What's Better Than a Finished Backyard?

Sometimes I need to remind myself of my blessings. I have been known on occasion to complain of my unfinished backyard that was started close to 3 years ago. As I look outside at the still unfinished backyard I have to consciously remind myself why it is unfinished.

We always plan to spend our extra $ on the backyard but here is where Dave and I have decided to spend it instead.

1. School clothes for 5 kids
2. Trip to Indiana when my mom was going through Radiation Therapy
3. Braces
4. Christmas for a family of 7
5. Ski trip with the kids
6. Taking the family to Rocky Point
7. Hospital visit for Jordan's accident in Rocky Point
8. School clothes for 5 kids
9. Spending the summer with my kids instead of working
10. Trip to Indiana to see my mom whose battling cancer
11. Trip to Utah to visit Grandma Bodily for her 90th birthday
12. Did I mention school clothes for 5 kids
13. Polar Express trip

I don't think the kids will remember that the backyard that they played in everyday didn't have the trees, grass, and flowers that their mom worries about all the time. They will remember the trips, family time, clothes that fit, and the wonderful Dad that reminded their Mom daily that there are more important things than an immaculate backyard. So when you see my unfinished backyard just picture my happy family instead.