Benny's Birthday and Spring Break - Part I

There has to be another word to describe how I feel other than "tired". It just doesn't begin to express my current state. Writing about my favorite subjects is cathartic for me so I decided to give it a go, but I can't guarantee it will be at all intelligible. It's been a fun filled, action-packed, chaotic week. There's lots to tell so get comfy :).

Just look at that round little face and tell me you're not smiling right now.

We started April with one of my favorite events - General Conference. We get to set aside our regular church responsibilities for a day and leave the 3-ring circus at home. Don't get me wrong I love going to church, but twice a year to have a break from the normal routine and to curl up on the couch in jammies to listen to some amazing and inspired men and women is just heavenly. It was especially inspiring to hear pretty much every speaker talk about the importance of teaching our kids the Gospel in our home. We've got some improving to do, but I'm just so grateful to have something to shoot for. It was also Easter which was especially nice. I love Easter and I love that it corresponds with Spring and that everywhere you look (aside from a few rogue snowstorms) there are a million visual reminders of rebirth. That thanks to our Savior death and sin like Winter do not have to be permanent.

Saturday night while the guys went to the Priesthood session my mom and sister and the kids and I went to my Mom's where the kids helped make breakfast for dinner. It was very nice and very mellow. We reconvened at my parents' home after the Sunday sessions for a great dinner and more cousin/grandparent time.

My beautiful mom with Belle and my little man, all in a happy daze

The next day was the beginning of an entire week off school for the kids! Here's what it looked like:

There's just something wrong about sledding for spring break

That Tuesday, April 6th, was Benjamin's 4th birthday! Wow, how did this happen? Funny, I remember driving through a pretty major snow storm to the hospital when he was born. I guess snow on April 6th isn't all that rare around here. Ben had a great birthday it was pretty low key, just opened presents in the morning and had cupcakes and ice cream that night while we got ready to leave for a little trip down south the next day. Ben is such a sweet, happy boy. He's a funny combination of really scrappy, independent and outgoing while also sweet, sensitive and introverted. It's amazing how you wonder how on earth after 3 unique strong personalities a 4th child can possibly find a niche in the family. Well, that has not been a problem for Ben. We love our big 4 year old so very much. Happy, happy birthday Benny boy!

That night Anna and Nate had some friends over. I'm so grateful all my kids have such cute, sweet friends.

It was a nice beginning to our Spring Break.