What I have learned

Over the last six or seven years I have used the week between Christmas and New Years day to see what things I accomplished and plan for the next year.

This is what I learned about this past year:
How great God is. He has blessed our family and brought us closer to him with the birth of Aubrey. I am glad Jesus walked with me during the surgeries and was there to listen.
That I have the best Mom I could possibly imagine. My Mom would give up anything for her kids and sometimes she has. For years I wondered what I could do to show her the extent of my love for her. I have figured it out and I look forward to the New Year to begin it.
Meeting my wife was not an accident it was planned. God knew what he was doing when I was delayed getting into the apprenticeship program. My wife was my first boss at Worlds of Fun and it has been 9 nine year since we have been together. I had just wished that I could have married her sooner than I did. However, I was scared of the commitment and tried every excuse to not. I am glad God had softened my heart, because begin married to her is the greatest. Not all the time, but most of the time. She does compliment in my areas of weakness. I love her.
I love kids. I am glad I had the chance to serve my community on children related boards because it gave me an appreciation of the true role of parenting. I love kids and I really love mine. Dylan has been great for my growth and Aubrey has been great for my spirit. Although the role of "Father" is an enormous one, I have good guidance and know that I don't have all the answers.

Very Busy Weekend

Well school is out for the winter and it is time for things to get worked on around the house. Today I spent the afternoon with my brother who is in town from the Navy. We blew in insulation in the attic. I also built some shelves up there for Jennifer's totes. I worked on the office to prepare to build a cabinet in there next week.

Jennifer, Aubrey and Dylan spent the afternoon over at Megan's birthday party, she is turning four. Aubrey is doing alright after her four shots on Friday. A few more days and well will be getting her out a little more.

Last final

I took my last final for the semester this evening. When I came home I had a very rested and energetic four year old waiting for me. I also had a very bright eyed little girl. Jennifer said she had a great evening with the kids and felt she got some things accomplished.

Tommorow I will take Aubrey to get her 6 Month shots and the big ole RSV shot.

Kory stopped by and it was good to see him. He is on leave until just after Christmas and then he is back off to sea.

We turned the word Verification off on the comments

Several have e-mailed about the word verfication on the comment part of the blog. I had turned it on because the blog was getting spammed. I turned it off because some were having problems leaving comments. I have it now e-mailed to my account where it is accepted/rejected, and I think that will work.

Definition of a great friend-Theresa

For all of you who don't know this is Theresa Sonderman one of my dearest friends and her husband John. We grew up next door to each other and have known each other since 1st grade. This isn't really how she dresses and John's hair really isn't this big! They just had a back to the 70's party to celebrate her birthday. Bob and I had a great time while my Dad watched the kids for us!
I can not even begin to think of ways to thank Theresa for being there for me over the last few weeks. The day of Aubrey's surgery she took off work to be with us at the hospital. She helped to keep my nerves at ease and helped out with Dylan among a hundred a hundred other things. Theresa I think the world of you and I hope that I have the opportunities to be there for you when the time comes. Happy Birthday!

Wonderful friends and mother in law

I am glad she is smiling again.
Dylan with my sister Michelle' cat
Aubrey in the hospital.
Look at those smiles!

We have truly blessed to have so many friends and a great mother in law throughout Aubrey's surgery.
Roberta helped us out when we got home by lending us her swing, Aubrey has loved chilling out in it and it frees up our hands.
When we got home Jane arranged for women in the MOPS group to bring over dinner. First Becky came over her son Brett and we had Beef Stew and cornbread. Bob thought it was the best beef stew ever. Next Heather brought over this delicious bowtie shrimp pasta dish (Don't worry Heather, Dylan ate it up and didn't think it was too spicy), with raspberry-walnut salad with mandarin oranges, and green beans.
Tonight Jane brought us a very delicious chicken dish, with cheesey mashed potatoes, carrots, a pie with whipped cream, a mandarin orange jello. Dylan ate everything on his plate(especially the jello).

Now I am more motivated to do some cooking, since Bob cooks often and is Mr. Mom.
While we are lucky to be able to have both parents home for the next few weeks, it convenietely coincides with Bob's finals which makes it seem like he isn't here. Then he will be working on the house.

WCPT

The Hughs Institute for Comical explanations has determined that Aubrey was suffering from White Coat People Trauma(WCPT). Somehow she has correctly associated that anyone wearing a white coat with "that person is going to do something to me."

WCPT seems to be a common phenomenon, as it seems adults have a fear of hospitals also. They have not been diagnosed with WCPT though.

Jennifer and I are still trying to keep Aubrey's exposure to others at a minimum to try to keep down her exposure to any sickness, which is the biggest concern with the Doctors.

I am in the last week of classes and have finals this week.

Staples will be coming out tomorrow

Dylan went back to school today for the first time in a couple of weeks, it's a half day so I will be picking him up early.

