Bumble's Bounce

Indoors to feel Outdoorsie

2012-01-29T19:12:00.006-05:00

I cannot believe how lucky we are to go to Longwood Gardens. When the weather is cold or rainy, we can always find the sun inside of the conservatory. Being at Longwood as a way of making me feel new again, I feel recharged and happy. You love running all over, and today you tried to do all of the scavenger hunts they provide in the Children's Garden. You did a super job!

You REALLY wanted to smell this flower.

Silly photo shoot.

Our Wimpy second snow of the season

2012-01-21T18:49:00.001-05:00

It snowed in October, and that is all we've had.

It's sad to have winter months and no fun snow.

2 years ago we had four,

count them FOUR blizzards and a bunch of ice and snow in between!!

Seriously!? I would prefer a happy medium.

I would like some snow, no snow days, with only two hour delays permitted, and some great sledding and snow people!

Is that too much to ask?!

Here is my usual, out the front door shot.

K getting ready to sled

House Guest part Deux

2012-01-18T09:45:00.002-05:00

"Shellina" traveled everywhere with us for this long weekend.

You girls did ISPY together

And you invented a swing for her out of a ribbon belt,

and a purse strap.

You two napped together

You spent some time at Longwood

On Tuesday after the very long time you had with Shellina, you were very sad to take her back. You even said, "I just don't know how I'm going to sleep without her". You ended up adjusting back to life without Shellina, but it was fun to have her over! Maybe you'll get another chance... I have a feeling....

Plant a seed of friendship; reap a bouquet of happiness. ~Lois Kaufman Quotes

2012-01-16T21:14:00.018-05:00

We met our friend "E" when you girls were barely 1!

Here is an old pic I found of you two girls hanging at in the woods.

May 2009 2ish

January 2012 Everyone is 5!

We treated ourselves to a fruit tart. Yes, it was delicious.

We headed to the outdoor children's garden and train, and as we walked you girls laughed and ran, and held hands, and then,

you two girls were banging into each other and being super silly!

We ran down to the trains, and WOMP WOMP:(

Le Lament

The ideal friendship is to feel as one while remaining two.

~Anne Sophie Swetchine

It was such a special day, that now as I look back at it and blog, it brings a few little tears to my eyes. You girls play so well together, and had such a fantastic day, I feel so happy that we are all such great friends:) Time keeps flying by, and you girls just keep getting cooler to hang out with!

First official Sleepover

2012-01-15T15:33:00.002-05:00

Daddy picked up a new TV for the bedroom,

and it's GINORMOUS!

We started our night by snuggling in and watched Monster's Inc.

and a little bit of Toy Story 3.

I made Jiffy Pop!

POP!

I put down a towel, and gave you both wash

cloths so you wouldn't get your popcorn cooties on/in my bed. Truth be told, I'm still finding popcorn:)

EW! drippy tooth brushing!

Sweet dreams! This face is the face of a

best friend who was just given the

go ahead to snuggle up with Elizabeth for the entire night!

Snacking in dresses pulled from Bumble's closet.

Hearts and love on my mind

2012-01-14T15:03:00.001-05:00

Grammy and Grandad were in England just weeks before The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were to be married. They brought home little plates for all the grand kids. I practiced using a heart shaped pancake shape-er today. Free hand? No thank you:)

I was working on a sewing box for you for

Valentines Day, and you caught me.

Happy 1 months till Valentine's day! (oops)

You were able to thread your needle the first try!!

House Guest

2012-01-11T14:54:00.002-05:00

Your school has a little buddy that goes home on the weekends with classmates, and luckily they were just finishing up with their first round! Which means you got to slip right in and take Her home. You named her "Shellina". She came with clothes, a helmet, skateboard, hat, blanket, and a booster seat.

Shellina taking a little ride on her skateboard

She went to swimming class too!

A trip with "T" to Costco

I cannot explain this.

Fondu Fifth Firthday!

2012-01-09T22:41:00.010-05:00

Our very dear friends brought dinner!

Fondu!!

So much fun, we started with cheese

fondu and ended with Chocolate:)

Yummie!

Your girlfirends surprised you with a

Disney Princess Laptop game! Thanks girls:)

We shoved a candle into a piece of angel

food cake, Happy Birthday

mmmmm.... chocolate.....

Special Friends and matching outfits

2012-01-09T22:12:00.001-05:00

My friend Mrs. W made your dear Elizabeth a matching outfit, by remembering a beautiful top we had bought from her a while ago. Then we came to school and saw one of our special friends "A" and what did she have?! A special friend with a matching outfit too! Her Mama Mrs. H has become quite the skilled seamstress and sewed the dress our "A" is wearing, along with the matching outfit for her dolly! So cute!

Birthday at School

2012-01-09T19:35:00.001-05:00

Though your Birthday was last week, it fell the same day as Moms and Muffins, therefore your special day was celebrated today! These teachers aren't messing around, that is for sure! They made you a beautiful crown, as they do for each child. Each crown is unique, and obviously made with love. I made cookies for you to share with your school at snack time. Yum! When you got home, you said you were allowed to have 2, since it was your special day, which made you very happy. As part of your special day there is a "sun" placed in the center of the circle time rug. You stand at your birth month and I got to share a little bit about the day you were born, and then each birthday as you walked around the sun, signifying each year passing.

I'm so happy you are going to such a special preschool. I wish I could bottle up the enthusiasm and love that each of your teachers shows toward their job!

Exploring NYC

2012-01-07T18:46:00.001-05:00

The American Girl Store is directly across from Rockefeller Plaza. Since we were in NYC just a week after the New Year, all of the holiday decorations were still up. We watched the ice skaters for a while, checked out the tree ad headed over to The Rock. The security guard gave you a postcard with a photo of the famous tree on the front, and we learned that the star at the top is 9 feet tall!

