Brainwashing Pays Off

If it weren’t for our popcorn pillow talks, I’d never catch up with my one-time 24/7 responsibility. I wouldn’t have found out, for instance, that McKenzie was asked to the Homecoming Dance (like weeks ago). Her response to her prospective date was, “Fifteen-year-olds can’t go to that!” (We’ve brainwashed her gooood!)

Reporting for Duty

“Cub scout leader. Just kill me now.” I believe those were my first words to Rob after receiving my new calling. I would rather be Gospel Doctrine teacher. Are you kidding me?

It was all my fault. I was trying to simplify my life. I considered dropping the scouting program from my radar. I mean, I’m already on top of Getty for chores, homework, and football schedules—how could I add more tasks to our relationship? I decided it had to go, or Rob would have to take over. Good plan. Rob was an Eagle Scout. If it’s important to him, he’ll do it. If not, we’ll drop it. Getty will still attend, but I won’t worry about the specifics. I’m simplifying, right?

I actually prayed for confirmation that my approach was “satisfactory” (because I knew it wasn’t Celestial). Not a day later, I was called into the Bishop’s office and released from my favorite calling, Relief Society teacher (teach once every other month—that’s why it’s my favorite), and called into scouts. Not only that, but the 2^nd counselor emphasized three things I would need to commit to as a leader, “Testimony (check), Time (cringe), and TENURE (what the—),” which means I’m in cub scouts until retirement (or thereabouts).

Well, looking at the bright side now, and there is one, I’m very happy to be spending this time with Getty before he becomes a deacon and the men and manly things begin to overtake his life. I have God’s permission to leave my responsibilities at home and have fun (tying knots?) with my boy. I’ll get out of my comfort zone—that’s always good, right? I’ll learn more about boy stuff, which may come in handy. And, I like the leaders I’m working with—two new friends. See? I turned it around. Yay me!  

Easy Peasy

Cam’s imaginary friend, Candice, who has been a part of the family for over a year-and-a-half, is now joined by Isabella, Shordan (sometimes pronounced Jordan), and Goff. Candice, you’ll remember, has pink hair. Turns out, Shordan has all-the-colors hair and Isabella is just plain blond. Cam asked me if Candice could sleep over tonight. I said, “Sure!” He said, “Mom, you’re the nicest mom ever.”

How easy was that? 

He's the Man

On my way to Cy’s football practice, I saw Cam and his friends racing down the hill on their Big Wheels. Cam was using his bare feet for brakes (because he’s a boy). I yelled out the Burb window, “Go put your shoes on!” Ten minutes later, I pulled back into the driveway and noticed Cam had his shoes on (never happens when I only ask a child once). I yelled down the street as he tore down the hill, “Thanks for putting your shoes on!” His back to me, his arm shot up with a thumbs up.

Who is this guy?

James Bond? Batman? … Super Grover?

Savor Your Ovaltine

Going back some years to my childhood—not sure how old I was, but old enough to remember with clarity—I spent many an afternoon with my mouth full of warm Kool-Aid or Ovaltine. I couldn’t say exactly why. Maybe I was savoring it. Maybe. (It’s diluted with saliva and is lukewarm.) I just couldn’t be rushed. I let it slide down my throat in tiny increments. The consistent saliva production ensured I would never drought. It was bliss. Turns out it’s genetic, only Elle doesn’t discriminate between food and drink and feels it’s important to incubate both for long periods of time in her mouth. Disgusting, irrational, yet, I can relate.

Power Bouncing

Don't try this at home, folks...

MK gettin' down with her bad self...

Wiggedy wiggedy whack

Arrow of Light (scouts on the brain)

Mia piggy-bouncing with Elle, Cam worshiping.

Crash landing.

Fueling up.

Not too much going on here...

I didn't swear here. Promise.