College Reunion

A few weekends ago, Jason and I went about 2 hours north to visit some of his old college roommates. We had such fun. All the kids were playing and all the adults just talked and laughed. We grilled burgers and hotdogs and basically spent some time reliving the good ole' days. Arianna LOVED baby Emmitt and wanted to read books to him...he wasn't totally interested. However, we all had so much fun. We can't wait to do it again!

If You Ain't Dutch...

Okay, this this is going to be a random post. First, it was just my niece Natalie's third birthday party this past weekend. Arianna loved the hats:

Here are just a few shot of Arianna playing in our backyard. This is our friend's swing set that they don't use anymore and they allow us to put our swing on it. Arianna could swing forever...just saying "wheeeee!" The other is her slide that I found at a garage sale. She LOVES it!

And finally, a friend of my mom's makes these beautiful dutch outfits and she let me borrow one to take Arianna's picture. I'm WAY too Dutch to actually purchase my own...they're like $75.00! I think it speaks to my Dutch heritage that I would rather borrow and return than buy. All in all, this day was fun. She would NOT wear the hat, but I thought she still looked pretty darn cute in her Dutch costume...and all you true Dutch people out there, I know bare feet?! But, she REFUSED to wear shoes...some battles not worth fighting.

These last two are my personal favorites...

What I've Learned..

In light of this past Sunday being Mother's Day, I just wanted to write about what I've learned since becoming a mother:

1. Life isn't all about having a clean house, laundry done etc. It's about spending time with family. My daughter will always remember the time I spend with her, not if the house was clean.
2. It's okay to ask for help. That was a tough lesson to learn. I didn't want to be seen as weak or unknowing...but, I don't know everything (don't tell Jason). Sometimes, I need to ask for help and that's okay
3. There is seriously nothing better than when your child smiles at you and says momma!
4. I enjoyed the 3am feeding...it was quiet and just the two of us. I could sing to her, hold her and create a bond that can never be broken. And sometimes....I miss it.
5. I realize that I am not in control. I am a total control-freak. I have learn that she is not my own, but God's and that is the way it should be. I am just being blessed by having her in my life. She is a gift from God.

I hope that you all had a wonderful, blessed and beautiful Mother's Day.

Tip-Toe through the Tulips...

My mom and I went out to see the tulips this Saturday. I bought Arianna some "wooden" shoes while in Pella and I wanted to get her picture...with the wooden shoes...in front of tulips. However, my child...sit?! I think not. I did get a few shots. My mom wanted one with her as well and I tried and tried. Not super great, but as good as it's going to get with a 16 month old for now! Hope you are all enjoying spring and the bloom of flowers!