sick day

• Jane, you stayed home sick today.  I like having you around, even though I was super busy
• I had so much to do today.  I spent the majority of my time driving or on the phone.  Three separate trips to the mall.  I usually go to the mall about three times a year
• Daddy and I got new phones today.  I'm going to write the specs here, because I'm sure we'll laugh about it in a few years.  Daddy got the iPhone 6sPlus.  It has a 5.5" screen which looks huuuuuge compared to his last phone (iPhone 5s).  I got an iPhone 7 with a 4.7" screen.  We both have 128GB of storage
• Katie, we went to visit the orthodontist again today.  We learned how to properly brush for when you get your braces.  Lila watched as they taught you and said over and over "that's amazing."  She was in total awe of the brushing techniques.  Which leads me to my next story...
• You guys tease me (and roll your eyes) about my enthusiasm.  I stopped and listened to myself this evening, and perhaps I can see why.  I got a piece of gum while I was driving Katie to piano.  I said something like this, "Oh wow, this is an amazing piece of gum.  It's so fresh and juicy, and just the right amount of mint.  The texture is perfect.  Not too soft but not hard.  It's so lovely."  I looked over at Katie and she was just shaking her head.  Ahahahaha.  I find such joy in the little things 
• Katie, we saw the boys at piano (their lessons are right after yours).  Sandra and I were chatting for a few minutes, so you sat down and visited with them.  As we left, you said "I just love talking to them.  I miss them so much.  I wish we could see them more."   Katie, you're such a sweetheart.  Relationships mean a lot to you and you really cherish your cousins.  Auntie Becca and her family are coming next weekend to spend a couple nights with us.  You're sooooooo excited.