The Place To Be On Friday Night

Upon answering our children on Friday evening that we "aren't doing anything tonight, except enjoying a peaceful evening at home," we were suddenly surrounded by a party in the making. Invitations were made, posters hung, even party hats were being constructed (it turned out the hats didn't fit anyone-not even Joshua).

It started with a yummy dinner consisting of steak, twice-baked potatoes and salad that had no complaints from ANYONE.
(Ok-There actually was a complaint from me-when I observed how much WHOLE milk and BUTTER was going into the twice-baked potatoes, courtesy of Mike)

But ooohhhhh they were YUMMY!

After dinner was cleared, it was time for the 'Prde' to begin. The opening act was 4 children flailing their arms dancing and singing to welcome us. The song and dance came to an abrupt halt when Ellie got elbowed in the forehead and began to cry, followed very closely by Joshua getting knocked to the ground and slamming his head against the couch.

Tears were dried, apologies made and the games began. First Twister (even 7-month pregnant Mom played, but the camera was FORBIDDEN), followed by Old Maid (where it seemed the interpretations of the rules were-if you draw the Old Maid, you giggle or announce it to everyone.) Of course the evening ended with the ole' Sowby favorite-Hide and Seek. Why is it the favorite? Because Daddy suddenly disbands all rules and regulations and allows children to hide in places that Mommy ususally disagrees with. (Note photo of Luke on top of the 8 foot tall cabinets!)

Everyone was given a piece of candy as a treat, which Dad promptly made into eyes, and Luke into a moustache and everybody sent to bed, so Mom could wake up at 4:45am the next morning to get to her temple shift.

Please do not be deceived of the joy, laughter and happiness that must be present in the Sowby home. If my memory serves me well, there were arguments about which game was next, why Ellie kept announcing who had the Old Maid, someone giving away a hiding spot. . .

Is there really any such thing as a peaceful evening at home with four children?