spoiled

This mother's day Jeff spoiled me with good food all day and I didn't have to wash a dish (the best part)!
The day started with me being able to sleep in and it got better from there.
The menu was...




Ryan also gave me a present she made in school. On the back is written...
I love you mom because you give me candy and you help me write my friend's names.
(5 year olds are so easy!)


Best job I have ever had.

happy birthday daddy!

Jeff's birthday was this past week, but we celebrated this weekend. We started Sunday off with a beautiful walk through the botanic gardens and stopped for a picnic lunch. Spring is just gorgeous.



Then the kids assisted in the making of a carrot cake...which I must say didn't turn out looking that beautiful but it tasted really good (and that's all that matters, right?) Then it was time to prepare for the surprise party. It was all Ryan's idea. We sent Jeff out on and "errand" and got ready. With the cake in the oven, streamers were hung, invitations were sent out (guest list of Ryan, Cole and myself), and hiding places were thought of. We waited eagerly and yelled "surprise" when Jeff walked in the door. The kids faces were priceless as they felt so proud of pulling it off.
It was a super great day with the family.

snowflakes and popsicles

Catching snowflakes yesterday


Eating Popsicles today...


that's Colorado weather for ya!

tiny fingers, little projects

I am definitely in the land of having a 3 and a 5 year old. They are creative, have determination and want to help with everything! Now I have to admit I am not as patient as I could be and I am always struggling with how to let them help but still get the job or project finished. So last weekend (with wonderful suggestions from my mom and how she did it with my brothers and me when we were little) I put together a project tub and a new sewing basket for Ryan and Cole. Sewing has been a hit this week since that is what I have been doing. It's so great watching them "create" and be so proud of it!

mama's little helpers

I can't ask for more...
a clean car and a really fun activity for the kids!
(I know, I know, I am aware that the enthusiasm for washing mom's car will drop dramatically, but for now it's really fun and I'll take it!)

left out

You know it's beautiful weather at our house when the yellow goulashes are left out of our adventures outside and remain lonely in the middle of the floor.
The outdoors is bursting with life...

the debut

Here she is....Isabella Rose (or Izzy, Ella, Bella)
I know I am her auntie, but isn't she beautiful!