Swarovski

After we roamed around Rockefeller Center/Plaza, we headed toward Times Square. We came across this little treasure and sat on the cold ground and ate a snack.

Seafood Yogurt anyone?

I couldn't help myself, this little guy was so cute, with his shoes, and suspenders!

Throwing pennies and making wishes.

Elizabeth HAD to get in the shot!

I had no idea that Times Square had a visitors center! It was outstanding! We sat and took a rest, found a map, got a free left over NYE hat, and got to see this awesome version of the BALL.

Toys R Us Ferris wheel. 4.50 a person, and we were on it for a long time. No line either! For NYC I found the price semi-reasonable. I was scared out of my mind and could not look over the edge. I hated being on the opposite side, but that was the rule. You had a great time, and so did Elizabeth.

Bumble wanted Elizabeth right next to her, in her own seat belt.

Our view. We thought of our Cousin "C", we thought he would think the dino, and action figures would be cool!

Dinner in Times Square, after a little meltdown by...

both of us.

I packed PB and J's just in case.

We had to BREAK GLASS moment for sure!

On our way back to LK's place

we caught a band in the subway

Subway ride

Saturday morning,

Headed back home, here's one of the ticket takers

Good Bye NYC

We had a great trip! LK was super busy working, so we only saw her for a total of maybe 2 hours:( Maybe when work slows down! Thank you LK!!!! We had an amazing trip thanks to your generosity!

Introducing....Elizabeth

2012-01-06T17:41:00.005-05:00

Last night we went to sleep on LK's couch in her apt. in Brooklyn. And when LK came home she lovingly forced us off of the couch and into her room so you and I could share her bed, instead of the couch. I hated doing it, but really appreciated the generous offer! She's a very thoughtful friend, and we're so lucky to have her in our lives! Especially for such a special trip as this was. We got up in the morning dressed, ate oatmeal, and headed out onto the streets of BK. LK showed us to our Subway train and we were off! We arrived at the American Girl Store at 10:05, which was perfect, as they opened at 10! We spent our first few moments walking throughout the street level store, not even realizing there were 3 levels above us. You chose a Look Like Me doll, and promptly named her, Elizabeth. You picked out a dress, an orthodontist kit, and a pair of glasses. I picked out the hairbrush, as it was brought to my attention that their hair should be sprayed with water and then brushed with the special AG hair brush. After choosing Elizabeth's accessories we were informed that there were more floors, so we headed upstairs to the area that houses the historical dolls. Then we discovered the coat check(which was a life saver as my arm was killing me from having to hold all of our junk.

Here is Elizabeth at the AG Hair Salon receiving her Half pony tail hair do.

We were lucky enough to finish up at the salon just in time for the 11am lunch seating in the AG Cafe. Elizabeth was able to have her own special chair that clipped onto the table.

Once we were seated they brought out a beautiful cheese, veggie plate, fruit, and pretzel plate.

No detail was left out, Elizabeth was also given the royal treatment,

a fancy dressed waiter brought her, her very own plate and cup!

CHEERS!

Lunch! Enough for everyone:) {Hi Elizabeth!!!}

My panko-crusted chicken sandwich and sweet potato fries.

The fries were yummy, the sandwich was just ok.

Though we had loads to eat, we rested our bellies for a bit... just in time for dessert!

Mousse, cake, and bamboo fruit

We had a perfect visit to the American Girl Store.

I think it would be fun to go back, and hope we get the chance again!

Happy 5th Birthday to OUR American Girl!

We love you sweet Bumble,

we hope one of your dreams came true.... time to dream up another one!

Riding the train to NYC

2012-01-05T21:35:00.001-05:00

We tried out the train from Wilmington to

NYC and it was a great experience.

Would I do it again? I'm not sure yet.

We decided so last minute,

I'm still not convinced that it was the cheaper easier option.

Here you are relaxing and enjoying your apple

You were apparently upgraded to First Class.

Meaning, you were stretched out on both seats

and laying on my coat. I was your leg/foot rest.

Time for some IPOD quiet.

We made it to PENN STATION and immediately had a star sighting! CARLA from TOP CHEF! Although now she's known for The Chew. She is just as adorable in person! We smiled at her, and she smiled back:) Squee!

Waiting for our last train to Brooklyn and taking pics to pass the time. Thanks LK! We cannot wait to see you,
your directions were spectacular!

When we stepped off the train,

we headed to an elevator,

as we had a big old suitcase.

Here are some of the sights.

We arrived at LK's place on Ocean Ave in Brooklyn around 4pm. We got settled in and headed out to find a bite to eat. You and I shared a white pizza and salad, and yummy bread beforehand! So delicious after our long day of travel.

Following our yummy dinner,

we returned to LK's place and went straight to bed.

We were pooped out!

2012-01-04T21:17:00.019-05:00

Your Birthday began with a visit to school for Moms and Muffins! The letter of the week is Mm. You showed me around your room, we ate muffins and talked to other mama's and their kiddos, took a pic and I scooted on home to wrap presents and prepare for your birthday!

I was busy prepping your surprise and stuffing it into....

This box!

We ate BRINNER.

Eggies, pancakes, fruit, milk and juice.

Then cake and ice cream....

My first attempt at homemade Strawberry cake,

with cream cheese icing.

Time to open present. Just one. From us.

What could it be?!

Someone is going to NYC to The American Girl Store!

Grammy and Grand dad gave you spending $

for accessories and Grand mama and

Grand pop pop sent cool animal tub toys.

Cannot wait for our adventure in NYC

Happy 5th Birthday

2012-01-04T15:48:00.000-05:00

Our first nap together.

Luckily I was so in love I didn't care that

I was rocking a severe hair halo.

