Eraser collection

 Liv pretend eating the fudge pop eraser:)

My mom gave me my eraser collection that has been stored at her house since I was a kid.  I was ecstatic to be reunited with this collection.  The smell, the bright colors, and all the memories that flooded my body when I opened that storage container.  I showed the girls and they were just as jazzed to play with my collection.  Yeah for good memories and sharing them with my kiddos! 

spontaneous & live music

Lee Dewyze

Musicians on stage with Lee

 Serena Ryder

2 of my favorite things are being spontaneous and live music.  My friend Derek invited Teaf and I (on a work night) to go see one of his favorite musicians Serena Ryder at a small venue in Omaha.  Teaf doesn't stay up late on work nights so he was for sure out.  I was on the fence because I had never heard of her and therefore didn't know if I should stay out late too and make the sacrifice;)  I then saw one of my favorite musicians was coming to Omaha and it turned out he was "opening" for Derek's favorites and it was a done deal.  I rallied the troops (my sister & Jaime-as they are big fans of Lee Dewyze too) and it was a BLAST!  Serena Ryder turned out to be just as awesome as Lee Dewyze and now is my new favorite!!! 

Grandpa's Birthday

My dad's birthday was in August!  WOW.. time sure does have wings this year.  We spent the weekend at the lake enjoying each other and celebrating my dad! My dad is a family man through and through.  He unconditionally loves us and takes care of all of us:)  I truly appreciate his wisdom and thoughtfulness.  He genuinely cares about me and takes a great interest in all aspects of my life.  And to top it all off, he is an exceptional grandpa to all our children.  One of the major things that stands out this past year is that he was with my sister and Cade nearly everyday when Cade was in the NICU.  Sure, he has the flexibility with being self-employed, but that didn't mean he HAD to be there.  He chose to be there day in and day out for them and that is incredible.  We love you forever dad and are truly grateful to have you in our lives.  xoxoxo 

My sister moon

I find myself loving those tender moments when I see my 2 daughters helping each other out, playing silly games, and developing a bond that is only between them.  My sister moon has always been that one person in my life who makes me completely relaxed when I am around her.  She understands me at times when I can't even understand myself.  She gives me this humbling perspective about life when I feel like life is crashing down.  She makes me see outside my own thoughts and into others.  She loves my children as if they were her own and helps me become a better parent everyday.  She steps up and expects nothing in return.  She's funny.  She doesn't think she is, but she is funny!  I could go on and go about this woman in my life but the best thing about it is that she is my sister and I am blessed to have her in my life.  I whole heartily cherish every moment with her.  Love you to the moon and back sister!  Thanks for being you! 

Our garden!

It is so much fun having a garden.  We aren't at the lake during the week to "tend" to it so by the weekend there is a lot of work to be done.  Liv especially loves to help in the garden.  Lateaf is the master gardener and I am the helper:)  We had quite a lot of produce this year and it's great to reap the benefits of the hard work.