Toys, Toys, Toys!

Does anybody else have this problem or a good cure? We recently finished our basement and now have toys in 3 1/2 rooms including the basement and a bedroom in the basement.

I like to think I am organized and have toys in plastic bins, etc but they are leaking out into other rooms and I'm so exhausted from picking them up all the time.

I know some people only allow their children to play in a certain room but I enjoy witnessing what they play so let's say it's somewhat controlled toy chaos?

If anybody has a good system or ideas on what to do besides give them away, let me know.

I also take some and store them - kind of like recycling.

I welcome any comments and/or suggestions.

A Little Funny

Aidan was a little restless tonight for family home evening and I was wondering how we could possibly get him to get anything from Ella's lesson. Well during a discussion on Jesus' resurrection, Aidan (who was sitting on my lap) whispered, "Mommy, I wish Heavenly Father and Jesus could do Halloween with us. I asked, "Why?" Aidan answered, "Because I really like them." I guess he got - something?

(Aside) I have to share this Mrs. Potato Head representation of me because this stage of drawing persons is too short -lived and too darling not to.


Me and Aidan

Weekend Gettaway

It was Matt's birthday on Monday and we have been planning to go "away" together. As the weekend got closer, we started coming up with all kinds of excuses not to go: cost, leaving the kids, projects around the house, cleaning the house, etc. I called Matt at work Friday and said, "Honey, we just need to do this." It was me initially who had all the excues so he was, of course, all for it. It was rejuvenating for each of us individually and as a couple; no meals to prepare, no household chores or resposibilities, and as much as I love my children, no "kid" noises. It was so worth it. We walked hand in had through the shops and art galleries on Main St. in Park City, where we stayed. We sat and talked over dinner without interruptions! And, I broke my 13 week sugar-free regimen by indulging in a Rocky Mountain Chocolate caramel apple. Okay, Matt and I shared it but it was pretty delicious.

Just a beautiful shot right aroundt sunset on Main St.

Me and the "birdman." He trains birds and yes, he trained the hawks for Lady Hawk, those of you who are old enough to remember this movie.

Most of my blogs don't have photos of me because I am usually the one behind the camera and besides, I hate pictures of myself but Matt took control of the camera this weekend. so here I am. I remember my mom never wanting her picture taken as well.

My all timie favorite gallery at Park City is Scanlan Windows to the World. It was here several years ago that I cemented my dream to visit Italy. I fell in love with this place called Civita de Bagnoregio and promised myself I would go there someday. I am planning on being there in 2013!!

Here's a photo of it:

The city is over 2500 years old and only has now 15 residents. I think it's enchanting, classic and obviously historic.

Our last day in Park City was what is called Park Silly. A bunch of vendors, artists, etc, line up the sidewalks with interesting works of art and other interesting "artifacts." I loved watching this pupeteer. He was so good and you really don't see these much anymore. I wished my children could have been there to see this fading art.

We also just enjoyed taking out these cruiser bikes our inn had for the guests

If it's been a while that you and your spouse have been alone together, get away! t is so important and again, so worth it.