Lions, Tigers, and Komodo Dragons...

Today we packed a cooler for lunch, some sunscreen, and our walking shoes and headed to the Indianapolis Zoo. We had such a great time. It was fun to see Jackson react to some animals and be completely unimpressed with others.

Jackson had his first train ride, his first carousel ride, and fed his first Giraffe (I think it was Justin's first Giraffe feeding too). The poor Giraffe almost didn't get his food from Jackson, because Jackson tried to eat it first. We had to ask the zoo keeper what we were feeding the Giraffe just in case Jackson actually swallowed a little piece. Turns out - it was just a piece of sweet potato...Jackson's favorite!

We had a great family day! Justin and I are looking forward to a summer filled with days like today!

Enjoy some of our favorite pictures from today!

This makes it worth it...

For all of the times I wondered if being a working mother was worth it or not...tonight convinced me it was.

I wouldn't trade my "welcoming committee" for anyone else.

Coming home to this makes leaving each day worth it!

Check out how Jackson greeted me when I arrived home from work tonight! So glad to have moments like this on camera! There will come a day when kissing your Mom isn't so cool...and I will have this to remember!

Way to go, Helio!

Last week, Justin and I decided to attend the Indianapolis 500 this year. At the last minute, we searched online and purchased two tickets. We were so excited!

I had not been to the Indy 500 since I was young. Justin last went before we were married.

We had a great time! Our seats were amazing (see pictures). We could see so much and had such great people around us to add to the fun. Justin and I have already decided to attend next year! :)

The start of the race has always been my favorite. For years, my parents and I would stop what we are doing to listen to Jim Nabors sing "Back Home Again in Indiana." My Dad loved hearing that song and would often spend race day singing it. So when it came time for Jim Nabors to step up to the microphone...Justin and I were both in tears. We toughed out the song and thought of my Dad. Then, we realized that the people around us must think that we either really love Indiana or we really love Jim Nabors. Either way, I'm sure they thought it was odd that we were in tears. :)

Before the race, Justin and I met up with my cousin, Ryan, his girlfriend - Mandi, and her entire family. The Corn family is so much fun! A big thanks to the Corn family for letting us join in their fun.

Enjoy some pictures from race day!

Do I have to share?

If you know us well, you know how much we worried that Jackson didn't like solid foods.

We worried so much that Justin starting joking that Jackson would be eating Gerber Stage 2 foods while on dates with girls during his teen years.

Well, we are worried no more.

For the past two weeks Jackson wants anything and everything off my plate.

At first, I was so excited about his new appetite.

But that excitement was halted tonight when I was enjoying my favorite snack. I had just opened a package of Fudge Striped Mini-Cookies when Jackson heard the package open and came running.

Of course, I shared my beloved snack...and then, as Jackson was licking the fudge off each cookie, I realized I would now be sharing ALL of my snacks...

Hmmm...I'm not sure how I feel about this...I hear teenage boys eat a lot.... :)

Enjoy your holiday weekend!

Corn Hole Season has begun...

...And Jackson's is ready to play. Who wants to be on his team?

When did he get so big...

Lately, I look at Jackson and wonder when he became this "big-boy."

Tonight I felt like I had a teenager with me at dinner.

We were eating at one of our favorite restaurants. Jackson actually devoured a meal off the kids menu. While I sat and remembered the Gerber Stage 2 days.

When it was time to leave. Jackson climbed out of his high-chair (with a little help from Dad)...and then proceeded to walk (or waddle) behind Justin all the way to the car.

I walked behind Jackson. I was ready to pick him up if he fell, kiss a scraped knee, and suggest that I carry him the rest of the way. BUT...he never fell.

Instead, when Jackson arrived at our car. He threw his hands in the air as if to say, "I did it" and/or "put me in the car, Mom."

When did he get so big?

Jackson's One Year Photos!

Justin and I recently met Brooke and Dan Brand at a nearby park for Jackson's one year old photos. I had hoped for great weather and that is exactly what we got!

Jackson had a great time at the park - but wasn't always willing to "pose." But I didn't worry. I love the photos of him just enjoying himself at the park.

Check out the photos on the Brand Photography Blog. The link is below.

Enjoy!

http://brandphotodesign.blogspot.com/2009/05/jackson-is-one-year-old.html

Wishing you were here, Dad!

Today is my Dad's birthday.

He would have been 65.

