I feel extremely fortunate in the mom department. I have had amazing mothers to show me what it means to be a great mom. My own mother for starters, then when I got married I inherited another wonderful mom-figure. I also loved my mother-in-law’s mom and was so fortunate to get to know her almost better than my own grandmas, since my mom’s mom died of Alzheimers in my late teen years. I look forward to the resurrection when I can walk alongside Ila and get to know the vibrant, non-ailing version of that kind wonderful woman. I also have added on bonus women in my life who have become like sisters to me while still in some ways mothering me and my children. I will always hold Marni Burke and Geri Briceno with tender regard. My own children called Marni Grandma and it warmed my heart to see them be loved by someone as much as I did. Since moving here, my dear friend Lindsay often mothers my children and I hers as they run in between houses. I’ve had the opportunity to get to know other women in our neighborhood and in our circle and learn from their examples. Truly there are too many to list off here, but I am grateful for them all. I try my best with my own kids and hope that considering all the wonderful influences I have in my life, I can do a somewhat decent job with these precious ones.
I was greatly spoiled this weekend by my children and husband. Kind letters and gifts along with a Saturday to go exploring the Savannah with some of those wonderful women. We got to go on a double date with some dear friends on Friday night and fortunately or unfortunately had to replace my washer and dryer. Andy tried to clump that in with all the other goodies he’s treated me to this weekend for mothers day and I firmly said, “No, they are not associated with mothers day ;).” I am grateful that we have the means to be able to replace them without feeling financially strapped. We haven’t always been in this situation. A breakfast in bed by my sweet husband started my day along with ample time to get ready for church without the hassle of juggling the needs of all the kids. Andy gave a lovely talk in church about the power of the atonement of Jesus Christ and the path that we must walk to return to our Savior. I got to go to Relief Society and mingle with friends along with hearing from our Bishop and his wife. We have a wonderful ward that I feel very grateful to be a part of.
Beverly loves to make videos of herself. Here she is making up a song for her pretend audience. 
While watching a friend’s kid so she could attend the temple, I took the kids to the park. It was hard to get them to leave. 
There were probably 100 turtles in this little pond and Harvey was very reluctant to say goodbye. 
This is a normal scene in our household. Harvey loves to tote around all of his animals and frequently tries to bring them along on outings… occasionally he wins. 
I went to a birthday lunch for a friend. Daddy had a good time pampering his daughter while I was gone. 
Between managing the household and school pickups and drop offs I managed to paint the trim and door to the entry way. It needed it BAD. 
Caught this crazy trying to carry this stool up the stairs. 
continued down the stairs to see what he had either attempted previously or was planning to try next… still have no idea what he needed up high up stairs. 
Sometimes there is calm in our home… usually when the kids are asleep. 
We had a great time at Andy’s work party. 
