Easter Fun

Our Easter was packed with family and fun this year. Check out everything we did!

Lauren was so excited to color the eggs. "What is this for?"

The girls took a break from hunting eggs at Nana and Papa's house to play on the swing set. I think they could do this all day (if Daddy keeps pushing.)

Finally his turn.

Found one!

Lauren and Kaitlyn love spending time together.

Planting flowers with Papa.

On our way to GG and Pop's house for more egg coloring and hunting. The fun hasn't even begun and both girls are fast asleep.

Swinging with Pap and listening to his harmonica.

Easter lunch with the Glasgows.

We topped off our visit by celebrating Micki's 88th birthday.

Sami's 2nd Birthday

Dear Sami,
You are a bright and beautiful child. An independently minded little girl that challenges us and makes us love you even more. Already, we can see that you move to your own beat, and we hope you never lose that. The affection you have for your sister makes us melt, and the way you've perfected "the tattle" makes us laugh. You're the sloppiest eater we've ever seen, and one of the greatest sights we've ever laid eyes on. We savor your hugs, tiny kisses, and sweet little voice. When we hold you, we want to freeze time. But then we'd miss out on the incredible person you're becoming every day. For all of these reasons and more, we love you. Happy birthday Samantha.

Table Manners

Before...

After...

Best Buddies

As we watch our girls play together, we're overwhelmed with pride. They're the best of friends and truly love each other.

In this picture, they're getting ready to play in the snow...by licking the cold window. The laundry baskets have become one of their favorite toys. Lauren doesn't even mind that Sami can't push her.

Just hanging out and watching a movie. They often end up in the same chair.

The day we brought Sami home, she became Lauren's baby.

Beyond lucky...don't you think?

Snow Angels

What a snowy February it's been! In the past two weeks, we've had three snow days. The girls and I have tried to make the most of it. Take a look at what we've been up to.

"I'm ready Mom!"

"Wait for me!"
Right back at you, baby.

An angel in more ways than one.

Sampling the snow, but not sure she's a fan.

I couldn't get this one to stop though!

Snowball fight!

"I'll show you, Lauren!"

The wind up...

...and the hit.

"MOOOOOOOOOOOM!"

Showing some love to the snowman.

Winter Break

Has it been a month since Christmas already? Perhaps I shouldn't have had quite so much fun during my winter break. Brandon and I had two weeks off, and we certainly kept busy. I've had a lot of catching up to do at work, but I've finally gotten around to posting some of our Christmas photos. Enjoy!

This is how Sami spent her Christmas morning. She opened the first gift from our wonderful sitter, Manisha, and she sang her heart out while the rest of us dove into the pile.
Lauren asked Santa for doll clothes and toys. Here she is unwrapping a beauty shop chair.

My gift to Brandon was a short ski trip. Needless to say, he was a little surprised, especially since I've never been skiing. Unfortunately, we both got sick and had to postpone the trip. We're looking forward to it in February though!

My parents got Sami this little coupe. What a great big sister...pushing her little baby around.

Lauren got this American Girl from Nana and Papa. She and Ruthie have matching pajamas thanks to my Grandma Garrott.

Joe, Susan, Debbie, Robin, and Dana visited Cincinnati for a few days. We all went downtown to Via Vite for dinner one night. It's become one of our favorite places.

Here's another favorite...Toots! Who doesn't like fried dill pickle chips, free hot dogs, and video games?

My sweet Lauren.

We also visited the Children's Museum during the break. Here they are suspending a ball in a gust of wind.

Our little construction workers. I'm sure we could apply these skills to yard work too. We'll find out in the spring!

Sami spent about 30 minutes going up and down these stairs by herself. "Self Mom! Self!"

The water area was a huge hit. The aprons kept their tops dry, but their pants and shoes were soaked for the ride home. It was well worth it.

"Look Mom! It went down the waterfall!"