November 1, 2012

Halloween Recap 2012

 This year's Halloween happenings was reflective of the simpler approach to life I've tried to take this year.  Seeing that there are only two months left in this year, I may have to attempt this resolution again.  Practice makes perfect, right?

We didn't really do any lead up to the big day.  In fact, a tired daddy carved pumpkins the night before Halloween due to a long day in the field.  The older kids stayed up past their bed times to help daddy with their creations.  A tired Nessa had no say, but she was pleased with the itty bitty pumpkin that was her own.  Costumes were ones we had--Lene just added some accessories to be a darker version of Snow White, and the Ninjago hoodie dad ordered can get use year round, so not a bad investment I believe.

The kids had a little parade and then I left them to meet up at our parent participation class at the park.  Nessa played with her buddy Linky and did a couple crafts and sang a few songs.  Totally low key and non-stressful.  We then headed to lunch with a friend and her little girl.  Again, a quiet, nice treat, unhurried and relaxed.  We were even able to go home and rest a little bit before the kids got out of school.  Then we met up for our annual stroll downtown.

 The funniest moment was when Nessa and Bubba were interviewed and the conversation that ensued with Nessa. I recorded part of it, but I was laughing because she was just so funny!  The older girls were much more poised and polished for live television.

The night concluded at our house with friends that are more like family after so many years together. We handed out candy for a little bit and then headed to the craziness that is our small town.  Seriously, people get dropped off by the carload!  It was fun to walk a few blocks and run into people we know--say hi and bye.  The best part was we didn't have to disappoint the kids when it was time to head back.  Their bags were full enough, enough fun had been had, and they were all so cooperative and thankful for the hours we had shared together.  Everyone was in bed by nine and I wasn't exhausted from packing too much on my plate.

I didn't try to get everywhere-- in the past, I've sometimes tried to get to many places to please too many people. . .and I'm striving to remember the people that matter most are the ones we are raising up right here in these four walls.  They are my responsibility, my heart, my life.

Today I am thankful that my eyes have been opened to see my people pleasing ways need to shift to the only One I should be striving to please. . .