All week I have felt as if I should have been rushing out to buy his gift. I probably would have bought him Ann Coulter's new book. I would have given him a hard time about buying into her right wing theories. Then, I would have read it when he was done just to argue some of her points with him.

I remember running to Cold Stone Creamery with my Mom last year for his birthday cake. He loved ice-cream cake. I don't care for it, but would give anything to share a piece with my Dad this year for his birthday.

In honor of my Dad's birthday...I would like to share just a few stories to show what a great father he was. My Dad was a "girls Dad." I'm not sure he would have known what to do with a son. Well, I'm sure he would have figured it out...but, boy, was he great to his three girls. Here is why:

• When Michelle had just started Valley Grove Elementary as the "new girl", she entered a cake decorating contest. My mom insisted she decorate the cake herself (even though my mom is an expert). My mom thought it would be a good lesson for Michelle to try on her own. My Dad and Michelle arrived at school with her sloppy cake she decorated ...only to find other cakes that were obviously decorated with Mom's help (if not a local bakery). Dad calmly looked at Michelle and said, "Want to get out of here and go to McDonald's?" Michelle took him up on his offer.
  

• Years later, when it came time for me to compete in the "invention" contest at school - Mom and Dad learned their lesson. Dad was to "help" me invent something. Dad pulled out his electrician skills and built the "Teenage Telephone Timer." The timer would automatically shut the telephone line off in an instant when the call time was over. I didn't win the "invention" contest...but I think it was because it was obvious I had "help." I didn't care that I didn't win. I was so impressed with my Dad's skills. I thought he was so smart.
  

• Having three girls, Dad never complained about attending beauty pageants for us when we were young. Instead, Dad would sit in the back and "gossip" with all the other mothers. At night, after dinner and a swim in the hotel pool...Dad would dish all the scoop he had gathered that day. I remember thinking all the Dad's did this. However, I know that wasn't true.
  

• When it came time for Deb and Shel to be in the band in high school. Dad was the "Band Booster President." His plaque showcasing his service to the high school band hung in his office for years. He wasn't so much proud of being president as he was proud to be a part his daughters activity.

• When I started high-school. I soon realized it wasn't "cool" to ride the school bus anymore. Dad immediately offered to take my friend, Jenny, and I to school each day. However, Dad made sure a stop at McDonald's for breakfast was part of our morning routine. Dad would ask Jenny and I about school, our friends, and activities. I can still picture sitting next to Jenny and across from my Dad with my Egg McMuffin.

• Speaking of Jenny...She was married in Florida a few years ago. Another long-time friend of mine was married in Florida the same year. As soon as the invites came in the mail. Both my parents were on the computer arranging flights. I always loved the way they loved my friends...and continued to do so as we became adults. My Dad would often ask about them or call me with excitement if he ran into one of them.
  

• At the end of my senior year in high school I tried out for cheerleader at Franklin College. I didn't make it. I was crushed. I vividly remember my dad sitting on my bed with me while I cried. All over cheerleading. He didn't care what it was over. He wasn't leaving until I felt better. A couple weeks into my freshman year at Franklin, I was notified that a girl had quit the cheerleading squad and I was asked to join. I had a matter of days before our first game. It was at another college 3 hours away. When the bus pulled up, there was my Mom and Dad. Decked out in their Blue and Gold ready to cheer on the Grizzlies...and me. They came the next week, the week after that, and the next week...

• My Dad never missed a Prom. I look back at all of my pictures of me getting ready for prom, photos with my date outside, pictures walking into prom, photos with friends after prom...and you can see my Dad in all of them. Both my parents were always involved in After Prom. I can remember Deb's After Prom vividly. My Dad dressed up as a clown in a park and "married" couples who had been to prom together. My mom was the "bag lady" and stood up with each couple as they got "married." I got to attend that After Prom with my parents...and I loved every minute of it. So did my Dad...

• Having my Dad walk me down the isle at my wedding was one of the bests parts of the day. Justin knows this. We talk often about how much it meant to me. I am Daddy's Little Girl...and I had looked forward to that moment for so long. Dad waited with me downstairs while the rest of the bridal party took their place. I remember he said to me, "I'm proud of you." I thought this was odd...I hadn't really accomplished anything. I fell in love and was marrying the man of my dreams...but I hadn't cured cancer or solved world hunger. Dad explained he was proud of the judgement I had in choosing a husband. He was proud of the adult I had become. I walked down the isle glowing partly because of who was standing at the other end...but also because of what my Dad had said to me.
  

