Extraordinary

Mother-in-laws.  If you don't have one, you will.  It seems like so many people can't stand their mother-in-laws.  Why do you think that is?

I guess you either love them or hate them.  I am happy to report that I LOVE mine.  She is extraordinary.  Not to brag, but hey if you got it, flaunt it right?  Just kidding. 

My mother-in-law, Karen, came to stay with us for a week and a half.  Yes, she stayed in our house.  And yes, I was sad to see her go last Wednesday.  She has been there for me in so many ways.  I can never thank her enough or repay her for all that she has done for Jesse and I.

She:

• Gives Jesse and I date nights.  She likes to stay home with the kids while we go out.  Jesse and I are actually able to have a peaceful dinner and do something of our choice for the evening.  Even though that usually consists of us rushing to Borders after dinner, each of us finding the book we are half way done reading, grabbing a hot chocolate from Starbucks in the store, and then regrouping at a table in the back to read, SILENTLY, side by side.  Oh, the peace.  The quiet.  That right there is worth at least a million dollars.

• Does our laundry.  And folds it!  Believe me I was behind several loads by the time she showed up.  When she left, I was almost caught up! 

• She makes the kids breakfast every morning.  Despite Mady parading around the kitchen saying, Nana, when are you going to cook me my egg?  Eggs, pancakes, sausage, oatmeal, monkey biscuits.  They name it, she makes it.

• She cleans up after the kids have gone to bed.  Believe me, that is not a simple or quick task.  The kids can make our house look like a tornado struck in less than 5 minutes.

• She takes the kids to do things and get out of the house.  McDonald's indoor tunnels, Monkey Buziness, Incredible Pizza, Bass Pro, the Zoo, Silver Dollar City, etc.  She loves to take them places.

• She lets Jesse and I sleep in.  What, sleep?  At times I never knew it existed.

• She reads the books to the kids.  She reads and reads with them until she is either asleep or out of breath.  Literally.

The list goes on and on.  Karen is perfect!  She is a kind and very loving woman.  She would do anything she could to help someone out.  God blessed me with a two for one deal.  Jesse and Karen.  I am so fortunate!

Thank you Karen for all that you have done for us!