Counting Down

Last week was a struggle for Adam and I.  We were stressed to the max.  We were spent, spiritually, emotionally, and physically.  Ultimately, our trust is in God, but sometimes the trials He puts us through push us pretty hard.  On Friday, we got to go to Bowling Green, see some old, dear friends, and attend a singing with Tim Stevens.  It was a full house and so uplifting!  Just what we needed right then.  We also had an enjoyable visit with Big Papa and Granna on Saturday.
So, we begin this week, with prayers for peace and unity and letting the real beach countdown begin!  We leave in less than a week!  Usually, I am prepared too early, making lists weeks in advanced, and the week before we leave I am left with little to do.  This year, I am coming to understand why most moms are in such a frenzy before a trip.  I. Have. So. Much. To. Do.  We are all excited, but that's about the only thing taken care of :)
In one of my recent posts, I mentioned I had been making some things for our trip.  To the right, is a DIY mattress.  I cannot take credit for the idea, I saw it on pinterest.  I can't find the original link, but there are several pictures of ones people have made.
Chloe loves to sleep on the floor and rather than taking several blankets or quilts to make her sleeping spot cozy, I sewed pillowcases together to make a simple mattress.  Plus, I was going through our linen closet and was going to get rid of all these cases, so it was FREE!  Happily, it went together quite easily and I didn't make any mistakes.
I had to use a little Autumn coercion to convince Chloe it would be a comfy place to sleep.  Autumn will lay and cuddle with anyone, anywhere.  Once she laid on it, Chloe was all about it.  Now, when we talk about what to take to the beach, the new mattress is on her list.



I have also put together several homemade car activities.  I'll have to take pictures of the other things some other time.  Below are small felt boards for each of my girls.  The ones pictured are a cupcake builder and an ocean theme.  I also made 2 face bags and a sandcastle builder.  Felt is fun!  Hopefully, it will keep them busy for a bit in the car!

Here is our assortment of beach toys!  We only bought a few things this year.  The rest are left over from pool play last year.  I think lots of fun is in store!  Here's to a good, full week of busyness and productivity looking forward to a long week of rest and relaxation.