need a laugh?

Check this out.  I laughed so hard!

preparation

While I was busy packing for our trip to Mexico Olivia decided to make her own list of essential items.  I just came across it a couple of days ago and it sure made me smile.  I especially love how nearly every item has a drawing to accompany it.  And there is a special area to remind us to take bunny to a friend's house for the week.  Can you tell that she just learned about apostrophes?  Hope you can read it! 

Here's the translation:
sunscreen
pjs
blankies
swimsuits
clothes
posh toys (stuffed animals)
toys
my barbies
books
movies
floaties (for swimming)
cars mat
cars
babies
crayons
coloring books
lip gloss

vacation

At the end of February the kids and I few to Cancun to spend a week vacationing with my parents, sister, brother-in-law and nephew.  The kids were super psyched to see "actual palm trees with actual coconuts", the long white beach and myriad of pools.  They were both shocked by the taste of salty ocean water which Olivia described as "totally disgusting", but that didn't keep them out of the water for too long.  When asked about their favorite part of the trip Olivia said "swimming in the pool and ocean every day."  Donovan said "mommy's Kindle".  Silly boy.  Seriously though, they especially has a ball with their cousin Sam who is just the sweetest little boy.  It was a fun and relaxing trip with no agenda except to have fun and relax.  And thanks to frequent flier miles and my parent's time-share condo it was just about the cheapest vacation ever.

full circle

This weekend I...

• mourned at a funeral
• danced at a party
• stayed up late
• went to bed early
• had a lazy morning cuddling my kiddos on the couch
• had a productive afternoon (4 loads of laundry & a batch of soup)
• did my taxes
• caught up on The Office with a glass of wine

It's been a full circle kinda weekend.  How was your weekend?

changes

Can't believe it's been almost two months since my last post.  And I'm not neglecting this blog for lack of material.  Plenty has happened in those two months.  Like...

I had to put the cat to sleep
We had a really lovely Christmas
My dear Grandma Ruthie passed away
Brian's engaged
The kids and I have been sick, sick, sick
I fell on the ice and injured my backside

So you see, I have plenty to talk about.  But I have been processing it mostly by myself and through prayer.  So far 2012 has been a season of quiet reflection.  When I find my voice again I will certainly share it.

from the mouth of Donovan

Donovan spotted a Christmas wreath at my parents house and said, "Oh grandma, you put up your Christmas tire!"
                                                                                                                                 

Holding up a bent finger he pointed to his knuckle and said, "mommy, is this my finger knee?"

miss o

It's been an eventful couple of months for my girl.  She...can now pump on the swings and get all the way across the monkey bars (even the wobbly triangle ones).  Got her ears pierced and lost her first tooth.

 Got a pet bunny.

Traded her preschool crush for a kindergarten one (sorry Ryder, but Jack is also very talented on the monkey bars).  Receive a superb first report card.  Is an accomplished bus rider.  And recently turned six.

Olivia, you are a great joy.  You are growing and gaining confidence every day.  Never forget how loved you are.