The day you turned 1

The day you turned 2

The day you turned 3, and that night was the last night you slept in a crib. You and "Owlie" apparently scemed an escape plan. "Owlie climbed out, and then I climbed out".

And then you were.......

This photo was taken at 3:42am. I snuck in your room to attach these fun balloons. You must have heard me, as I heard some rustling, and then a muffled whisper... "thank you for my balloons mama". I kissed you and you rolled over for hugs...and then you were awake! So I took our semi-traditional-birthday-photo and you crawled into bed with us.

Happy 5th Birthday Bumble girl!

We love you to the Moon and Back.

First Day of Preschool!

2012-01-03T12:00:00.006-05:00

Yes! You heard that right! Bumble is officially enrolled in Preschool! Daddy and I thought hard about it, and wanted to give you a little boost, so in September when Kindergarten starts you'll be ready to roll with a smaller amount of adjustment time. (at least that is our hope) The school we chose is a magical place, with wonderful teachers! I was able to watch a little bit today and in the short 15 minutes I was there you were learning about the calendar, singing songs in Spanish/English (not you, quite yet, but soon), talking about the degree that water freezes, and learning about how the sun illuminates the moon! Woot!
And now for a little tour:

This is the art drying area, and the door to the playground

The enchanted Forrest, of course.

The theater area

Snack area is serve yourself!

The view

Hot tray!

Art easel

Wonderful nests to feast your eyes upon
as you move through your school day.

Wrapping station

Library

Getting ready to go!

Report: Today was great! You loved circle time, and singing. You did some art and made a muffin. The letter of the week is M and m. You made new friends. Your teacher let you all throw ice into the pond! (which I simply love!) You ate lunch next to our friend "A.H.", and came home with a piece of artwork done on the hot tray by one of your new friends "J"!
Life is good and preschool rocks!

New Years Eve

2011-12-31T11:52:00.011-05:00

Your Aunt, Uncle, and cousins came to stay for New Years! We had a blast!!! They arrived New Years eve around lunch time. We hung out, played in the yard. Shot the bow and arrows, made a fire, cooked dutch oven gumbo and shared a wonderful holiday together!

It. was. the. best!

Some of us had so much fun, we were tuckered out for sure!

Everyone is hydrating on New Years Day!

This is where you and "C" chose to play.

Yup, glad I scrubbed it just yesterday! pfew!

SURPRISE! WE ARE GOING TO....Disney On Ice!!!!!!!!!!

2011-12-30T21:29:00.056-05:00

Our dear friends surprised us with our Christmas present today. They treated us to Disney on Ice; Dare to Dream!!!!!

It was Spectacular!!

There were Three shows.

First The Princess and the Frog,

then Cinderella, ending with Tangled.

I have never been to an ice show, and this was your first one.

We had a really great time.

There was a point during the show when Bumble asked me; "When will I go out there?"

Me: "Oh honey, you don't get to go out there, that is just for the ice skaters."

Bumble: "NO! When (tugs on her dress) will I go out?" When will Mulan be out there?!"

Me: "Oooohhh!!! I see, oh dear, I don't think she'll be out, this show is Rapunzel, Tiana, and Cinderella"

Later she asked Carrie the same question... "when will we see Mulan?"

Carrie had to tell her the same sad news, and she simply frowned.

BUT THEN! JUST WAIT! Disney as always KNOWS what kiddos love!!! At the end of the show, out came all of the princesses with their princes and Bumble was ecstatic! I wish I could have bottled that joy right then and there!

The girls treated us to pretzels, drinks, popcorn, cotton candy,

and finished it off with pretty cups to take home! After the show we tried to take a few photos so we could really appreciate every ones princess dresses and crowns.

We asked you girls to pose like your princess might pose.

"T" is doing a Rapunzel Curtsy.

Bumble is working a pouncing pose as Mulan.

Who knows what "E" is doing!?

I know these are blurry. And I'm anti-blurry pics...but I couldn't resist how "E", in her little blue dress and huge smile is looking to the big girls and trying to emulate what they're doing. So sweet.

We had a great time!

If your kiddo likes any of the Disney characters,

they put on an amazing show!

We had a wonderful time with wonderful friends!

We love you girls!!!

Merry Christmas! xoxo

Christmas Morning

2011-12-25T21:09:00.006-05:00

Christmas morning was just as special as I thought it would be! You woke us up pretty early, around 6:30am. We held you off until at least 7am! We headed downstairs and quickly began opening presents.

You asked Santa for princes and princesses.... He must have gotten your letter, as you received some of your requests!

The aftermath.....

Merry Christmas

Our favorite Christmas card:)

While we were eating breakfast, you looked outside and saw something pretty surprising! There was a bit of glitter and a beautiful bell! We suspect it must have fallen off of Santa's sleigh when he was on our roof!!!!

What a treasure!

(sad photo....I took one last photo of the broken antique ornaments from when the tree fell)

We headed over to our family Christmas in the afternoon, where you opened...looook! More princes!

"C" opening a new helmet

One last prince

Aunt Am and "S"

Aunt Lynne and her magical knitting

skills made beautiful scarves for you and "S"

You and Daddy had a wonderful Christmas.... sweet dreams...

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T21:01:00.002-05:00

We had a very busy few weeks. And then I got the flu. I didn't feel so great, so all the super awesome fun plans we had.... well.. they were lost to rest and couch time:(

I tried to make up for it by making Buckeyes Christmas Eve! You loved scraping the bowl and plopping each rolled piece onto the wax paper. After they were in the fridge for a couple of hours, we dipped them in chocolate. Yum!

