Lately...

Hello?  Anyone still read this thing?  If so, you'll be glad to see that I have finally updated!  It's only been 8 months.  One of my goals for this year is to be better at documenting the happenings of my family.  I have never been a good journaler, so this blog is it!

Here is a little life update for the Hardcastle family:

Brad:  Still enjoying his new job.  I am enjoying his commute (20 minute max!)  His office is right next to a local park and river walkway, so we are looking forward to visiting for lunch once the weather warms up.   He was recently called into the YM program working with 15+ Deacons (boys age 12-13).  He loves it.  I think it is payback from his Deacon-age years.  He is looking forward to their monthly campouts, summer scout camp, and all the various activities in-between.

Lauren:  Feeling very blessed to be home full-time with Owen.  I was given the chance to go back to school last Fall to start a program that had been my dream since I was a teenager.  The timing never was right, and this would have been my last chance to start before classes expired, etc.  Wouldn't you know it-- the timing still wasn't right and I turned it down.   I never thought I would pass up something I had worked 7+ years for, but I guess I my dream has changed.  
At church I am serving as the Music Chairman, Choir director, Nursery chorister, in addition to Co-organist.  All firsts for me.   On the advice of my back surgeon, I recently started swimming again.  I don't love it, and I'm not very good at it, but I do mostly love those early morning workouts and time to myself.   Besides working out, learning more about crafting (just got a Silhouette & Pinterest!) and couponing, the rest of my time is with my Owen, who is the best buddy I could ask for!

Owen:  Growing up way too fast!  He is 17 months old now, which means 1 more month until nursery.  We are all counting the days!  He knows all his articles of clothing and loves to help get himself dressed.  He knows over 10 animals and their sounds.  He still is the best giver of hugs & kisses.  He loves balls, and expecially loves playing baseball on a little tee/ball/bat set he got for his birthday.   He doesn't love having to stay inside with the cold weather, so we try to find at least one excursion a day to get out of the house.  Sometimes it is just to the rec center to walk around the track, but no matter what it is, he loves it!  He is constantly waving "Hi" and "Bye" to people.  I always look forward to finishing checkout at the grocery store, and watching him wave "Bye" and blow kisses to the cashier.  Every. Single. Time.  He has such a friendly demeanor and loves to interact with people. 

Life is good for the Hardcastles.  Hopefully we can keep this thing a little more up-to-date for 2012!