Taking the Pace Down a Notch

As an added incentive to get the Schillings down for bowling, we offered to take their kiddos Sunday through Monday morning while Michael and Michele headed home solo for a little alone time and Santa-prep time. I hesitate mentioning how great it was having their kids around as it might discount the "credit' we get in a future returned-favor. However, it really was "our pleasure" to have them - the worst issue we face on any given day with our kids is the fighting between them. So, having their cousins around pretty much eliminates that problem.

Nati and Brayden, especially, spent almost the entire day yesterday playing board games at the kitchen table. First, John taught him and Nati the art of buying properties in (Christmas) Monopoly. They then moved to the "Splash Mountain" version of Sorry. And, finally, they were able to coerce Stephie into going to Walmart to purchase the basic version of "Life" for them - and consequently having her help them put it together and teach them how to play it.

It was one of those days you just loved for the kids' sakes.


Meanwhile, Traig spent a majority of his time with the Wii - playing "Resort Sports" - which included tandem bicycle riding, basketball, fencing, wakeboarding, and airplane flying. Once the Whites arrived with Travis more than eager to participate, Traig's day improved tremendously.

I don't have a picture of the two youngest: Mikayla and Ellie. They played with nearly every toy set (Groovy Girl dolls, Littlest Pet Shop, Barbies, Playmobil) in Mikayla's room. Towards the end of the day, they pretended Mikayla's bed was an airplane and used my computer as their "in-flight" movie.

An all-around super relaxed day. I sorted outfits for the upcoming "big events" of the week and started my attack on Sunriver packing. John was able to finally put together the framed pictures to go above Mikayla's bed so we can now say her room renovation is complete. Well-done honey, they look fantastic!