happy happy

Happy, happy Mother's Day to all of you who have ever,

held a sleepy newborn against your bare chest

run after a diaper-less toddler in the middle of an unsuccessful diaper change

looked into the eyes of a child and been so amazed at their growing little spirit

taken a long deep breath after a child has uttered hurtful words at you

held onto a little flower a child has picked for you

enjoyed the feeling of little hands tugging at the bottom of your pants {for the 100th time that day}

been summoned in the middle of the night by a sick babe

gone back to check, just once more, to be sure they are still breathing at night

proudly hung little bits of growing art on your fridge

cried because you have been so disappointed by that uncontrollable tantrum

left the kitchen a mess and the laundry unfolded to just play and pretend 

felt guilty at the end of the day because you did the dishes and folded the laundry but didn't play with your kid

been afraid to cut your baby's locks for fear that the curls wouldn't return
beamed with joy when you child said "thank you" without your nudging reminder
felt so complete with that little head nestled against your neck
and loved so much more than you ever thought you could love.

Happiest Mother's Day wishes to you!

for you...yes, you

Twig & Thistle

Just because we all deserve a little extra quiet this weekend....

Download this fun little DIY door hangar for a peaceful start to your Mother's Day Weekend!  The hangar is a free download from Twig & Thistle.

Enjoy!

Thank you teachers!

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This week is Teacher Appreciation Week not last week like I thought.  There are so many wonderful teachers that make such a positive impact on our children.  Their patience, nurturing spirit and kindness teach so much to little souls.  I am so grateful for the wonnderful teachers in our lives.  This celebration of teachers has even caused me to think back on those incredible teachers from my youth.  It is amazing how a great teacher can stick with you for life!

waiting for rain

Today, my girl wore her rain boots around all day just waiting for the big rain we promised her last night.  The rain never came last night and I had told her that it may rain later today.  Well, after nap-time, the rain came.  It was only a drizzle but it was enough to make the tiniest puddles for boots to stomp in.  She was delighted and stayed outside stomping in the cold rain until we insisted that she come inside.  It is so funny how little bodies never seem to notice the temperature (hot or cold) when they are enjoying the outdoors.

a royal day indeed...

My kids were so captivated by the royal wedding, we decided to have a royal tea of our own...4-year-old style.
Royal attire was donned.

Royal iced tea and canapés were prepared.  

{Hot Warm tea was quickly banned by the big girl who was afraid of burning her tongue.}

The table was set and girls were giddy to partake in a most royal tea.

Tea was carefully poured by "her majesty."

Everyone drank from tea cups for a change...not sippy cups.

Tea was followed by a highly civilized royal dance with twirls and a final curtsey.

Royality

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My kids and I are super excited to watch a real prince and princess get married tomorrow.  I don't think I will be up at 5am for the LIVE event but I do hope to catch some reruns throughout the day.

We look forward to watching our favorite chef (Princess Diana's former chef) on Oprah tomorrow!

Perhaps we will whip up some English canapés and tea for the grand event.

click on the titles for the recipes courtesy of Darren McGrady -- The Royal Chef

Bread and Butter Pudding

Croques Monsieur

Goat Cheese and Salmon Crepes

I hope you enjoy a most-royal day!

Sitting close to you

Sometimes after a long week, it just feels good to sit next to your sister in the old chair and watch your favorite show (Angelina Ballerina).  Nothing else matters but being close, shoulder-to-shoulder, and cuddled together -- thankful we are all together!