Hi everyone....wanted to give you a snapshot of the week, because so many of you have prayed and encouraged me during this trek...
 
The weeks worst night of sleep goes hands down to last night.  (Which is pretty amazing, since the last three haven't been a picnic)  I fear I may have over-drugged Jack.  You know how sometimes you're so desperate, that you think the word "Dimetapp" or "Benadryl" reads "Good Nights Sleep for the Entire Household"?  So, in addition to Jack's regular allergy medicine, he got some Dimetapp for his runny nose.  (I can see my friend Dr. Mike wincing now because he knows my reckless abandon in the drug arena!)  Well, it backfired and guess who was up from 1 to 4 last night jumping, dancing, and just having a regular ball!  ME and JACK!  Thankfully, I wasn't really tired because I'm quite sure I have a sinus infection, so I was miserable till the Sudafed kicked in and even then there was really no rest for the weary.
 
The Sinus Infection trail has gone something like this:  Jack about 3 weeks ago (he got medicine and was better), Adrianne for the last 2 weeks (she has the greatest immune system unlike her brother, so it was wierd for her to be sick) me for the last week and I think Jack has it back.  Putting frozen peas on your face in the middle of the night helps immensely and amuses Jack.
 
Greatest Theological moment of the week goes to Adrianne.  I came to check on her after she'd been in bed for awhile and discovered her painting her fingernail (only one needed repair).  She knows that is a very strict "No way", so when she saw me, she literally crumbled and just started bawling.  She was doing the hyperventilating cry and all I could do was hold her.  Through her tears, she informed me how getting caught was "very scary for little kids".  I was struck at how my presence alone convicted her little heart and conscience. I thought of how the holiness of God does the same for us (though I am often not as quick to be convicted)  It was neat to talk with her about how doing things that Mommy and Daddy don't want her to is a very dangerous and scary place to be.  I silently prayed all the while that God would give me a heart quick to conviction.
 
All in all, it hasn't been too bad, though there have been moments...Buddy gets on the airplane Monday morning (US time) and 24 hours later is due to be home.  (It seems that Japan is a 24 hour plane trip to anywhere!) Please pray for his safety and quick adjustment to being back.  Our Spring Break retreat is around the corner, and there's lots to coordinate and do for that.  Also, our annual Pledge to Purity Banquet is March 20th.  That is always such a special time.
 
Thanks for loving us and being part of our team.  It is so awesome to have people like you to love and know this side of eternity.
 
Jen for the sleep-deprived, coffee-drinking Rathmells.