New Bikers

Last month, Leah and I decided to get our licenses to legally drive the motorcycles.  We took the written test (and passed) and then decided to take the safety course.  That is a 3 day course over a weekend and if you pass it, you get your M2 (which allows one to drive the motorcycle after dark and with passengers).  The weekend we did our course was a very wet and cold one.  It rained hard both days and we got wet and cold!  However, we persevered and passed the course.  We learned a lot and are very glad we took the time to do the course.  And, since we took it at the local community college, we both have two course credits there.  Leah is enjoying the freedom to take the motorcycle to school, but must choose the warmer days.  Looking forward to spring!

Hannah's Graduation

Last Friday, Hannah's school invited all of the 2012 graduates back for the commencement ceremony.  It was a pleasure seeing her up on stage receiving her diploma with her classmates.  I am still confused, however, why they do it in October of the following school year instead of right when they graduate.  Many of her classmates could not attend  the commencement due to being in university or other fall activities.  Maybe by the time the last one in our family is done with high school, I will figure the Canadian graduation thing out?  Anyway, we are very proud of you, Hannah!  Congrats

Kitchen Cabinet Renovations

Here are some before and after pictures of my cabinets.  Last winter, I started a new project of re-doing my cabinet doors.  I took all the door off the cabinets, and glued a piece of trim around the edge of each of them.  Then I repainted everything (except the interior).  I also put on new hardware and backsplash.  I chose a risky color (bay leaf), but I really like it.  It gives the kitchen character and goes well with the paint on the dining room walls.  Overall, I am very pleased with how it turned out since I am not a carpenter!

And. . .he returns!

After two weeks out west, Andrew decided that he was going to return home.  He felt like he had lots of time to reflect on his decision and decided that working in the oil fields was not what he was supposed to do at this time.  He also was a little short on the $$ side, so that helped him make his decision quicker!  We are glad he is back and that he kept seeking God's will for him out there.  Andrew is chalking this up as a great two week vacation to western Canada!

Andrew's (and Victor's) New Adventure

 Victor

On Sunday, Andrew is moving out to Alberta to work in the oil fields.  He will be gone for???  He has decided he will be relying on his good friend Victor to get him there.  I don't know if we will ever see Victor again, due to all the missing/damaged parts he has.  We will miss Andrew a lot, though!  However, we are excited to see him begin a new adventure in his life.

New Wheels

The new wheels we recently brought home had only two.  This is Jim's ride to work since we have 4 drivers and only two cars.  While I don't think he plans to ride it in the snow, he will try to go as long into the winter months as he can.   It is a Yamaha Majesty, and is all automatic.  I think I will have to get my "M" license since it is so easy to drive!

Happy 12th Birthday

A big happy birthday to Julia who turned 12 the end of September!  She asked for homemade pizza for her birthday meal and received a surprise bmx bike from Daniel as a gift.  We are very proud of you, Julia!