craig also has a group of us that are picking the winners of each game every week. I had the most points in fantasy football last week and tied for picking the most wins (11 of 16)! Makes it a little more interesting to watch the games this way. We will also have to catch "The Golf" today to see if Tiger wins the FedEx Cup. To all my friends in Portland, I want to say I am really sorry to hear about Greg Oden! Hopefully he will have a good recovery since he is so young and will be back full strength for next season.

Talk to you all later.

Jill

The Southern Lifestyle

Well, we are now truly part of the Southern Lifestyle with our new screened in porch. We all are enjoying the extra living space that it gives us in our house. Craig likes to take little naps outside on the couch. I like to go outside to warm up when I get too cold in the air conditioning. The girls just like having a new place to play. Now that we are actually spending some time outdoors we are ready to work on fixing up the rest of the backyard. Our next projects will consist of adding a stone patio area for the grill, fire pit and adirondack chairs and then putting in a play structure for the girls. They are more than excited about this prospect. Those of you who have not lived in the south may think that it is getting a little late in the year to put in a play structure, but actually this is the best time because it is not sweltering hot outside. We will continue to keep you posted on the progress of our backyard.

Please enjoy these pictures!