insta-Q2

{4.19.22}

Busy season is not my favorite season, but one thing that is helping pull us through is a great bedtime readaloud. I've found a good routine of getting Lucy to bed (in her big-girl-toddler bed, after two books and as many songs as she can convince me to sing, including Twinkle Twinkle Little Star and the Utah Song) then coming to the boys room to read a chapter to the other three kids. The first book in this series is "The Dragon in the Sock Drawer" and it's a simple, upbeat, and delightful book. The kids love it and it keeps my interest, too. It motivates them to get ready for bed quickly and I love reading to them. After tucking the boys in, Lydia has a few minutes to read while I do the dishes, or sometimes we will watch an episode of a show together before David gets home. We are at a really good stage right now and I'm loving the evolution from the baby-trenches to this new young-childhood phase.

{4.20.22}

I've been listening to the audiobook "The Power of Fun" and keep wanting to talk to everyone/anyone about it. I love the idea of cultivating fun as a tool for a healthier, happier, and more well rounded life. Things that spark true fun for me? Spontaneity. Exploring/going somewhere I've never been before. Being outdoors. Being present in the moment. And also @davidpeaden - he's like a walking fun magnet.
.
.
Also, I love having fun with my kids. That's been a key happiness factor in my motherhood and marriage. I'm not waiting for my kids to grow up or for David to be less busy at work. We find fun in our everyday AND I find things that fill my cup and make the effort to make them happen on a regular basis, even if it's just me and the kids. (a.k.a. Field Trip Friday!)

{6.5.22}

June 5th is my favorite day. The day when "I" forever became "us". He's my best friend and biggest supporter. We make a good team.
.
.
Behind every photo in front of a beautifully scenic background there are also less than perfect things. Poor navigational skills, broken cars, busy schedules, and other things. But maybe those things make this journey together all the sweeter. I'm glad to be doing this life with him by my side, bad and good, down and up, tricky to find trailheads AND delicious fried chicken. Happy 13years @davidpeaden

{6.24.22}

If you're in Lehi District 2 (that's most of West Lehi, including Holbrook Farms, Cranberry Farms, Sunset Hollow, and Thanksgiving Village) ...

VOTE Wendy Rencher - Alpine School Board! She's experienced, balanced, smart, caring, and capable. She is a great choice for your vote. (election ends June 28)
.
.
The kids and I handed out flyers (a little civics lesson and service activity) for Wendy today and I was so proud of their determination to do a good job even though it was hot.