Swings

Audrey absolutely loves her swing. 

She would stay in there all day...

Snacktime!

Friends Forever

Maya, Lucy, Ella, and Jordan

Menomonee Falls

Today was a study day for Greg (he's preparing for his oral boards), so the girls and I kept busy with Grandpa.  We went to visit my grandparents, and on the way we drove past the Menomonee River.  Ella asked, "Is there a waterfall in the Menomonee River?"  I told her there was a waterfall--in Menomonee Falls!  She knew that's where my parents live, so she asked if we could see the falls someday.  Dad and I took them after our visit and did some exploring around the river--so fun!  Thanks for a great day, Daddy!

Paul's Graduation

Greg and I were very happy to pack up the kids and head to Madison for the day--his brother Paul graduated from medical school!  We are very proud of him, as we know exactly how much hard work goes into such an accomplishment.  We arrived early so that we could take the girls to the University Bookstore to look around and get Bucky Badger hats.  After a delicious (and nostalgic) lunch at the Great Dane, we met up with the rest of the gang for a party! 

That evening, the graduation was held at the Kohl Center.

Mark walked Paul across the stage to receive his diploma, just as he did for Greg.  I love this--it makes graduation that much more meaningful.

Yay, Uncle Pauly!

Paul with his proud parents

Bike Puzzle

Lucy and Ella have been earning puzzle pieces when they have a good day.  They didn't know what the puzzle would make...until today!  They put all their hard-earned pieces together and made a bike!  This was our way of telling the girls that we are going to take them bike shopping...they are super excited!

Mother's Day Gifts

Ella made me a "Mom" visor and colored a wooden stand-up princess (unfortunately not pictured).  At the store, she picked a little girl statue candle holder, a bird, and Caramel Kiss coffee especially for me.

Lucy made me a "Mom" can cozy and a bookmark, and chose to buy me a star candle holder, a chili pepper sponge dish, and Like Eating Candy coffee.  Anyone who knows Lucy's love affair with anything sweet will understand how her coffee flavor choice couldn't be more perfect.

Greg spoiled me with this Lionel Richie coloring page...he had it hanging on the fridge for me in the morning.  Isn't he amazing?!?

Greg also gave me a beautiful necklace from The Vintage Pearl. 

It says, "Choice made you my daughter, love made you my friend."

So pretty!

My real gift on Mother's Day, though, is having the privilage of raising my three sweet girls.  Every day they bring me smiles and laughter, make me feel loved and appreciated, and shower me with hugs, kisses, and snuggles.  They give me purpose, an overwhelming sense of pride, and continually fill me with awe and wonderment.  I am blessed.