Brownie batter and backyard swings

So yesterday was the first day in a long time I really felt like a "good" mom. We were babysitting a few kids from our homeschool group due to a death in their family which required attending an out of town funeral for the parents. So needless to say with 8 kids running through the hosue, the day was all about the kids.

I was a little overwhelmed at first. I'm the type who quickly offers my help and then moan and groan to God and anyone who listens(sorry Cat) about dreading what I willingly got myself into. I know the bible is pretty clear about being a cheerful giver with money and I am trying to practice this with time too.

Anyway, the day went really well much thanks to my hubby. He is way more laid back than I am and goes with the flow. I am more of the dam that gets in the way of the flow sometimes.

So by mid morning I just chilled out. I thought, all that is going to get done today is taking care of the kids. You know what, that's ok.

Garrison was having melt down after melt down so instead of spanking, time outs and both of us crying......we made brownies. I plopped him on the counter and he and I made a delicous batch of brownies. He was covered in batter and I didn't even care. He was happy and so was I.

The rest of the day rolled really well. We spent some time mowing the yard. Then all the kiddos took turns swinging on the backyard swing with me. It was really nice just enjoying each other. I went to bed feeling like I had really spent my time doing the most important things. Obviously there are chores to keep up with but a day like this was just really nice. :0)

Today, I feel a little behind with school. I always manage to get the 3 R's done but sometimes neglect the fun parts of science and geography. It all comes down to planning and I am really going to work on that this weekend.

All in all it's been a nice week.

We did have one very sad event this week. My sister's sweet dog passed away. Raisin was an incredible and loyal pet. I kept telling Cathy how sorry I was and how we will all miss her so much. I cried with her on the phone telling her I wish there was something I could say to make things better. I hate when my sister cries. It's not often, but I hate it. So please keep her and her family in your prayers. I do believe dogs go to Heaven and I am sure she is already getting some good snuggling in from my big

brother.