Inspired by one of my favorite blogs I thought it would be a great idea to look back each week at those things that brought me the most joy. This is far too fitting for my blog to ignore the idea so I look forward to posting these each week!
I didn’t have my phone around me a whole lot this week so there are less pictures than normal but it was still a week filled with moments that brought me joy. It isn’t important to document every single joyous moment in a photo but to thank God for all that He has done and remember that true joy comes from knowing Him.
1. I discovered a new author
I wrote about this last Wednesday but I found a new author that I am totally loving. I think I’m on my seventh book of hers in two weeks? Her stories are captivating and have wonderful messages woven through difficult circumstances. I highly recommend checking her out if you like mystery books!
2. Morning Playdate
On Tuesday morning we visited a friend and had so much fun playing in their backyard. They have a trampoline with a misting system set up on the perimeter so the the kids got to jump in the water plus there were dozens of pots, pans, buckets, and other containers for playing in the water as well. Once the kids got tired of playing outside we moved inside to the train tracks and enjoyed a lunch of grilled cheese and loads of fresh veggies. It was a refreshing morning to spend time with a sweet friend and letting the kids socialize (and burn off some energy!).
3. Play-doh creations
Play-doh made an appearance at our house again this week because we had some rainy weather. I made a deal with the kids that if they could help me clean up a bit we could get out the play-doh. They quickly cooperated and all played nicely together for at least 30 minutes while I got things finished in the kitchen. Parker created these layer cakes – aren’t they cute?
4. An adventure and big milestone
On Friday morning I surprised the kids with a trip to our local indoor playground. They were so thrilled for an adventure that getting them packed in the car and ready to go happened in record time! We have also hit a huge milestone with the kids – I no longer need to chase them around following their every move! I can sit back and watch them explore all on their own. There are two areas at the indoor playground – a large climbing structure with tunnels, slides, and platforms for big kids and a smaller area with one simple slide and climber for the little kids. I was able to sit in the little kid area, knowing we were fenced in so escapes were very unlikely, and watch the little guys play. They are totally able to tackle the whole area on their own and loved the freedom but would still look to me on occasion for a smile. So this is what having older kids is like? I like it!
5. “I drew a person!”
I love, love, love when kids hit this milestone – being able to draw discernible people! I can see legs, a head, and a face! I’m really excited to see how her drawings evolve over the next year since this is the first “person” I’ve ever seen her draw. Usually she draws random shapes and scribbles but never a person. Yay, Mercedes!
Where did you find joy this week? Shout it out in the comments!
