Wednesday, July 30, 2008 -  HE SAID:  The "Check Engine" light came on in the truck causing me some concern that turned out to be unwarranted.  I took the truck to a Dodge dealer in Woodstock, IL and they checked it out.  Turns out there was a technical service bulletin out on this particular code indicating that the electronic control module just needed to be updated with new software.  A five minute fix and I was on my way.  The best part was there was no charge, as it was covered under the factory warranty".  We stopped at a "Menards" store to pick up some paint and it was the greatest hardware store I have ever been in.  Makes our local Home Depot and Lowes seem small in comparison.  I could easily get in my 10,000 steps just wandering around inside.  Speaking of walking, I try and get a walk in every day but have only reached the 10,000 step level twice this week.  Too hot and muggy during the day, and too many bugs during the evening.  Having a great time here, but time marches on and we plan on leaving for North Carolina on Sunday. 

Wednesday, July 30, 2008 -  SHE SAID: We are happy to report that we have our little  Vinnie here as part of the pack, at least for a few days. He flew in Monday night and leaves Saturday, but it sure is wonderful to see him. We've been in touch with our other sweet little guys and Praise God, they are all doing well, but they've had some excitement of sorts going on in their lives...Jeff was involved in a car accident, Mark was in an earthquake, and Jimmy is getting ready to take off for Afghanistan...so needless to say, our prayer life have been very active as well. But, we really do miss them all.

But, we are thoroughly enjoying each wonderful day here in Harvard, IL and John, Cheri and Jay have done an incredible job of making us feel loved, welcomed & valued--and it will be very hard to say good bye, come Sunday when we take off.  We've loved learning some new card games, being fed till we feel like we're gonna burst and shopping at the new Super Wal-Mart and this incredible supermarket called "Joe's" that is the most impressive grocery store we have ever seen. IF the item you are looking for isn't on their shelves, then it just isn't made--and the deli is to die for--cases full of scrumptious lunch meats, cheeses, baked goods--and a VERY long line to wait in for service. You actually have to take a number and mind you, when we were there last week, there were 12 clerks working behind the counter--but the wait was worth it. The food we brought home was fantastic! To say we're being blessed in EVERY way on this trip, would indeed be an understatement. Family sure is a wonderful thing!