Aubrey has been having a tough bout of gas pains. I have also noticed when she sneezes she experiences pain in her chest. Tomorrow Jennifer and my mom will be going down for the check up and to have her staples removed.

I am in my last week of classes and finals for the semester and then it will be time for home projects.

We are going home!

This morning the doctors cleared us to go home so we have been going over how to care for Aubrey at home. We will be leaving 5 to 6 this evening. Jennifer and Mom went over to clean the RMH room, while Dylan and I played with Aubrey and cars.

I am sure Aubrey and Dylan can't wait to be home, just like Mom and Dad.

We have quite a bit to remember with her medicines, including Capropril , Lasix, and Ibuprofen. Some of the other heart babies are going home today also. We will have to come back on Thursday to have the staples removed. When we were speaking with them, they have to come back down on Thursday also.

Pictures

Picture of Dylan at Fritz's -Photo Compliments of Theresa.

Here is a picture of her resting peacefully.

Simply Put - Jehovah Jireh

He will provide!
He will bring us to our knees when we see his greatness. He has touched my life only because I welcomed him back into my life several years ago. Since then the sky have been more blue and my load has been lighter. I took a break from homework to type this message. I am listening to music. Two songs have opened my heart wide open to the Lord. "I can only imagine" by Mercy Me and " He's my son" by Mark Schultz. This past year has been a challenging and great one for me. I have lost things dear to me and gained things even greater.

Does he provide and can we see him? You bet. Everyday we see Jesus. In the body of the person in the elevator, the man sweeping the floor, or in the person serving your food in the cafeteria. He is everywhere and wants you to acknowledge his presence. If we place our trust in him rather than things of this world we can see his power. He lives and will lives forever. He is the source of my strength. Even though I fall short of his glory, his grace saves me. Does he provide, yes he does. He has shown me through small works and large. He has shown me through the mercy of forgiving me of my sins. Everyday I must confess my transgressions to him. Everyday they become less and less. I love walking with this guy, he takes it slow and is patient when I stumble. His hand is soft, his grip is firm, and his strength is mighty. He can carry me if he wants but wants me to do it by my own freewill. I acknowledge his glory and ask for forgiveness. He knows everything about me, he knew me before I was born. His son has paid the price of my sins so that I may know the Lord.

I would like to invite you to welcome Christ into your life if you haven't already, below is a simple prayer borrowed from the BGEA website.

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner and need Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I now invite You to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as Lord and Savior. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God's Assurance: His Word

If you prayed this prayer, The Bible says ..."Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. " -Romans 10:13 (NIV)

Did you sincerely ask Jesus Christ to come into your life? Where is He right now? What has He given you?

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-not by works, so that no one can boast." -Ephesians 2:8,9 (NIV)

Receiving Christ, we are born into God's family through the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit who indwells every believer. This is called regeneration, or the "new birth."This is just the beginning of a wonderful new life in Christ.

To deepen this relationship you should:
1. Read your Bible everyday to know Christ better.
2. Talk to God in prayer every day.
3. Tell others about Christ.
4. Worship, fellowship, and serve with other Christians in a church where Christ is preached.
5. As Christ's representative in a needy world, demonstrate your new life by your love and concern for others.

When I got back

Last night Theresa and John went with us to Fritz's to have burgers, our first time out this week. This morning when Dylan and I got to the room, Aubrey's chest tubes were removed. They have her still on blood pressure medicene, which will likely continue after she gets out.

I went to the Parkville campus to work on a end of semester project and when I got back to the hospital, Aubrey had the bandages off and the monitors off. Things are moving fast and she is eating good and sleeping good. One of her pain meds is causing her to be constipated and they are watching that.

Other than that things have been rather still. My Mom is back down here helping out, Dylan and Jennifer are at the RMH sleeping.

She had a great night

Aubrey had a good night sleep. So did Grandma, Dylan, Mommy, and Daddy. The X-Rays are still showing some fluid, so they will be keeping the chest tube in for at least another day. Grandma Kathy will be going back today, it has been wonderful having her around. I am also glad we have had everyone checking on Jennifer, especially Theresa.

Aubrey is eating well and her color looks great. All the nurses call her a moviestar with the big eyes she has.

Today is siblings day. We told Dylan this morning it is his turn to go and play and receive the attention, for at least part of the day. Sometimes I have forgot it is just as hard on him, and how much his world has changed because we are in the hospital.

When we were in the hospital back May, Aubrey's NICU neighbor was going through genetics testing and other tests. She had two twin sisters that Dylan played with. Well they are still here, seven months later. They still remember us and are thinking they will be going home, which is over two hours away. Mom has only been home once, for Thanksgiving. The kids are pretty much living at the RMH.

