So Little Means So Much

On Sunday it was my birthday.... and yes I know exactly how old I am. My husband always buys me clothes for my birthday. The only surprise in the gift is exactly what it will look like. Yes, I got clothes. Some shirts, sweaters and a really nice pair of pants. Thanks for shopping Sammi. But, this year I got a gift that meant so much more. Since my birthday was on a Sunday and since my stake president husband is rarely ever home on a Sunday, he decided to take the day (3 hour block) off and leave the stake with me. We attended church in the Shawano Ward so that he could sit with me during sacrament meeting and Sunday school. Wasn't that sweet? Don't get me wrong, I love the clothes but I love the gesture so much more. Now if only I could somehow get an anniversary too. I guess I won't press my luck.

Fall Chores

I love the fall season!!! I think the colors and smells are a delight to the senses. I can deal with the cooler weather, although I think if that's the determining factor of when fall gets here, we went from spring to fall without hitting summer.

This time of year is filled with chores that I wouldn't have at any other time of the year. First of all there the canning. Applesauce, apple pie filling and tomato juice are all on the docket for me. I've already taken care of some of all of those plus putting corn in the freezer. There's a lot more to do with my apples.

So these days, before I head out to general conference, I need to get as much accomplished as possible. I don't want my fruit to spoil while I'm gone. Wish me luck and the motivation to get it all accomplished!

Officially officiating

Over the last two years the A.D. at school has asked me to officiate some freshman girl's volleyball matches. I've always agreed and it was good experience. Last year, the A.D. from the Menominee Indian school district called and asked for my help for his middle school games. I helped him out a few times. Then the A.D. at Marion called and asked for my help. Wow! Guess I'm popular! Guess again. There's a shortage of volleyball officials.

This year, I took the exam and got myself registered with the WIAA. That makes this year my first official year as an officially licensed volleyball official. Sorry no stripes in volleyball. Just black pants and a white shirt. I'm signed up to do 11 games as of this date. I've done my first games in Neopit and Gresham already. Tonight I'm headed to Keshena for a freshman game.

I don't know what it is about doing this, but I do enjoy it. Crocs must have been invented for volleyball officials as they have great cushion. I still think they're ugly though. I do love to watch volleyball so this gives me a chance to do that from the best vantage point and get paid besides. I'm having a good time.

No Girls at Home...until Wednesday

Actually the title of this post isn't entirely true as Clare has been here for much of the weekend with the kids. But these two left on Friday morning with Loey for Rexburg. Erin is officially a college student. I think she'll have a good time and love it. Sammi will be back on Wednesday evening and then she'll be here until we kick to the at the curb at the MTC. She's going to be a superb missionary!

My point is, anyone who knows my daughters knows that the house would be very quiet without them here. (Except for Tom watching his favorite youtube post in which the model falls down on the runway. His laughter gets pretty loud then.) Erin typically isn't very loud as every teacher who ever had her in class can attest. But, when she gets with either Allyssa or Sammi, the volume gets turned up. I never would have dreamed how full my life would be with 3 daughters. They are my best girlfriends! Life would be pretty dull without their randomness....especially Sammi's. She keeps me on my toes. I have to be on them or else I'll get run over. Don't get me wrong, I love my sons just as much, but we don't giggle quite the same way. It's a girl thing!

So to my girls, I love you ladies and have fun when you're away from me. Just keep me in your loop is all I ask. This old lady needs some excitement too.