Parker's early birthday party

My parents went to the Middle East for a Jerusalem/Egypt trip in March and they were gone on Parker's actual birthday. So that he could see them and celebrate his birthday with them, we went to CiCi's (Parker's favorite restaurant) and Park thought he was so special. I love that we have family here.



I can't believe my big boy is 6!

a few spring events!

During spring break we went to the zoo and it was NUTZ!!!! I was lucky to even find a parking spot anywhere within walking distance to the zoo and then getting through the massive crowds with all the kids was an adventure. We spent most of the time at the little beach. It was still a lot of fun and something the kids looked forward to.




On our way out I realized that I had some cash. I NEVER have cash. Probably because it burns a whole in my pocket:) We had enough for 2 flavors of the dippin' dots ice cream and the kids were in heaven. I think it was the best I have ever seen them share. And Bryn loved it too.



We decided that we would build a sandbox in the backyard. We were really worried about this because we didn't know if the amount of fun the kids would have in it would be more than the amount of mess it would be. I am pleased to announce that the kids love it! It was definitely worth the hard work of building it.





The finished project and celebratory popsicles. Did you know that a sandbox is the best place to eat a popsicle because then the sand sticks to you even more and you also get the stick to bury in the sand? :)

Don't feel sorry for me!!!

The other day I was at the grocery store. I had Brynlee with me because she's cutting teeth and it's easier of everyone if she is with me. The shopping went well. I was proud of all that I got while still under budget and the baby was great! (I found a box of name brand juice boxes, our favorite flavor, for .89 a box. I was proud of that.) Well I made my way to checkout and the lines were all about the same length so I jumped in behind someone and waited. When I was about to start unloading I heard someone grumbling about the fact the all the lines were long and of course they got in line right behind me. I hate grumpy people in the grocery store!
I started unloading and the man behind me (the grumbling one) offered to help me unload because I was holding the baby. My opinion of him soared and I was pretty impressed.
This is how our conversation went.
The man: "Do you need some help unloading? I'm sure my wife would be willing to help (jokingly)"
Me: No I think I've got it. They're moving pretty slow in front of me but thanks so much. It's rare to have someone willing to help.
The man: Yeah, with the baby and all I thought you might like some.
me: Thanks. (I'm almost done unloading now) I only have one kid with me today. On the days that I have all four of my kids with me, now that's really when I need the help. (Smiling)
The man: 4? Wow! I feel sorry for you.
Me:(I turned to put up the last couple of items and to think about what he just said) Well, they are hard, especially in the grocery store but they are also a ton of fun. I love it!
The man: Oh, in a few years, looking back on it you will wish you had it to do over.
Me: (Confused again so I acted like I misunderstood him) Yeah, I already wish I could turn back a couple years. My oldest is in Kindergarten and I wish I could still have him home with me all the time. They grow so fast. I miss him during the day.


He then just stared at me and it was my turn to check out so I moved on but what was he trying to say? Was he thinking that I would regret being a mom? That someday I would wish that I hadn't had this experience? I LOVE being a mom!!! Last night was one of the hardest nights I've had lately because of fits and crazy kids but the hugs and kisses made up for all the craziness. I understand that the older my kids get, they may not like me as much but I know, without a doubt, that I will always love them and I will always be glad that they are mine and that Heavenly Father trusted me enough to allow me to have these 4 amazing children.
All I can say for that man is that I hope that something I said to him will make him rethink his opinion of parenthood.
I am still shocked! I wanted to say don't feel sorry for me. You're the one I feel sorry for!

Birdhouses

During Spring Break this year we had a really laid back week. It was really nice to take it easy and have fun with Parker. One day we went to Hobby Lobby and everyone got to pick out a birdhouse. We went home and painted them and the kids LOVED it! Keeper helped put them up in the backyard and now we have birds galore! The kids love that they made something that the birds like.