Sammie is FIVE.

Time flies. It is so true. It's one of those sayings that people just say but actually is true. Here is the proof. Five years ago we were blessed with our beautiful daughter. As her birthday approached I was filled with memories of the last five years and what joy they have brought. It only makes me excited for what's to come.
Sammie is really excited about being older too-it's sweet. When I asked her what she is most excited for about being five she said, "going to Kindergarten." Guess she's ready. And I know I say this every year, but 5 seems so much older than 4. It really does.
For her birthday, she invited over a some friends and cousins to celebrate with her. And Peter and I surprised her with a giant, princess castle jumpy house. And I mean, this thing was BIG. She was surprised and totally happy about it and the girls had fun jumping the day away. Then of course a craft-making tiaras, and a game- tape the tiara on the princess, cake, presents and lots of giggles. And yes-it was another princess party. The hope is next year we will break out of this tradition, but it's what she loves so I guess it's ok:)
Thank you Susan for sharing these pictures or I would have nothing to blog. Our new laptop won't read our camera so we have NO pictures yet! As soon as we figure this out I will post more.


Thank you Costco for this yummy chocolate,
chocolate mousse cake.

Thnking up a good wish.

In one shot!

Sammer and BFF Ana.

Ana.

Vivian.

Zoey

Today we said goodbye to our dog of nine years. She was 14 and 1/2 years old.
I took her to the vet this morning and she had a slew of health problems that would have made her life more painful. It was a very difficult decision but I stayed with her as the vet put her down. It was a very peaceful experience and we are at peace with it. Although, we're very sad. I was so anxious to tell the kids but they took it well. Sammie said, "Like, Maura, she had a dog, and now it's in heaven." Love how everything is so simple to a child.
We'll miss you Zoey Boey. You will forever have a special place in our hearts.


~Zoey~ July 1996-February 2011

Love

Here are Sammie, Ana, Cole and Tyler. The besties crew. Mary had a fun little Valentine's party for the kids and I course I bribed them with candy to get this picture. Anything to capture a moment...

Gardening

Last week Peter took the kids and got some flowers and seeds to plant our front and back gardens. This is something they have always loved. Samantha really stepped it up a notch this year and did it all by herself! She dig the hole, put in the plant and covered up again. Then she'd tap the dirt down. Such a good gardener! Her daddy is a good teacher too.
Cole even got in on the action this year and spread (threw) some seed in.
Can't wait to see what grows.

Valentine's Day

Today Sammie's class had their Valentine's party and I got to be a "party mom". That's what Sammie calls it. We had a great time. Gmaes, crafts, playing, stories and of course cupcakes and goodie bags. The kids were bouncing off the walls with excitement and when it was time to go Sammie stood at the door, looked back at all her friends and said, "Happy Valentine's Day" with such love. So sweet!


My little Valentine girl.

Valentine's snacks.

And her favorite part-crafts!