We had the lucky (for us!) opportunity to have Ben's parents come visit us this weekend. I'm sure his parents weren't super excited about coming to Minnesota in February with pretty short notice, but it ended up being a pretty lovely weekend--50s and 60s with lots of sun. We were really happy to get out and enjoy the sun.

Russell and Meghan were both a little reserved at first. Seeing someone in person is quite different than seeing them on the computer screen via skype. They warmed up after a bit. Russell was ready to play by the time we got home from the airport. Meghan took a little bit longer, however, she was happy to give hugs and kisses before going to bed the first night they were here. They both got spoiled with lots of book reading and lego building.

As we were driving home after dropping them off today, Ben and I were talking about how it was nice to have a last minute visit from his parents to break up this time of year where it seems we are playing the waiting game--waiting for warmer weather, waiting to be able to go back outside, waiting for a break in school.

The Winter Doldrums

I feel like all month we have kind of been plodding along, which is kind of true since we have to get all our winter gear on every time we go out the door. Most days I just want to curl up on the sunny couch wrapped in a warm blanket with a good book. Unfortunately, household chores keep getting in the way.

I've been a little disappointed in our winter. It hasn't been terribly snowy, though we have had school cancelled one day because of freezing rain. Maybe if we weren't in town where it seems like snow is cleaned off of all the roads and sidewalks pretty quickly. Maybe if we lived in the country it would seem more snowy.

The kids are getting pretty bored staying inside most days. I am thinking that maybe I'll take them on a walk tomorrow to some of our friends. If it was going to be just a tad bit warmer I would venture on a walk to the library. Instead we'll have to drive there since half our things are due tomorrow.

I have been doing terribly on my goal to eat a little healthier. I just want to spend lots of time making yummy carb-loaded foods. I definitely do not need carbs. Or any more sugar. I have been loving Emily's idea of themed meal planning. It is nice to have a set rotation of meals to cycle through.

Russell has learned most of the songs for primary this year. There are still some that he needs a little help with. It is nice to hear him singing them. Hopefully he isn't just mindlessly singing I'm Trying to be Like Jesus all the time and it starts sinking in soon. He could act a little more like Jesus these days. Megs also knows As a Child of God. However, my friend tells me she never sings in nursery though it is one of the three things she tries to say her lesson was about. Snack and toys are her other common answers.

My lower back has been really sore for the past 3 weeks. We went to Bed Bath and Beyond to get my birthday present (waffle maker). I spent a good deal of time on the massage chair. The chair was awesome! I have been very tempted some days to load Russell and Meghan into the van just so that I can drive to BB&B to sit in the chair for some relief.

I think we are all getting ready for spring. Russell keeps asking me how much longer until it is summer. Meghan keeps talking about going to the beach. At least the daylight hours are noticeably longer. We're getting there. February is almost 1/5 down. Soon it'll be time to get the short sleeves out.