Getting ready for bed! You were so excited! Just as you were laying down you heard a faint jingling noise coming from outside! You shot quickly down into your bed as you knew exactly who might be jingling! Due to your excitement, I had to lay down with you in your little toddler bed in order to help you get settled. Well, we were both so settled, I fell asleep TOO! Whoops! Daddy came in 20 minutes later and woke me up:)

Cookies for Santa and a few carrots for the reindeer.

Good night, sweet dreams!

Visiting Santa

2011-12-23T14:48:00.000-05:00

We finally made it to visit Santa. We got in line and it took us about 45 minutes! With all of our hustle and bustle back and forth to Indy, we did not follow our usual holiday fun-ime schedule. This was one of our sacrifices. But it worked out just fine:)

I snuck a photo!

On the way home... your new surprise from Tay's trip to Disney! You love your new bud!

Our tree... thought it fell down... and it's missing most of it's ornaments, it still looked dreamy.

Last minute movie night!

2011-12-22T14:43:00.000-05:00

We live in a pretty amazing neighborhood! One of our innovative neighbors set up a projector, and projected Frosty the Snowman, and The Grinch, on the side of their house. They had a cozy fire pit set up too. We brought along our lawn chairs, and hot chocolate. It was a perfect little holiday night!

December Ballet, Tap, Tumbling Mini show

2011-12-22T14:30:00.000-05:00

We signed you up for a new Ballet/Tap/Tumbling class this year. We have outgrown the Y class, though I would HIGHLY recommend that experience for the little ones. it was time for us to move on. Here you are my Bumble Girl waiting to show us what you've been working on.

Your teacher gave all of you jingle bell skirts.

How long can you balance like that?

(honestly not very long at this point, but I know you're trying)

Posing

Traditions! Christmas at Longwood.

2011-12-16T23:20:00.015-05:00

The trick to viewing the lights at Longwood Gardens is to arrive around 4, head straight to the Conservatory, and then outside for the lights! By the time you're finished inside the large Conservatory it is dark enough to view the outdoor lights.

We waited a long time for the fountain light show, only to discover it needed some repair. We sat and drank our smuggled in hot chocolate and ate our chocolate chip banana bread, courtesy of one of our neighbors. Yum!

Getting ready to make our wishes! We always have a ton...

These roses always remind me of how Grandma Watness smelled....

Bottom of one of the tree houses, just before we walked up we saw a couple get engaged! So sweet!

One of the many cats that inhabit Longwood.

Natural tree

Love.

2011-12-15T22:46:00.005-05:00

I have no idea what we were doing. I think we had an errand day. I wanted a pic of us, since I don't have too many. My hair has its usual "hair Halo" going on... but you look absolutely breath taking... love you my dear sweet daughter.

We went to the Country Butcher and

brought home a couple of cookies and an adorable snowman Petit Four

The dentist

2011-12-13T22:42:00.003-05:00

You had your 6 month Check up.

Everything is still looking great! woo hoo!

You had a little boo boo that you picked. Ew.

Three Princess Friends

2011-12-13T22:41:00.001-05:00

We had a little play date with a couple of awesome Princesses!

We picked up our tree!

2011-12-11T21:48:00.001-05:00

It all happened so fast! Daddy went with us this year, and before I knew it he was sawing the tree down... you got to help push it over. Then daddy helped pull the cart up to the needle shaker and baler. It was hoisted onto our fan and before we knew it, we were headed home.

Christmas with Grandmama and Gramp pop pop

2011-12-09T21:38:00.015-05:00

We haven't gotten to celebrate Christmas with my parents, so this year we decided it was a must since we were in town! It was a big hit, and we had a lovely time opening presents, and eating dinner on fancy dishes. Grandmama set up their Christmas tree, nativity scene complete with star trek characters, and of course candles and other pretty decorations. Thank you mom and dad for all the lovely gifts and fun time!

Grandmama is wearing a Facinator.

OR....

some ribbons off of one of the presents...

but doesn't it look FABOOSH!?

Testing out a present!

Aunt Aynie stopped by for a bit.

You loved hugging her and her baby bump.

Especially in her pretty swing coat:)

I have no idea what was happening here....

Sympathy belly?

Monument Circle Christmas Tree

2011-12-08T21:36:00.000-05:00

The Circle Of Lights.

Go to the lighting,

and you know what happens after....

The Christmas season can officially begin!

One day With Summie

2011-12-08T20:27:00.002-05:00

First thing's first: Yule Slide

Waiting in line to do two separate things....

Bumble: To see Santa

Summie: Stand AWAY from Santa.

Telling Santa you've been good,

and you want the Cinderella Movie

Taking calls at Barbie Inc.

Indy 500

The carousel.
Summie was so sweet,

she kept waving to the
conductor lady and her puppet:)

In order to take photos at the bottom of the slide,
I had to go down first,
and then wait at the bottom,
but Summie went before I was ready,
so round two I only caught Bumble.

The hair is quite cumbersome
when one has their scuba gear on.

Dale Chihuly permanent sculpture; Fireworks of Glass

Round Three

Round Four....
By the third time,
I walked the girls to the elevator,
and then ran to the edge to ensure
they made it to level two.
We did this about 3 or 4 times!
They were great, such big girls!!!!!

Bumblebee dressed and ready
for winter and a snowball fight!

Trying to be Taller....Still.... and soaking up every second we can get together:)

2011-12-07T20:23:00.001-05:00

Winter at the Children's Museum

2011-12-07T20:10:00.001-05:00

We haven't spent a winter in Indiana since Aunt Aynie and Uncle Jammy's wedding two years ago. Which as also the last time we got to do the Yule Slide at the Children's museum. They take a giant slide and cover the stairs. It's so much fun:)

Here you are, waiting patiently in line for the Yule Slide.

WOOHOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Fishing in the Jolly Day's play area exhibit.

We headed to the basement so you could go Deep Sea Diving.