It amazes me that the serious of Aubrey's condition doesn't require such lengthy hospital stays, although if I had to adjust to that I would. To hear other Moms and Dad's stories is inspiring. It is also great to lean on Christ during these times. He has really softened my heart over this last year and made me appreciate everything even more. He has lead me to reflect on four main things everyday. 1) What did I learn today? 2) Who did I love today? 3)What things can I do better? 4) How many times did I say thank you?

In all things God is great. What we have is his, even our children, and what a wonderful blessing he has enrusted us with.

We have moved into a room

Aubrey was well enough to move out of NICU and a room came available so we have moved. We are now in 4th floor Sutherland. It is a nice room and we can sleep here if necessary. I opened up the blinds so Aubrey can see her first snow. It is really coming down, I think it is around 4 inches or so. Mom and Dylan are resting at the RMH and Jennifer and I are with Aubrey.

Last night was fun being up with Mom, we got to talk about things. I had some conversations with the night nurse that made me think of the of how tough it would be raising three boys. The stuff we did, that I did. It is amazing my Mom is still sane. The lighting of M-80s', jumping off the roof, standing on the bike seat going down the hill. Actually it is amazing I made it though with no injuries. God put me in good hands that is for sure.

She has the neck line out and the leg line

Aubrey has the lines out of her neck and leg. They are waiting for a room. The hospital is one jumping place right now. The snow is coming down so fast it is unbelievable. It is coming as fast as a fast rain comes down.

She is eating pretty good and resting well.

Happy Birthday Kaitlin

My cousin turns 7 years old today! Happy Birthday Kaitlin!! I am glad your birthday party was early and we got to be there. Hope you have a wonderful day and enjoy the snow they say we are going to get! Tell your brother I said hi also and don't let him hit you with any snowballs today!

Long Night

Hi everyone,
It's early and I am not the writer in the family thats why I let my husband make all the postings. It's been awhile since I have posted anything I even forgot my passwords. I felt like it was my turn since Bob just left to go get some sleep, he was up for a straight 24 hours. I on the other hand got some sleep and was back over here at 5:30 a.m. Dylan is resting peacefully at the Ronald McDonald House with grandma Kathy. I am glad she didn't even attempt to drive home not only because of the roads but she has been a tremendous help to us! She did our laundry and has been taking very good care of Dylan.

Aubrey is fianlly resting nicely now. The nurses didn't believe me when I said she loves to kick her feet all the time. Her blood pressure the doctors just told me is a little high so the are going to give her something to bring it down. She has had so much put into her now that its hard to keep track of all the stuff . We are looking forward to moving later today to a actual room and out of PIC.
It looks like they are calling for 4-12 inches of snow today! Dylan is very excited. I really have enjoyed hearing from everyone keep them coming!

The Vent Tube is Out! The Vent Tube is Out!

About a half an hour ago, around 1:45, the Doctors removed the vent tube. She is resting pretty good now and looks rather peaceful. She should do pretty good because she has been breathing on her own for about 4.5 hours now.

The NICU has been really active tonight in the "Wintry Mix." Part of the hospital has been on generator power and many of the kids have needed the doctor. He has been one busy guy.

I think I will be heading over soon to get some rest, after I make sure she is going to be resting good.

Justing waiting for her to breathe on her own

We are still waiting for the youngster to breathe on her own. Pretty much the only pain she is in is when Jennifer and I are singing to her. So we are trying to keep it to a minimum. She still looks cute with all the lines in her.

The weather is starting to look really nasty outside here, I can hear the sleet hitting the windows and the wind whipping around.

I done some reading to try to stay alert, but my mind is having a tendancy to wander.

Dr. Lofland said thing are good

Dr. Lofland came out and said things went good. We haven't been able to see her, so we came down for lunch. They were thinking we could go back around 12 or so.

He seemed pretty happy about going ahead witht he surgery and expects things to stay on schedule.

Next big step is the vent tube.

Aubrey is back in surgery

When we checked in this morning we found out that Dr. Lofland wanted to see us. We came over and Dr. Lofland put his arm around Jennifer and calmly explained what he was going to be doing. During the night Aubrey had some fluid buildup around her lungs. She will be opened back up.

She was not a happy camper with the mask on her. Kicking and grabbing since 2 this morning. Specifically it was prediagnosed as hemothorax.

Dr. Lofland wants this to be a quick surgery so Aubrey can get back off the vent tube. I am guessing an hour, but I am not sure. Didn't think to ask.

Aubrey is a trooper

I went to class tonight and was acutally able to concentrate on it for the most part. I heard after class that when I left Aubrey she woke up and was thrashing around and kicking. So the doctors had to give her some stuff to calm her down. I left a little before 11 when her O2 got to 70. Jennifer is upstairs sleeping, I hope, right now and I am finishing up some work before I head up.

