I returned from being out with Bry, Mark and newly arrived Korbin on Nov. 21st. Yes, Thanksgiving week. We didn't have big plans for the long weekend, which was so nice; but always lots to do. I worked the 22nd and 23rd, then Turkey day and getting lots of things accomplished for both scout troops. Never, never enough hours in a day. The 28th was back to Seminary in the mornings and just lots of things every day. Oh, and add Scott's Eagle project to the mix and I don't seem to have much time.
Don't misunderstand here-I fully acknowledge that I AGREE to do all of these things. Also know, that I have said NO to some things as well. I really enjoy being busy and getting things done. I feel really good knowing that my efforts do make a difference. Would there be someone else who would step up to accomplish the same things with the scouts? Yup, Seminary? Yup My job at the school district? Yup. As a Mom - probably not - at least not for a period of time (knowing that too is flexible).
It was hard to leave Bry & her family. I am such a 'do-er' that I want to be there to 'do'. I saw and heard a new baby at church today. The same sounds sweet little Korbin was making. My eyes teared up immediately and now even thinking about it. Bry had one rough day last week and I wanted to get on a plane. I will just put her family in Heavenly Father's hands and keep her number close so I can call or be available if she needs me. I reflected on my own path of motherhood. It is a long path, with many wonderful experiences and lots of rough ones. The path has made me much stronger. I need to let Bry's path make her stronger, too. OK, Faith, you and I will become much better friends. :)
Keeping myself busy, keeps me productive, happy and a long way out of trouble. Still working on the P90X program. I did weigh-in out at Bry's and was down 15 pounds. I am hoping that number is now closer to 20. It is really a joy to get into pants that I haven't worn in at least 3 years. I put on an outfit that I bought in Colorado just before I came home after Bry's heart surgery - It is way too big! :) That's just a shame. Makes me feel fabulous, though! I start week 11 tomorrow. The 'baby' tummy I have is being very stubborn, but I will win out in the end. It will shrink! I will weigh in again in 2 weeks, take the 'after' pictures and decide if I feel comfortable posting them here. There will be a noticeable change - that alone feels great.
We have our January vacation planned and so looking forward to getting away. January is so blah that it is great to have something fun to look forward to. Fred & I really need that time, too. We didn't take the time alone together when the kids were young. It's really hard with 6-8 kids in the house to get away for more than 24 hours. When all the kids were out of diapers, and all in school it was easier to have someone else care for them for a few days. Now we only have 3 teenagers in the house. They are way easy to care for (as long as the attitude is good) and Tim, being almost 27, can handle them and enforce rules when needed.
We are well on our way with Christmas. The high school choir concert was yesterday - very nice. I am so amazed when my children volunteer for solos. I did once and it did not go well, so never again. I think it was one of the best choir concerts they have done in several years. Must have been the change in music, they did some different songs. Still the old traditionals, but no 'Santa Baby'. I detest that song. High School girls just should not be allowed to even attempt it. Next time you hear that song, think of a high school girl trying to fill that role. It will make you want to hurl.
The middle school choir concert is next in about 10 days and the midlle school band concert is a few days after that. I look forward to the baking. Love the gingersnaps - my grandmother's recipe is the best. Snickerdoodles, monster cookies, marble bark and birch logs. Then we give most of them out as gifts to the post office, the home mailperson, bus driver, and others that I usually forget but try not to.
We try to keep it simple, but with our family being more extended each year it doesn't always feel simple.
May each of you find ways to keep meaning in Christmas this year. Family - it's one of the few things we will have in the next life. Make it count.
Love ya,
Bren
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