There are countless other stories I could share to show you how truly lucky my sisters and I are to have had the father that we did. He was one of kind and couldn't have loved his daughters more.

I miss him everyday. I'm sad there won't be chances to create more stories like the ones above. So, instead, I hold on to the ones I do have.

Happy Birthday, Dad. We miss you...and love you even more.

One of these things is not like the other...

Kristen, Deb, Michelle, Mom, Grandma

On Mother’s Day my Grandma, Mom, and sisters sat down for a photo. We were excited that it turned out great.

I quickly came home to download the photo. As I looked at it...I realized how much I don't look like my sisters. Both my sisters have blond hair (though they get a little help with that) and both have very fair skin. I have dark hair and tan easily.

Everyone has always teased me that I was the "Milk Man's" child. Of course, that isn't true...but often think it is funny that I just don't look like my sisters. However, when I pull out old photos of my Mom - I see her short dark hair and I see myself in her a lot. :)

So…I thought it would be fun to take a poll...check it out on the side to the right of the blog. Who do you think I look like? Mom, Michelle, Deb...or the Milk Man?

Jackson's First Birthday Party - Part II

This past weekend, we held another birthday party for Jackson. This time, it was at Grandma Marge's house and all of Justin's extended family joined us to celebrate.

This is such a fun group of people and they have instantly fallen in love with Jackson. We are so lucky to have so many people who love him and who love us.

My Mom and Grandma also joined us for the celebration.

Check out the photos...you will notice a lawn mower, a four wheeler, a baseball mitt, and even an interactive pony...add that to a wagon, a firetruck, and a drum set...and this little boy is set for one year of fun! ...And our place officially looks like a Toys R Us. No worries, we are loving it!

A big thanks to all who helped us celebrate Jackson's birthday!

I feel like he will graduate high school next week. :)

What a difference a year makes!

Mother's Day 2008

Mother's Day 2009

Mother's Day 2009

I hope all of you had a wonderful Mother's day. I hope all of the mother's were showered with love and I hope the rest of you showered your mother with love.

Jackson surprised me with a Spa Day that I am already looking forward to. (He got me the same thing last year and remembered how much I loved it!)

I feel so lucky to be Jackson's mother. Motherhood has surprised me in so many ways. Yet, it challenges me each day. Each night when I tuck Jackson in to bed, I thank God for giving him to us. He has been the sole reason I have made it through a very tough year.

Jackson brings me happiness when I can't find it. He shows me strength when I don't seem to have any. He gives me laughter when I can't seem to laugh on my own.

It seemed odd today for Jackson to give me a gift...because I feel like I owe him so much already.

One day, I will repay him.

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all Moms reading this.

Justin and I wanted to take minute to wish some of the special Mothers in our lives a very happy Mother's Day.

Some of you have been moms for quite some time and have fun stories to share.

Some of you became a mother about the same time I did. I have enjoyed swamping "war" stories and laughing together.

Others are celebrating their very first mother's day today. How special!

No matter which category you fall under, we are blessed to have you in our lives.

Happy Mother's Day! Enjoy every minute of it!

Best Wishes, Jake and Jill!

JT, Jake, Adam, Justin, and Joe

Our good friend, Jake is getting married this weekend. Justin and I wanted to send Jake and his fiance', Jill, our best wishes for a wonderful wedding day...
and an even more wonderful life together.

Congrats!

Jackson's First Birthday Party

Well, I think Justin and I both survived Jackson's first birthday. I never questioned whether or not I would make it through the party...but I wasn't sure I would be able to accept that my baby was turning one.

Well, I did it.

Justin and I have spent the past couple of days talking about how big he truly is. We know that there are so many more "firsts" and exciting things to come. Jackson surprises us each day with something new. We look forward to year two!

Thank you for all the calls, texts, e-mails, gifts, cards, and birthday wishes for Jackson. Justin and I know how lucky we are that we have so many people who care about Jackson. We will be sure to remind of this each day.

Also, a BIG thanks to Michelle and Tom for allowing us to host the party at their home. We owe you one!

Enjoy some of our favorite photos of Jackson's First Birthday party.


Watch the larger version in the picassa web album (link on right).

Note: Did you notice Jackson's REAL golf clubs! Grandpa John figured he needed to start his golf game a little early! Tee Hee!

