I know... I know, it's been a while.

I am so sorry I haven't posted anything for such a long while, but things have really been hectic at the Bradshaw household. With working, going to school, Caleb's baseball games, Chris' softball games, and a baby... I don't have much time to think, let alone post blogs. But, my mission this week is to get the pics I have developed and posted so you guys can see Caleb in action, and Van getting SO big.

Van is now pulling himself up on furniture and even trying to cruise around things now. It's too fast, I can't take it. I want him to stay a little baby in my arms, but I know he must grow up, just like Caleb -- just like us all. He babbles alot, and tests how far his voice will carry... he also tests how many times I will pick up an item for him if he drops it. He's a smart little thing. I love him and Caleb so much. It's hard to believe how much you can love someone until you have children, and how far you would go to protect them. Even from people who claim to love them too (reference to Arkansas, here).

Things in that area are up in the air. We have a court hearing on Aug 7th to see what the child advocate recommends, and Caleb is really worried that he will send him back to Arkansas. Hopefully, after seeing all the police reports, talking to me and talking to Caleb - the advocate will make the right decision. If not, I guess we'll have to go to trial. Like I said, I will go to any lengths to protect him. I just wish I knew everything that has gone on before now! I should have done this a long, LONG time ago. In the meantime, Caleb and I have been going to domestic violence counseling, because I'm just now realizing that neither one of us is truly over it yet. Fortunately, Caleb's domestic violence counselor can also testify on Caleb's behalf, so that's a plus for our case.

Chris is still jobless, thankfully his unemployment goes until the end of January, so he can be picky. He's had a few job offers, but some are not much more than he's making on unemployment. I'm really beginning to wish that we would have not bought the house and would have moved away from Ohio, sometimes it's so depressing here. But, I have a great job... I just wish they would hire spouses. Then Chris and I would be set! Oh well, we'll do what we can, that's all anyone can ask from us.

So, as you can see, things have been busy and stressful. I hope to see an end to drama on the horizon, but it seems to follow me, or I make it.... who knows? All I know is that I'm ready to just settle into calm, family life where we are all in a routine, no matter how boring it is. God, I would love that!

Oh, my Dad is going to Iraq for 6 months, so... yeah... just more stress on my shoulders. I'm sure he'll be fine though. He's been through a worse war than this one.

Alright, enough updating... pics coming soon.

Love to all -- and please pray for Caleb's situation and Chris a job
The Bradshaws