two wheelers

Not one to be left out, Elliott got in on the action too!

FINALLY! The girls were excited to take off those training wheels (yet again) and give riding on two wheels another shot. The timing must have been just right because Delaney took off and never looked back! She was sailing all over the park - on the grass, the picnic area, the basketball court. An hour later she was riding that bike to the park with her friends! Jillian had a little shakier start and needed someone running along side her (I am so out of shape). Thankfully Ryan was there and could take over - I never would have made it! With a little steadying and lots of cheering, she got the hang of it and was soon riding solo as well. I'm not sure who is more proud - Delaney and Jillian or mom and dad!

she's back!

"I'm so CUTE!"

Little Miss Jillian surprised us all by wanting to cut off her long locks into this cute, sassy bob! It's my absolute favorite hairstyle for her - matches her spunky little personality and bubbly voice. I also love how it makes her look like a little girl again -- they grow up way too quickly and this brings her back to the sweet 5 year old she is! Bonus - it's much easier to care for and so much cooler during this hot, humid MN summer!

Big E

Mommy: How did you get so cute?

Elliott: I don't know.

Mommy: Who made you so cute?

Elliott: Daddy

Mommy: Who made you so smart?

Elliott: Daddy

Mommy: What did mommy make you?

Elliott: CRAZY! (giggle, giggle, giggle)

favorite things

Okay, you know how OPRAH has an entire show dedicated to her 'favorite things'? I'm pretty sure she has never used atleast half the stuff she gives away on that show -- but I spent the weekend using this goodie and wouldn't have known what to do with out it! I have used it so much over the last several years, I think it should be given to you as you leave the hospital with your tiny bundle of joy! After the girls tossed their cookies a combined dozen times this weekend, this little wonder rescued my carpet more than once! We really need to work on Miss Jillian getting her fanny into the bathroom in time. *sigh* Sorry for the not so pretty picture I've painted for you, but such is my life today!

Last Day of School

Delaney

Jillian

Wow! Look at what a difference a year of school makes - much older and perhaps a little wiser, too! Elliott and I are both so excited to get our girls home for the summer. We are looking forward to sleeping in a little, and heading out for lots of fun - catch us if you can! We'll be at the parks, the zoos, the beaches, and more!

and the next american idol is. . .

Kris Allen!

As Delaney and Jillian huddled together on the loveseat, hands covering their mouths and eyes glued to the tv in anticipation of the announcement, I was extrememly nervous. Instead of worrying about how to console them when Adam took the title, I should have grabbed my camera to capture the catapult off the sofa as they celebrated their "Tender Dog" taking the American Idol top honors!!! It had to be all those votes they made their devoted daddy cast last night after the finals -- Jillian was certain it was her votes that put him over the top! Way to go Delaney -- you picked this year's winner!

sweet baby boy

On Sunday, I was priveledged to assist my sweet friend Megan during her labor and delivery. 20 hours of labor, of which I was present for 17! Whew - it was exhausting for me and I only rubbed her back, feet, hands, breathed along with her, whispered encouragement and sometimes shouted it as well! She did all the work - delivering a healthy and adorable baby boy. Congrats Megan - and thanks for blessing me with this experience!!! Here is a picture of baby P - doesn't get any better than that sweet face!

just minutes old. . .