Mother's Day Out --with half a dozen darlings

A fun, full day...

I had an appointment with the dermatologist in the town where my middle brother has been spending his holiday. He met me in the parking lot and graciously took my carload of kiddos to a lot of parks. Simultaneously generated good reports.

The kids and I then went to scope out the seemingly endless opportunities to spend Christmas monies. We started slowly at Sam's by browsing entertainment and apparel, then making utilitarian purchases such as salad, broccoli, and vanilla. But after a bountiful luncheon at the pizza combo check-out, we were energized to explore further options.

The boys desired some concentrated time at the sporting goods store, so the ladies and I diligently sought fashionable bargains at a nearby department store. As it came time for Elizabeth's lunch, we scaled new heights of effective time management and multi-tasking. The boys teamed up to run into the grocery for several random yet necessary items, and we stayed in the car. I fed the baby while Ardyn read aloud from a Wishbone book, and Ash texted Grammy. Mari quietly delighted in her new toys.

Within twenty minutes we were back on track. We drove back into town and stopped by our favorite consignment shop. Each of the children were thrilled to find terrific deals on stuff they've "always wanted". Since I had a credit balance, I granted many wishes and spent zero "real-live" dollars. Nice.

Finally -after being at large for more than seven hours- we scurried home to prepare dinner for the previously mentioned uncle and his precious family. Parmesan Baked Talapia, Tossed Salad, Creamed Sweet Potatoes, Seasoned Black Beans, and Aunt Kathy brought her FAMOUS Spinach-Artichoke Dip. Cookie bars with coffee and the crackle of a fire brought the cozy evening to a gentle close.

4 out of 6 Johnson children made bedtime statements similar to: "Today was really fun, Mom. Thank you."

I whole&happy-heartedly agree.

(Understandably, the littlest ones were too fatigued to remain so optimistic)

Thank You, God, for my children and for Christmas and for being so Good. "Today was really fun. Thank you."

Great Gramma Johnson

Nov 29, 2009

Night on the Town

1 Tim Hawkins concert
+2 handsome man cubs
+3 [nasty] taco bell gorditas
+4 chatty little sisters at home with dad
= 'perfect 10' mom/son datenite!!




"Dear Lord, help my boys continue to grow in their love for You...and may their standard for datenite food GREATLY improve before You initiate 'the real deal'."

Hotel for Baby

She tried to sleep in this bed, but it was TOO full...


She tried to sleep in this bed, but it was TOO stinky...

She went to sleep in my bed and it was JUST right.
Look-- She's still there!

Thanksgiving trip to Colorado, 2009

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY Sunday, December 13, 2009...

Outside my window...foggy, cold and damp.

I am remembering...past Christmas seasons when the boys were little. So little money. So much joy.

I am thankful for...my sweet, sweet husband who went with me to the church house to play with a group of kids for a little while. He's simply the best.

I am creating...(we'll go past tense on this one) Ardyn and I collaborated on a wipe-off clip board for her bff, Abby. We mod-podged old photos along with scrapbook papers and stickers then covered the whole board with contact paper. We tied lots of froofy ribbons along the edge of the clip and tied a pen to a length of ribbon. Quite cute, I must say.

I am going...to Tim Hawkin's concert Friday night with Landen and Luke. We are FIRED up!

I am reading...December magazines and the Bible...not always in that order:)

I am hoping...the kids and I can happily find our groove tomorrow.

On my mind...the sounds of this morning's Christmas music. One song in particular repetitively rolls through my thoughts carrying great hope: "Hallelujah! We've been found. A child is born to save us now..."

From the learning rooms...last week before Christmas break. Wah-HOO!

Noticing that...my room could not be any messier. Seriously. We are AT capacity for clutter.

Pondering these words..."My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior. His mercy extends to those who fear him...He has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts...but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty." Luke 1

From the kitchen...today was "National Eat Leftovers or Eat Not" Day. A difficult choice for some. However, "leftovers" did graciously include the last bit of Chocolate Covered Strawberry Pound Cake that Luke baked for Ashlin's birthday. Yum-to-the-Me!

Around the house...three fellas enjoying televised football in the living room, four darlings working on their first hour of beauty rest, one schnauzer wondering why no one wants to play, and one peaceful girlie click-clackin' at the keyboard.

One of my favorite things...kind words. Today I shared some and received some. Either way it's just good stuff.

From my picture journal...


To participate or simply enjoy more daybooks, visit The Simple Woman.