Digging for The Terracotta Army

Putting a broken soldier back together

Eiteljorg

2011-12-05T19:57:00.000-05:00

Aunt Amy treated us to a membership

at the Eiteljorg museum!

Woot!

We have never been, and

this was a great time to go as they had a beautiful train display.

I got teary when I saw the tiny replication

of the Monument Circle with its beautiful little lights.

It feels so nostalgic, and I know I wasn't around in the 50's,

but it just feels soooo 50's too!

I leaned and hovered to take in order to take a

photo of the inside of the

Lucas Oil Stadium the location of the

2012 SUPERBOWL!

So exciting!

In the basement they have a great

hands on area complete with THIS!

A stagecoach!

Giddy up. Heels down.

Trying to be Taller

2011-12-04T19:46:00.000-05:00

Linde and I could not figure out what that funny little red head was doing..... welll..... she just wanted to be Taller than Bumble..... Hence "The Lean".

The Baby Shower

2011-12-02T19:08:00.052-05:00

Decorations
I borrowed a friends Cri-cut and cut out these cute little bits
and pieces out of pretty white sparkly paper.

The Dessert Table

We used a piece of Muslin material for the table cloth, and Kelly made a Burlap Runner for the center, and tied a beautiful Silver and twine bow at each end. The "colors" for the shower were Silver, white, and Burlap.

Aunt Amy helped me make Cake Pops for the first time. They aren't the prettiest treat, but turned out pretty yummie! We made Red Velvet Cake Pops with Home Made Cream Cheese Icing, dipped in White, Dark, and Milk Chocolate, and sprinkled with different pretty sprinkles. We also made pretzel pecan turtles and pretzel Hug mnm treats. We also made chocolate covered pretzels, Marshmallows and candy. Karen made amazing brownies, and so many others brought cupcakes, baklava, cookies and Jena made homemade graham crackers treats!
The favors were beautiful Silver ornaments and Bells which we filled glass jars with for centerpieces, and in the back ground of the photo above you can faintly see the Wishing Tree we made.

These cookies, Karen made, and they are AMAZING!
Karen said they were a labor of love... but little did she realize at the time ...
IT WAS WORTH IT!

The Garland that Kelly made and all the loot!

Kelly used burlap and twine to make the garland,
and lightly stitched the paper bits to the burlap.

"PROJECT ONESIE"

We did a craft! We had about 15 onesies and asked everyone to get into groups of 3/4 people. Each group took a onesie and used fabric to create adorable designs that were then ironed onto the front and sometimes even the back of the onesies! I am hoping to edit this post with more photos of finished products. I did not take many photos of the shower:(

My sister's inlaws

Our Aunt Sheryl and Aunt Mary

Aynie's Inlaws

Our Great Aunt Helen surprised us!

She holds a very special place in my heart as she was always so sweet

to me when I was little and I'll never ever forget that!

Jammy's grandmother

Jammy's Aunt partaking in the Hot Chocolate bar! Careful! it's hot!
Tips for a hot chocolate bar: 2-2.5 hours before the party starts put the milk in the crock pot on LOW not warm. It will be perfectly warm just in time for your guests!

Even though Kelly has her eyes closed, I think these two girls are adorable!
OH! and you can see the punch in the back ground:)
7Up, Sherbert, and pretty sliced up fruit for color.

Kelly and her mom

The Parent's To Be making their onesie. Jammy sketching their ideas.

Cousin's Jena, Robin, and Karen making their Onesie with beautiful fabric

from our favorite angel Aunt Edie.

She would have loved this craft,

and I feel her with us, always.

Grandmama and Aunt Didi

Evelyn, Jessica, Julia, and Deborah! Cousins!!!!

ps apparently Jessica doesn't like pictures?! oops:)

Aynie's in laws and one of Jessi's kiddos.

Some of the finished products!

Jammy's Half Sister Kyle.
They hadn't seen each other in almost 15 years.
It was a bit of a tearful goodbye....
She was very sweet, and
drove up from Kentucky to share in this special celebration:)
Nice to see their distance didn't keep them from
having the same cute little head tilt during this little photo session!
Hope they get another visit soon!

It was a great party! I had so much fun planning with Kelly and hope Aunt Aynie and Uncle Jammy got LOADS of loot to welcome their new little bundle!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T19:04:00.002-05:00

We were scheduled to go to my Aunt Barb's house for Thanksgiving, but Uncle Mike was sick, and had to drive himself to the hospital! he ended up being AOK but Thanksgiving was canceled. So we headed over to Aunt Mary's house for some Pistachio Turkey and all sorts of fixin's!

Typically I am disgusted by de-boning a chicken or Turkey, but I took one for the team. Ew. But the Turkey was sooooo yummy!

Back to Indy

2011-11-23T18:47:00.012-05:00

We're back! We headed out yesterday in order to miss the Thanksgiving rush, and so we could be in town to celebrate Turkey Day with our family.

You love the Up and Down Deer on the Carousel. The Carousel at the Indianapolis Children's museum use to live in Broadripple Park! It's almost 100 years old:)

The Barbie Exhibit

Digging for bones in the dinosaur exhibit. When you were 1.5-2yrs old, you barely spent any time in this area. It's super cool how you've gotten more interested in so many more of the hands on activities at the museum. I actually had to pull you away.... :(

Dreaming and growing

2011-11-17T18:32:00.007-05:00

There is something really special about you when you're sleeping. I hope you're dreaming, and getting all the rest you need in order to grow healthy and strong. During this particular nap you're snuggled up with your doggie, Summer Rose.

Leaves

2011-11-08T07:43:00.001-05:00

Daddy raked HUGE piles of leaves and

let you and your friends go wild!

These photos are not the best,

but I didn't want to leave out such a special event!

