Kansas City Cousins

We had a great time in Kansas City this past weekend. Our brother in law turned the big 50 last week and his daughters planned and executed an amazing surprise party in his honor. The gym was decked out in a 70's theme and guests were surrounded with food, dancing, treats, karaoke, and more. The kids had a wonderful time as well and had I brought my camera I would have solid evidence that Ryley can "get down" with any 70's song thrown at her. The entire evening was awesome. We spent the remaining weekend hanging out and enjoying their company. Saturday included The Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead, Gelato, and riding horses. On Sunday, after a great afternoon of church, lunch, and visiting, we began gathering the children to head back toward Manhattan. There was much sorrow and lamenting with the idea of leaving their cousins behind, however, we'll return in two weeks as we pass through heading for St. Louis in hopes of finding a home to rent. Though tears still came, this new information made leaving at least bearable.

Thatcher's face at the start of his ride.

Thatcher's face at the end of his ride.

Haley J's face when you mention the words "horsey ride".

Spring Break Surprise

A week ago a friend and I were talking about the kids upcoming break. Her husband was going to be out of town and my husband is MIA while studying for his upcoming board exams. We began discussing all of the fun things that Kansas City has to offer, and by the end of our conversation we had planned a two day overnight trip complete with fun restaurants, wonderful shopping malls, and an indoor water park. We kept it a secret from the kiddos until Wednesday evening when I began to pack the suitcase. I explained to the girls what a huge undertaking this would be for Mom since we had never before ventured on an overnighter without Dad and that I would need their help more than ever. Bottom line, they were fantastic! I couldn't have asked for kiddos who were more well-mannered and willing to help at Mom's first sign of need. My friend and her daughters were also amazingly helpful and kind in assisting me. With the exception of our missing hubbies it was by far one of the best "quick trips" we have ever taken. The best part of all, Steven's board exams are over tomorrow!

Before

During

Pool Parties

We have always appreciated the extra bonuses that the military offers to children. They always plan great activities that our kids seem to love. The indoor pool here on post has been a blast recently. During spring break they pick daily "themes" and turn the pool area into a veritable wonderland for the kiddos with free food, games, toys, and daily raffle items. Just today Thatcher found himself the proud winner of a brand new basketball. It was great! After hours of swimming and constant entertainment we return home with happy, tired kids who are ready for bed and a Mom grateful to the many individuals who have helped entertain them. I'm ready for bed too, but with nine weeks left of pregnancy, I'm always ready for bed. :)

Spring Fever

Spring has sprung and we love it! Kansas was way colder in the winter than we could have imagined. To think that school can be cancelled due to freezing temperatures and ice storms- quite a change from Memphis. So to say the kids have been excited for spring is an understatement. We have an amazing park about ten minutes from our home and have spent countless hours playing, running, and enjoying the spring breeze. We find ourselves picking the girls up from school, playing at their park for hours, and returning home too late for a real dinner so bowls of cereal and toast have become commonplace. I would feel guilty for that except, when you know before long the temperatures will reach limits that only a swimming pool can relieve you learn to take advantage of every day you can. The creation of this beautiful world will always continue to amaze me. I am in constant awe as various seasons come, offer "their" part, and then, right when you could really enjoy a change, it appears. Heavenly Father is wise and kind.

The "Nesting" War

Our van has been through some pretty intense treatment over the past year. The three long road trips alone were enough to "bang" it up a bit, not to mention the daily wear and tear of driving four children to various activities and outings. When it truly couldn't get any worse I would clean it out the best I could and for a while that was enough.

Recently however the "nesting" phase of pregnancy kicked in. You scrub, clean out, and disinfect every inch and corner of your home and when that is complete you begin the whole process over again. The cleanliness issues of our van however laid on an entirely different level of disgusting. Each day I would climb in the car, my nesting instincts raging, and pray we could make it from point A to point B safely with my eyes shut tight. Finally, I couldn't take it anymore. No matter how hard I tried I couldn't get the van to look as clean as I needed the van to look. Perhaps my expanding belly and not being able to maneuver well between seats was a contributing factor. What ever the cause I knew I had to take action immediately. My saving answer? Google "car cleaning" and let the wonderful, talented, incredibly brilliant people at "Showroom Shine" have a go at our poor mistreated van. Seven hours later, yes - a full seven in the detailing area, I returned to pick up my "showroom shined" vehicle.

I am so excited I could scream. I know your not suppose to love material possessions but at this moment........I do! I find myself going out to the garage only to sit in my newly cleaned vehicle and take in the wonderful leather scent and carpets I could eat off of. I know it won't last forever. I know eventually I'll have to face reality and allow some leniency with certain items.....like children. For now though, in this brief moment of time........not a crumb, cracker, or fruit snack stands between me and my nesting enjoyment. Life is good!