Big Girl Sleepover

The time has come for Ellison and her friends to ask for sleepovers.  Tiana and Ellison had been planning a "tent out" for weeks.  They would plan and then Ellison would pull me aside and whisper that she was not ready to sleep over at Tiana's house with out me.  So instead we decided to invite Tiana over. 

Super Heroes on their way to Tijuana Flats.

Do you think they were having fun?

Wow, we had a great night.  The girls played dolls, dress up, drew a chalk town for squinkies, and even wanted to take a bath. Graham and I could not help smiling throughout the night with the constant squeals of delight and laughter from both girls. The best part was in the morning when they got in the car, looked at each other, and said, "We actually did it. We spent the night!"   They were so proud of themselves.

On a side note, Ellison realized after Tiana left that they never had a pillow fight. Both Ellison and Tiana had big ideas on what a "sleepover" entails.  For Tiana, sleeping on the floor was on the agenda and for Ellison, a pillow fight and tent.

Super Hero Training

Bennett's Super Hero Party was on Sunday. Ellison had been nervous about the party all week.  Of course the anxiety was over what to wear.  As I was informed numerous times, her closet lacks super hero clothes and (in a rather dramatic tone) she would not wear boy super hero clothes. Well thank goodness for Mrs. Ashley, who set aside a special pink cape just for Ellison.  (Truly so sweet)

Ellison and Eloise.

Fashion star!



Super Hero Training Lesson One: Running Fast

 

The party was amazing, every detail accounted for.  Eloise trained Ellison to be a super hero.  Dylan walked around trying to wear anyone and everyone's shoes (seriously, its his new thing).  Overall, a fantastic way to celebrate Bennett as he turns 4!

Time to Reflect - 15 Years

Class of 1997 Party at Hannibal's Lounge

 There is something about class reunions that cause people to reflect on life. It just so happens that my 15 year high school reunion and completion of law school fell within days of eachother. So you can only imagine the amount of introspection that has been taking place in my head over the last week.

It is amazing to look back over the last five years and recognize all of the changes that have occurred in my life. Five years ago at my 10 year reunion, I recall specifically stating to high school classmates that I did not plan on having children. Happily immersed in my business as an event coordinator, I had no idea that a few months later I would decide motherhood was for me and decide to return to school.

Life is funny like that.

Over the last five years, I have been blessed with two children. They have changed me. My insecurities that I have held throughout childhood and into my adult years have almost vanished (we all still need a few- to keep us real) because I see my beautiful children that I love so completely and recognize myself in them.

So five years have passed, two amazing children later, and law school graduation is upon me in a week. I just wonder what the next five years will hold for me.

Family Fun Day with my future TPS kids!

I think Dylan had fun.

Bennett and Ellison... who knew 15 years ago that our children would be the best of friends.

Time with All Saints

I have had so much fun participating in All Saints activities over the last two weeks.  First, I was able to volunteer for Teacher's Lunch Out in the babies room.  Six little ones, including Dylan, all under the age of 17 months makes for a challenging, but enjoyable afternoon.  Then to make up for not being able to be the teacher in Ellison's class (she was very disappointed), I spent the next day with her enjoying circle and snack time.  To top it all off, a few days later I was able to participate in Ellison's field trip on the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour. My schedule does not always allow the chance to enjoy the field trips and special programs, so I really love and enjoy these moments when I do have extra time.  I also love that Graham, Grandma, Aunt Kim, and Aunt Ash fill in for me when I can't make it to make sure my kids have the support they need.    

Crazy Busy

It was a crazy busy week! Between two take home exams, my 15 year class reunion, a birthday party, and numerous other things, I am just thrilled I remembered a camera.  A few shots from the week...

Just a typical Saturday morning fort :)
Thanks, Daddy!

Ellison appeared in full rock star gear and jammed out for us.

Sweetest baby boy enjoying dinner and loving on Daddy.

Jeremiahs, anyone?

PINK Lemonade

Ellison made her own sign and chose the perfect outfit.

Ellison has been anxiously waiting to host her first lemonade stand for quite some time.  (Can anyone say Pinkalicious fan?) After several lemonade stand sightings (and stops), I decided that I had held her off for long enough.  So before the weather became to hot (i.e. gross), we invited our friends, Eloise and Bennett over and set up a lemonade stand.  Of course I asked Ellison what type of lemonade, to which she responded, "Pink, Pink, Pink". 

On Saturday morning, Ellison and I squeezed lemon juice, added sugar, and cut up a pint of strawberries... viola, pink lemonade.  The lemonade was magnifique (we are also huge Fancy Nancy fans) and the experience made for a fun Saturday!  And yes, we did have some wonderful people, family and neighbors, stop by and enjoy the lemonade.

Of course, we pulled the family card and asked everyone to stop by.
Uncle Art was our first customer.

Eloise was screaming, "Get your free lemonade" to anyone and everyone who would listen.

Our cutest customer of the day, Olivia Rios.

Ellison, Eloise, and Bennett having a great time!

Where was Dylan?  Well he enjoyed the product and then crashed for a 4! hour nap. I may make pink lemonade more often!

Papa and the Pool

It has been a big deal that Papa rented out his beach condo and moved in with Cheryl.  Not because we don't adore Cheryl, but because we love the beach condo in St. Pete Beach.  It was mainly Ellison that had the problem.  However, all is forgiven after today's visit at Cheryl's house.  Why?  She has a pool.  Ellison + Dylan + Pool = a very wet Papa and very happy kids.