Eric's Birthday

So I just realized that I forgot to post anything about Eric's Birthday.  Instead of a friend bday party, Eric chose to go to a trampoline jumping place.  He is such a funny kid -- he had a great time, until the last 5 minutes when he could find Brian for a couple of minutes.  Therefore, he will now tell you that he doesn't like trampoline places.  We're working on the whole 'cup half full' concept, but boy it's hard for him.  So despite what he'll tell you now, he did have a good birthday.

Eric's favorite thing year has been Minecraft.  He can just go on and on about the different "mods" and what he wants to create next time.  Because of this obsession, you will find that he has a pretty advanced understanding of rocks and other natural resources.  :)  He's a sensitive guy who likes to be home -- sometimes I wonder why since he has such an impatient mom.  He's a great spontaneous hugger, laughs hysterically with his brothers, and does his best in school.

Learning about others

There is a private Catholic school in our neighborhood.  The other day we drove by and the kids were out at recess.  Eric, from the back seat, says with surprise,  "I didn't know Catholics played soccer!"

It cracked me up.  I thought, it's probably much more frequent (outside of Utah) that someone might say "I didn't know Mormons played soccer!"

Yes, they, and we, are people too.

What I've been thinking about....

A couple of months ago some neighbors of our decided to move to St. George.  3 days later this young father, Kevin, suffered a major brain hemorrhage.  He was flown back to SLC and after tests and surgery, it was discovered that he had 12 brain tumors and one large liver tumor.  The cancer is Stage 4, terminal -- a couple of weeks ago he started chemo and radiation.  They're hoping this will keep him alive for a while.

This family is so cute -- his beautiful wife lives life with such faith, and has the most genuine smile.  His kids are the similar in age to mine -- we used to car pool the kindergartners together.

The medical costs have been expensive, of course.  They do have good insurance.  But some of the more daunting costs are those of long-term care.  He is at home with his family now, and doing quite well as he learns to live with partial paralyses.

Anyway, one effort to help with costs is an online auction where many friends and businesses have donated items.  There are some great things -- including some great gift cards.  I also donated some cards and quilted items.   Knowing that my skills are not on a professional level, I'm hoping the recipients won't be disappointed!  :)

I wanted to let you know of this auction so you can bid if you'd like to.....but just now I discovered that the auction ended yesterday!  oops!  I didn't notice the end date, and I we were having too much fun at Sister's Weekend to send it out over the weekend.  Bummer.

There is another way to help, though -- there is a drive where you can just donate money.  To do this, go to: http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/kevin-norris-family/49342

You can check out details on their lives -- it really is inspiring:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kevin-Norris-Cancer-Battle/156251287869758
Reminds me to be grateful and brave.

I'll end with a few pictures of the kids primary classes -- someone in my ward started a "Team Norris" thing where she's asked people to take pictures holding "Team Norris" signs to show their support.  Our primary did this.  See if you can spot my kids: