TN Van Essens: An Update

Hi Everyone! We are so glad that Val was able to visit Lincoln, and that it went well. Not much to report from Knoxville...but here is the latest...

We had about a week-long interruption to spring! Winter returned for a while. But temperatures started heating up yesterday. So it's time to back to yard work as we need to mow and get some more top soil down in our flower beds.

Bailey's testing went well. She had a blast going to school. She had a precious procter (sp?) who was like a sweet grandma. She gave the kids candy. On the last day, she gave each child a stuffed ape. She said, "A.P.E. is for you to remember to Always Pray Expectantly."

Ben had another baseball practice last night. Dave came home laughing as he told me that Ben runs all over the field to catch each and every ball - even if it's not in his area! He even tackles the other kids to get every ball. He tackled a girl three times!!!!! Dave said Ben would be doing great if it was wrestling!

I am preparing to go to a ladies retreat this weekend. Dave is taking Thurs. and Fri. off. I'll be gone for three whole days!! I know Dave will do great with the kids. I am going shopping today to make sure he has the things he needs in the house. You can pray for him while I'm away! I am *really* looking forward to a rest. What a blessing to have time to focus on God, worship, and the Word. Also, no dressing others, feeding others, no breaking up numerous fights, no dishes!!!!!! You get the point... :) I want to return rereshed to be a better wife and mommy.

We had pretty much given up on the job in Houston. Dave was turning his attention to a job near Philadelphia. (We had even considered a job in Los Angeles, but after checking out house prices there, we decided there was no way that would be a good enviroment to be a one-income-family.) So just for safe measure, he called the Human Resources person at the Bayport plant (Houston). The HR guy said that he hadn't even seen Dave's resume yet! It all goes through a recruiter... So they guy said they were still working on the position (we're assuming that means it's still open...). He took Dave's name down so that he could get his resume and call Dave back... This conversation took place on Monday. So now we're prayerfully waiting again to see what God will do with this job. Thanks so much for your prayers! We are learning a lot about waiting on God and trusting in Him! ;)

Here are some recent pictures of the kids. Love you all and think about you all the time!!!

XOXO,
Desiree