Having way too much fun printing out Valentine freebies this afternoon. They are so adorable (I think) I had to share.
I love the look of these treat bags. Get the brownie bag here and the floral design here. Note: If you are a relative of mine and live in Bancroft I just spoiled your surprise, sorry :)
And lastly, "cardvelopes." Just print, trim, write your message and fold. Perfect for little love notes to family.
Happy Valentine's Day!
love...
friends...
Every Monday morning a group of ladies meet at the church to do Humanitarian service. I started going for a few reasons: I like to sew and I like to chat with other ladies, even ones upwards of 80 years. And it's a bonus that there are often other kids for Noah and Ivy to play with.
We ventured out today after it took me nearly a half hour to shovel the walks and snow off the van, wow! We were quilting on the floor and I was watching Ivy like a hawk since she is drawn to the stage. The only way up and down is a small staircase which unfortunately I couldn't move since there is a lady there who is nearly blind. The last time I tried that she almost walked off the stage and I can't bear to have that on my conscience :) Almost time to go home, just wrapping up the quilt tying and I hear a thud. Ivy rolled or fell off the stage. I felt terrible, she has two large bruises/rug burns on her forehead and cheekbone. She was tired and inconsolable until we arrived home. As I rocked her to sleep Noah came into her room and was peeking at her wounds. He said, "Mom, I tried to run fast like Spiderman to catch Ivy, but I didn't make it." The love they have for each other makes me smile, how lucky they are to have each other. These photos were taken today while snuggling in a laundry basket, prior to the tumble. I think Humanitarian efforts will be put on hold until Ivy's navigating the stage better :)
put in my place...again
Sometimes I have to take a trip down memory lane with photos to remember how cute and sweet they once were :) Especially on a Sunday afternoon when this adorable now three year old is tired beyond reason. I was doing dishes at the sink and he was whining about wanting to play the computer. He really does play plenty and I don't think it's too much to ask to have just one day where we take a break, maybe it is too much to ask, it was today. He let out a ear-splitting barbaric scream that just wouldn't stop. After about 5 seconds I flicked some dishwater on his face. Anything to put an end to the howling. I got the reaction I was hoping for- shock, then instant quiet. No unkind words or raised voice on my part, maybe I should try it more often. Then I felt terribly unkind as his eyes got especially sober and large and he said, "Mom, Jesus doesn't like it when you throw water on my face." I wanted to tell him Jesus also wouldn't think yelling at your Mom was a great idea either, but I held my tongue. Then it was over, smiles and hugs, on to the next thing, which was fortunately a nap- for both of us. Tired Moms and kids can make a bad combination at times. At least I know he's listening as a new Sunbeam, something is sinking in :)
shopping...
Last night I was shopping for fabric in Joann's with Aspen and Sarah. We were deciding if the orange floral print went better with the blue or green solid. I laughed immediately upon waking this morning mainly because me getting alone time to shop for fabric is certainly a dream these days. Secondly, I'm quite sure Aspen and Sarah wouldn't be interested in checking out colors with me either since they're too busy playing basketball for Cody. When his players start entering MY dreams, I think its time for basketball season to be wrapping up. What say you friends? Are you with me? I can't help that basketball is the last topic of the day as we lay in bed :)
have your cake but don't eat it...
At what age does one outgrow Play-doh? We all enjoyed it this past Sunday at one time or another. Lauren and Chloe won for most elaborate and creative use of the messy stuff though. What to do on a cold winter's day??
Ivy...
I've heard much about kids that like "naked time," but never personally had one, until now. After dinner when Ivy gets a bit cranky/tired we strip her down to the bare essentials and let her streak through the house. She loves it, loves being able to pat her chubby belly and find her belly-button. Today after a diaper change she toted off with the diaper and threw it in the garbage. I got excited about that and that was the start of a fun game. I fished out a wallet, a sock, a handful of Legos, and a small book later today. Now we just need to learn what trash is :)
a new year...
Who knew a chalkboard on the wall by the toilet would generate so much conversation? I love the Wallie that hangs there, it's perfect for random love notes, venting, inspiration, and the subtle reminder to flush. This week we all jotted down a new year's resolution. Just in case you're not used to reading 9 year old writing, I'll translate:
1. To be nice to Tearsy
2. To play with my kids more
3. To finish the Old Testament (New-whichever one we want)
4. run half marathon
5. nothing
6. learn to talk
Six family members, six goals, can you match them up? Chloe graciously helped Noah and Ivy :)
