Trek to South Dakota

Well, we survived our trip to South Dakota -- crammed in our Sonata, travelling all night. The kids were extremely good so I guess warning them before-hand was a good idea.






First we visited with Mandy and Tony and got to see our second grandbaby for the first time. He was so adorable! Douglas James Zabriskie. We all were eager to hold him and feed him and whatever else was needed.

Sam and Hannah especially loved taking care of him and would share the responsibilities too. We didn't give him much time out of our arms while we were there.














We also enjoyed running and playing with Derek. He's so energetic and loved to jump around and run after the kids. We were able to celebrate Derek's 2nd birthday at the bowling alley. We enjoyed bowling and Mandy taught the boys how to play pool too.











On the way home we stopped to see Mt. Rushmore and some other sites along the way. It was a great time with the kids!

Off to explore the Wild West

We're getting ready to take our road trip to visit Tony, Mandy and her new babies. Not really looking forward to the 15 hour drive but we've been discussing with the kids how they need to be loving and patient with each other. We're planning on stopping to see Mt Rushmore since the kids were too small to remember last time we went. And I don't think Hannah was born the last time.

Family Home Evening

On Monday we had a lesson on "Doing our Best". The kids are really starting to enjoy having FHE now that we have our chart of FHE assignments. I did the lesson, Ken had the scripture, Sam did prayers, Connor chose the songs and Hannah had the activity and treats. Our activity was to "do our best" in trying to blow the biggest bubbles. Sam had a hard time blowing a bubble because he has a loose tooth and couldn't chew the bubblegum well enough.

Can't sleep

Guess it's just one of those nights when I can't sleep. Maybe it's the caffeine I had today (I've been so good - not drinking any sodapop - for almost a month). It was nice to listen to conference today and be a part of the solemn assembly. I don't remember that part when Pres. Hinkley was put in...

We attempted at getting some of our unfinished projects done today but didn't get very far. We still have to finish putting the baseboards and quarter-rounds around our new wood floor. And I've started to empty out my pantry so I can take out the carpet (whoever thought of putting carpet in a pantry is beyond me) and put in some laminate tiles. Then I need to put up braces for the shelving that is already in there but sagging a bit. I'm hoping to get rid of some of the things I've collected but never use. Side note: I love freecycle.org! They help me get rid of things I don't want and someone else gets my hidden treasures.

I was able to de-clutter my closet this week and got rid of a garbage sack full of clothes I never wear. I don't dare touch Ken's clothes though cuz I don't know what he likes. He did get rid of some of his t-shirt collection.

Just found out today that our neighbors to the rear of our house will be getting rid of some of their huge trees! Wahoo!! I've loved the shade but hate the leaves in the fall and the "seedlings" in the spring! They are looking at selling their house and land and are getting it prepared for the sale. There have been talks that they want to sell it commercially but we're hoping that won't be the case.

I'd better try to make a go at the sleep thing again....I'll be worn out tomorrow and sleep during conference if I don't get some now. Hope all is well with you and yours!