Short But Sweet

Elsie was the first to get the job done - making the class Valentine's Day cards.

And Brinley was happy to be her assistant.

Proudly displays initial phase of his "Rocket Ship Station"

Quinn had projects of his own going on - as always.

Quinn also made and delivered a few Valentine's treats to some of his friends.  He even gave away his final "Rocket Ship Station" masterpiece to Eli - (we visit teach his mom).

Quinn and Elsie loved being G-ma's little helpers.

We were excited when G-ma P made a last minute decision to drive up for a ultra-quick visit.  

She arrived while the older kids were at school.  We had time to foot zone G-ma and make the dough before everybody else came upon on the scene.

It was fabulous to have another set of adult eyes/ears/hands to help get the practicing, reading and homework done before the fun began.

The kitchen was in full-swing during the cookie baking and decorating phases.

Jantzen provided a little background music for all of us.  He has quite the repertoire of recorder music and plays with clarity and confidence.  So refreshing from the alternative:)

While G-ma and the kids delivered cookies to their teachers from church, Aaron and I were able to get away for a little early Valentine's date - dinner at Costa Vida and a session at the temple.  It felt awesome to return home and have ALL the kids in bed and the kitchen cleaned up.  Though brief, it was a real treat to have G-ma P.  Too bad she had to leave by 6:20am the next morning!

Most of the kids were awake and sent G-ma off with hugs and kisses on Valentine's Day. 

Next item of business - our traditional donut breakfast.  We really splurged by adding pink milk to the not-so-healthy menu.  They were thrilled!

Not a fan of having her picture taken at this early hour.

And to balance out the sugar rush - we cooked up a few eggs for good measure.

Earlier in the week for FHE, Anna and Brinley had everybody draw names for 'secret servants'.  The kids found notes in their pack backs, discovered dinner jobs completed by someone else and other small and simple things.  We also selected an item from our "Jar of Love" each morning for those who wanted to participate.  The 'daily challenges' ranged from smiling and saying hello to somebody they did not know to delivering special Valentine's to widows in the ward.  

Good job kids!  We sure love each of you!
And a special thanks to G-ma P for making the drive - we love you too!