Getting settled in

Here at the Grand Oaks Apts we are getting settled in! We have gone to a few apt BBQ's (with all the kids who swarmed in on all the food!), we do the Vivent BBQ's if the numbers are met each week, and are getting into new routines. Austin has started helping me get Ruby ready for bed, now that she can walk and is more independent. That has been very helpful! We have new callings in our ward; YW counselor, organist sub (I played for Memorial Day the Patriotic Hymns and loved it~) and Jared is the Gospel Doctrine teacher.  It's been great to feel so welcomed into the ward already and have a social network of people to get to know.  Wes had a time out on the patio and decided to sit in Ruby's chair. Austin also helps out making rolls on Sundays. Park hopping is good too! The SW Chatham library is great here with some fun kid programs; legos, bingo, reading program, etc. I have gotten the boys books each week and they are devouring them up, especially b/c they are not as active here (no school, less friends, activities are minimal in the apt). So grateful the boys like to read.  Jared is exhausted after working hard each day, often getting to bed after midnight...had to snap a picture of him. I also got a job at the YMCA! I am excited for the opportunity, even if it means that I am now teaching a step class! A first for me! I got certified via online, applied with the supervisor, went to her class/working interview, and have been training at night time on my own step with music to get ready. I love seeing my name on the schedule, makes me feel so official. What's even better? Access to their pools during the summer, and the boys can go to the YMCA day camps for 50% off! Been homeschooling now for 6 weeks... It's a learning process for ALL of us. 

Mother's Day

Jared and I are doing a weekly fast now to help the success for our family. It is a challenge on days like today, where I can't have a breakfast in bed b/c I am fasting Sat-Sun. The boys were sweet to make me cards, get me some magnolia flowers from the trees outside and lots of kisses. It was sweet to hear them sing to me at church, and Wes handed out the chocolate bars. Levi also paid a tithing, of .15  How cute is that! Jared and I were set apart for our callings, and the boys saw Bishop Davis' candy machine for the first time, boy was that a big hit! I am so lucky to be a mom. Every day my life is better b/c I get to be with these sweet spirits, as much as I go crazy with them, I wouldn't change it. 

Forsythe Park and Maritime Museum

Forsythe Park in Downtown Savannah is beautiful! We headed out there one Saturday afternoon, after going to the Maritime Museum where we saw some fun ocean art, got Mom tattoos and looked at boats from the locals. We went to Popeye Chicken and the boys enjoyed the "Louisiana Kitchen" with spicy sauces. Greasy food from the South! I think we were the only white people in the entire restaurant ordering.  We will definitely go back to Forsythe. The park, Spanish moss, large trees, big fountain and playgrounds are really delightful. 

Blueberries and Strawberries

The Botanical Garden off of the Atlantic Coast Highway. We went early one morning before Jared had to leave us for work. We picked fresh blueberries and strawberries, delish! The grounds were so pretty with the ducks, rivers, flowers and bridges. I had never seen a blueberry bush and it was fun to pick them fresh. Ruby devoured them.