9.28.2009

Jeff, update your blog!

This is US in a nutshell.

I (Jeff) started the Salem Alliance Choir back up. Our new season began with a bbq/rehearsal where I shared my vision for the new choir season. God is calling our choir to be more intentional worship leaders, not only with their lives, not only with their voices, but also with their faces. It's a stretch for me to lead the choir, but I so enjoy pastoring a group of people again. And they show me tons of grace. Our first weekend leading worship is October 3/4. If you're in the area, you should stop by for a service...or two. The other exciting thing in my life is that I've lost 33 lbs & 11 inches in the past 6 weeks on Take Shape For Life. I've NEVER been this thin in my life...and it feels great. I've got 50 more to go, so I can't get too cocky. But...I am bringing sexy back.

Kara is kicking butt and taking names as a Mom. Caleb is almost fully potty-trained...just a couple of messes here and there. The home continues to be a safe & warm place to come home to...and she is the one responsible for that. One of the holes left by leaving Redding (other than friends and family) was the hole of youth ministry. Kara was born to love and lead youth. Because of two small children (who will rename nameless), she has not had the time or energy to get involved. But recently the high school group at SAC began a Tuesday night gathering which means that I can be home to watch the kids while she gets an opportunity to not only get a break from being a Mom, but also gets to finally do what her heart longs to do. I'm so excited for her...and she is too.

Caleb is becoming a small boy. It frightens us how quickly they are changing. And just when you get used to a stage in life, they change on you. He loves to read. He loves to swing. He loves to EAT. 5 bowls of cereal yesterday. He's also growing as a prayer warrior. He says prayers at night with us, and we sense a deep sensitivity in his little spirit for prayer. Kinda cool.

Sam is actually shrinking (No, but wouldn't it be funny if she were). Her curly red hair has not gone away...and we love it. She waves at people now and blows kisses. And she will mimick whatever her big brother does, which is not always a good thing.

Picture People was having a "Cute Baby" competition. So we did. Enjoy.


Oh.

And Ally (our dog) is fine. In case you were wondering or if P.E.T.A. was monitoring my blog.

6 comments:

  1. My grandkids are the MOST ADORABLE EVER!!!
    Love Tutu

    PS Their Mom and Dad are pretty awesome too!!!

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  2. Kinda makes me want to cry! I am so gald that all of you are doing so well and adapting to Salem life. Just wish that I could be there too. Tell those kids to stop growing and don't get any cuter

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  3. I love having you in Salem and am glad God is plugging you in all over the place so that you NEVER leave.

    Congrats on the weight loss. Its not easy.

    Your wife is hot and your kids are the cutest!

    We still need to get together for pound cake extravaganza--let's just change it to fruit night. We'll still call it Pound Cake Extravaganza though because Fruit night couldn't get any lamer.

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  4. You Browns are ministry maniacs...and I mean that in the absolute best way possible. Glad your cups are being filled and your heads/hearts challenged. SAC (and let's face it, the Martins) wouldn't be the same without ya! Also, your stinkin' kids should WIN that Pic Peep contest!

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  5. How fun to read your blog - I remember when you were that small and adorable!! You do hold the prestigious title of being the first male grandson on the McClain side:)
    May God give you His wisdom and energy as you raise those two sweeties to love and honor Him!! Aunt Holly

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  6. Your kids are stinking CUTE!!! I love the pics!

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