Eating marshmallows.

I will always be surprised by my daughter(s). There hasn't been a single day that has passed where these smart, energetic, wonderful little people do something silly, outlandish are just darn cute that makes me think: Wow! My girls are pretty awesome girls. (Second thought: R and I are so lucky.)

I have to be honest, not every moment is a shining, perfect moment. Reminder: E is less than 3 months away from being a 2 year old. My hair is slowly turning gray as she pushes buttons I didn't know I had. For instance, today, we spent the afternoon downtown Grand Haven with R's Mom and her husband. They are in town for a week from Texas. We are all thrilled to spend some quality time with them. Even M said, "I am SO glad Grandma is here!"

The afternoon was relaxing, food was great and dessert was delicious. We really just enjoyed the simplicity of being downtown. We spent time at Mackinaw Kite Company where every single one of us found a toy to play with. Such a treat to hangout together. E didn't even fuss when it was time to go. But, try to get her into her carseat and one might think a stranger was trying to drive her home. (I think I saw strangers looking. EEK!) Scream, kick, punch, flail and 2 minutes later E and I are both in tears. It just breaks my heart when she cries because she can't do whatever she has her mind set on. I wonder if she just doesn't understand. It was a little too much for me. Plus, I'm a sap.

Sometimes I struggle to reprimand her and other days I don't have a problem tucking her under my arm with her legs just a kicking. I am still learning to pick the battles with her. Some just aren't worth listening to the tantrums. Another example: 1. Eating marshmallows. One isn't going to hurt because we all need a little sweet in our life. 2. Brushing teeth? It's a must. Especially after a marshmallow. ;)

We are still trying to find the right path to take on how we will discipline E. With her current 2 year old tantrums and stubborn ways I want to set rules now. But, I know she is still so small. Or maybe I'm just telling myself that. I guess we will just figure it out as we go.

This tired, frazzled mama is ready to take on a new day of surprises from our growing girls.

Any terrible two stories or advice? I am happy to hear it.

Enjoy your weekend.

5 pies, bunt cakes and a pumpkin roll.

Success. A very big success it was. Our first hosting of turkey dinner and Thanksgiving day turned out very well. The only thing we were missing were more mouths to eat the feast. However, our gathering of 8 was perfect company.

Our feast this year and holiday was very different than the year before as so much has changed. First, we stayed in Grand Haven at our home and had family come here. If the snow wasn't a foot high I think I might have packed us all up (and the feast) last minute and took the road home. I missed my parents, lil sis and grandparents a lot. But, I am ever grateful for those who came to us.

Secondly, R's Mom celebrated with us this year; another first. I really enjoyed having her. She brought corn cassarole, biscuits, fresh cranberry relish, 6 pies (more details later), beverages and teddy grahams for Edee. Oh! She brought me a beautiful vase of flowers too! Have you ever had Thanksgiving flowers? It was a nice little surprise.

Third: R smoked a turkey this year. For 5 hours too. He used wood chips, apples and onions. It was delicious. He can smoke a turkey every year if he wants too.

Fourth: We have leftover dessert! And there's nothing wrong with that. Even though we lost the pumpkin pie, it slipped off the pan and fell on the floor, we still had: 2 pecan cheese, 2 chocolate pecan and a pumpkin brickle, small pumpkin bunt cakes and a pumpkin roll. Gotta love having a baker in the family. 

Dinner took all day to prepare and 5 minutes for us to devour the delicious feast. It was well worth it. E and I ended our evening with a surprise visit from my little sis! The holiday turned out pretty good. Now I can't wait for Christmas!

I hope all of you were blessed with time spent with your loved ones, full bellies and lots of leftovers.

Keep loving.

Feeling thankful last night.

Story time after a long day.

Tonight I am thankful for:

The warm crocheted blanket on my lap; a gift from my Mom.

2 hours of fresh air, all though a bit chilling, spent on the golf course with Ryan; a first for us.

Free time to crochet. I've got a new project in the works.

Play time with Edee. Laying on the living room floor, just her and I; smiling and giggling.

Aunt Trina. She has a bond with Edee that only continues to grow.

Mini chocolate chips, leftover from dessert the other night; a perfect late night treat.



Taking time to be thankful for a few things is always a good idea.

Keep loving.