I'm so excited! We're almost finished putting up our Christmas decorations!

Late Twenties Are Upon Me

89 baby!!!

On the eve of my happy 28th, I took a life-span calculation quiz (http://www.livingto100.com/) which must be accurate since it’s on the internet right. I’m slated to live to the ripe old age of 89. Thanks to keeping to two or less cups of coffee daily (at this point the hardest struggle on the list), staying away from the smokes, nursing the runner’s high, and avoiding inheriting anything too terribly life-shortening from my ancestors gone before I’m doing pretty dang good.

Now, I just need to figure out what to do with those other 61 years. Any suggestions?

Seeing this picture made my day. I hope it does the same for you. You're welcome. -Rachel.

Addendum to Rusty's Highlights (Post Immediately below)

· This just in, I was just informed by Rachel that we’re a CREST family (yes, we’re talking about toothpaste) and should never stray from our allegiance. Certainly a new highlight in the Woods' home.
· And, Rachel and I both rode a bucking bronco a few weeks ago, being thrown head first onto the ground before us. It was awesome!

This concludes Rusty's Highlights addendum. See below for original list.

Rusty and His Highlights

Well, time’s been limited to report to the reading base as of late. Tests, short courses, and papers have occupied a great deal of my time. However, just wanted to give you some highlight happenings from the last few months:

· Found a new church home: Sycamore View Church of Christ
· Won first place in the Fall Fest Chili Cookoff (Award included a sweet gift card for Chili’s or any sister restaurant…we’ll be dining at Macaroni Grill)
· Discovered I’m addicted to the ‘runner’s high.’ I’m loving it. Although I’m not as consistent as I’d like I crave that time with my thoughts and my God. Actually thinking of doing a half marathon soon.
· Observed the good side of discipline and have begun to engage it as a friend…although sometimes still a burden (work in progress).
· Began the process of appreciating the mistakes and accomplishments of folks who’ve lived a few, or many, more years than me.
· Following the last highlight, realized I’m only 27 and ONLY see things with 27 years of life experience (although I’m almost 28).
· Figured out koine Greek drools, Hebrew rules.
· Fall leaves have blown me away again! East Memphis is beautiful this time of year. If your reading this, go ahead, leave the computer, go outside and enjoy some nature, then you can come back and read this.
· Digressed, as opposed to progressed, in my Nertz abilities.
· Unexpectedly had reverse culture shock more intensely a month or so ago than I’ve ever had and survived it.
· Tried to find Garana (sp?), that sweet, sweet Brazilian drink I love so much, but just can’t track it down it my fair city.
· Realized Godliness is about the fatherless and the widow, trumping many things I once thought were more important
· Experienced my wife’s super cool new hair-do!
· Ate some good Japanese, Indian, and Mexican!
· Played soccer and volleyball, which are both great.
· Ate some of the worlds biggest pancakes in small town Ohio.

Well, most of these are ordinary but that’s life. The good stuff is in the mundane. There you have the highlights. Hope you’re having some good laughs, good friends, and good times wherever you are.