Pause

 Mountains of boxes, bubble paper, and packing tape have consumed our lives for the past week.  Our house currently looks like something off of the show Hoarders (minus the rodents and moldy food), and we have been working nonstop to get organized and packed for our move this weekend.

We have missed our children even though they are right alongside of us.  We decided to dedicate a huge portion of our day yesterday to dismissing the mess, mentally setting aside all that was yet to be done, and went outside on the beautiful 80 degree day to soak up the sun, play with the boys, and picnic together.  Here are some pictures from the break and family time that we needed so desperately.  And only a few more days of nonstop work until it again, can become the norm.

a very proud Israel from catching a pretty butterfly

a closer examination

River checking out the magic of dandelion seeds

bare feet and blankets

the boys checking out their specimens from the afternoon

oohhh....follow River, he found something good

inside of what remains of Israel's fort

the thrill of the catch

Israel showing River his first ladybug

kickin' back and relaxin' from all of that exploring

Israel making a contraption for his jar lid

that way when he catches that bee he's been chasing, he can free it without getting stung

hah!

and sidewalk graffiti

It was a wonderful day, and with the break, we were refreshed and managed to get even more accomplished!