Well Melanie wanted me to update this so here it is!!

We recently were given permission in writing to get a cat and our new cat's name is Kate because Melanie would not let me name her cat.

So I have been trying off and on to get back to a running routine unsuccessfully, I am realizing how much more I thrive when I have a running partner who pushes me and is in better shape than me. I went running the other night and it was 38 Degrees- I was wearing a couple of layers, a beanie and a face gator(cover for nose, mouth, and throat), and I ran about a mile and I was having a stabbing pain in my chest due to cold air and not being acclimated to running in those temperatures. I posted a question about it on runnersworld.com and I was pretty much told to suck it up by a bunch of northern runners who boasted about running in that temp wearing shorts and t-shirts. really encouraging- let me tell you.
However encouraging the response that I got online about my run, I am reminded how dependent we are on others for encouragement to grow spiritually as the Body of Christ. Hold on...don't stop reading just because it gets a bit spiritual. Seriously though when I am surrounded by friends who are seeking to grow deeper and stronger in their relationship as well as those who have traveled further than I have I am pushed onward even when said growth is painful or not exactly in my comfort zone.

With that said I am really enjoying the way our Sunday schoool is growing closer together recently which is giving Melanie and I a semblance of community which we crave. It is amazing how much encouragement spiritually which can be gained just by hanging out w/ people who are in a similar place as us.

The only thing I could desire more from sunday school would be if we could perhaps be more effective at reaching other young couples both in the church and Jonesboro. Both unchurched and those who just don't yet have a place to belong to experience the community which we are slowly building between each other which is quite refreshing.

well I guess I have rambled on enough- hope you are encouraged,
Much love, Ira.