Catching Up

Tuesday afternoon, we went ahead and moved out of our house temporarily while the kitchen remodel takes place. My grandparents' apartment (part of my parents' house) is available right now since my grandparents are currently in Florida, so that's where we've relocated to. The decision was kind of last-minute, so I quickly unpacked our kitchen (which was a surprisingly big job that Daniel and I somehow managed to do in less than 2 hours while Liana kept our kids entertained) and we left.

Pretty exciting, this home remodeling stuff. And pretty nice that we don't have to just function without a kitchen while the work takes place.

We're enjoying being here at Mom and Dad's. The kids think it's just one long sleepover. I'm enjoying having lots of friends (aka sisters) to spend the day with while we go about our somewhat regular activities. It's fun to cook for such a big houseful, too, especially since they all seem pretty appreciative of the results. Wednesday I made split pea soup (creamy and loaded with crumbled bacon-- yum) and last night I made homemade mac & cheese and a huge pot of homemade applesauce with all my remaining apples. Some good comfort food for these snowy days.

This morning most of the household has vacated the premises as they go about their Friday routine: work, college classes, Friday program, etc. I'm here with my three youngest and Lauren, who is currently enjoying following Bronwyn around. The goal for the morning is getting our laundry done so I can pack Daniel's bag for his weekend away.

I've started thinking about the 10-day trip to Pittsburgh that we have planned for Thanksgiving. I'm really excited about it! I have lots of people (and babies!) to catch up with. For example, I've yet to see either of her 2 younger girls in person! And Aubrey still hasn't met most of our Pittsburgh friends and relatives.

Along with those activities, I've been spending a lot of time thinking and praying about the upcoming elections. This is weighty stuff and is often on my mind. While I am sober and prayerful, I am also renewed in the peace of being held in the palm of His hands. He is surprised or undone by nothing, and His kingdom is ever increasing.