February Wrap Up

This month was a busy one, with lots going on and very little time for blogging. So, in an attempt to get caught up, I share some glimpses into what we have been up to now.

Gretchen went to the vet, where she enjoyed hanging on the baby scale and where we learned she had developed diabetes. 

We had a "very Tony's" Valentine's Day (with a hint of John Williams thrown in for good measure). 

Some of us found time to relax. 

And to keep an eye on things from "up high". 

We got crafty in Sunday School, 

and in the kitchen at home. 

And enjoyed a surprise of letters and cards that we had  sent to (Great) Grandpa over the years. 

And we finally got around to sorting and bagging the Girl Scout cookies too (before February break was over, even)! 

It is my hope to get back to blogging more regularly, or at the very least at least once a week! We'll see if I do better in March!xo 

Cozy and Content

 

Quiet time this afternoon with two of my favorite sidekicks! xo 

The Maiden Ride

 

Bindings were put on yesterday and fresh snow today absolutely meant a trip to the moutain was ncessary! xo

Fifteen

 

And just like that she's fifteen! Every yaer seems to go by faster than the last! This trip around the sun was full of joy and laughter, tears and sorrow and so much growth! This fall proved to be one of her most challenging and difficult yet, but we have seen her emerg stronger and more confident because of it. Yesterday was truly a  day that was absolutely perfect for Miss Emma. She chose to forgo the crown I made her all those years ago ("it's getting a bit small, mama!") in favor of her favorite crown, which is far more grown up than the felt one I created when she was four. After we betowed our wishes on her for this next year, and the birthday crown was fully aglow, she opened her gifts and then went on a scavenger hunt for one final gift: a much wished for snowboard of her own! Thankfully Mother Nature bestowed the gift of snow upon Emma's birthday, which just made the day even more magical and lovely! That afternoon and into the night, the celebration continued with Mandy and Lucy joining us for make-overs, and movies, and pizza (since the ramen place was closed) followed by the most delicious chocolate raspberry cake for our chocolate raspberry loving girl. Grace and I had made it while Dave and Emma were out buying her bindings. All agreed it was delicious and was a recipe worth repeating! From start to finish, there could not have been a more perfect birthday for Emma Faith! Her next trip around the sun is sure to be full of joy and laughter, tears and sorrow and so much growth but we are here for it and cannot wait to see all that awaits her! 

Happpy Birthday, Emma! We love you to the moon and stars and back and are so proud to be your parents! We are with you every step of the way! xo 

Happy Birthday, Emma Faith!

 

The celebration is still going as I write this but just wanted to be sure that I got a post here in this little space of ours before the day ended! It's been a magificent day, full of so much birthday goodness! From a scavenger hunt in the morning, to celebrating with frineds this afternoon and evening, and lots of fabulousness in between, this is sure to be a day that Emma carries with her always! xo

On Emma's Birthday Eve

 

When I have said my evening prayer, 
And my clothes are folded on the chair, 

And mama has turned out the light, 
I'll still be fourteen years old tonight. 

But from the very break of day, 
Before the children rise and play, 
Before the sunlight has turned to gold, 

Tomorrow I'll be fifteen years old. 
Fifteen candles kissess when I wake! 
Fifteen candles on my cake! 

Can't wait to celebrate anotehr trip around the sun with our sweet Emma Faith! xo 

The First Sign of Spring

 

In the words of Grace: "The Australorps are back up and running!" xo