A New Low...

It's truly a bad sign that I actually read an entire article online called "How to Fake a Clean House". I feel so ashamed! The worst part was actually considering some of the ideas like:

• Put homeless stuffed animals in extra pillowcases. Or prop them up behind shams.
• If your kids have a play tent, hide toys and clothes inside it.

Or my personal favorite:

Mound cosmetics and hairstyling products in a container underneath the sink. In a pinch, pile them in the tub and close the shower curtain. Cross your fingers that guests don’t snoop.

If I've reached this point, it's time for an intervention.

Back to School

It's a bittersweet day when a mother's youngest child goes off to first grade. On one hand, I'm loving the freedom of having 7 full hours a day to get things done. But I hate admitting that we're not a young family anymore. Our last stroller was sold off in July at a yard sale, our crib has gone to another home, and we are officially free from preschool tuition. I just really miss having a preschooler or kindergartner! And then there's our 9th grader. Technically, she's still at the junior high, but realistically, she's now a freshman in high school! And our Lindsey is a 3rd grader - a TWEEN! I feel incredibly old right now. BUT my house will be cleaner, my closets more organized, and I will finally be able to have lunch with friends - and no tag-a-longs. Life is full of trade-offs.

Me + Camping = ?

So, having been called by the Lord (and a desperate Bishop) to be the ward YW Camp director, I am setting off on Monday to bond with nature and 26 teenage girls (including my own darling Lauren!). In a tent. For 4 days. No Best Western for miles. Please pray for me.....
Also, please pray for Kent. He'll be home with the little girls until he joins us at Camp Gettameouttahere on Wednesday. Wish us luck!

Is it really February??? Quick Update

Sooo...It's been awhile. I guess I've been super busy for the last few months! Unfortunately, it isn't any better yet. Still insanely busy! Everyone is happy and healthy, though. All 3 girls are taking gymnastics or tumbling classes, Lindsey is enjoying Activity Days, and Lauren still really hates Young Women's. She's been going with a friend in another ward, so that helps. Teenagers.
Kent is working hard, and trying to find the time and energy to start taking a martial arts class again. I am running girls around, coordinating the door decorating for our school's teacher appreciation week, leading Cub Scouts (still), and recently (this past week) got talked into starting - not one, but TWO - Girl Scout troops by the little girls. I did manage to talk my way OUT of running the basket auction for the school's carnival in May, but I still have to "consult" the 2 hapless souls who are running it. I think it's time for a vacation.....