Life around here...

So, am I the only one that feels like even if I woke up at 6 am (which I don't) it still wouldn't give me enough time in my days to get everything done that is expected of me. Oh, well I say. I realize that this "phase" as older and wiser people call it, will pass. And I will look back on the hand prints on the windows, fridge, oven, walls, and I will miss them. I know that this is true. So until those sad, quiet, and lonely days come I'm going to enjoy the ENERGY and EXCITEMENT that happens EVERY day! Oh, did I mention the joy of serving in all our church callings? Yeah, let's not get started on that one!! :) Oh, speaking of church callings...I just got yet another one...I need HELP with this one...Young Women's Camp Director...suggestions, comments, ideas are VERY welcome!

Here's to teaching children to do jobs...I just can't help but think this isn't the safest way to put dishes away. Either way, I'm glad that we are working in a routine of helping around the house. I have often been noted as the "Aunt that doesn't believe in jobs" but as my children get older I have changed my ways. There is really nothing better than having all the kids (minus Caleb) helping me out around the house. I have found that job charts really don't work for our lifestyle or should I say my personality. We do better with a daily routine. The kids have a laundry basket, if there are clothes in it that need to be put away THEY are responsible to put it away, with out my help! Novel idea I know, but it's taken me about 2 years to figure that one out. Everyday they look, if there are some great, if not they get the day off. Alayna LOVES this idea. Then there's the dishwasher...we take turns every other day...no more fights, no more, options they just have to do it! Then in the morning they have their OWN morning routine...get dressed, brush and make their beds. Other than that I have told them if I need their help they can HELP me. It's not a job, just helping our family work together. Seriously, at their ages it's working...it's the first time...I'm only about 17hundred job charts too late! Ha

Have I introduced you to my little mess maker...maybe it's his personality or his age. I will never know, but let's just say he undoes everything you want done. I think we all need to pray that I don't sprain my ankle with the messes he makes!

I just have to consider this a childhood thing...creative play! He loves to cook all of his crackers, drinks, etc. But then again, I find myself in the kitchen 90% of his life...so he has the option of growing up to cook great food!