Thanks Dad-O!

You girls were so covered we didn't let

you in the house until your clothes

were removed and shaken clean!

Ya'll had so much fun:)

Tree Tagging

2011-11-05T07:16:00.002-04:00

Last year's Christmas Tree was an absolute disaster. See Here Not only was it a disaster, but even getting started was a sad story.... though it cheered up due to some amazing Christmas elves!

Once I heard about Tree Tagging I was hooked! I have been looking forward to this day since last January! We began our day at a church around the corner where we filled our bellies with pancakes, eggies, chipped beef and gravy and orange juice! We met up with some of our friends, The "C" family, and the "P" family! Though I feel sad about living so far from Indiana, I'm grateful for the community we have built here!

This is how we test out the trees to see which ones we like.
Is it huggable?
How tall is it?

"I want the movie Cinderella"

WE FOUND OUR TREE!!! Actually, our friend "L" found our tree! We were looking at a tree and weren't in love,
when "L" said: "what about this one?"
We were sold! So we tagged:)

(orbs....ghosts? Or dust?) Either way, there was plenty of spirit!

*Photo's courtesy of Mrs. P

One last hug before we leave!

K with her friend "L" and her brother,

"L" who found our tree! Thanks guy!

Happy Halloween 4.75yrs

2011-10-31T21:26:00.014-04:00

Good Morning! Your Halloween breakfast included brains, worm juice, and fish guts. At least that is what I called it. You wanted it to be called, Oatmeal, Applesauce, and milk.

My mama friend Mrs. "W" took this picture and created your costume. She is AMAZING! I love her so much for loving you to bits and creating such a beautiful costume.

Getting ready to Trick or Treat!

You were dressed as a Pirate Princess and

I was dressed as a Party Princess.

We did the big loop in our neighborhood and

you finished the night with a little candy!

Daddy carved two pumpkins

2011-10-30T21:25:00.001-04:00

And I toasted seeds.
And you were grouchy.
(not wanting to touch the guts inside the carved pumpkin)

October Snow

2011-10-29T21:22:00.004-04:00

It ended up only being about 3-4 inches of snow.

You and daddy got all bundled up and headed

out for an adventure around the neighborhood.

The annual Great Pumpkin Carve

2011-10-28T21:14:00.000-04:00

We went to the Great Pumpkin Carve tonight. It was not as great as last year, but we still had a fun night! A Snow storm was coming and there had been some rain, making it a bit crowded. I also think the pumpkins weren't as fabulous as last year. However, still impressive and way better than anything I could ever do!

Silly Lunch

2011-10-28T21:11:00.002-04:00

Carrie had this fun idea to make
Phineas and Ferb Sandwiches!

They were a bit labor some,

but turned out super cute!

A curly girl's guide to learning about straight hair

2011-10-26T21:06:00.010-04:00

So, you wonder what I have learned so far?

Straight hair is its own animal for sure.

I borrowed hot rollers in order to make your hair fluffy for Halloween. I was looking for THIS.

Trip into Philly

2011-10-24T20:59:00.001-04:00

We took a trip into Philly to pick up a

couple of items for Aunt Annie.

We popped into Sabrina's for Breakfast,

and then headed over to The Eye's Gallery.

The waitress let you look behind this door after

you suggested they were

"keeping children trapped down there".

The nice ladies at The Eyes Gallery

let you girls each try on a fun hat!

From Diapers to Disney

2011-10-21T20:55:00.001-04:00

You two girls have been friends since you were in diapers! Just wee little babies. We were in a mama group called: Little Additions. Your friend "A"'s mama, and I have become even closer friends too. We continue to be a couple of lucky duck girls to have such fun friends!

ALL CLEAR!

2011-10-19T20:42:00.014-04:00

The waiting room in the Cast Clinic at the

Children's hospital had a ginormous Black Board!

I drew a portrait of myself.

You erased it.

The Nurse Practitioner came in and did a full once over examination. She handed you this pretty purple gown, and left to get the doctor. Waiting for the doctor we checked out all the cast colors, and chose what color cast we might like if we needed one. The Doctor arrived and he too did an extensive once over examination. He found that you did not have any fractures, and that it would take a while to heal. The test: 10 Jumps with no pain=Healed.

YOU ARE A OK! No fracture, no compressed spine. Just a REALLY BAD BRUISE! WOO HOO! I've never been so pleased! We went to Jimmy Johns for lunch:)

We kept celebrating....Sushi Dinner!

Tempura Ice Cream!

By the middle of the following week you were

able to jump freely with ZERO pain!

We are incredibly thankful that

you are healthy and happy and fracture free!

Early Trick or Treat Fun

2011-10-18T20:00:00.008-04:00

You chose your outfit today. Sailor costume dress, fun tights, sparkly shoes, and a little jacket. You were pretending to be trick or treating. We went to The "R" families house and they just so happen to be expecting a little early trick or treat-er:)

Your First visit to an Emergency Room

2011-10-15T19:57:00.000-04:00

We have Officially been initiated!! Our first trip to the Emergency Room. You are fine, Just not allowed to have any fun this week. You have a possible fracture/compressed vertebrae(I think all that sounds right!?). You got squished by a door Daddy built for the school play. Prop doors are heavy.you decided to "open" it. (even though told no touching). Our neighbor, Mr. R, came to help move the doors into Daddy's truck. They were moments away from being loaded into the truck away from a curious "Alice", when crash!!!! Daddy said it looked scary with you under that door. Things could have played out so differently, but luckily you were AOK! On our way to the hospital you were so tired as you had not taken a nap and we had spent the morning at Lytels with Mr. and Mrs. R and Baby "C". You said, "I shoulda taken a nap" and then put your head down and fell asleep.

