a new tradition

We're only two months into this *new tradition*, but I can already tell that it's a keeper so I thought I'd share.  The first Monday of every month is now our PIE night (on lazy nights like this Monday that can translate into a quick pudding parfait, of course..no one complains about homemade when you pretty it up.  May was a true strawberry pie...click here for a phenomenal recipe). 

It's not really about the dessert anyhow, though that's definitely part of the lure.  The idea was actually born with the worship of Jody Gonzalez in my first married ward.  She was my visiting teacher for years and I learned so much about the type of mother I wanted to be from this woman. 

This was something her family did.  The PIE stands for Priesthood Interview Evening. 

On this night, our Family Home Evening starts with the typical prayer, song, and family business, but then the boys and I each take a turn having an interview with Jim.  During Aidan's turn, I play with or read to Davyn.  And I likewise spend time with A during D's turn.  During my turn, they start in on their PIE.

My time with Jim has been invaluable. We talk together about the boys, about what we both need to do to make our home a better place for their raising.

As for the boys...I have been very moved lately, looking at them and thinking about the inevitable "growing up" that's already happening faster than I can even register.  These two are future priesthood holders and I want them to be prepared and armed against the world with an understanding of how significant their priesthood offices will be.  Of course, their testimonies grow with their Sunday classes and weekly FHE.  But this alone time, talking with Dad about where they're at, who they are, and what they'd like to work on...well, it has already affected the spirit of our home.   It's a tradition I want my children to grow up with as a constant.  I want them to remember monthly moments with their dad.

And I want to make a pretty dessert once a month.  At least.  Won't they remember me for that?

Comments

[Tiffany]

Love your double good ideas! Thanks for passing them along--what a beautiful tradition.

[Jaime]

We keep talking about this idea, but haven't got it going yet!! On the long "to-do" list!

[Marie]

I love the spirit of this idea. It is a great way to enrich a regular FHE night. And pretty desserts are definatly something your boys will remember about their mommy. Just think of their poor wives following after you.

[Melissa M.]

LOVE it!
I am going to do this with my family. Thank you!

[Lucy]

Thank you for sharing this idea. It is perfect. I will not usually admit to copying, and I'm going to have to get over my fear of gluten-free baking if I'm going to be making pies, but I want to do this. Fantastic.

[Angie Ras]

What a fabulous idea! I love that you've put it into practice.

[Emily]

Yuuuummmmm!

[Kristi]

Amy,
What a BEAUTIFUL tradition! I am stealing it also!
Guess what? Our year is up - can you believe it? They just called a couple to teach Temple recommend class and Alex and I started last week.

[Brian]

AWESOME! I love it. Mindy and I are always looking for ways to improve. I think I'll add in weekly goals on cub scouting requirements and Faith in God for Austin.

[Mandi]

He! He! I think that's funny that you got Bro. Macnamara to comment on your blog . . . I am so ready to do this in our family too so that our girls can always feel comfortable coming and talking to their dad when they have problems when they're older and sassier. July we're on!

[April]

We do this, except I don't get an interview and we don't have pretty desserts. I think I will improve our tradition with your ideas.

As always, I think you married perfectly.

[michelle]

This is simply brilliant!!

[Katie A.]

Great tradition. One on one time is so important. They will definitely remember it. Along with the deserts. The picture looked delicious!