Stuff

Last night I hosted a Young Women sleepover at my house. We had about 25 girls/women. It was an estrogen-fest. Ethan hid up in his room almost the whole time. I don't blame him. This was the second annual YW conference (the first was held at my house too). And it was a great success. I love the girls in our ward, and the way they love eachother and look out for eachother. One of the girls made big decorated posterboard hearts for everyone with their names on the front and a little pocket in the back with more hearts and sweet attributes that those girls have. Everyone brought snacks and sleeping bags. We decorated fabric hearts, and then the girls and leaders took a quick trip to another friend's house and sang happy birthday to her (I think it made her day). After they all came back we had nice spiritual talks from 2 girls and 2 leaders, and then just hung out and talked and snacked. I went to bed around 1:30. There was a little noise from the basement, but it died down around 2. Last year people stayed up all night. This was better. In the morning I got up and took a shower. When I got out I discovered that Noah had woken up and gone downstairs. He was in "his" tv room, very upset with the 4 girls in sleeping bags on the floor. He calmed down after a bit and started watching "Polar Express." We had yummy tater tot casserole and fruit and OJ for breakfast. The girls looked cute and fresh, the leaders not so much. I still look older and tireder! But it was an awesome event, so glad we did it, and I think everyone had a good time. Seriously wonderful young women with beautiful personalities. I love working with them. And the leaders I work with constantly amaze me with their dedication.

Scott took Meredith to Idaho Friday afternoon. Our friends Fred and Emy lost one of their little girls (5 of their 6 children have a progressive degenerative illness for which there is no cure. 2 of them passed away a few years ago. Their story is tragic, but they are a constant inspiration to me.) I miss my baby and my hubby! Scott called this morning and said that several people were stunned to see a dad flying alone with a baby. He got all sorts of advice and help. I wasn't a bit worried, he's a wonderful father to Meredith and I know she's in good hands. I'm glad they'll both have a chance to see Grandma and Grandpa Garner and some of the cousins. Wish I could have been 2 places at once!