My baby is 2!

My sweet little Ashlan just had a birthday and my baby girl is a big TWO years old now! We are having a princess themed family party in June for both girls so Ashlan's actual birthday was low-key but still special. She had a Cinderella ("rella") cake celebration at her school to celebrate with her little friends. She was so excited when I showed up with a cake and was all smiles as she kept repeating " rella, rella..." She dressed in her oh so cute Birthday Girl outfit on her special day. Her sister wore the same outfit almost two years ago so it was neat to pass down that tradition. She looked so precious in her tutu and pigtails. Later that day we took the girls fishing and Ashlan caught 3 fish! She absolutely loved it and Josh & I realized that it was time to get her her own Barbie pole. Mady is an 'ol pro and wasn't too excited about sharing her fishing pole. She was a good sport though and got used to the idea. Both girls caught several fish and had a great time. We all did. Daddy was so glad to be home on her actual birthday so we had rella cake later that night too. Our little family sang Happy Birthday to our sweet girl and she blew out the candles like a big girl! She has been asking for a "Lalaloopy" (Lalaloopsy) for a while now so she got to open that gift from mom, dad, and sissy. She was excited! Both girls now have a Lalaloopsy and were playing with them all night. Both of her sweet grandmas stopped by for a visit and surprised her with a darling Hello Kitty dress and a very cool Leapfrog read along book. I would say that Ashlan had a great day and a very special birthday. Josh and I now have a two year old and a three year old!! Man does time fly!!

Soakin' up the Sunshine

Yesterday was a hot day but we waited until late afternoon and really enjoyed the sunshine! The girls played in their kiddie pool and spilled some water for a little mud fun! We found a wild blackberry patch beside our house and had fun filling up a mason jar. Then we planted some herbs. I planted cilantro, dill, basil, and spearmint, while the girls planted their "basil greenhouse" ($1 spot at Target!). I also planted my marigold that Mady gave me for Mother's Day (thank you CCC). Of course we had help planting.....Josh got to come home for a few days while his company does local work. Yay! He is really the one with the "green thumb!" A few grilled steaks and veggies later and we were happy with full bellies. Just enjoyed our Friday :)