Connor's 5th Birthday Party

This year Connor had a bowling party with a few of his best buds. 

Harper, Connor, Hudson, Emily, Jackson, and Carson

This seriously was one of the easiest and most fun parties we have had. One of my favorite blogs (Dixie Delights) had thrown a bowling party for her son and shared all the details.  I started with purchasing the activity books she sells on her Etsy store and with the help of her blog had a plan to spruce up the bowling alley with a few easy decorations.  

The activity books were the perfect thing for kids to do while waiting for their next turn to bowl.  I also printed out a few coloring sheets that seemed to be a hit with this crowd.

We also had out some popcorn snacks to enjoy between bowls.

In typical fashion, Connor took the game very seriously, but managed to take one quick break to pose for a photo.  I love his intensity!

These kids seriously had the cutest ways to bowl. It was hilarious to watch their method to get the ball down to the pins!

We put all the "big" kids on one lane while Carson and Jackson bowled with the moms. 

In the end Harper and Kaimey were the winners!

We ended the party with cupcakes and presents.

"Happy Birthday to you!"

Connor got some cool gifts.  His friends (and their moms!) know him well. :)

Love these boys!

Last, but not least, a big thanks goes out to Mimi who was a huge help during the party.  From setting up to being a toddler wrangler for all the runaways (C&J) :) to passing out cupcakes and everything in between. We couldn't have done it without you!  Thank you, Mimi!

Connor is 5!

It doesn't seem possible, but my baby turned 5! We started celebrating the minute he woke up.  A few decorations, a birthday song, and some candles in a blueberry muffin got us off to a perfect start.

First on Connor's list to do that morning was his Summer Express workbook.  It just has a few activities to help them remember what they learned in Pre-K.  This boy is determined to finish his book so he can have the certificate in the back. How can we already be so close to starting Kindergarten?!

After breakfast I did I few more finishing touches to get ready for Connor's party that afternoon.

Later that evening we had our family over to help us celebrate the birthday boy. Connor helped me plan the menu (hot dogs) and decorations (everything Spiderman!).

One of my favorite parts of the night was playing outside with all of Connor's new presents.  We all tried out his new t-ball set with a little family baseball game.

Watch out Daddy Boy!

This cutie doesn't miss a beat!

It was a great day of celebration!

Connor, you are a natural leader full of determination and enthusiasm for life.  Everyone you meet is your friend and you could talk to them for hours.  There is not a shy bone in your body!  

If I ever need a laugh you are always in the mood to be silly.  You are a boy who knows what he wants and stubborn enough to try and get it. :)  You freely pass out the sweetest hugs and kisses.  Learning new things is something that comes very easily for you and your memory amazes me everyday. 

You keep me on my toes, Connor Michael, but I wouldn't have it any other way.  I'm proud to be your Mommy and love you very much!

Nana's Retirement Party

After 33 years working in education, Nana decided it was time to retire.  We celebrated the beginning of her new adventure with a party.  Lots of family and friends came to help celebrate.  

Amy did an amazing job with all the decorations!  I love all the bright colors.

There were plenty of sweet treats for everyone.  The boys love homemade ice cream!

One of the favorites of the evening was the photo booth.

The kids especially loved getting to dress up.

Connor could not get enough!  I'm pretty sure he had his picture taken with every prop there!

Happy Retirement, Cheryl!

Mother's Day 2013

My celebration started off early with Muffins and Moms the Friday before at Connor's preschool. All of the moms got the VIP treatment starting with gifts, breakfast, and a pedicure from our preschooler.  Connor was beyond thrilled to paint my toes with the green glitter polish.  He said it looked "just beautiful!"  

My Mother's Day started with big hugs from two of my favorite boys.

While they were busy making breakfast I had a chance to go for a morning run and enjoy this beautiful sunrise.  I love our neighborhood!

Breakfast and surprises were waiting for me when I got back.

We hurried off to church where I got to wish my own Mom a Happy Mother's Day.  So thankful for such an incredible example she is to me.  

For dinner we invited both of our moms out and Cole picked up some fajitas.  It was a wonderful evening!

I am beyond blessed to get to be "Mommy" to these two!