Family is where its at

Even though is was February and we had just seen the college kids in the end of December, we thought to invite them for President's day weekend. We have been having wonderful weather and wanted to share that time with them in the sun. I planned a picnic by the Feather River with not much public access. It was so beautiful and calm. I am glad Brian gets to enjoy that area almost everyday. We also had a picnic with both sets of grandparents that weekend. It was a lot of chacuterie, but so fun and yummy. It feels good to come together and problem solve, spend time and just enjoy each other's company. Right after that, I was able to go and visit my sister and her husband in Honolulu with my folks. It was a great time. I attribute most of the fun and peace to Christian. He was a great host. I loved staying at Tanya's and going for a convertible ride to see the lights at night. The boat ride by Hanama Bay was so beautiful I had never seen such deep blue color in the ocean. it was so clear, I even jumped in the ocean and swam a little where it was teal colored and I could see the bottom of the ocean. We saw a turtle coming up for air and looking at us. Restful sleep, the warm weather, great food and company made for a real respite for me. I'm always happy to come back to Roseville and my peeps, but It was so nice to be in the constant warm without all the worries and responsiblities of late, mostly. I'm always a phone call away so I put out a few fires and tried to support the best I could from far away. I was about having a good time and making the most of it. I loved shopping at the Farmer's market and by North shore. The constant beach, and rain on and off makes for beautiful nature. A great place to visit, but I'm happy where I am in California. Life is full of ups and downs and oppostion, but I am choosing to live in faith and do what I can to bring peace and love to all those around me as much as I can. It starts with Loving God, my spouse, then my children, then my parents on both sides and my extended family. I feel very grateful for the wonderful relationships we have.

Thankful for Thanksgiving

It was so great to gather for Thanksgiving. I prepped little by little with setting the table, thinking about what food to cook and who would bring what. I made a bedroom in the laundry room and welcomed the college kids. I love that Bri had a email off for Red Lobster on the day they were coming in from Idaho and Utah. Having Steak and Lobster together was quite the welcome back. There was so much to catch up on, it was a great meal switching subjects and asking a lot of questions about Emmy's new beau. Celia didn't come. but she came to the late night run to get ingreidents for laura's apple pie. I felt glad we have both the grandparents over and had a blast questioning Emmy and being gathered all together in the front room. There were so many fun activited in just those few days. We made it to Magic card stores, the Auction, Beach Hut, and Build a bear. The house was full and bustling and I loved it. I also loved our impromtu complimenting time. Joe seemed to get the most and I was glad of it. We all came together after a few months of trying times and having quality family time and food seemed to make us all a little more happy. I can't wait for a SLC trip soon and Christmas time together again to rejuvenate with the family. Brian and I both taught at Church, him in Elder Quorum and me in RS. It was nice to be reminded of the Conference talk: One Percent Better by Elder Dunn. Doing good little by little helps us exponentially. I've taught two other times this month in Sunday School. It is great to preapre and try to have the spirit with me, it made for a very grateful attitude this November.~