Has Spring Sprung?

Quinn wasn't in the mood for Mom to take his picture on the way out the door for school, but his shorts and adorable beard-beanie face put a smile on my face.  The weather can't make up it's mind around here!  We think spring has sprung...or trying to anyway.

In continuing with my de-owning journey, we've discovered a few 'new' treasures.  This huge dinosaur puzzle has been all the rage this past week for Quinn and Elsie.  Six loads to the Deseret Industries thus far...and the kids have been helpful and able to part with more stuff than I first imagined possible.  We are working to "minimalize" our personal belongings because we all have more than enough.  It feels really good to share with others.

After cycling in the bonus room upstairs this winter (using a trainer), Aaron was able to ride outside this past week.  He came back all smiles - ready for warmer weather!

Thursday evening Hilary and Jenna drove up to spend a few nights with us because Jenna had a ballroom competition in our area.  It was fun to catch up a bit.  Anna woke up extra early on Saturday morning so she could watch Jenna dance.  Elsie joined later while I took Jantzen to a soccer scrimmage game nearby.  Lillian and Bonnie also stopped by on Friday afternoon for a little visit.  It was fun for Anna to see both of her cousins dance.  Now Elsie is ready to join in the fun (ballroom dancing). 

Jantzen - in bright yellow shoes

Jenna & Anna

Anna, Jenna & Elsie

Saturday afternoon we put the kids to work.  The older three spent a few hours cleaning at HCP while Quinn and Elsie raked and bagged dead grass from vole activity through the winter.  The front side yard took quite a beating but at least it was mostly in one area and not the entire yard like in years past.

Saturday evening the girls attended the General Women's Meeting with me at our stake center.  We enjoyed the spiritual messages from Sisters Cordon (Primary), McConkie (YW) and Burton (RS) along with thoughts and testimony from President Henry B. Eyring.  It was another powerful reminder to be 'certain' women of holiness and to 'lean not' unto our own understanding but to trust in the Lord.  A wonderful formula for greater peace and joy in this life.  We finished off our time together driving through DQ for treats.  My girls keep traditions alive!  What beautiful daughters!