Day 216 / Game Night with the Hubby

Donovon is quite obsessed with the Star Wars X-Wing Miniatures Game. The problem is it’s a 2-player game and he often has difficulty finding someone to play him. So when I start feeling bad that he hasn’t played in a while for lack of an opponent (or because I’ll want to call in a chit soon), I will begrudgingly offer to play a round.

He, in turn, gets all giddy and excited as he sets up the elaborate “game board” – a vinyl map on which he had a picture of the galaxy printed (the early stage of his obsession). Since, I’m very competitive in nature and so is he for that matter, we do have fun being pitted against each other – Rebels vs. The Empire – strategically trying to destroy each other’s squad.

It had been close to a year since I’ve actually played him. I couldn’t believe it had been that long. So tonight while he was diligently organizing the game cards, I offered to play a round with him. He was very excited and before I knew it he was already building his squad.

Alexa was out for the evening, so after putting Ava to bed, we settled in for our game. I was delighted in Donovon’s excitement over my willingness to play. And I enjoyed his enthusiasm as he watched me strategize then counter each of my maneuvers. I was a bit rusty which I’ll gladly blame for my loss.

Although I cannot match his enthusiasm for the game, I’m grateful for the quality time with my hubby.

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Day 215 / Hanging with Michelle

Tonight I got to hang out with Michelle after work and I’m so glad I got to spend some time with her. I enjoy her company so much. There’s a closeness and comfort there that’s like slipping on your favorite robe or into your favorite jeans. It just fits and is so comfortable.

I’m so grateful for hanging with Michelle tonight.

Day 213 / Surprise Dinner with La Mia Famiglia

I found out yesterday that my Mom, brother, aunt, and cousin were all going to be in town this evening. So with today being my sister’s birthday, we were all pleasantly surprised to find that we could all be together to celebrate!

There was fourteen of us all together. And with four little princesses running around enjoying each other, the rest of us ate delicious Tex-Mex at Santa Rita and relished in conversation and each other’s company. It gives me such comfort to be surrounded by my family. And of course, I felt Daddy smiling down on us.

What a wonderful way to spend a random Tuesday evening. I’m so grateful for this surprise dinner with my family.

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Day 212 / Mother-Daughter Day with Ava

Ava’s school was closed and I had the day off work for President’s Day, so we got to spend the whole day together.

First, we took breakfast to her Daddy at work. Then we went to see Paddington and have lunch. I took her for her 5-year-old well check after that and as I suspected, she’s doing very well.

Later, we ran a couple errands and finally ended up at home to relax and cuddle on the couch. It was a great day, and I enjoyed my one-on-one time with her. I’m so thankful for a Mother-Daughter Day with My Little Princess.

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Day 209 / Recovery

I contracted what seems to be a small stomach bug that hit me in the middle of the night and I’ve spent all day trying to rest and recover.

I hate missing work, but I’m thankful for forcing myself to stay home. I’m feeling so much better for it this evening.

Day 208 / Girls Night

Tonight a couple of girlfriends from work and I met up for dinner before going to see Fifty Shaded of Grey together. We had all read the book series around the same time and had discussed the making of the movie for years. So, upon the release of the movie, naturally, we decided to all go together.

It was a fun night and although movie left us disappointed to say the least, the time together was filled with much needed giggles, drinks, and girl talk. I’m so thankful for such an enjoyable Girls Night.

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Day 207 / Some Peace

I’ve felt so out of sorts and anxious the past several weeks. I bury myself in work, personal obligations, movies, and books in a feeble attempt to distract myself. I tend to internalize my feelings until I find some peace. I tend to find it in church or in prayer.

Today, it was this scripture that gave me solace and I’m incredibly grateful for it:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

– Philippians 4:6 (NIV)