Everything went well

Dr. Lofland came out and told us everything went in a A+ fashion. Below is a picture of what the heart looks like with the Glenn Shunt in. We will be going up to the PICU here in the next few minutes.

Nurse has checked in, everything okay

The nurse has checked in with us twice and everything is going good and she is doing well. Around 1 Dr. Lofland made the incision to begin the operation.

She is back with the surgeons now

At noon the nurses took Aubrey to the sleepy doctor. The surgery is expected to be anywhere from 3 to 5 hours. The nurse, Stacey, will come out and give us updates every 45 minutes or so.

Check in at the hospital

The doctors and nurses have been great this morning. Aubrey has been put through a series of tests. Right now she is in getting x-rays. She really, really didn't like the blood getting drawn. She is cleared for surgery!

Dylan has been hanging out and being pretty good. He likes to ask questions alot.

We come into get checked in at 9:30 tomorrow for surgery.

Newspaper Clipping

A few years ago this article was in the newspaper and thought I would share it, I don't know the Cobb's but I enjoyed their story. Click on it to make it bigger. After the new screen comes up you can click on the image and it should enlarge.

Thanksgiving 2006

We had a wonderful time this year with new friends and a different format. Jennifer's mom, Debbie, came up for a couple of days. We really enjoyed having her around and were appreciative of her help. We also met two of my Grandma's friends. Jun and Shiori and their two year old Shojo. Dylan and him had a wonderful time playing Hot Wheels. Aubrey had Turkey and Sweet Pototoes, of course from a jar. Maybe next year she will have the real deal. We had plenty of food and I rank my aunt Sharon's sweet potato dish my favorite for this year. Sharon has taken the Bob Hughs Favorite Side Dish Award for nearly three years now. This year we had it at our house and seemed to have plenty of room for things. My favorite part was still spending quality time with family.

New Neighbors

We met our new neighbors. Aaron and Dana have triplets and just moved from Louisville. They are wonderful people and look forward to getting to know them better. They moved here so Aaron can be the pastor at McCarthy Baptist here in town.

Great little Story

A dear friend of my sent this story to me through e-mail. For where I am at in my life it is very well timed.

THE ANT AND THE CONTACT LENS
A story by Josh and Karen Zarandona

Brenda was a young woman who was invited to g rock climbing. Although she was very scared, she went with her group to a tremendous granite cliff. In spite of her fear, she put on the gear, took hold of the rope, and started up the face of that rock. Well, she got to a ledge where she could take a breather. As she was hanging on there, the safety rope snapped against Brenda's eye and knocked out her contact lens.

Well, here she is, on a rock ledge, with hundreds of feet below her and hundreds of feet above her. Of course, she looked and looked and looked, hoping it had landed on the ledge, but it just wasn't there. Here she was, far from home, her sight now blurry. She was desperate and began to get upset, so she prayed to the Lord to help her to find it.

When she got to the top, a friend examined her eye and her clothing for the lens, but there was no contact lens to be found. She sat down, despondent, with the rest of the party, waiting for the rest of them to make it up the face of the cliff. She looked out across range after range of mountains, thinking of that verse that says, "The eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth." She thought, "Lord, You can see all these mountains. You know every stone and leaf, and You know exactly where my contact lens is. Please help me." Finally, they walked down the trail to the bottom. At the bottom there was a new party of climbers just starting up the face of the cliff. One of them shouted out, "Hey, you guys! Anybody lose a contact lens?"

Well, that would be startling enough, but you know why the climber saw it? An ant was moving slowly across the face of the rock, carrying it on it's back. Brenda told me that her father is a cartoonist. When she told him the incredible story of the ant, the prayer, and the contact lens, he drew a picture of an ant lugging that contact lens with the words, "Lord, I don't know why You want me to carry this thing. I can't eat it, and it's awfully heavy. But if this is what You want me to do, I'll carry it for You" I think it would probably do some of us good to occasionally say, "God, I don't know why you want me to carry this load. I can see no good in it and it's awfully heavy. But, if you want me to carry it, I will." God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called. Yes, I do love GOD. He is my source of existence and my Savior. He keeps me functioning each and every day. Without Him, I am nothing, but with Him...I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. (Phil. 4:13)
LORD

THE IS IN CONTROL ALL THE TIME!

Surgery Countdown

The surgery will be November 28th. We went ahead an pulled Dylan out for next week from Preschool to help cut down on the germs coming around Aubrey.

I am registered for classes next semester.

Right now it looks like I am going to be taking:
Investment Management
Leadership in Orgainizations
Managerial Accounting
Legal, Social, and Ethical Environment

I was told that there are only a few registered for the professor for Investment Management. He is new professor from New Orleans and I have him in Managerial Finance right now. If I was a recruiter I would recommend him to any school He is a native of Lebanon and comes with a strong academic background in Finance. He does expect student to, ah hem, read outside of class. I am not sure where he might get that from:) maybe because we are Master's students and not Master Students.

