It's been a long time...again!

Life, as usual, has gotten the best of me and priorities have been changed. I am trying to re-structure my life now. Things that will change:

1. Cleanliness of house

2. Healthier eating habits

3. Everyone working together

4. Meals al fresco. 

5. Punctuality

6. Budget and Savings

7. Fit and Healthy lifestyle 

Seven is a good number to start with and those are pretty significant lifestyle changes. I am also holding myself accountable and not relaying on too much external assistance. I am enthusiastic a motivated for these changes. 

We have started by totally cleaning out and organizing our "garage" a.k.a. The third bedroom. It was necessary to do so because we needed a out third bedroom to begin another adventure. 

You guessed right! Our family has grown. Almost two weeks ago Owen moved in. He is a 14 year old student from China. He started his first official school day at Servite high school today. Owen will stay with us for the entire school year. So far having him here has been wonderful. He is kind, gracious and loves playing with the kids. He says he likes my cooking but not my Brussels sprouts and he is sick of watching "Home!" Jacob loves playing swords and fighting with him and Claire loves drawing with him. 

We count ourselves very lucky that not only did we get Owen in our lives but also his sister Yongsi. She lives in San Diego and attends the art institute there. She came up on the afternoon yesterday to spend some time with us. She brought us some soup and said that when someone lives away from home it is tradition to bring soup to them. She made a pork soup with carrots and mashed potatoes in it. We look forward to eating it tonight. 

Last night we went to the last summer concert in the park. Jacob got down with his bad self to the some funky soul and R & B. We had a picnic of chicken Alfredo with egg noodles and asparagus. For dessert Yongsi brought us a chocolate cake and strawberry cake from 85* bakery. Very tasty!! While us Murphys were grooving and dancing Owen and his sister watched and enjoyed the music. It is understandable that our fine and funky dance moves were a bit intimidating.  It was such a fun night. 

This round of blogging will be about our lives and adventures. I will share stories and pictures about hosting an exchange student and also my life as a sometimes stay-at-home mom who works when her schedule allows it and there are hours available. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we will for you. 

Owen and Claire last night at the concert in the park.