Paddle boarding for date night

Neil and I try and do a date night each week.  On Friday Neil checked out some paddle boards from the college.  We took them to Deaver Reservoir to give paddle boarding a try.  They were inflatable so it was easy to transport them.  We had a nice air pump from the college that filled them part way. We had to do a little work to finish filling them with a hand pump.

Paddle boards are kind of like thick surf boards.  You can stand or kneel on it and paddle around.  Neil was able to stand up without any problem.  He was being a gentleman and helping steady my board so I could stand up.  I was kind of nervous getting on and my feet keep getting stuck in the mud.  I finally got on the board, but in the process of trying to stand I tipped my board over.  Somehow, my falling also caused Neil to lose his balance and go in right behind me.  We only fell in that one time.  After that we were able to get back on and paddle around without falling.  We were both able to stand on the boards.  We were told that sometimes people ride these boards down the river.  I know I wouldn't be able to keep my balance going down a river.  It was hard enough just on the peaceful lake. I enjoyed paddle boarding together.  It was a fun activity.

Here are a few pictures:

Happy Birthday, Neil

Today is Neil's birthday. I won't give away his age, but he is happy to be a perfect square this year.  He doesn't ask for much.  He wanted roast, potatoes and gravy for dinner. I made him a chocolate coconut cake.  I think it turned out yummy.  In honor of the number of years Neil has been on the earth I'll share 49 things I love about him. I love you, Neil. Hope you have a happy birthday! Love, Sarah

1. You are a good example of forgiveness.

2. You  help our children with their math and science homework.

3. You live what you teach.

4. You are a good example of studying the scriptures.

5. You love to go to the temple.

6. You take your responsibilities seriously.

7. You play  with the kids.

8. You make date night a priority.

9. You help people out, even when you have other plans and they ask at the last minute.

10. You take the kids out to do service.

11. You are willing to help me when I ask.

12. You do almost all the driving on our trips.

13. You don't complain about what I make for dinner.

14. You work hard to keep our yard looking nice.

15. You are always willing to try again.

16. You lead our family in prayer and scriptures.

17. You write to our children each week.

18. You have  a great smile.

19. You are  patient with me when I am less than good.

20. You make the effort to make memories.

21. You read to our family.

22. You are generous to others.

23. You eat ice cream on date night with me.

24. You cheer for the Cougars with me.

25. You try hard to follow the spirit.

26. You are  a good teacher.

27. You support my crazy ideas (like going to Virginia for a year)

28. You are grateful for what I do.

29. You work hard at communicating with me, even when I frustrate you.

30. You go for walks with me.

31. You play the piano beautifully and encourage our children to also.

32. You gas up the car so I don't have to think about it.

33. You help make the bed in the morning to make sure it gets done.

34. You give compliments to others.

35. You have  a kind heart.

36. You have  a strong testimony of the Savior.

37. You use the priesthood to bless our family.

38. You are grateful for dinner each night.

39. You take the time to take the kids on activities.  

40.You are a hard worker.

41. You are willing to try and sell our house because you know it is what I want.

42. You share your candy bars with me.

43. You take me out to dinner just because I like to sometimes.

44. You are willing to drive in to school so MaryAnne doesn't have to ride the bus.

45. You really try to understand.

46. You don't mind if there is cereal for dinner occasionally. 

47. You support our children.

48. You try to live the gospel and teach by example.

49. You love me  always, even when I don't really deserve it.

And one more to grow on... 50- You try to have peace in our home.

I love you! and I am grateful you love me.  I hope you have a great year! Let's make it the best one yet.  Life isn't about counting down the years, it's about making the years count.  Love, Sarah