This Week at Our House # 23

1. John is still looking for a job. If anyone wants to pray for us, we'd be very grateful.
2. I have been doing some freelance writing. BUT... I only get paid about $5 to $6 for an hours worth of research and writing. It's not that great. AND... it's honestly hard for me to find the time. I have rearranged my cleaning schedule to find more working/playing with kids time. That actually has been good. It really was time to readjust my schedule to better fit my large family.
3. I can't remember if I wrote about how much fun Ruth had on trek yet. She had a wonderful time! She came back happy. She hasn't spent so much time moping and complaining. Today in church, the Stake President came up to me and told me that Ruth bore a courageous testimony that a lot of the other kids needed to hear. He told me that what she said has helped other youth be happy. Of course, I asked Ruth what she said. She talked about feeling her pioneer ancestors and doing family history work. She talked about getting to know her ancestors and choosing to be happy in the face of adversity. Ruth is a good girl. 
4. Kate is having a nice relaxing summer hanging out with Ruth and Bonnie. Kate came to the Celebration of Marriage with John and I on Wednesday. Kate has spent a lot of hours talking to me and doing family policy political stuff. I love that Kate is interested in the same stuff I am.
5. I'm not sure if I mentioned this or not, but Johnny  had his first scout camp out. He had fun. He doesn't like fiahing, but he said it might not be too bad if he had a book to read while fiahing. I agree. Johnny said he thinks a lot of girls are pretty. Apparently, he likes girls with blond hair and blue eyes. Cute!
6. Adam had his last week of second grade-- finally! I was done two weeks ago. The last of any school year is crazy. I went with him on a field trip to the splash pad, and he had a little singing thing the next day.  I know Adam is glad to be done and on vacation.
7. Rachel had a little singing thing this week too. She is the cutest little thing. Rachel told me a lot about school. She said she is excited to start the second grade in three weeks. I am sad that she did not get into the charter school so she could be on a normal schedule. Rachel said she is glad because her second grade teacher is the funnest in the school.
8. Anya's been really cute asking me to play with her and read to her. I am always glad when my kids demand the attention they need in a nice way. 
9. Joseph is growing out of those toddler years. He is more mature. He's starting to think about things before he acts. Joseph has been LOVING the hot weather. He spends all of his free time outside and usually playing water and mud. I let him have his water and mud even though it is extra work for me. We have a small yard, and I know my kids need to be out and exploring, so I let them dig and play and water as much as they like. 
10. I love how Josh loves his cars and trains. A toddler that loves toys more than toilets is a really nice thing.
11. Arwen is standing up to things and even walking across the couch a bit. She is 11 months now, but still looks like she did at 6 months. Arwen is the sweetest baby! I remember feeling strongly against having more children after Josh was born. I feel blessed that Heavenly Father forgave me and sent little Arwen to brighten up our lives.