Our Week

Mario's been gone two weeks now but fortunately time is going by pretty quickly. I found out today that he can come home for 4 days over Memorial Day weekend so that's something for us to all look forward to. I've already booked his flights.

Erin's piano teacher started a new healthy diet and she told Erin all about it so now Erin is hooked. She made me a grocery list with things like almond butter, avocado, spinach, flaxseed, and other healthy things. She's even eating what she used to term "gross, grainy bread" now because she can't have white flour. I told her it was fine to do this but it is NOT a diet to lose weight for her. Just healthy eating. I've joined her and I'm enjoying her green smoothies. The boys made Rice Krispy treats last night and I had to help them. I cheated and licked my fingers when I was done.

Eric had an EMG this week. It was the worst diagnostic test he's ever endured. First they shock you over and over again and then stick a needle in your thumb and then tell you to move your thumb. Ouch!! I don't think a single one of my other kids would have endured it. The doctor found nothing wrong and Eric's hand is pretty much back to normal now. So I wish we could have canceled but his doctor really wanted him to see the neurologist.

I've been busy working on the boys Americana quilts. I made myself promise to finish those before I start my appliqué quilt. I finished quilting Zach's yesterday but I haven't put binding on yet. I'm putting all the borders on Nate's quilt top now. I was so excited because the boys wanted Minky fabric on the back. But at $20 a yard, I told them I couldn't afford it. I needed 8 yards. But then I got a 50% off coupon for tax day plus I had a $20 off coupon so I got the backings for $60. So even though that is still expensive, it is a whole lot cheaper than $160. It's been fun putting these together. Mario wants to know what I want for my birthday. He doesn't like my answer. I tell him to find the nearest Bernina store and get me some accessories or thread. Good thread is so expensive but works so much better. I can always use more bobbins too. You can never have to many sewing machine feet either. Ha ha.

It looks like I may be taking some time off from tutoring. Cameron's parents are getting too far behind on paying me. So I told them I would take a break from tutoring until they are caught up on payments. It was hard for me to do that but it had to be done. As much as I love her, I can't let them take advantage of me. Cameron told me she's been taking acting lessons and is hopefully going to start appearing in some commercials with her sisters. So it sounds like maybe their extra money is going to acting lessons. I guess reading may take a backseat to that for now. We'll see. 

I don't mind the break because now I can attend the YMCA in the morning for some classes. Plus it gives me more quilting time. But I will miss the extra money each month. Usually it just goes to home repairs on our Florida house or quilting stuff. Good thing Mario gets a raise this month. It's good timing for his raise.

We found out that the job in Puerto Rico has finally been filled. I'm relieved because as much as I wanted to go, I think Omaha is best for schools and church. Having a Temple so close is important to us. Now I don't have to wonder if any day we will get a call saying we are moving and with little or no notice.

The boys are well. They discovered Gilligan's Island this week and they are enjoying watching. They have tons of energy so I get them out to walk and run a lot now that the weather is better.

Easter is this weekend and so I've been busy getting baskets ready. I'm sad to celebrate without Mario but I'm excited for a time to reflect on Christ's resurrection and atonement.