My Thoughts on Black October

Well October has come and gone. We survived it. You don't really have the option to not survive it.

Most of the way through October I felt things were pretty in check. It seems like I was able to brace myself for how awful it would be. Thanks for all the warnings friends! (For those of you who don't know - this month of the second year program in dental school is referred to as "Black October" because there are exams almost every day and sometimes more than one in a day.)

Before October came, James would study late on Tuesday, Thursday, and every other Wednesday. James was available, sort of, every other Wednesday because he had to run cub scouts at 7pm.

That all changed at the start of October when he was released from scouts and called to be the executive secretary. The new call has been awesome for him and us. James welcomed the opportunity to get out of his spiritual slump, and while I have to get the kids ready for church by myself, the mornings are relatively peaceful (even if we don't make it there on time every week). However, the new call has opened up Wednesday nights for much needed studying and time in the lab. So, I'm forced to plow through the middle of the week without back-up. Policing the Burneson house full of rowdy boys can be quite the chore.

KCPD has a ride-along program for citizens who would like to see their tax dollars at work. Do you think I could enlist members of the community for a ride-along with me? It's sure to be an adventure every night!

I sure do miss my partner. It's been amazing; watching how he balances everything. We definitely take turns being the low one on the see-saw. It seems like one of us is usually able to keep it together and be strong while the other enjoys a meltdown. I probably do more than my share of melting, but I also do more than my share of laundry so I think it works out even.

This month presented us with some crazy challenges. I'm just so grateful for the superhero that is my husband. I'm thankful for all the laughter and silliness that he brings into our home. I am puzzled sometimes at his methods but appreciate all that he sacrifices for me. I love that he understands that the best foreplay is a clean house. I love that he loves my chili and sneaks my cookie dough when he thinks I'm not looking. I love that He makes me feel pretty when I'm wearing his t-shirt and my jammy pants, with a ponytail on top of my head and no make-up. I love that he cherishes date night. I love that he makes up silly songs for me that sometimes kind-of rhyme. I love that he's a hard worker and values his family above all else.

He's going to make an awesome dentist someday. I look forward to not having to schedule an appointment to see him.

Only 6 1/2 weeks left in this semester. We got this licked, baby!