A musical fireside

We recently had the blessing of hosting a musical ‘fireside’ or presentation of the baha’i faith in our home as part of a community wide initiative. There was lots of good food, good friends, good conversation and good music.

The kids absolutely loved it and were so thrilled that they got to stay up past their bedtimes to hangout with friends and listen to the music. Here they are eating some pre-potluck dinner.

Erika made her famous persian greenbean rice dish, some killer brownies and carrot pineapple muffins.

Olee spent the whole time perched right in front Monty who was playing the guitar during the presentation. He would alternate between twirlling his little umbrella around and playing various musical instruments much to the delight of all the guests present.

A peaceful ‘bewitching hour’

Olee, Isa and diego sleeping beside the picnic tent:

They say the hour before dinner is affectionately called “The bewitching hour” as kids and parents alike experience hightened senses of joy, excitement, crankiness and violence. Yesterday was no exception to this rule, as I thought I would lose my mind and was counting down the minutes before it was time for all the kids to go to sleep. Tonight it seamed like we escaped alittle bit of that crankiness and violence had a small measure of peace and peaceful play. Erika was busy cranking out some amazing sushi and so the kids and I were playing ‘picnic in the tent’ and then ‘babies sleeping’ before dinner. Shane even came to hang out and got to join in on the fun. I think it has less to do with how the kids are and more to do with how rested and peaceful I feel at the given time- today I felt much more rested then yesterday and so instead of yelling at the kids every five seconds and trying to hide in the kitchen, I was able to play and enjoy myself with them… a miracle that had to be documented.

Shane, Olee, Isa, and Diego playing babies sleeping:

Isa:

Shane and Olee:

Erika and her masterful sushi making:

Avocado sushi and terriaki chicken, yum!: