Blessings

Sometimes blessings come in surprise packages. About a week before Christmas last year, our Bishop called to ask if we would house the missionaries through the holidays. They had a permanent place to live, but could not move in until after New Year's. Any of you who have been to my house are probably thinking the same thing I thought at the time - ummm...where will we put them?? I really didn't know, but the spirit was whispering to me that we needed to help. We talked it over as a family, and decided that we would do it. Then we rolled up our sleeves and got to work. Little did I know that I wasn't just going to house missionaries, I was going to meet two very special young men that would become a part of my family.

The only place that would appropriately accommodate the elders was Charley's basement bedroom. When we asked Charley if he would be willing to give up his room for a couple of weeks for the missionaries, he said yes. He never complained about having to sleep on his brother's floor, even on Christmas Eve. We cleaned up, rearranged, and got everything ready.

I knew that it would be a little crowded, there would be lines for the upstairs bathroom, and that the fridge would bulge. What I didn't know was that my heart, family, and home would be touched by the wonderful spirit that these two elders brought with them. They were polite, friendly, respectful, full of love for the Lord, and so excited to share the gospel. They were very helpful. My sidewalks were shoveled and my garbage was always taken out. They were good examples to my children of what righteous young men should be. They very quickly became dear to us, and we now consider them to be part of our family. They only lived with us for a little over two weeks, but we had them over as often as our schedules would allow after they moved to their permanent home.

Both of those elders have moved on to other areas of the mission, and we miss them very much. We know that they will bless the new people that they meet as much as they have blessed us. New elders have come to continue their work. I am so grateful that we said yes. If you ever have the opportunity to house the missionaries, do it.

Adventues in House Cleaning

Today I cleaned my couch. It looks nice, but it might have been a big mistake. I learned a few things that I am not sure I want to know. Here they are:

#1 - After nearly 16 years of being a mother to boys they still have the ability to amaze, disgust, and infuriate me. You'd think I would have seen it all by now and be able to remain calm. I do have to admit I was also slightly amused, but please don't tell them that.

#2 - Boogers are even stickier when they are dry.

#3 - Children should be seen and heard, but never allowed to sit on the couch.

#4 - I need a new vacuum. I also have to admit that some of the fury I mentioned before should be directed at the vacuum. Please don't tell my boys that, either.

Maybe I should clean my couch more often, or maybe I shouldn't clean it at all. I'm sure there is a moral to this story, but I'm too tired to figure it out. I've been cleaning all day.

Attempt #1....We'll See if #2 Ever Happens.

OK, so we thought we would be smart this year and save a few bucks by taking our family Christmas picture ourselves. How incredibly sad we are when it comes to photography. So, if your family Christmas picture doesn't turn out the way you planned, just think of the Calls. We are very happy to at least spread a little Christmas cheer, but please don't feel bad when you get our card and there is no picture inside. :)

Halloweenies

Halloween was too much fun! We had a great time at the ward Trunk or Treat, and waiting for trick or treaters while watching Ghost Hunters Live.

It's a Miracle!....and Tanner's Deer.

I've had this blog for two years, and now I am actually going to post to it! MIRACLE!!

The Call Boys have been avidly hunting for the past two weeks. After many years of unsuccessful hunts, Tanner shot his first deer. We think that it is interesting that Tanner didn't see any deer until his dad left him alone for a few minutes. The minute Matt left, Tanner saw two and shot one. It is a little buck, and Tanner was so excited! We have been enjoying his deer, it's very yummy.