100th Post!

Over the last several months, I have had the opportunity to take an inventory of my strengths. I have been in awe of the way God using the difficulties in life to strengthen us. As I look toward next semester at Park, I am once again committing myself to a minimum of 9 hours. Over the next several months I will be praying about taking a Teaching assistantship my last semester. I am also exploring the opportunity to go beyond the MBA. Please pray for me.

Small group study has ended

The Lord has blessed me over the last ten weeks in an outlet for wisdom and fellowship. My Crown Financial Ministries small group study has ended and I have to say that I am saddened by not getting to spend that time with my instructor and fellow Christian classmates. However, it is a new opportunity to do something more for the Kingdom. My Money Map Coaching materials have come in the mail and I will eager to begin that study soon and through the holidays. Then I will be able to pursue a very needed ministry.

The kids are remarkably healthy and we are having many friends and family over for Thanksgiving. Including some that have no family to share it with. Just will not have any football on for them, because still don't have any cable, and antenna, or a dish. Oh well, more time to talk!

Picture Time at Sears!

Here are some pictures of the kids from the Sears website.

Halloween

Halloween was a long day! I worked all day came home said goodbye to Bob who was out the door to class for the night in Parkville. Then I got the kids dressed and fed and out the door we went! Aubrey was our little sweet Pea and Dylan Frankenstein. We joined friends and fun was had by all. I want to thank Monte, Leslie, and Pam for braving the cold and taking Dylan door to door.

Leadership Problem

While I don't pretend to know what is being said by the people on TV, I have some comments about what I am reading about the Pastor Ted Haggard. Here is a man who has lead the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) and a very large congregation in Colorado. I am saddened by what has come out, but my faith is not shaken for my faith is in God and not in the leaders here on earth.

Why has this happened? Why because we are sinners and need God. Regardless of the sin, we are sinners and fall short of his glory. I am a sinner and try to ask God everyday to come in my life. I thank him for Jesus Christ and for his death that bring sme salvation.

Is the man guilty of the accusations? Clearly, more importantly, is that there is a great lesson here. We are sinners and must repent of our sins. The Pastor is in a greater position that I am , however, we are both fallen and need Christ. Whatever comes out, however the facts land, I will pray that Pastor Haggard deals with this issue.

What a wonderful weekend

Dylan and I topped off the weeked by going to the Shriners Circus down at Municipal Auditorium. I want to thank my friend Jennifer Butcher for inviting us to go with her son and parents. We had a blast. Our favorite part was the elephants. On the way home the kids fell asleep for a short while.

Hayride at Tim Bob & Andrea Cordonniers

We had a great time at Tim Bob & Andrea hayride. It was held outside of Faucett at Tim Bob's parents place. It was a fun filled night; full of hot dogs, elk chili, smores, and of course a nice long hayride. The kids sang songs. Somehow Dylan was convinced that this 60 pound log should be something he could take home with him. Basically don't ask about it, you have to know the company that night:)

Dylan's Pre-school Performance

Dylan had his first on stage performance at Edison school Thursday night. As I watched him just sing away it made me realize that my baby is growing up!

Everything seems to be good

Aubrey had her first RSV shot. She also was cleared for the surgery. It is scheduled now for November 28th, the week after Thanksgiving. This is all dependent on the surgery team all being back from their holiday break, so it may have to shift a little.

My studies are going well. Jennifer is doing good also, I am so lucky to have her. Dylan is loving preK and making friends.

Our First Weekend Away

Well Aubrey is almost 6 months old and we finally had our first night away from her. With Dylan he was nearly a year old before we did that. For both of us is wasn't any easier, however, both the kids were in very good hands....Grandma Kathy's. We went to Branson, our favorite family place to go. I was good, Jennifer and I walked, talked, caught up, laughed, ate, and had lots of fun. We really didn't do too much, it was the time together that was the best part. We both talked about how lucky we are to have each other. We didn't take a single picture if you can believe that. We were excited to come back home to our family and our lives, renewed and connected.

Dylan loved spending time with Tyler & Kaitlin at the hayride!

Happy HayRide

We had a wonderful time at Clayton and Joyce's place this weekend. We have always enjoyed going down to Pleasant Hill for the annual hayride and outdoor roast. We had wonderful weather, company, and food.

We made it home late Saturday and I made it up for church and bible study. I was so tired when I woke up at 8:10 and thought about telling myself I won't have time to make it, I did and I was rewarded.

I am not sure if I mentioned this, but I am so energized by the Crown Class. I am learning more about what the Bible has to say about finances and a lot about myself.

