We had a seriously delicious super bowl party today after church for some family and friends. Even though the Niners didn't pull through in the end it was so enjoyable just chatting with the ladies, watching the kids run around outside, and cheering for a miracle win. I'm grateful for all of these amazing and supportive friends that fill our ward and our children's lives.
We bought this cabinet for super cheap on craigslist to replace the huge outdated tv upstairs in our playroom. With a little love I think it will look fun and whimsical. It seems like every February when you spend so much more time inside avoiding the cold and rain you get antsy for a change....redecorating a little bit of this and a little bit of that is satisfying. This time it's really exciting because I spent a long time looking for a cheap cabinet just the right size and style to paint and spruce up. We'll see how it turns out. I didn't think to take a picture until everything was sanded, so this isn't a true before picture.
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Friday was always my favorite day growing up, the night and next day empty of almost all responsibility, where sleep and leisure took precedence..no homework, no tests, no early morning classes. When I taught school, it was the same...no lesson plans, no grading, no running around trying to coral 30 high energy children together. And if I did have school work I could do it later on Saturday or at home at a slower pace.
Even now it remains the day that brings a smile to my face...especially at 5 o'clock when I know Aaron is on his way home and we have a whole weekend and perhaps a date night ahead of us.
Today, while his sweetheart was out of town, Damian offered to take all the cousins and neighborhood friends to McDonalds for dinner, a basketball game, and home afterwards for a very huge and very exciting sleepover. He took all four of our kids while Aaron and I headed out to dinner. I got to order fish, something that no one else really enjoys having at home. And we could chat and enjoy the peaceful conversation void of all distractions.
This sleepover was a first because Nicole got to stay over this time. She kept telling me after our many convesations earlier in the day the she would make sure to close her eyes at Damian's. Noah fell asleep quickly in the room filled with boys and their stinky gym socks. Mary came home to her bed, but plans on heading back first thing in the morning. Cameron went to his crib happily and easily after a fun filled night with cousins and their awesome Uncle.
I am very grateful to have Damian as a brother and so very lucky to live next door to him. As the kids returned from the game and were getting ready for bed they kept shouting, "Uncle Damian is the best uncle EVER!" And that, he is.
It's been one month and I have now blogged everyday. I am so happy I am sticking with one resolution so far and what I found is that my life may be a little boring, but I love it. I have also learned that documenting a little bit every day is easier than every few weeks and it makes me look regularly into some of the more meaningful parts of my life. I have now blogged more in one month than I have in any single year. Pretty cool. So, on to today's post...
With Mary and Noah in school and Cameron taking his afternoon nap Nicole and I got to have some one on one time together, my favorite. As she did her puzzle I asked her some questions to which she responded below:
Our amazing nephew Murphy is taking off today for his two year mission. I am positive he will be a remarkable missionary because he already has been such a great influence to so many people, including myself. In my mind I still see Murphy as the kind and cool little stud I met ten years ago. I loved babysitting those kids when we were dating/newly married and going to their home made me feel so welcomed and loved into the Nadauld family. I treasure those memories.
When Murphy was in fifth grade I was teaching fifth grade and we both participated in the Hope of America program. I remember talking to his teacher and feeling that she was sad she wasn't his aunt. Boy did I luck out! We will miss you Murphy.
Today I took the time to sit down with each of my children and enjoy
them...just listen to them, love them, and feel of their purity and
goodness. Children really are a marvel. There is nothing in this world
that helps me understand more our heavenly parents than the privileged
blessing of raising some of His spirits here on earth. I get so
preoccupied sometimes trying to cross off the check list that I forget. I
forget what it's all about. Studying the scriptures more lately has
helped me remember. Here is a video I saw on a friend's blog. I love it.
While it talks about fathers, I think it captures how I feel as well.
During church yesterday Mary made the cutest book. It is entitled "These are the stories of what happened a long time ago". I tried to clarify some things in red. I just thought it was so cute and worth documenting. She is really understanding these scriptural events.
