Happy 42nd, Daddy!

You will want to pause the music before you view this video.

We celebrate you today, Jay, an unequalled daddy and my beloved husband.

No need for one; he is one!

You will want to pause the music while you view this video.

This morning, Madeline saw Mason take his first steps and informed me that he was walking. At first I thought she meant he had taken one step, which he's been doing for a few days now. But she was insistent that he had taken three or four steps. When I turned around, he walked toward me...and I got to see him pass this milestone. I'm so thankful for video! Aren't you?

Our Valentine

We celebrated this morning with a fun breakfast (heart-shaped pancake with whipped cream, chocolate chips and strawberries) and a new book. Madeline doesn't quite understand why we're giving each other cards or eating yummy things, but she's enjoying the ride (or should I say sugar high). What she does understand is that we can show love to one another because Jesus first loved us and showed us how to express our love for others. That makes today all the more sweet.

Mason Makes His Mark

Our coffee table before Mason and the wooden ice cream toy...

Our table after Mason and the wooden ice cream toy. What will Daddy say when he comes home from work? (It won't be, "Good boy, Mason!")
Well, Daddy came home and saw the damage. Much to my surprise, he said, with great disappointment, "Oh well. I guess that goes along with having kids." Do you think now would be a good time to tell him I put a dent in the car door? :)

A Sunshiney Day in February

We have renamed our daughter. She is no longer Madeline; she is Stands With A Smile.

Mason is such a cutie. He loves being at the park. And although he didn't venture far from the blanket at first, he soon lost all reserve and ended up climbing on Madeline's tricycle. Before we know it, he'll be opening his own bank account.

Madeline helped her community today. She took a wet wipe and cleaned off all the bark and dirt at the bottom of the slide so the kids at the park wouldn't get their clothes dirty. She's a girl after my own heart!

If only he would stay this young...and clean. A mom can wish, can't she?

Let Them Make Cake!

These are my beautiful students who managed to sit through over 4 hours of instruction and still laugh and listen and then produce spectacular cakes. Brava, ladies!

Of course, what would a Wilton frosting recipe be without Crisco?

Voila! The "Christmas" cake, as Amanda coined it. I think it looks great in her signature grey/blue shell border and red tri-dots.

Amber was ready to chow down! But she refrained and let others enjoy the beauty of her hard work. And she has a funny story that accompanies the green balloon behind her. When you see her, ask her about it.

Jen was about to drop this cake it became so heavy with frosting. She did a fantastic job of smoothing out the frosting and then decorating it herself. Well done!