To Blog or Not to Blog?

That is the question I am struggling with. It has been ages since my last post in March, so many of you have probably given up on me. I, on the other hand, am not quite ready to let it go. I think.

The part of blogging that I have missed the most is the reflection piece. When I sort through photos of family events or write about day-to-day blog worthy experiences, it causes me to relive, reflect on and remember those events and moments. That being said, I have found it more challenging to find time for sorting through photos and reflecting on here. As the cool, crisp days of autumn send us back indoors, I am hoping to spend some time catching up on our blog.

It's good to be back.

March Madness

This year it seems that March Madness has taken on a new meaning. Basketball has taken a backseat to the summer-like weather we've been enjoying. Well, maybe not a backseat for Doug, but definitely for us girls. It's been crazy, but we're lovin' every minute of it. I don't ever remember having a whole week in March that felt like summer. What a gift! Since spring weather in Michigan is so unpredictable, we've spent plenty of time outside soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful signs of spring. After all, it could snow next week. One never knows.

Today it was 85 degrees. IN MARCH. IN MICHIGAN. Seriously. What does one do on a day like today? The answer seemed obvious to me. You head to the beach. That's exactly what we did today after school. Unfortunately, Doug couldn't join us. I guess someone had to work while the ladies of leisure hit the beach. I don't ever remember going in Lake Michigan in March or playing in the sand. We enjoyed every minute of it. Surprisingly, the water wasn't as cold as I would have expected. Hannah even dipped her head in. On the way home we picked up a Scrib's pizza (Doug's favorite) - trying to make up for him not being able to join us. Ice cream cones topped off the day. I will always treasure this magical March day.

Ready for Spring

Someone is ready for Spring. Actually, based on her outfit I should say summer. Ava loves wearing her surf top from her Grandpa and Grandma. Somedays she even ends up sleeping in it. That's how much she loves it! With the gorgeous weather we've been having, Ava is delighted that she can finally wear it outside too. Grandpa and Grandma, this picture is for you. Ava wanted you to know that she enjoyed a big bowl of ice cream, Grandpa, and she put on the Mickey Mouse sprinkles you gave her, Grandma. Love and hugs to you in Florida!

Future Rock Stars?

So, what do you think? Do we have some future rockers in our midst? I think I may need to invest in a good pair of ear plugs. :-) They sure make it look like fun, though.

I love this one. Ava's backup singer is a snowman. :-)

February Fun with Family and Friends

Rethinking Lent

As we enter into this season of Lent, I am choosing a different path than many. Rather than giving up my Diet Coke, creamer or chocolate (although, maybe I should give up these things to better my health), I am trying to focus on a "spring-cleaning for my soul." I am trying to give more time to God and others. I am hoping to spend more time in quiet reflection (which may see like a paradox for me, but I am going to try!!) The inspiration comes through a book called A Clearing Season: Reflections for Lent by Sarah Parsons. My friend Erin told me about this book last year and I made a vow to use it during Lent this year. I'll let you know how it goes. Blessings to each of you as we begin our journey to the cross.

Valentine's Love

In January, I made the fateful decision to join Pinterest. For a few weeks I was a Pinterest addict - pinning any cute ideas I came across. Then I came up for air and decided I better start doing some of the awesome ideas I had found. Voila. Just in time for Valentine's Day! Here are some of those ideas...and some of our own.

Loved this idea from Pinterest. It's a sand shovel with M&M's. Ava and I made these for her preschool friends.

Hannah and I made chocolate dipped pretzel sticks for her class. I thought she should make cards that said, "Stick with me Valentine, we make a great pair." Apparently my idea was uncool - she did her own thing. :-)

Hannah and I created this for her awesome teacher, Mrs. Pluymert. We adapted an idea we found on Pinterest.

Some of my favorite Valentines

We tried something new this year and we all loved it. We each wrote things we love about each other on hearts, read them aloud and then hung them up. Everyone got into it. We had many laughs and smiles.

A few days before Valentine's Day, Doug took Hannah and Ava on a special date to the Daddy & Daughter(s) Royal Ball at HIS. I'm not sure who had more fun.