The Clooten Family: Changes on the horizon

My 12 weeks of allowed maternity leave just ran out. I have been trying to decide what I would do ever since I got pregnant and would love to stay home with my little man full-time. The past 3 months since he's been born have been amazing to be able to be home with him and I am so thankful i've had this time. But, me staying home isn't really a possibility for our family right now. I have been totally stressed out about what I would do...up until now I have balanced 2 part time jobs (not making much money at one of them) and that arrangement would be too difficult with an infant at home. Therefore, I went looking for a new job.

God has totally provided for me in completely unexpected ways and I have just been hired at Christian Chapel Academy as next years 8th grade teacher. I will actually teach 6, 7, & 8 grade science and 8th grade social studies and bible class. Most small Christian schools have their teachers fill many roles. I am nervous about the work load this will require (on top of maintaining a home with a husband and baby), but very excited for this opportunity and have felt extremely welcomed by Christian Chapel already!

This is not the only change happening...August brings lots of change. I will be starting this new job, Chad will be starting a new internship, we will be moving into a new apartment on August 1st, and at the same time Elias will be ready to start solid foods and will have to begin going to daycare. I get very anxious and stressed thinking about it and would appreciate any prayers for peace and preparedness!

But, for now i'm enjoying some free time...currently spending a girls' week with my mom (and Eli of course) at the Lake of the Ozarks! I will miss my hubby, but am looking forward to down-time.

And because I can't resist, here are some more pictures of Eli and our family (taken by Breezy Torres)...