Here we go again

So, I've been off work for about three weeks now. Three glorious weeks. I've spent time shopping, taking day trips, hanging out with friends, playing games with my family, and it a culminated in out trip to Disneyland. The cold hard reality of my real life has started to come crashing down with volunteer commitments, and then more heavily with the return of school and work tomorrow. It has been so good to be able to disconnect and really just be a mom and a wife and a friend for a period of time. It makes me realize how valuable a large chunk of time "out of the norm" can be. My family has bonded more, I have been able to let go of some stress and just be with my kids and my husband. It makes me feel like me again and that is really priceless.

All around me, I hear everyone talking about not taking anything for granted, remembering to tell everyone that you love them and making sure you are present. I really feel like it is something everyone needs - a chunk of time to refocus on what is important. So, while I want to go back to work refreshed, I'm not. I'm going back spent. But I spent it all on the people I love most. I'd call that a success.

Operation "Mickey Surprise" a success!

About a month ago, my friend Melissa celebrated her 40th birthday. After asking over and over again what she wanted to do for her birthday, she finally came up with her wish. Girls trip to Disneyland - awesome, right? Yes, except that we haven't been to Disneyland with the kids since Landon was born. I would have felt way to guilty to go without them, that's when the plan started to take shape. You see, Landon is too young to take, but Lance offered to stay home with him. Melissa has season passes and had a trip planned this week. So, we decided to surprise her two oldest and Morgan and Bennett with this surprise trip together.

On Christmas day, I sent an email that said:

"Dear Morgan and Bennett,

There is one last gift to be given to you,
You will never be able to guess from who
It's a special treat that you can look forward to, my dear
In the very near future, it will all become clear!

No peaking, no sneaking,
No bugging or screeching,
It will all be revealed in a few short days,
But you must be patient, and wait until we can play!

Love,
Momma and Daddy"

And the plan was set into motion! This morning, Collin brought Morgan and Bennett a letter that contained a clue for them to find a basket that told them they were going to Disneyland. They were so excited and then got even more excited when they realized we were driving down and doing a road trip together. Looking forward to another week of great memories!! Watch out Disneyland...here we come!!