We are celebrating more this weekend with one last party...we will have fun photos to share next week too.

Birthday Update is coming...

I'm still recovering from Jackson's party.

Jackson is still on a sugar high from all the birthday cake. We have all the gifts put away. All the left overs are in the fridge.

However, I just realized I took a gazillion pictures that day and it will take some time to go through them.

Check in tomorrow for the official birthday update...this Mommy is moving a little slow.

Jackson is pooped...

Who knew turning 1 is so exhausting?

... and so is Mom and Dad!

Before we hit the sack, we wanted to say a big thanks to all our friends and family who helped us celebrate Jackson's first birthday.

We are very lucky to have all of you in our lives.

Check back in this week to see photos and video from the big day.

One party down, one to go...we will party with Justin's family next week. Can't wait!

Happy First Birthday, Jackson!

Can you believe our little "baby" is one?

We can't.

We are enjoying a great weekend with Jackson.

Stay tuned for a full birthday report later this week.

For now, join us in wishing Jackson a very happy first birthday.

Dear Jackson,

Happy First Birthday!

It is hard to believe you are already a year old. And what a year it has been.

Your Dad has always told me that everything happens for a reason. This year has been tough and it is hard to say why things had to happen the way they did. But one thing is for sure, God gave us you to help us make it through this tough year. That is exactly what you did. As a mother, I always want to be here for you to lean on. However, the first year of your life I leaned on you. And you never let me down. I promise to never let you down.

I will always be grateful for having you in our lives during this time. Our first year with you wasn't what we expected, yet it was so wonderful. Words can't describe the joy you bring to our lives.

Thank you for being exactly who you are. Thank you for giggling the way you do, for crying at 5:15 a.m this morning, for clapping every time you hear music, for insisting you sit on my lap when I'm at the computer, for wanting to "help" Dad load the dishwasher, for loving to play in the bathtub, for FINALLY eating solid foods, for loving all of your grandparents the way you do, for the best kisses in the world, for always making diaper changes interesting, for having the cutest dimples in the world, and for just being all that makes you...you.

I was so scared to become a mother, yet I can't imagine not being your mother. I wish I could slow time down and soak in every moment with you. I promise to do my best to enjoy life with you and I know your Dad feels the same way.

I wish you all the happiness life can hand you.

I can't wait for the next year.

I love you with all of my heart.

Love,
Mom

1 year ago today...

I just received an e-mail from a friend, Kristin. She forwarded me an e-mail that I had sent to all of our friends 1-year ago today.

Little did I know, Jackson would arrive ON MY DUE DATE!

Kristin, thanks for sending this. It reminded me how excited I was when Jackson finally decided to arrive!

From: Kristen Bixler [mailto:krisbix@gmail.com]
Sent: Thursday, May 01, 2008 10:40 AM
To: Kristen Bixler Personal
Subject: Baby Jackson

Hi all,

Justin and I wanted to let everyone know the update on Baby Jackson.

My due date is Saturday. However, Jackson is showing no signs of arriving on time (must get that from me!). In fact, I even told Justin to go ahead and make a Tee time for Saturday - Only Justin would golf on my due date. :)

I am scheduled to be induced on May 9 (next Friday) unless Jackson comes before then....and babies do have their own agenda.

We will keep you all posted on Jackson's arrival. Thank you all for your love and support through this exciting time!

We hope you are all well.

Kristen

Something is missing...

It wouldn't be right for me to post each day this week to show how excited we are for Jackson's birthday to arrive without also sharing that there is something tugging at my heart as well.

I've sat down to write this post many times this week and end up walking away. There aren't words to express how much I am missing my Dad this week.

If my Dad was here, he would have been the first to calm me down when the computer crashed. He would have reassured me I would get the video redone on time. He probably would have been down to help (even though he wouldn't have known how to help...just being here would have made him feel better).

My Dad would have called me by now to discuss the menu for the party. I would have told him what I was planning and he would have added a million items I wouldn't see necessary. And in the end, his items would have been a hit. At the end of our conversation, Dad would have reminded me to bring some "small Cokes" for him. And...I would have.

My Dad probably would have thought of something to "make" ( AKA - have Uncle Tom make - tee hee) for Jackson's birthday. I always loved how he thought these "homemade" gifts meant more. He was right. But, he and Mom would have also already been to Toys R Us to pick out the perfect gift for Jackson. Mom still got the perfect gift, but I know she missed him during her shopping trip.

