Best Party EVER

We had a ball! 

 Lyssa was surround by friends and family that truly love her.  We couldn't have asked for anything more.

After a flag football game, and a soccer game...it was on.  We started hanging lights, lanterns, banners, baking, wrapping, slicing, and celebrating.  

Lyssa chose to have an art party this year, it was my favorite party yet!

I owe a HUGE thank you to Roxanne Spradlin for giving up her Saturday afternoon to spend it with my girl and her friends.  She was the best art teacher we could have asked for.  Her generosity keeps going and going. I love you with all my heart!

These two are actually a whole lot alike...

They started with a colorful art palette, and a blank canvas... 

Little by little we watched their art change from this...

To this...

And finally to this...

Aren't they just adorable!?! 

Each girl found her inner artist, and I hope when the girls look at their creation they will smile and remember what a happy day it was.

I'm serious when I say this was the best party EVER! 

Thanks again to all the family members and friends who helped us celebrate this girl... 

She continues to make me smile...

Choose Love

Eleven

On this day, eleven years ago, I was holding my new baby girl.  I don't think I put her down for like a year.  She was perfect.  While our friends were having fun and living the college life, we entered the world of the unknown.  Looking back...I wouldn't change a thing.

We didn't know what we were doing, but we knew she was ours and we wouldn't have it any other way.  She has made us who we are.  We really don't even know life without her.

It brings tears to my eye to think about our journey with her.  She really is the best daughter I could ever ask for.  She is hysterical, fun, has a fashion of her own, caring, loves her family, and has an enormous heart.

Today, we will add another candle to the birthday cake.  I will get teary, and reminisce on this past year.  She will hug me and tell me how much she loves me...

Can't wait to celebrate this day with you.  I love you Lyssa Kate!

Choose Love,

Lately

Last weekend was pretty much perfect weekend through my eyes.  Spending four days on the lake with the people who mean the most to me...just can't beat it!  

I consider myself very lucky and blessed to have access to a boat, live within minutes of an awesome lake, and share it with some of my favorite people!

Whether it's building frog holes, 

Having a race, 

Playing in the water, 

Pretending to be lightning bugs, 

Cooking supper in the dutch oven,

Or, just enjoying the view ;)...

We always have the best time and create some great memories!

However, my absolute most favorite part of the whole weekend..

was this girl!

 She begged us to let her ski.  I admit it, I didn't think she would be able to because all we have are adult skis.
We decided to let her give a whirl, and that's exactly what she did.
I don't know why I ever doubt her! 

Cause if at first she doesn't succeed,

She tries again, and again, and again...

Until she does...

This was actually her second time to get up, but I was so excited the first time I forgot to keep the camera on her :)
Please excuse all the crazy voices in the background, we were a wee bit excited!

Lyssa Kate,
You never seize to amaze me! I love your determination and will to never, ever give up!

On another note, it's Friday!!
We have our game shirts on, a T in the yard, and our tickets are ready.

I got in a bleacher run in this morning while Tate help set up the field with Coach Berna...

 And a little pre-game with daddy.

The stadium is empty now, but it won't be for long...

Go Wildcats!!

Beat Westlake!!

Choose Love,