Welcome to the Julius Jungle!: July 2009

I don't even know if anyone reads our blog anymore because so many of us use facebook! I do like to keep it as a journal though. I need to share with those of you who do read the blog but do not use facebook. This is probably more information than you would expect to find on the blog.. but we would love some prayers!

As Tod and I are both facing some health issues we have decided to avoid being worried about one another and stressing about our own health by counting our blessings. It has worked wonders, though we still are struggling with why our health is such a challenge. I worry about Tod's extreme blood pressure (well into stroke levels when at the doctor and a little lower when not at the doctor, they call is 'white coat syndrome') and sleep apnea constantly.. lay awake and watch him sleep, etc. He is eating so healthy, exercising, at a healthy weight.. all the stuff recommended to treat apnea/blood pressure with lifestyle and no change. His family history doesn't help, which also keeps me on my knees! Thank goodness we found someone to mow this mountain we live on, so I don't have to worry about a rollover lawn mower accident :-)!!! We are stepping it up a little and hope to find some relief for him soon! My health continues to be a roller coaster and it has started impacting quality of every day life and what I can commit to doing with friends and family. We are praying.. reading.. and working through all aspects of health and hope to find overall health soon! Your prayers would be so appreciated.

Our home has not sold... so, Utah will be attending Heritage High School until it sells. We have him enrolled and have contacted teachers, counselors, and coaches. I have to share that HHS has been overwhelming us with their graciousness, kindness, and willingness to listen and help Utah adjust. Pray for Utah and his protection, confidence, and that he is surrounded by the right kids and adults!

Finally, we are working on simplifying our life.. reducing stress. I am going to set strict rules for us as to when I have to turn off the computer (iTouch, phones, work, etc. and it will probably be 9pm once I return to work), when we have to be in bed, and how many hours of sleep we all get around here! We have almost completely eliminated fast food from our diet (I have completely eliminated it, Tod has it about twice a month, and Utah has it about once a week). We are making our own tea at home, so Sonic is loosing money now :-)!

Also, reducing texting.. no more after 9pm when school starts. I am not going to have anymore serious or important conversations via text messaging either! My phone will not go everywhere with me.. except to stay available for emergencies! Staying plugged in all the time has led to an intensity and worry that is unnecessary... some stuff can wait! Please be patient if I don't call you back as quick as normal... or don't respond to emails, txts very quickly. It is a part of my time travel to simpler, calmer times! I am hoping I can convince Tuesday to turn off her phone at night (we will buy the alarm clock) so she can get continuous hours of sleep, it is really important, just read the research on sleep!

We are simplifying and reducing stress... counting the days until our big vacation in December!