A few weeks ago, the the kids had an extended weekend due to teacher in-service days. Brian had a few vacation days left, so he took a couple off with the intent to do something fun with them. However, as is usually the story of our lives, things don't always go as planned. (In a family of 7 children, I suppose the only plan we need to make is to plan for the inevitable change of plans!)
We talked about going to Silver Dollar City, but the park was closed the days we could go. Bowling and putt putt were no dice, either. Then we discussed going camping. But, just because school is out, it does not mean we get to check out of life. Banks still had football practice; Leslee-Kate had a birthday party that we had already RSVP'd a yes to; and do you really want to take an 8 month old camping?
Our solution? Break out our new fire pit, pitch two tents as far apart from one another as our backyard would allow, and pray that Park would not have an accident in the middle of the night.
We are happy to report that the solution was a success! The kids had a great time roasting hot dogs and making s'mores, and thanks to bedtime being in a tent, we had no problems convincing them that it was time to go to bed. Brian and I were even able to enjoy a few stars together before I had to retire to the house and spend my evening with little Lucy.
In the Book of Mormon, Alma 37:6 states that "......by small and simple things are great things brought to pass...". With a family the size of ours, the things that we choose do with our family are often, of a necessity, "small and simple." However, we firmly believe that through taking the time to experience life with our children, regardless of the medium, we are bringing to pass a truly a great thing: a family that will be together throughout the eternities.
