The Popcorn Tree

I am pretty sure I posted pictures similar to this every year that I have blogged.
I can't help it.  When the "popcorn" tree (as Eli calls it) blooms, I say a little silent "Thank you" to whoever planted this tree in our front yard.  We wait all spring for it to bloom and then we take out the camera and take some shots.  I know I'm getting old when I appreciate a tree in our front yard.

I know next year Hugh will be climbing and up there with Eli.  I can't resist it-it's a pretty good (and low key) climbing tree. Eli was in heaven being hoisted up there.

Just for fun....last year (side note I think we picked a more full bloom this year than last year, but my oh my look at that BABY Hugh and young Eli):

It's only been a week and the popcorn has all fallen off, decorated our lawn and blown away.  Can't wait to see what we all look like next year! 

Hot Dog

It is very clear in our house who Hugh got his dance moves from.  After watching this video you may also be able to guess. Unfortunatly this time he did not do as much squaking, screaming, laughing twirling and bouncing as usual. But he does show you he knows how to flap his arms (aka Hot Dog!).  As a side note, he is staring up and straight ahead because the song is coming from the Ipad on the counter.

For the Kids

If you have someone in your life who is over 1 year old, he or she will probably enjoy this.  It's a favorite in our house. 

And if you have a little guy in your life who is 3 years or older, he may like this one.

Thank Goodness for Grandmas

When I was growing up we didn't live close enough to either of my Grandmas to just stop by to say hi and it took some planning if we wanted to stop by for a few hours.  We lived just far enough away that every single trip was special.  I am thankful that it is the same way with the Grandma's in my boys life.  Grandma Roeder lives quite a ways away-so when we visit or they venture down this way it is definitely a special occasion.  Grandma Barb lives a little closer but we don't see her too often, so the joy and anticipation of "Grandma's coming" still sticks.  And I love to tell Eli "Guess who is coming...." and the joy on his face as he waits by the window to see the car pull up is priceless.  I love that he does have a relationship with each sets of his grandparents.

I'm also thankful for having these Grandparents in my life.  Andy's parents have helped with the kids on more than one occasion when we had Andy/Raina outings.   My mom has come to save my day more times than I can count.  She has been our most frequent babysitter and will swing by if she is in town for something else.  Recently we went out for lunch and it was her choice and her treat (wow) and regardless of how much of his meal Eli ate, she was going to allow him to have an ice cream cone.  Who knew this treat would be so huge?   I conveniently positioned myself on the other side of the table so I didn't have to deal with the licks and drips (although I didn't come out of this outing clean, I was trying to share my icecream with Hughie....). 

Thanks mom. 

Today and Every Day

I'm lucky to have an awesome mom and mom-in-law.

And I'm very lucky to be a mom.

This was an unforgettable day. 

Nothing and Everything

I've got so much to say and nothing to say.




Eli, string bean is getting too long for his pajamas

 I have updates and nonsense and rambles galore.

Why can't I get my act together and post more timely?  It must mean I'm stressed, crazy, busy, tired, enjoying life.

Mother's Day is upon us and Eli likes to try to take a shot (no cropping action here-this is his shot).

What are your plans for the weekend?  A few weeks ago we went to a wedding and I got to spend time with these hot mamas.  Saturday we get to go to another.  Andy and I love to dance the night away and it's wonderful to have some adult time out. 

Have you seen all the dandelions that are out there?  Eli is obsessed with all the "Dandy Lions".  It's very cute.  Who wants to spend a day in the backyard with these two cuties? 

I'm excited to say we get to spend a little Grandma time this weekend too.  So special to wish my mom a Happy Mother's Day in person and hope Grandma Roeder knows we will be thinking about her as well. 

So what do you think-should I commit to another week of daily blogging? 

Big Boy

Super cute. Proud BIG boy.

Not so cute....