I've been back in OR since Wednesday night. Flew back safe and sound. I had a fabulous support group in ND that offered vehicles, emotional support, a listening ear, and just their presence. I didn't realize what awesome friends I have there. I think I was too focused on OR to ever understand what was there in front of me. However, what is developing in OR is doing well for me too. I'm reconnecting to some friends that I've known since I was young (Jol, Aur, and Rain) and it is very nice. Especially to reconnect with Jol. We used to do some crazy stuff when we were growing up. I mean weird crazy. :)

Today the kids and I were invited by Jol and her husband to attend a "Renaissance Fair". We had never been to anything like it before. Jol happened to have an extra 'outfit' so while her and her husband looked like rich squires, I got to look like a pirate. :) Actually, I was thinking of that guy from Princess bride ..."My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father; prepare to die." We had a good time. There was lots of amazing clothes, people with weird pseudo-accents, good music, and loads of amazing crafts. We also got to see a jousting and other fun games held with horses and sword play. The kids each got to spend a few dollars so the girls bought plastic horses and Noah bought a nice wooden sword. They said that they want to go again next year.

Noah has started school and seems to like it. He has a male teacher this year, and is in a 2nd/3rd grade teaching system. I think it will work well for him.

Hannah starts school tomorrow. Unfortunately I won't be able to take her on her first day because she is doing late kindergarten, but she said that that was okay. She cares more about having her supplies and wearing her new outfit!

The kids are going to a babysitter just two miles from my parents, and I think Natalie will do well there. The babysitter is very involved in the school and also teaches her children at home. The kids will be dropped off at her house after school and than I will pick them up after I get off work. Her husband and oldest son make kit cars and race them for a hobby, which Noah thinks is absolutely the coolest and is excited to know that he can watch them as they work.

Personally, I am still in shock. Today the kids called Mark and as I listened to them I started crying. This is difficult. I have friends that I can talk too and that helps. Two of them have this on their history too. Mostly though, I keep to myself...unless I get literally overwhelmed and can't make sense of my thoughts or emotions. Today I had that happen. :)