Fashion Show

Kyle finished his school shopping and was excited to show Beckett. Beckett is extra particular about what he wears and how he looks, so getting his approval is a big deal. Beckett had Ky unpack his whole new wardrobe and try on different outfits. He showed him what to pair together, how to wear his clothes, and what adjustments to make. It went on for about thirty minutes. My favorite was when Beckett would go tell him to look in the mirror, and Kyle would be gone for a few minutes while he admired himself. Beckett was such a good brother and made Kyle feel a million bucks. It was a small, simple thing, but definitely a highlight of my summer. 

 

Jury Duty

Last month, I was called to Jury Duty. Initially, I was called in April, during State Testing. However, because I had to help conduct the testing, they delayed my call until July. After I confirmed July would be okay, I remembered I had Girls Camp, so they excused a week from my month of duty. So, after that, I should not have been surprised when they called me to report to the courthouse last Friday. 

I was unhappy about the call. Jury Duty is not my idea of a good time. But this time, I was especially upset. I had plans with Scott and my two little kids. We were doing dinner and a movie, and I had been looking forward to it all week. On my drive to the courthouse, I thought of every excuse to get out of serving. However, I prayed that I would have integrity and do my civic duty with a good attitude. 

After the instructions for duty, they called 14 people to be on the original panel. And wouldn't you know it, they called my number. Again, I was trying so hard not to be upset or angry. I did not want to be there, and I was sure I was going to miss my previously made plans. 

The judge started asking the primary questions to the Jury Panel. Questions about our bias, relationships to the case, etc. Then he asked a question regarding the timing of the case. Because it was only a misdemeanor, he only expected it to last the day. However, there was a chance of it going past 5:00. He asked us if we had any plans that would keep us from being fully present or committed to the case. I hesitantly raised my hand. The exchange went as follows: 

Judge: Juror five. 

Me: (Sheepishly) I have a date with my boys. 

Judge: Can you expound?

Me: (Still a little sheepish) I have tickets to the new Spider-Man. 

Laughs among the courtroom. 

Judge: Spider-Man? I didn't know that was a big thing.

Me: I know, I'm sorry! 

Other Juror: Oh, it is! Tickets are sold out everywhere! 

Other Juror #2: My kid has gone to six Spider-Man birthday parties this summer!

Judge: Spider-Man isn't something that calls for being excused. 

Me: I know! I'm sorry! I just wanted to throw it out there. 

Judge considers me.  Snickers among the courtroom. 

Judge: Okay! Go take your kids to the movie!

Me: Thank you!!

Juror Who Took My Spot: Thanks a lot! Enjoy Spider-Man! 

It was pretty humorous! I was a little embarrassed, but also so proud of myself for telling the truth, and surprisingly enough, it worked! 

Dinner Date

Last weekend, the older boys were with my parents in Boise. Scott and I decided to take the younger boys on a special Parents and Youngest night. We went to watch the newest Spider-Man movie and out to dinner afterward. Even though I only took one picture, we had a great time! It was really fun to spend some quality time with the youngest kids, talking and laughing without the distraction of phones or older brothers. I love these little boys, even though they aren't too little anymore.