Funny Thing

You know what? There was a funny thing that happened from writing down the best things of each day. At first, it was really hard. I had to look deep into some of the more negative parts of my day and dig up silver linings. But I was glad I took the time to do it because it showed me that there really was something good to be found, no matter the circumstances. And as the week progressed and my attitude changed, I no longer even needed to sit down at the end of the day to hunt for the good things. They became very obvious and my day was full of best parts. Hence, my slacked writing at the end. Some of the best parts of those last days you ask?

- Decorating "nerd" boxes with the kids to hand out for Valentine's Day at school
- Delivering surprise meals to neighbors that could use them.
- Doing a few loads of laundry - for someone else. Not myself. So it was definitely more rewarding. As was...
- Cleaning a neighbor's house with some friends as a surprise for her return from the hospital and watching its transformation.
- Attending my first performance with the Jenny Phillips choir and basking in the spirit of the fireside.
- Heart-attacking the kids bedroom doors with things we love about each of them written on the hearts. Then giving them each a clue as to where a special Valentine's Day present was hidden for them, just like my Mom used to do for us.
- Having success with sugar cookies for Valentine's Day. I finally found a recipe that worked for me! They were so moist and delicious and I got to use my new cookie cutters from Christmas.
- Sharing that recipe on my blog :)

Lofthouse-Like Cookies
1 stick butter, softened
1 C sugar
2 eggs plus 1 yolk
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
3/4 C sour cream
3 C flour,
(plus extra for desired consistency and rolling)
Cream together butter and sugar.
Beat in eggs, sour cream, and vanilla.
Mix dry ingredients and combine with wet ingredients.
Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Preheat oven to 425.
Roll out dough on floured surface to 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out shapes and bake on ungreased cookie sheet for 8 minutes.
Cool on wire rack. Frost and decorate to heart's desire.

Best Part of Day 2

- At 4:00 am our baby woke up screaming. 4th night in a row. I believe its becoming more of a bad habit than it is from its origin of a bout of coughing. This morning, Greg got up with her, and I got to sleep.

- I spent some sanctuary time at the piano. I relish that time. And I especially love when the little one climbs herself up and pounds away on the higher keys with shoulders swaying and vocal chords vibrating notes that I can only hope will someday turn into acceptable music.

- While the little one napped and the older kids played outside, I indulged in my guilty pleasure and got caught up on "The Bachelor". I'm not too fond of the idea that egotistical Michelle is co-staring in what looked like a pretty cute, new Mormon movie from the makers of "The Best Two Years". Unfortunately, the thought of watching "Midway to Heaven" now puts a bitter taste in my mouth. Too bad she had to go and ruin what is probably a pretty decent film.

- While the older kids napped I got to spend some quality time with Taryn. What did we do? Sat ourselves down on the couch and busted out "Beauty and the Beast". I love that show. And I love introducing my kids to the good ol' Disney that I grew up with. Of course, Taryn is a succor for anything musical, so beautiful Belle was right up her ally. We sat side by side and my heart smiled each time she would squeeze her fingers in mine when the Beast was a little more nasty than she was comfortable with. Priceless.

- We had breakfast for dinner! When I first suggested the idea, Evan wanted nothing to do with it. But when I mentioned my hankering for German Pancakes, his mood immediately changed. Good stuff!

- The best part of the day? I stayed in my sweats for its entirety!

In case you've never had them...

German Pancakes

1 cube butter

6 eggs

1 C. milk

1C. flour

1/4 tsp salt

Preheat oven to 350. Melt butter in 9x13 pan in oven.

Mix remaining ingredients.

{I like to keep the batter a little lumpy - makes a great texture.}

Pour into pan atop the butter.

Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve with maple syrup and let the kids shake some powdered sugar on top.

mmmmm...............