The Dreaded Swimming Lessons

This is how my week started last week. The girls started swimming lessons. The girls who hate getting their hair washed. The girls who would rather do anything than get their face wet. These girls started swimming lessons with a wonderful swim instructor. She is very tough. No whining, no crying while in the pool, you go in willingly or she puts you in. Initially, I had doubts as to whether or not my kids could handle it. But, they can now officially swim! The last few days of lessons they were actually excited to go. Today they were upset because they could not go to Ms. Reita's to swim. It has been an amazing transformation. Now I just need to find a pool to take them to so they don't forget how much fun swimming is.

You are Invited

Since I don't have a lot of time, and I am budgeting so much for the cake, I ordered Coco's invites from Vista Print. This is a great place for cheap paper goods. Not the best quality, but right for this situation.
She picked them out herself. I am glad she found something she likes that I like too.

You say it's your Birthday......

Last night, my almost 18 year old step-daughter said "My birthday is coming up soon. When is my party?" Party? I thought. What Party? You never mentioned having a party? Well, it is my 18th birthday. That is kinda a big deal!
We went on like this for awhile and she finally wore me down. I am not sure when it will be, but she definitely knows what she wants. In June, I worked with Jodi on a very big birthday party. I took some of the leftover cake home for the girls and Coco decided that is the cake she wants. Oh, really? Does she not understand that this specific bakery specializes in high end cakes and is probably booked already? Plus, a simple cake would not do. Lets pick something with a lot of fondant flowers and fancy ganache.
I called Sweet Cakes Designs this morning and they happen to have some September openings and would love to do her cake. She is requesting something similar to this cake. However, it will only be one layer and be dark purples and dark teals. It will taste just like the cake I brought home. She will be thrilled.
Now I just have to plan a whole party around this cake.......

Week Up North

The girls and I spent the week up north at my parents house. We did the parade and fireworks yesterday and today I brought them to my aunt's house for some pictures. She has a great yard with tons of flowers and a wonderful playhouse.
Here are some of the best shots. Mind you, it took about 75 to get these. All the girls wanted to do was stay in the playhouse.

Happy Birthday Claire!

Today, my first baby turns 6. I can hardly believe it. She has already completed Kindergarten and will be a first grader in the fall.
Claire, you make me laugh, you have a kind heart and you are a good friend. You love Jesus and we love you. I am very proud of the girl you are and I know that there are big plans for you.
Happy birthday!