One Lucky Mama

What an absolutely wonderful Mother's Day weekend. Yesterday, the volunteer organization I'm part of (More Than Milk) hosted a fantastic Mother's Day brunch for a very deserving group of young women and their children from a non-profit called New Moms Inc. I was one of the leaders for this event, and was very happy and relieved that it was such a successful, rewarding day. Jeritt and Ella joined me at the brunch, and we had a great time singing, dancing, and making new friends. As for today, I've never felt more special or loved. Between the most amazing video of photos and music, a great breakfast, special cards and gifts, and even some 'mommy alone time,' it was my best Mother's Day yet - I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful husband and kids. I hope you all enjoyed your weekend, and happy Mother's Day to Grandma C. and Grandma V!

This photo greeted me when I woke up this morning:)

Fishing at the Mother's Day brunch.

Enjoying the kid concert at the brunch.

She finally took a nap! Who cares if it was in the closet?!

Jack is pretty laid back. But when he's had enough, he's had enough. 

So happy!

Trying oatmeal for the first time. He seemed to really like it - solids are just around the corner!

And she tries to pick him up...

Abbie and Eric babysat Jack while we were at the Mother's Day brunch. 

Jack really likes Eric:)

Five Months Old

Sorry, Iowans, but while you guys were digging out of your latest snowstorm this past week, we were enjoying some awesome sunshine and warm weather. We even hit the 80's, which resulted in shorts, sunscreen, and a baby who finally got to feel the warm breeze on his feet! 

For a while we've been trying to teach Ella manners, and this week we witnessed her education in action. When she asked Jeritt to pick her up the other day, he said, "Say the magic word." Begrudgingly, she then said, "Magic word." And when I told her it was time to go back inside this afternoon she responded with, "No thank you." I guess she's got that one figured out!

Dressed for warm weather!

A beautiful day at the park.

Having fun on the roof.

Hello, Elmo. I mean, Jack.

Hot weather means a naked baby!

Trying out his new exosaucer.

Big sister had to try it out, too.

Swinging with Daddy.

We finally got a double stroller!

Ella getting ready to pay at Starbucks.

Helping me make pizza.

Not sure why I can't get this photo turned around, but it was too cute to leave out.

Warmer Weather

What a fun-filled week! With at least a couple of nice days, we were able to spend lots of time outside, including a trip to the zoo, multiple trips to the park, and a few long walks. The weekend was beautiful, and we kicked it off with a pizza dinner on Friday at one of our local favorites. On Saturday we met our friends, Nick and Jovana's new baby, Oliver, and on Sunday we enjoyed brunch with more friends. Tonight we'll celebrate Aunt Erin's birthday. Coincidentally, it's Moo Cow's birthday, too, so yesterday Ella propped him up in her high chair and sang 'Happy Birthday,' while feeding him cake. Moo Cow is also mimicking Ella's behavior lately, as he's been known to wear undies, and has even had to go to his room when he's 'not being nice.' That Moo Cow...

Enjoying some sun on the roof while Jack naps.

Lately she's loved building with her linkin logs - thanks, Grandma V!

Eating his book.

Finally able to get in some walks.

As much as I dislike the mess, Ella loves the sandbox. 

Ella and her buddy, Morgan, at sing-along class.

Giving baby a bath.

Moo Cow has accompanied us on every outing lately.

Hanging out at the Farm at the Zoo.

Jack showing off his new shirt (it says, "Part-time model"). Thanks, Nic and Savannah!

This girl can find dirt anywhere.

Friday night pizza.