All Work . . . .

It was wonderful to have Allie home.  I am not a big fan of weeding, but I am a big fan of the results.  Typically the job falls on me and no one ever helps.
But because Allie was home and didn’t have anything better to do . . .

We spent a couple of afternoons cleaning up the weeds near the front door (the entire yard looked REALLY bad before we started.)

It was wonderful having a much neater yard AND spending time with my daughter.
As a reward, I cooked/baked the things she hoped for . . .

and Paul took us out to play!

Life is never dull when Allie’s around. . . no matter what she claims.

Hearing the Good Word

I love General Conference, but I haven’t always. 
Truthfully, it much harder with little kids.  It is a challenge to pay attention and when the kids were little, it seemed futile. It was hard to have to go to the church building to sit on hard benches and watch.
But our season is different now.  We can watch at home . . . .

The puppy is much quieter than the kids ever were . . .

I always try out a few new recipes to enjoy while we are feasting on the word. . .

We don’t have to dress up . . . .

I can work on a puzzle while listening . . .
and I always arm myself with a few questions that I always hear the answer to. 
How cool is it to have the prophet in MY home!

We love General Conference

Closing Out the Year

Allie had some spare moments before she left for school.  She tested out David’s gift to her . . .

We tried out a new-to-us recipe using our leftover mashed potatoes. 

And we played one of Allie’s new card games. 

And then she left us to celebrate the end of the year on our own.  Apparently it’s more fun to bring in the new year with other college students and NOT your own parents.  We agree with her assessment since staying up that late is not at all appealing!

I Had Fun; I Hope They Did Too!

My job as Mia Maid adviser consists of teaching Sunday lessons (which I LOVE) and being there for weekday activities. 
Sometimes I know what’s going on but most of the time I don’t.  So I don’t feel very useful and wonder if there is something I should be doing.
But one week, the counselor asked me to be in charge of the activity!  I had so many ideas and really needed to narrow it down. 
I know cooking is always a good skill to have, so why not cook something easy and fun.  My mind went straight to cake balls and Oreo truffles.
I made some samples (bribes) and passed them out on Sunday.  I even made invitations.  I was one excited gal!
I armed myself with the supplies . .

and even posted instructions in the kitchen.


The kitchen was filled with girls, laughter and goodies. 

I neglected to get any photos of the finished products, but I think the girls are way cuter than any of the edibles
I am so lucky to get to work with these beauties.  I had such a good time.  I hope they learned some skills that they can use all through their lives.