Popcorn, paper, and pencils...

Today, my buttered popcorn was enjoyed with a nine year old boy that I tutor. His mom came to me in a desperate attempt to help him with his writing skills. After completing a basic three paragraph paper that we worked on together for an hour (he did a majority of the work himself, with a little guidance along the way), he and I smiled and high-fived one another...both pleased with his end result. He was anxious to find his mom and read the story aloud to her. As he finished sharing, she began to cry. Watching this mom, overwhelmed by her son's potential he revealed in today's accomplishment, was worth more than any amount of popcorn I could ever eat. Teaching children brings me so much joy! My bowl runneth over....

Our buttered popcorn is vacationing!

The kids went with their dad and family of 19 members on a cruise ship to Cozumel, while I went to Las Vegas with friends for some R&R. We all had a wonderful time and enjoyed our trips!

Momma's buttered popcorn at the end of a long day...

is snuggling with Mason each night as we read, and listening to him breathe as he falls asleep in my arms.

Michelle's buttered popcorn is...

having friends who conquer battles together.

I think of you every day, Tamara.

Mitchell's buttered popcorn is...

being an athlete.

McKenna's buttered popcorn is...

spending time with those who make her smile.

Mason's buttered popcorn is...

being the "big kid."

Meagan's buttered popcorn is...

playing her clarinet in a concert she's been practicing for and looking into the audience to find her family, cheering her on.