Below is an awesome section in which Paul is instructing Timothy what to watch out for. It is amazing what we have confused in our society as a want and a need. Marketing doesn't help us out either. We allow ourselves to be influenced by what we hear on television and radio. It isn't just about money, it is about everything. Paul isn't telling Timothy to run away, he is saying "be careful" of this vary easy ensnaring trap. I know I have been guilty of placing my trust in material things and accumulating them. It becomes self perpertating, even our leisure activities do the the same.

Teach these things, Timothy, and encourage everyone to obey them. 3 Some people may contradict our teaching, but these are the wholesome teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. These teachings promote a godly life. 4 Anyone who teaches something different is arrogant and lacks understanding. Such a person has an unhealthy desire to quibble over the meaning of words. This stirs up arguments ending in jealousy, division, slander, and evil suspicions. 5 These people always cause trouble. Their minds are corrupt, and they have turned their backs on the truth. To them, a show of godliness is just a way to become wealthy.
6 Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. 7 After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. 8 So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content.
9 But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.

More updates

The surgeons are now looking at four weeks after Aubrey is cleared up. So that is at a minimum five weeks away. She loves the breathing treatments also. She is all smiles and giggles.

We started her back on the aspirin and they will also begin getting her vaccinated for RSV. Since it is late in the cold/flu season when she will be out of the hospital they don't want to take any addition risks.

The surgery is being pushed back

Because of the congestion Aubrey developed over the weekend the surgery is being pushed back at least three weeks. They don't want to take any changes with the anesthesia.

Please put Jennifer Kellogg and the Kellogg family in your prayers. I just learned tonight she is recovering from heart surgery.

Who needs an MBA?

First, God moved me in church today. After getting to bed at 3 in the morning, it was hard to roll out of bed even though I woke up excited. As Zig says "Just get out of bed and think about it later." He is really moving me in the Crown class also. I have much to thank the Lord for and Pastor Scott today reminded me to say thanks for a few more also.

The skills Aubrey is picking up during Jennifer's garage sale will be invaluable, even if she is just sitting there looking cute. After Jennifer's sale this weekend and her marketing, I am wondering who needs the MBA. She has pulled off another successful sale. With more people putting more stuff. This was more like a 7 family sale.

I was scared this week when I walked out the basement door and it looked like a goods dumpsite. She definitely has earned her title as the "Garage Sale Queen." I know this has kept her mind off the surgery and hopefully the surgery isn't delayed due to the congestion Aubrey is having. There is so much to get ready for when you will be basically living somewhere else for several weeks.

Last night of my 8Week class is tomorrow.

Garage Sale Tomorrow

Jennifer will be having her garage sale tomorrow, Friday and Saturday. She is exited about the sale and keeping her distracted from the surgery next week for Aubrey.

Classes are going well and still are alot of work, but manageable. Like Dr. Hamzaee used to tell me, I could be an excellent student but I put more time into other things. This time I am putting the right amount of time into the classes. It is paying off, because it has solidified my undergraduate work. I really like my finance class with Dr. Paskelian, I am not sure if it is him or the subject matter. Dr. Koudou is a good professor also. My online Econ class has presented some difficulties in communication, though the coursework has been a repeat of Stats, International Trade, and Forecasting.

Crown Class

As I mentioned before, I am taking a Crown Financial Class. I haven't never been so excited about delving into the Bible and looking for new meaning since I purchased my John Maxwell Leadership Bible five or six years ago.

This ministry and God have brought out an interest and passion that I have since childhood. Jennifer says that sometimes my enthusiasm is too much for people to take all at once. I understand this weakness I have and I will definitely ask for control in this area. Now, one area I am so excited to share with people is Compound Interest, just ask me sometime I would love to share it with you.

Luke 16:11 So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?
This passage intructs us that if we are not faithful stewards of God's possessions, why would he entrust us to the true riches. Afterall none of this is ours.

In regards to an area I frequently speak about is credit card debt, look at these:
Proverbs 21:20 The wise have wealth and luxury, but fools spend whatever they get.
Have you heard of paycheck to paycheck. Now I am not talking about people that are literally straped for income for which I have been an advocate for, I am talking about those that have decent cars, decent home, decent toys.

Proverbs 22:7 Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender.
This one my wife and I followed and God gave me te experience of community service full time. What a rewarding time because we were not a slave to debt. May I ask you, do you work to please God or so that you will not lose your stuff? This is a tough question to answer truthfully, however it may set you free here on earth.

Oh, I would love to go on and on but I have things to do and kids to play with.

Celebrate for he is alive and that is truly Good News!

It's been scheduled

Aubrey's surgery has beeen scheduled for Wednesday October 11th. We will head down to Children's Mercy on Monday Oct 9 and Tues we will meet with doctors and do all the paper work and then she will be admitted Wednesday morning. Dylan's going to hang with Grandma Kathy and still try to go to school that week. Things will get busy so don't feel out of the loop just keep checking the Blog for information on how things are going!

