Where does the time go?

I typed an enormously long update here the other day, only to lose the entire post when an afternoon storm temporarily cut off our power. I know, I know...save save save. Why haven't I learned my lesson yet?

Here's a summary:

I am finally moving out of what I like to refer to as the zombie stage of pregnancy and into a slightly more energetic existence. Today actually marks my 13th week, which means I am officially out of my first trimester. I am gradually feeling less sick. Thank God!

Seth is starting classes this week. I don't say "starting school" because he's already been reading required textbooks that are due before the first day of class. I'm not sure what professors have against letting these poor students have a summer break! Anyway, Seth has 2 classes this semester: a Hebrew something-or-other seminar and Colloquium (I like to call it Old Testament club). The Hebrew prof always has challenging classes so between school and work his plate will be quite full.

Benjamin continues to be just about the cutest little 10-month old you can imagine. He is crawling like a pro now and busy exploring the world that until now he has been able to examine only from the confines of a baby seat/swing/blanket/etc. His favorite haunts around the house include the kitchen stool (which he pushes back and forth on his knees), one corner of the living room (he just likes to touch the shiny edges of our wedding album), the hallway (he goes up and down, up and down, just because he can), and of course his toyboxes (anything with wheels comes out first, followed by various and sundry balls). He says "Da Da" constantly. ("Benjamin, say Ma Ma?" "DA DA!") This is appropriate since he absolutely adores his daddy. He is definitely a Daddy's boy! I love it!

Meanwhile, life continues in full swing. I am continuing to do alterations at a pretty constant pace, which is funny, considering I never spend any time promoting my alterations business and have invested much more time and effort into other endeavors such as my children's boutique items and looking for piano students. I guess this is what God has provided for now. I am thankful for that. On a similar note, I am also independantly contracted with a PersonalMarketing company that sends out handwritten mail for clients (mostly charities). I address envelopes and write a brief predetermined message on the inside card. It's not a great hourly rate, but it's easy and flexible and fits my schedule so it's a good match for now.

And on a completely unrelated note, here are some recent random pictures, taken by a friend who is starting a photography business. (His website is: www.redtreedesign.com.)