sunday already

My parents arrived in Las Vegas on Tuesday night... We played cards, stayed up late talking and when we woke up this morning it was Sunday. I hate it when that happens. We had so much fun. My oldest brother Greg and his son, Nate, tagged along too. The men spent most of their time at the basketball tourney and my mom and I hung out with the kids. We enjoyed the sunshine at the park, went to story time, played lots of games, read stories, ate ice cream, challenged each other in Rook & I took a nap every day. It was such a relaxing week.

We said goodbye to them this morning. They left as we were driving off for church (or so I thought). When I came home, three hours later, my dishwasher was steaming from being washed, bread was rising on the counter, chicken was baking in the oven and potatoes were peeled and diced in a pan-- ready to be boiled and mashed. I just love my mom for going the EXTRA mile every time she comes. She does so much for me. My dad left some essential oils on my mantel along with a $20 bill (just in case they drank some of our milk). This was their last visit to Vegas before they make the long trek to Chile. My eyes are moist just thinking about how much I will miss them!

I have lots of pictures to upload and stories to tell, but I can't do it today. It's Sunday and my family is all home together so I will spend my time where it's most valued. My heart is so full because I have been the recipient of so much good lately. Our relief society lesson today was on SERVICE and I couldn't help but think about the wonderful examples of service I have in my life, beginning with my parents and grandparents, extending to my in laws & siblings, and not excluding my neighbors who have become family when we live far away from home...

This week, I received a box from Jason and Suzanne who were our neighbors while Aaron attended law school in Spokane, WA. We lived by each other for only a few short months, but that was long enough to know they were friends to keep for a lifetime. Anyway, this week, they sent me a package (for no good reason at all)... and inside was THIS. Without getting too emotional-- yes, I cried when I opened it-- let me say it is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me. It has left me speechless for a few days... and that's not something that happens easily. I feel absolutely overwhelmed with all of the service that has been rendered in my behalf recently. I am surrounded by wonderful people and I feel so blessed.

Lots of QUALITY pictures and funny stories to be shared soon! But now, I must sign off to play Uno. The children are calling and I can never resist a good card game.