Rooted & Rising by Kristin Stauss

 My sister-in-law wrote this beautiful, guided journal!  While it's geared towards educators, I found it to be so thoughtful and relevant.  This summer would be a great time to go through this to get yourself focused, refreshed, and ready to boldly start a new year.  You can purchase this from Amazon at https://a.co/d/08itvETY.  ❤

Elendil was being quite difficult for these pictures.  He was not interested in staying with the book and instead wanted to bury himself in the blanket.  He's a silly boy.

Beorn was being pretty good, especially considering that these are from his first photoshoot.  Although, he did try to take a bite out of the book.  😅  Poor little guy doesn't know what a book is.  Haha!

IEN badges

As you may know, Joe has been volunteering as the Executive Director of Indiana Esports Network for the past 4 years.  Under his leadership, IEN has grown immensely in the number of middle and high schools that compete with IEN and in a variety of new partnerships and events (such as the event with the Pacers in March).  However, running IEN has been like a part-time job.  So in February, Joe decided to step down at the beginning of May.  April 25 was the 2026 State Finals at The Riverview Health Arena in Noblesville.  This was unlike any other IEN state finals and while it was so much work for Joe to pull it off, it was awesome!  I hope to post pictures soon.  In the meantime, I'm adjusting to Joe having sooo much more free time than he used to.  It's been really nice being able to spend more time together!

I was happy to see that Elendil liked his treat enough to actually stop and nibble on it.  He oftentimes isn't interested in any food outside of his cage.  He's so cute though when he eats!

I'm still learning what Beorn's personality is, but so far, he's been just a sweet, curious boy.  I feel pretty spoiled with how nice and tame he already is.  I love him so much already!