Lots of stuff on our minds these days..We've been involved in looking for jobs these days, well more for Tom then I, as we would both love for me to continue to stay home with Teo.
The economy has tanked in our City and the daunting task of sending out resumes, going for interviews, and being turned down has really taken it's toll on both of us. I went for an interview the other day (more out of curiosity than anything) This is only the 3rd interview I've had in 3 years, since I haven't really needed to, and it ended up lasting 3 hrs!! Crazyness, right?! Loads of mathematical testing, personality testing, etc.. I passed and basically was offered the job, but after much thought I called and let her know my answer. Nope. Don't want to rot my life away in a stressed out customer service position for Sears, with calls off the hook and performance-driven greed. Just can't do it. Sorry.
Tom has the possibility of doing a few days of work this week for a construction company that interviewed him last week. Installing windows etc..So that will help out a little.
We have been seeking out God's will for our lives this past year with intensity. Change is imminent, and not just because of job prospects or lack of them..Teo is starting school this September and we want to be established and hunkered down for him by September. I wont go into depth as to our ideas on this change or any specific details because God is teaching us to trust Him in the big and the small, and to learn to walk into HIS will, and not necessarily just beg for it. Of course he wants us to ask for His answers, but so often we as humans whine about "I'm not hearing the voice of God, which path does he want me to take? Etc" First of all He has given us His Word- The Bible. Every answer you need is in there. Secondly, things are often common sense. He's given us a brain, creativity, and free will. I believe he delights in us making our own decisions within the perimeter of Godly choices. Thirdly, we need to take the initiative and boldness to walk through the doors He is opening. He will shut the one's that aren't right for you, and direct your steps according to his Word. His desire for us is to learn, mature, trust, and to become more like Himself. And these things come with time and experience in watching his provision for you as you choose to walk along the narrow path.
In other news, Teo is doing really well with the toilet training!! I think with boys especially, it takes a little more patience and perserverance, but then one day it's just like BINGO. He's got it, and he's doing sooo well at it! It's a miracle. So cute watching him tear around the house with his Curious George underpants, and not wearing those pull-ups anymore. Cheaper too. He's growing up so fast, and loves his friends at church and family space. His vocab is quickly expanding and people can't believe how much he talks for a boy. He'll be soo ready for School in September, and we are working on the sitting down for a few minutes, listening, and routine. We also pray often for his future teacher's and classmates, so important.
Our house reno's are coming along, and still to complete is: buying and installing countertop in kitchen, painting new cupboard doors, paint 2/3'rds of house, and then we're done. Biggest holdup is the finances. Our flip house across town is still on the market, but we had positive feedback from several people who came through the Open House today. So we're hopeful and waiting..
Took Teo for his first sledding experience recently. He had a blast at the farm with all the church kids, and especially loved the tractor ride that brought them back up to the top each time. Going into the cow barn during milking hour was a big hit, as well as the numerous barn kittens. He had so much fun that we took him again last week, although it was very icy but probably added to the fun! We also spotted our 2nd fox this Winter.
We started a Vegetarian challenge for Tom and I to eat no meat for 1 month. So far so good. We're at a week now and going strong..It's not as tough as I thought it would be, although we had cut out almost all red meat and pork in the last few months, so I guess that makes it easier. It's the lack of chicken that's a little tougher, but it's fun experimenting with veggie meals and learning how to use different forms of protein.
Tom and I have also started to help out with our Sunday School at our church which is always fun and such a privledge to help teach other's little one's about the love of Christ.
Well, that's a little of what's been happening in the Armstrong family. Here's to year 2013, I remember when that seemed soo far away when I was a child. So futuristic, and hard to comprehend. But alas, we move forward. All the best to your family this year too!
