A little R and R . . . .

We're in Minnesota this weekend for a really quick, too-short visit with Mark's family. Got here last night and we head home in the morning, but we had a very lovely day today of rest and relaxation. It was much needed. Mark and his bro got some serious catch-up time, the cousins had a total ball together, Grandma and Grandpa were in heaven with everyone at home, and I got to finish a mystery, do some bible study, mess around on the computer and start planning the boys' birthday party.

About that.

They're turning 8.

EIGHT, people.

In 33 days.

But who's counting?

I'm thinking some counseling might be in order for me.

Why is it that with each birthday, I feel a little chunk of my heart being ripped out? I remember so clearly their first birthday - all I wanted to do was cry because a year was gone already. HA. And here we are now. We're 2 years from double-digits. 5 years from teenagers. We're halfway to 16. Only 10 years left until they leave. Ouch. Yeah, yeah, I can just hear you all thinking - "10 years?? That's a long time!!"

I'm here to tell you.

No it's not.

I know firsthand how fast eight years went!! 10 is going to be a flash in the pan. And all of these thoughts just make me want to cling to every single little precious moment I have them under my wings. Like I said. Professional help. At the very least, some serious heart-to-hearts with God about helping me let go.

So on a lighter note, here are some photos to share:

This is our weather the day of my retreat last week. The day before it had been 85 degrees. 'Nuff said.

This is Jack with his award that I mentioned previously, along with the winning picture he colored. He's very proud.

And these are the 3 crazy cousins - can ya tell they had fun today?

End of school countdown: 12 days. Although if someone at school comes down with the swine flu, that'll finish our year immediately, since schools are now supposed to close for 14 days with one positive test within the school. Can you believe that? No joke. I'm certainly not hoping for THAT, however.

Have a great week!