When we went to the hospital they asked all sorts of "could you be paralyzed" questions, and examination "tests". I just kept thinking how it all could have been worse, and I am more than grateful♥ that it was not.

They took an x-ray at the hospital and thought it was a fracture of the T8 vertebrae, and or a compressed vertebrae. They needed a professional x-ray reader in order to get a final diagnosis. So we had to schedule an appt. with an Orthopedist. They told us to keep you from doing too much activity until the appointment. I mean, can you imagine telling a 4 yr old "no jumping". Crazy. By the 3rd day we were both "over it". You were tired of doing nothing, and I was frustrated having to say NO all the time!

When we returned from the hospital we were headed into the garage and you started to touch the large frames that the doors would eventually be attached to once they were on the stage. These are big heavy tall frames. I raised my voice, "no touching! What are you doing?!" You just burst into tears:(. Why would you even think of going near them? Oh right, you're 4 and a half. That is what you do.

In the morning there was no pain whilst lying in bed snuggled close to mama watching Curious George. However, the second it was time to get up to go potty.... Owee! you said, "it only hurts when I'm up and around". Two hours later, you were pretty much up and around as though nothing had happened. You still had pain but only when jumping, or doing too much playing.

I was very happy when daddy came home the first day, we ate dinner and the two of you hung out downstairs and watched Spooky Buddies. Thank you to one of our friends for suggesting it!

We received a call from our pediatrician and the report they received said it was Vertebrae 6 and they're still not sure. We'll know more at our Ortho appt. on Thursday. We left the Emergency room with one good note: Good news kiddos heal quickly, and there shouldn't be permanent or long term damage. I'll take that with me... for a long time...

Lytels: Pre squish

2011-10-15T12:00:00.000-04:00

After the park, we scooched home in order to meet the "R" family for a trip to Lytels. We were there until almost 2:30,

so you skipped your nap.

You and daddy had fun running around and chasing each other.

The "R" family

We did this big Corn Maze, it was a lot of fun.

Park trip; Pre-squish

2011-10-15T11:00:00.000-04:00

You needed to get out of the house and enjoy the beautiful day!

Apple Festival

2011-10-14T07:45:00.000-04:00

We checked out an apple festival in Oxford.

You got to help make Apple Cider.

This little train perplexed me, but I was able to let you go where i couldn't see you... up over a hill on the back of a four wheeler with some stranger... We both lived through it. You said it hurt your hiney and was a bit bumpy. But it sure is a cute little ride!

BOO'D!

2011-10-14T07:39:00.000-04:00

You got Boo'd! It was VERY exciting!

We have no idea who was so generous,

but we thank them for sure.

Best. Neighborhood. Ever.

MUM festival

2011-10-13T07:27:00.000-04:00

We braved Longwood with a couple of our friends, and knew it was going to rain... So we brought umbrellas.

The ceiling in the Conservatory.

We got soaked, I couldn't even wear my shoes home to drive. They had water pouring out of them, and my jeans were dripping. You were pretty dry, due to the raincoat and umbrella. However your boots did not fair well.

Who is Matilda Jane anyway?!

2011-10-04T23:44:00.008-04:00

The Pumpkins have had a touch season. We had so much rain the patches did not do as well as they would if it had been dryer. We found two perfect pumpkins and had a wonderful time hanging with our very best girl friends. At the end we returned our cart and Mr. Lytel let you get a close up look at the tractor. It is the best little Mom and Pop pumpkin patch ever!

You are officially 4 and Three Quarters. And I continue to love you more and more every single day. There is nothing I love more than to hang out with you. I couldn't be happier to have you as a daughter and a traveling partner. xoxo

Lytels

2011-10-04T23:39:00.001-04:00

Dutch Wonderland when it's cold...

2011-10-01T18:13:00.002-04:00

WHIP IT!

Swings

We rode the "Gondola" for the first time.

It was the longest line we had to sit in.

No complaints here.

It was a nice little adventure.

We were lucky enough to run into some of our friends!!!

We love Dutch Wonderland, I'm only sorry we didn't go when it was still warm, as it was a bit chilly October 1st! We also missed the water park which is super amazing too:) Far too cold for that.

Take a Seat

2011-09-25T18:07:00.000-04:00

Swimming Burst

2011-09-20T07:53:00.001-04:00

You have had a swimming skill Burst, and are now able to do the following since we began lessons this past September: Swim without a back pack/life jacket, go on the slide, tread water, front roll under water, and even DIVE! I am very proud of you!

I'm going to add a few pics from memory lane!

Our first Parade

2011-09-09T07:42:00.001-04:00

No one stifling your creativity here... That is for sure.

2011-09-06T07:40:00.001-04:00

Inaugural Canoe Trip

2011-09-03T21:54:00.002-04:00

You and "S" had a blast at Lily Pad Beach

Getting ready to head over to Wildlife Beach

Daddy bought a Canoe for 50 bucks.

It's tippy, but look at everything it can hold!

It's getting colder....

2011-09-02T14:26:00.007-04:00

We headed out on the boat, but all decided it would be too cold to get in the water at 10am. Instead, we tooled around the bay looking for an adventure, and we found it!

We stopped at an old Cannery Building where Crab Boats dock to take their Crabs into towns to sell to restaurants. We met a couple there that was from Lancaster. They come down a few times a year and buy 2 bushel of crabs to take up to their family for a Crab feast. Daddy really like this idea, and was able to haggle some Crab for a really great price! Way to go Dad-O!

There was a family, a mom, two sons and a daughter fishing. They let you use their Barbie Pole and play with the tiny crab they found. You had an amazing afternoon!

Hurricane Irene

2011-08-27T22:17:00.001-04:00

We battened down our hatches!

Cooking on our camping stove,

as we were out of power for about 12 hours.

