Wow! Thanks for the comments (but, please people...keep them coming...certainly you have something to say). I just cannot seem to give up this idea of the continuous journey from uncertainty to confidence. So, I think i might have the makings of my first attempt at a book. I have been brainstorming about folks to interview and have several meetings already scheduled. These are individuals that I think have an interesting perspective or story to tell of even an every day journey from uncertainty to confidence.

Oddly enough, one thing I have noticed so far is that, like a comment I got on my last post, many of these people are insecure but continually muster up the strength to accomplish greatness (this includes yours truly). Again, even on the most micro level in daily living. Interesting...

Okay, on to other things. First, the nanny resigned. Oh, don't gasp yet. It was a great thing! We were preparing to fire her and I already had an ad in the paper. But, this makes for a much more amicable split, which is really what we wanted. We have just come to a roadblock on too many issues that are of great importance to us. And, I think maybe three kids is too much for her. Granted, its a lot. But, I am confident that there is someone out there who has the energy, shares our desire to teach our children to communicate, ask for what they need, solve their own problems with dialogue, eat healthy, make good choices, get lots of exercise and explore their creativity. I have never doubted her ability to "care" for the children and they adore her, but it is certainly time to part ways.

But, that means the search is on. The search is so damn painful. We may end up using this nanny placement service we used before. It is super expensive, but he is willing to offer a reduced price for repeat customers. The only problem is I am not sure there is a discount great enough to make it worth my while to work with him again. My dad will be disappointed I am not more closely following the Jewish side of my family on this one. But, this guy just makes my skin crawl. He is sooo super sales-y and slimy. He won't listen to a word I say and tries to tell me what I want, even when he is super wrong.

Case in point, last time we used him I swear he sent someone with Downs Syndrome to the interview. I told him she was very nice, but not capable. He said, "so you liked her, but you are trying to decide if she is right for your family." NO! That is not what I said! I said she is retarded and cannot drive my space shuttle with the kids in on the street (space shuttle = minivan). The ad is still in the paper, but disappointed with the turn out (of course). Keep your fingers crossed. Current nanny's last day is July 14.

Other good news, the personal trainer is starting to pay off, as is the tennis twice a week. I am feeling nice and toned! I like it and can see where this, given my addictive personality, could easily become obsessive (as my friend Stacie has warned about her tri-athletic training). Tried cardio tennis last night (in addition to my class on Tuesday and tonight). I liked it, but it is like not quite tennis and not quite cardio. Not sure if they offer a class at a time that works for me at this point.

And, guess what...? My huge email problem is creeping back in. I don't get it. THey had it totally fixed and it is slowly ramping up again. Still lots of work going on, which is good but working hard to tighten up the bookkeeping end by seeking a full service firm. Also preparing to enter a process with a group of colleagues to complete a business plan as I finish the transition from sole proprietor to corporation. Must invest in good support to continue down this path, including bringing a tech guy in to do an assessment of my network. Money in = money out. However, I have come to the stunning conclusion that my number one goal in business is to make lots of money. Sorry, its true. Number two, the passion for what I do.

Now I am rambling. Some recent pictures to share...














The Rice Krispie cake we made for Jeff's birthday. Ahh, Rice Krispies iced in melted chocolate, does life get much better? Three layers too!














The boys picking strawberries.




















Andy picking berries, I am following his lead. He was so very serious about it!














Post-strawberry picking. PJ had the idea to do a lemonade stand, selling lemonade and strawberries. Drinking the profits away...but they sold out thanks to the neighbors.