Jantzen and the Bike Race

We are pleased to report that Jantzen completed his 62 mile bike race yesterday! He said it was grueling, but he didn't stop other than to get a drink at the designated stops. I really am proud of him for his efforts. That's a huge accomplishment! He said he could hardly walk after the race. I am also pleased to report he has straight A's at school. Finally! Back to the good grades like I know he is capable of. These are the "miracles" of this week.

Hannah and I will be driving out to see him in 2 weeks--the 2nd time we've seen him in 4 1/2 months. It's like Christmas!

He had a few setbacks last week which were very discouraging. He got caught with cigarettes, alcohol and some prescription drugs--a long story that spans a few weeks, but such a bummer. Some other kids knew about some sneaking around and told their superiors. Jantzen was confronted and finally told the truth. It really threw me for a loop. I didn't even know he had ever smoked and we didn't think he had any ongoing issues with drugs. It's a tough thing when you find out new information 4 1/2months into "recovery". Some people say he's doing this BECAUSE he's there, and others say it's exactly why he needs to be there. It's confusing as a parent. We just hope we are doing the right things. What this does mean is that we need to stay committed for the year with Jantzen. We had thought about bringing him back early since we'll be in Ephraim, but I think we need to figure out a way to keep him in the program.

We are still moving forward on our plans to sell the house and move to Ephraim. I'm sure I'm not excited about it personally, but I think it's the right thing for our family. We will be together which is most important. I think the kids will thrive in a smaller town as well. And simplifying life is a definite plus. I'll take advantage by going back to college and seeing if I can learn something new. I'd like to become an architect for my second life--one that is focused on building "green" homes or offices. I'm very nervous about leaving my friends in the community. Kevin keeps reminding me we still have a home in Alpine and we can spend time here as well.

The girls surprisingly seem excited for the move. I think they'll be the coolest thing since sliced bread in the high school. Right now we are shooting for an October 16 move--we'll see if we can move things forward that quickly.