We ate crab claws.

Our neighbors tree

Daddy cleaning up the sticks and leaves that fell.

You lend a hand without being asked:)

White Clay Creek, next to the Landenberg Store

Daddy Built a Fire at Fairy Beach

2011-08-26T22:14:00.001-04:00

Soaking up the last day at a pool.... Summer 2011

2011-08-24T22:08:00.000-04:00

We were invited to the pool for a final hoo-rah to Summer!

This is "L" one of your best little buddies.

You two girls are like two peas in a pod and always have a grand time pretending, playing dress up, and of course, swimming!

So long Summer....

We hope to see you again... Very.... very....soon....

4 and almost 3 Quarters

2011-08-21T23:58:00.000-04:00

"I think the hardest thing for a mother is to make it possible for a child to be independent and at the same time let the child know how much you love her, how much you want to take care of her, and yet how truly essential it is for her to fly on her own.

It's definitely the 'pushing out of the nest syndrome."

~Madeleine Albright

As you grow up, this is one of my goals. I hope my love for you helps to guide me in the right direction and my boo hoo tears don't hold you back. Kindergarten is too close for comfort, but I continue to be happy for your growth and milestones. I just show it all in tears.

This is your showing me your muscles.

They are really big.

It's hard to see since this photo is so far away.

Our little cottage in St. Michael's.

Little ice cream treat cozied up after a

long photo shoot and rainy day.

Annual trek to St. Michaels

2011-08-16T09:08:00.022-04:00

This year we stayed in a different little house than

previous years.

Cygnet Cottage, and here are a few photos.

Daddy used the cooler to give you

height as you Captain the boat.

We gave Daddy an early Birthday present, a minnow trap.

You loved Throwing the trap out into the water,

and pulling it out to give it a check.

Oddly enough we found that the minnows LOVED Goldfish.

Hmmmm, ironic isn't it?

You really liked scooping the minnows out of the bucket, and then releasing them back to their home!

You and Daddy enjoy having a little Daddy Daughter time on the boat. Here is a shot of you peeking out of the little cabin's hatch.

I think you and Daddy spent most of this trip in that tube. We had a long summer away from each other, as you and I were in Indiana visiting our family and friends, and Daddy was working.

The two of you had a lot of catching up to do!

You are my day brightener and my heart warmer!

2011-08-13T23:09:00.000-04:00

Fairy Beach and a sore throwing arm

2011-08-09T23:03:00.007-04:00

We go to this cool little beach that we named "Fairy Beach". It is another little special place where we can spend the entire day together. When the tide moves everyone hops in with their life jackets and goes floating along with the current.

Half Birthday at the Bay

2011-08-07T21:48:00.005-04:00

I made my first cake from scratch, along with homemade cream cheese icing. It met it's demise on when it jumped out of the refrigerator trying to get to the table so we could eat it. Sadly grand daddy was the one to open the door, and he felt quite badly about it...but what ever, we saved most of it, and it still tasted super yummy!

Sweet "S", doing what she does best, being one super special awesome sweet cousin:)

It never ends..... every time I turn around she is showing you how much she loves you, here she is reading you a good night book.

Chuck E Cheese's

2011-08-03T21:42:00.000-04:00

Oh my gosh. I have been slightly dreading this moment.

The first visit to Chuck E Cheese's.

We were invited to one of your buddies Bday parties!

It was tons of fun and you absolutely loved every minute.

One of the "rides". Cracks me up!

Camp visit

2011-07-29T21:37:00.000-04:00

Swimming with MK

2011-07-29T21:32:00.003-04:00

Your good buddy MK invited us to go swimming:) This past summer has been amazing, there were so many swimming pool invites you grew gills.

MK cool as a cucumber flying down the water slide.

Gymnastic Camp

2011-07-25T21:28:00.000-04:00

These photos are not the best, but I still had to put them up.

I love the one of you on the bar! and the second one is the last day,

they present all the kiddos with a medal, and a Tshirt.

You had a great time, and hope to try it again next summer.

Especially if they're going to keep teaching you how to do Cartwheels! woot!

All good things must come to an end.......

2011-07-24T15:03:00.000-04:00

We hit the road and headed back to Pennsylvania. We stopped at an awesome rest stop just over the Pennsylvania border.

Here you are with your map. You loved that thing! It made you so happy. You tried so hard to help me find our way home, you spend most of the ride looking at it and asking me..."where are we now?" I kept trying to tell you, but speeding down the road at 65mph is not the best time to do Map discovery.

It is tiring to be the navigator.

The work of today is the history of tomorrow, and we are its makers.~Juliette Gordon Low

2011-07-22T14:48:00.000-04:00

Bumble girl, I met some of my dearest friends when I worked at Camp Gallahue way back in 1993. Juliette Gordon Low...founded the girl scouts long ago, founded the girl scouts in 1912, served her country and served it well...oops, sorry....I think I just broke out in song.. OK, back to the meat and potatoes. Juliette Low had it right, all the work my friends and I have done over the years, has kept us connected, and when we get together, it is as though the only thing that has changed are the years. I'm extremely grateful for our friendships, and hope that one day you will be as fortunate.

Here three of the mama's and their kiddos are at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis.

Country Sprinkler

2011-07-19T14:45:00.000-04:00

Ah yes, the Country Sprinkler.

What makes it country?

The lack of a suit.

Yep.

You girls are like two peas in a pod.

Clothing optional.

But mostly never.

A mother's heart is a patchwork of love.

2011-07-19T14:38:00.000-04:00

We spent some time at Brook and Lily's beach.

You wouldn't know it....but we were there.

Brook is one of the funnest, sweetest, coolest moms I know.

We are the luckiest ducks on the block to

have such amazing far away friends.....

love you girls:)