It's windy, can you feel it?

The winds of change are a blowin here at the Ruchus...it's time to buckle down, and get some stuff done. In just a few weeks I hope to have photos for you of my scrap room's amazing transformation, from a relativly useless storage space, to MY space. My space to contemplate and to create. I can't wait! Among other things...I have decided October 3rd, is diet day for me...back to Weight Watchers...it is SO time. I've been working ever so slightly on changes in my life and have decided it is time to kick it into full gear. It is becoming evident to me how much growing my kids have done and what a short period of time I have left with them. It is important to utilize every day to the fullest!

My fabulous boss is helping me with one of my primary weaknesses...organization. Everyone marvels at how much I accomplish, but it is usually at a price to me. I have not been sleeping well lately, often waking up throughout the night with the never ending to do list on my mind. My work load is astounding, add to that household responsibilities, a second job, aging parents, grad school, three super busy teenagers and a marriage and wow! Organization is really the key to keeping it all together. As you know from previous posts, I was hit with quite a sever bout of depression recently. For whatever reason it seems to be lifting and the clouds are being replaced with sunny hopeful skies. Thanks for everyone's love and support.

I have some fabulous pictures to share, but I'm still having a few computer issues. I have camera software on one computer but not internet, and internet on the other computer but not software! As soon as we become resynchronized around here computer wise, I'm sure you'll be wowed!

We are super busy preparing for homecoming, fall, the family reunion, and three birthdays the month of October. I've also put together a committee to plan my class reunion yet this year, since no one else stepped up, and it's our 25th! Brennan has his x-rays on Wednesday, has been cleared to wear a shoe, but still isn't able to walk on his foot. Hopefully Wednesday's x-rays will give him the all clear to begin physical therapy and he can begin to move on with the recovery process.

We have had to make some rather painful decisions around here regarding our pets. I have an older dog that has begun having potty issues and I'm pretty sure I cannot deal with that. We've tried doggie diapers but that seems to be humiliating to him and frustrating to me...so time will tell. He has joint issues and is getting quite old. I'm thinking before the weather gets really cold, which is really hard on him...perhaps it will be time...what a great sadness. His beautiful eyes and gentle ways will be so missed. He has been my napping companion for the past 8 years. When I'm really stressed and can't sleep, I call him up onto the bed and with his warm self and snuggles, I almost instantly fall asleep. This decision leaves a definite ache in my heart. I hope by beginning the process now, I'll be able to work through the sadness and send him to heaven in November. (sighs heavily)

It also seems I need to begin letting go of my big girl. With dance, working, social life, and academics, she hardly has time to be helping around the house. Is it time to remove her from the chore list? I'm not sure. PSAE's are coming, ACT's, class rank, college visits...wow! Where has the time gone? As she transitions out of high school, my precious one begins. I absolutely love that my children are so close together and treasure the time when they will all be in high school together. I think the most special part is because I am on the school board, I'll be able to hand them their diplomas when they graduate. Many tissues will be required on those days!

So, you're a little caught up now with all things Ruchus...oh wait...I was in Arizona last week caring for my mama after her most recent surgery. I am so grateful everyday that I have a wonderful job that says...you need time off? Go! ...no guilt, no questions, just support. When I return there are genuine questions of concern about my mom. Even from our CEO! I know I've said it before, but I am SO truly blessed with the amazing job I have and with the amazing people I work with. When I was praying last year...God was listening and he surely went above and beyond my wildest dreams when I landed this job. God is so good!

The Ruchus is wishing everyone a bountiful fall. Enjoy the crisp air, the beautiful leaves, and try to take a moment to relish in all things wonderful. If you know someone who's suffering (and I know far too many people right now) lend a hand...say a prayer...let them know you care.