Saturday, April 23, 2016

R&R (sort of)

It's been a while since we've had a Saturday like the one we've had today. It was so nice to just be home and not have a lot of places we had to go or things we had to do. Joel had a basketball game at 11am, but that was the only thing on our schedule.  The kids got along, entertained themselves (did not complain of being bored), and allowed us to relax but also to get some things done around the house. I love it when my kids get along and enjoy each other. Kari had a friend spend the night last night, and we had Abbie Woodard here for the day, so that added to the fun. 

At one point, Greg was sitting and reading, I was in the kitchen baking treats for church tomorrow, the boys were playing Kinect Sports, and the girls were doing crafts and face-painting. I sighed and thought, "What a nice day, Lord. What a great season this is for us. I am blessed." I also felt thankful for the rest after a very full week of activities, appointments, and meetings. I snapped some quick photos so I could remember this--messy island and all (real life).










Sunday, April 17, 2016

CA Adventure

I just got back from a wonderful weekend visiting my dear friend, Jane, in Livermore, CA. It's something I've wanted to do for years but never had the means, time, or ability to go. It was so much fun! I experienced a lot of "firsts"--first time flying alone since being married and having kids, first time renting a car by myself, first time pumping my own fuel (I'm an Oregonian, after all), first time driving in CA, first time vising Jane at her CA home (yeah!), first meal at In-N-Out (yum!), first visit to Hobby Lobby (amazing place!), and first time to San Fransisco.

On Saturday, Jane's husband, Curtis, graciously entertained their two girls all day, so Jane and I could drive to San Fransisco by ourselves. It was a gorgeous day, and we enjoyed the sunshine as we walked down to Pier 39, had lunch, did some shopping, and ate a sundae at Ghirardelli Square.  It was just wonderful to catch up with Jane and have lots of time to laugh, talk, and share--such a treat!


We knew our kids would love to see this candy store.

















I loved getting to catch up with Jane, get to know her kids, and just see their home and life for myself. Their girls are adorable and so much fun. Curtis and Jane are great parents and are raising some sweet girls. Their two girls are not shy in the slightest. We became buddies as we chatted, played games, and colored together. :) 





Blazer game

Joel and Greg had a great time at last Saturday's Blazer game. He's a full-fledged fan now, Lillard jersey and all.