update

Hi friends :)


I haven't done an update on our family in a while. Seems like a good time to do that.


Trevor has been very busy... I think I probably say that in every update, but it gets to be more and more crazy every semester. I can't believe that at the break this winter he will be halfway finished with law school. He has been doing an externship with Diakonia Christian Legal Services... he basically works with other attorneys assisting clients in civil matters. I am so excited about his career and the many ways he will be able to help people! He is also in the midst of Mock Trial. He and his partner have worked super hard on this. I hope they do well.


Piper is a beautiful little bundle of energy. She is doing so much and growing more independent each day. Some big firsts for her: drinking through a straw (so thankful for this), learning to use a spoon or fork, giving kisses, helping me pick up toys and fabric scraps, being able to bring me things that I ask for, a newfound adoration for shoes and having them on her feet, and picking out outfits (sort of... she has specific preferences about what she wants to have on). She also has several baby dolls which she pretends to feed and take care of. She turned 16 months old on September 29th. I think the rhythm of our work, play, and breaks is good for her. It has taken me a little while to reach that point. In some ways, I felt guilty (and still do sometimes) for doing other things from home. I think I have reached a place of realizing it is healthy for her to see me work and to learn that work, having a purpose in mind and working toward it with joy, is a big part of who God created us to be as human beings. For me, the challenge lies in finding a balance... in giving preference to the relationships in my life rather than my work. Relationships are so much more important.


I have been enjoying the creative lifestyle and have plans for growth. Some exciting things coming up: just ordered a bunch of beautiful imported Japanese fabric for bags, hoping to start using leather for the handles, am doing an engagement shoot for a couple of dear friends, and I will also be making bridesmaid's dresses for the wedding! It's going to be a beautiful wedding, and she is going to be a beautiful bride. I am so excited for them.


Our church is just completely awesome. I mean, seriously. God brought us to a good place here in Athens. I am really happy to be here. Some wonderful friendships have been developing... we're hoping to go camping with some of these families next weekend! It is finally cool enough to be outside all day. We haven't taken Piper camping at all yet (shame upon shame). I think she will love it. Tomorrow we're going to the North Georgia Folk Festival to see one of these families-- the husband will be playing his banjo. I'll bring my camera.


Lastly, we'll be having visits from Portland friends! The Hambeltons will come in December, and Jeff (possibly Matthew as well) will come through in November. I am so stoked to see my friend Emily!! Check out her blog. She is so much fun. Leave her an encouraging comment-- she just started nursing school. 


Tonight we'll probably go to the park, do the swing set thing, and enjoy a nice hoppy beer.  Good bye sweet readers.


xoxo
paige