Just Waiting

We are anticipating that it will be early next week when Children's Mercy calls us with a date for Aubrey's bypass surgery.

The house on Delaware is finally listed with Bob Bucher from Reese & Nichols.
You may remember Bob, he is the agent we purchased our new house through. From looking around town we probably have it listed under what it should be, however I was still wanting to put a new roof with guttering on. It is really effiecient also, our average electric ran around $62 for the last five years......with no gas bill! View our first little home at http://realtor.com/Prop/1068488064?lnksrc=00045

I am thinking at the price we have it at and the condition of the home we should make the remodeling costs back, so that is good, and someone will get a nice looking home located in a nice part of town.

Pictures from the Southside Festival

Aubrey surgery went well

Aubrey is home and doing great. The doctor that did her heart cath will meet with surgeons on Friday to talk about when the bi-pass surgery will be. I stayed home from work today to hang out with her. She is acting her normal self this morning with plenty of smiles and grins. We got Dylan off to school he cried because he wanted to eat breakfast at home and we didn't have time because I had planned for him to eat at school with his friends. When we got there he did just fine but my heart was breaking. With Bob so busy with his classes he has been encouraging me to make the posts which I am not very good at but getting better! I am going to try to put the pictures on next!

Aubrey is in surgery

We met with Dr. Booser and Dr. Hubbell. The nurse came in about 30 minutes ago and said they have started. Everything should go smoothly. After she is done, she will go into observation. We will then meet with Dr. Hubbell to discuss the results.

Southside Fall Festival

Today Jennifer took the kids down to the Southside Fall Festival. This event is a great family event for kids and adults (NO ALCOHOL...Yippee). As was started with Dylan, Jennifer entered our little Aubrey into the baby contest. When she got home, my little girl had one the Biggest Eyes category. Stacey and Jason little girl, Anna, had one the Biggest Flirt category.

Tomorrow is Aubrey's surgery and we will post comments and pictures from the hospital.

God Bless and please keep Aubrey in your prayers tomorrow.

Gearing up for the heart surgery

Well everything is going well. My nine hours is a lot to be taking, however I have reprioritized my time and am getting the work done. However, getting the old house to the market is running a little behind, not much left to do either. Dylan is loving preschool and his teachers. Aubrey and our family will be travelling to Childrens Mercy this Friday and Monday for her heart cathertization.

First week of MBA classes

Well I have to say that my MWSU Professors being diligent with me have been useful preparation for my MBA classes. Especially the rigor at which Dr. Hamzaee and Dr. Lawson inspired me and pushed me. In my finance class, it is really interesting how many of the students are ill prepared for this course. It seems most are happy with just getting by. Dr. Koudou is funny and very smart, he teaches my Marketing class.

There are many international students in all of my classes and I am gaining a lot from those relationships.

I still haven't found my schedule for homework though. On another note, many know that for over a year I have been discussing with Crown about possibilities for using my skills. I really became excited with Pastor Warren (Our Pastor while at Word of Faith) had me teach a class back in March and at the same time Crown contacted me about what I needed to do to begin volunteering. Well this Sunday I will begin. Praise the Lord for the grace he has extended to me, I definitely feel that I am not so deserving.

For those not aware of Crown, check them out at www.crown.org , there objective is to teach 300 million people God's financial principles at outlined in the Bible. Crown began with Howard Dayton and Larry Burkett. If any one would like to borrow any books, just e-mail me, I love lending them out.

Doctor's Appointment

Today we saw Dr. Drake at Lakeside and the did a heart sonogram. She is growing fine and looking good. The sonogram showed that the Mitral Valve was leaking. This seemed to cause a little concern for the doctor. The next step now will be a heart catheritization, which will be a one day thing at Mercy. He said he would like to have it done by October 1. After the heart cath the team of doctors will review the footage and determine how they next what to proceed. So after that we will know more or less when the shunt surgery will be. All the more reason to huge both the kids when we got home and soak up every smile, hug, smell of the skin, softness of the cheek, and cute look that I can.

Kathy has Dylan until about 10:30 tonight so I can get some howework done. Jennifer and Aubrey are at Anna's birthday party.

Also I am so glad he used the term leaking rather than prolapse! I probably would have lost it because that word would have terrified me.

The house looks so different

For anyone who has been in our old house and remembers that we did not have doors, now there are doors. Also in the entryway the doorway leading into our old bedroom has been closed off. This makes the house look so much larger.

Pastor Warren gave me a call last night, it feels strange when the Lord does something like that because I was thinking about him and a sermon he had given just a few hours before recieving the call. He told me about another John Maxwell Bible Study class coming up, it is on Tuesday nights so I won't be able to attend because of my night classes.

