Annnnd, We're Back!

Guess what?!? Everyone is well again . . . hooray!!! All four of my babies were able to go to school today, and we are so thankful!

I felt so loved walking into the school this morning for Rise and Shine with my kiddos. Several of the school staff made a point to say they were glad to see us, and I received hugs from Ms. M (the para in the twins' room), Ms. B (Bren's teacher), Ms. S (the PE teacher), and two other Ms. Bs (my friends who are paras in the building this year). Mr. J (the music teacher) got my attention and gave me a "care package". I had to laugh when I opened after I got back to my car and saw this:

He was so sweet to think of us!

This evening was our annual school carnival, which is a fundraiser for PTO. I had told other PTO members that I would help set up for it, so I spent several hours this afternoon doing that. Brianna had chorus after school today, so once she finished with that I loaded up my kiddos and headed home. We all really wanted to attend the carnival this evening, but I thought that would be a bit much for my two that are just getting over being so sick. I felt bad for not supporting the event - and for disappointing my kids - but I have to do what is best for them, and going to an evening carnival with tons of kids and germs is not it.

Chris has been in South Dakota for work this week, and I just didn't have it in me to cook dinner tonight. So, to spoil myself a bit and to help the kids feel better about missing the carnival, I took them out for Mexican food. While we were out, I noticed a man sitting in the corner of the restaurant just watching us. This isn't too uncommon (although it's happening less now that the kids are getting bigger), so I didn't think much of it. As he was leaving, he dropped this gift certificate on our table and just kept on walking.

As soon as I realized what it was, I chased him down to tell him thank you. He didn't speak English, but he told our waitress to tell me I have a nice family and to enjoy dinner on him. Isn't it amazing how some things come on the exact day you need them?!? I told Chris that he probably felt sorry for me, haha. No matter, I'm so grateful for this man's generosity . . . it seriously made my night!

Now, I pray everyone can stay well for a while. It's been one month today since Brooke and Bren got sick on Fall Break, so I'm ready to feel like I have my life back!