coping strategies

The girls attended a special event for our favorite library this past Monday.  Among the bounce houses, face painting and train rides was a balloon artist.

They each requested something specific.  A unicorn and a scorpion.

They left with a ladybug and a light saber.

Before we got to the car, the sword part of the balloon saber popped.  Roo examined it disappointedly, and then declared that the remaining portion of the hilt looked like a monkey.  Good enough.

In the car, part of the "monkey" popped.  Roo eyed it critically and proclaimed the remnants a "cactus!"

Ten minutes later, we heard the tell tale "thhhhhhbbbttttt" of a deflating balloon.

Ruh Roh.

Em: OH NO!  Oh Ruby!  Are you Sooo Disappointed! *tears in voice*
Roo: NO! I'm MAD!
Roo: First, I had a light saber.  Then, it was a monkey.  Then it was a cactus.  And Now I've GOT NOTHING!

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They balance each other well, don't you think?

Dear Diary...

I guess Roo is keeping a diary of sorts on her iPod. I found these tonight as I was adding new music to her playlists. Hilarious!

Mother's Day 2012

I love our annual photo!  Mother's Day rocks!!

Em and Roo made me sweet cards at church this morning, plus had more waiting at home.  On the way out of church, Roo told me that for Mother's Day, she was going to get in bed with me and snuggle.  That would be her gift.  Sure enough, after we got home from dinner tonight, she followed through.  THE BEST. 

Em gave me millions of special Mother's Day hugs and kisses through the day.  And she made a point to color a special picture just for me.  

Blessed so much with these girls.  Blessed beyond measure.  

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Mother's Day 2006-present

6

Em and Roo turned.... 6! 

We kicked off the morning with their new t-shirts and donuts...

...with candles to blow out.  Plus, they let me sing a very soft birthday song to them.  They still feel a little wiggy having the song sung for them and requested no singing at their party. 

Marmee arrived soon after donuts and we headed to the American Girl store.  

 Welcome to the family, Josefina!  Your new mommy, Em, is super proud to have you.  

Next up, lunch at the American Girl Bistro.  Dad joined us and that made it perfect.  

 Then, Roo's turn!  The Lego store for all the mini-figures she's been wishing for.  She built them all from scratch and couldn't be more pleased.  

 We made the cakes the day before.  Em requested a pink American Girl cake.  Her cake has vintage American Girl pewter game pieces as the cake toppers. 

Roo asked for a blue-green Sesame Street cake.  We found some cool 1970's cake toppers that fit the bill perfectly.  

 They invited all their friends from co-op, plus family and our dear, life long, since the NICU, friends, Abbey and Porter.  First up, cook-out, then cake, finally The Muppets on the screen in the backyard with popcorn.  

Up bright and early the next morning, despite the late party.  They couldn't wait to rehash it and also had the added treat of tons of birthday wishes, blessings and greetings awaiting them on Facebook.  

Happy Birthday to my darling Rowdy Girls.  I can't wait to see what amazing things you do this year!