He also had an extra ticket for PromiseKeepers in KC this weekend. I so badly want to go, however I have priorities first. Anyone who knows the music I have listened to, knows that over the last four years I have wanted to go to a PK event. Perhaps another year.

Trails West is coming up this weekend. If you are out on Saturday, drop by the drink tent where I will be volunteering between 3:30 and 5 PM.

She is getting big

I can not believe it has been over three months since she has been born. She is getting big and still being a good sleeper. I am gearing up for school and still working on the other house. Getting to be over there by myself has been really refreshing. I get to work and listen to the radio. I have never been a big radio listener however I have found a couple of programs that I am drawn to. I have shifter my jogging to late nights after everyone has gone to sleep. Then I get to listen to downloaded sermons from Pastor Curt from Southaven Baptist.

I am working on giving Jennifer a big surprise soon. Since I know she hasn't been reading the blog, it's fun to get that out.

I think I am the lucky one

Well it seems that the old house is going well. Bob had said we would need to close of the entry door to the front bedroom, no problem just a lot of work. We are also putting up doors and some wardrobes/armoires in the rooms. If anyone knows anybody getting rid of a nice one of those let us know.

I think I am the lucky one getting to stay home with the kids during the day. I am finding that being a housedad is hard work, although it fun working at it.

GMAT AWA score

I received the link for GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) score on Sunday. Somehow in 60 minutes I was able to write tow essays that allowed me to score a 5.5 on a 6.0 scale. That placed me in the 87% of test takers. I am still in awe.

My classes this fall will be Managerial Finance, Managerial Economics, and Strategic Marketing, Planning & Decision Making. Again they will be in the evenings.

Happy Birthday Norma

Jennifer and the family will be going to her Grandma's house Saturday. We will be cooking her Shrimp Napoli and Baked Chicken. Then we will stay the night and go to Southhaven in the morning.

Norma has turn 76 and is doing great. She has also been inducted into the HOF at her high school.

Have fun in Denmark

Our friends Jason and Kathy are en route to Denmark now. Jason will be teaching while he is over there and Kathy will be soaking up the culture. I wish them well and hope they are able to update their blog with pictures.

Also it's official I will be a full time student in Park's MBA program this fall. I will be like Superman, stay at home Dad during the day and MBA student in the evening. I think this schedule will work for Jennifer and I. Jennifer is still looking towards going back to school at some point, maybe in a year or so. Right now she is the breadwinner in the family.

Tough times and tough decisions

I am glad I had the chance to speak with a couple today at church that tag teamed their way through school and grad school. They were also raising children at the same time and are a remarkable couple.

Having options is always exciting, especially when they are good options. Choices are good, I guess that is why Subway is so popular. I am exploring a couple of MBA possiblities for the fall.

Tonight we had the Parks over for dinner. Jason brought the pork chops and we grilled them. Jennifer made Shrimp Napoli. Later Jennifer and Stacey made a pineapple upside down cake in the Pampered Chef's Pan.

It was good having dinner with them and catching up on things.

I received an excellent score

To anyone getting ready to take the GMAT don't be intimidated by your picture being taken and the fingerprint verification that you must go through to take the test. The area I was the strongest in was the verbal section, which surprised me. My overall score was 570 which currently places me in the 61st percentile, which is high enough for many MBA programs. My score will be slightly higher than that once my essays are graded and added in. Keep in mind this was a computerized adaptive test, which also means my score was being calculated as I was taking the test and is why I know where I am currently at.

The big test day tomorrow

Tomorrow I will be taking the GMAT in Topeka. It will be a very revealing day for me. I have set my study habits high and my goal high. I feel that I will have the clarity of mind and determination to reach or surpass that goal.

It is a computerized adaptive test, that adapts to your skill level. I am pumped up and will keep everyone posted on the results.

Dylan's Birthday Party

Jennifer and I would like to thank all those who could make his birthday party and let everyone else who had prior engagements know we missed you. Although we were both busy during most of the event we are in agreement that the short conversations we had we very enjoyable.

I am always happy to see everyone. The weather was beautiful and provided us for a lot of opportunity to see kids be kids, and some adults who still think they are kids. It moves me deeply when I think about the relationship we have with everyone and thankful that God has given me the chance to be shaped by you being a part of my life.

When you click on the photo you will see many of the photos from the party. If you had a digital camera, we would love to share the photos with everyone. You may e-mail them to use or provide a link so we can access them. With a great amount of Love we hope you enjoyed yourselves.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW PARTY PICTURES

Birthday Pictures

We wanted to share some of Dylan's pictures that we didn't purchase.

Happy Birthday Dylan

Dylan is actually 4 now. As Jennifer and I are beginning our tenth year together, our little boy just turned 4. Right how he is cleaning up his room for us. This afternoon we will take a bath and work on a puzzle. Not much big planned for today, with the exeption of VBS.