My Dad would love the stories of my sister, Michelle, and I giving each other a hard time over how many people I have invited to her house for the party (she says she is going to have to finish the basement in order to fit everyone in her house - ha). However, he wouldn't have had it any other way. In my Dad's eyes, celebrating a grandchild's birthday was a reason to gather all friends and family!

Needless to say, I miss my Dad. His absence is noticed each day I move forward. However, this week is especially hard.

Dear Dad,

Can you believe Jackson is one?

It is hard to believe that a year ago I called you to tell you I was in labor. Your response of shock with "Your kidding" was hilarious. We were all expecting Jackson to arrive any day, yet your shocked response displayed your excitement. I will never forget it. I love the story Mom shares about how you insisted she use the restroom at the hospital instead of before you left. You couldn't wait to get to me. I will share that story with Jackson some day.

I felt better when you and Mom arrived at the hospital. You came into the room every 30 minutes and watched the heart monitor as closely as you used to watch Larry Bird play basketball. You even alerted the nurse that Jackson's heart rate was dropping before she had noticed (after all - you had three daughters and had been through this before). In an instant I had nurses and doctors in my room helping with the issue. Even before Jackson arrived, you were watching over him.

I know that is exactly what you are doing now. As I tuck Jackson into bed each night, I look at your picture that hangs above his crib and I ask you to watch over him. I know I don't have to ask, but it makes me feel close to you.

I have missed seeing you with Jackson. If you were here, I'm sure you would be teaching Jackson to stick his tongue out at me or something rotten that I would insist you not do (but secretly loved that were doing). I wish I could see you bounce him on your knee, stick your teeth out at him (Maddie has shown him how you used to do it) or just simply love him.

As we celebrate Jackson's first birthday, you certainly are missed.

You made special occasions even more special.

I miss you,
Kristen

Pickles and Grandparents...

Tonight, Justin and I invited my Mom and his parents to join us at Panera Bread (Jackson's favorite) for an early "birthday dinner".

They were great company and so good to Jackson.

Grandma Charlotte fed him Broccoli Cheddar soup and Grandma Penny shared her pickle with Jackson (Well - he really just took it from her). Grandpa John helped entertain Jackson when Jackson was "over" the high chair.

Thanks to Grandma Charlotte, Grandma Penny, and Grandpa John for joining us as we celebrate Jackson's birthday week! We wanted to thank you for being such great grandparents all year long. Jackson is so lucky to have you...oh yea, us too! :)

Finished Product...

Last week I posted about my day with pottery. My girlfriends and I spent the day at the pottery place making our very own pieces (OK, maybe we were just painting them). We had lots of laughs (mostly at our own expense) and it was great fun.

I made Jackson a plate that he could use as he eats his first piece of birthday cake. Can't wait.

I wasn't too disappointed about how the plate turned out. It isn't perfect, but it was made with lots of love.

P.S. Girls, I picked up your pieces too...they all look great!

The Birthday Haircut

Check out the new bruise (right next to one he got on Sunday)

Tonight we took Jackson to get his haircut so he will look "dapper" at his party. He wasn't too sure what to think at first...but as always, he was all smiles in no time.

Check out the new bruise he picked up today. Its a good thing the colors of his party are black and blue....because that is what he will be by Sunday. It seems as he gains confidence with walking, he gains more bruises!

Jackson was in a great mood tonight. He giggled while I gave him "Eskimo kisses" and danced as we watched Dancing with the Stars. He was so much fun!

So far...Jackson's birthday week has been fantastic! Can't wait for tomorrow. :)

Let the Celebration Begin!

Who is the "kid" in this photo

We are officially kicking off Jackson's (two week) birthday celebration.

Today we lowered Jackson's crib to the lowest level. We decided it was time to do so when I walked into his room this morning and he was removing the frames from the wall above him. Jackson loved checking out the "new crib" and even showed off for the camera. Check out the photos above.

As you know, Jackson turning one has brought on some mixed emotions. We just can't believe our baby is walking and talking (and running the show). It is hard to admit Jackson doesn't want to always be held or need us to help get around. However, he is just so much fun these days. He adds something new to his "bag of tricks" each day. We can't wait to see what each day brings.

So please join us in officially kicking off the birthday celebration. This week, we have a busy schedule getting ready for a party at Uncle Tom and Aunt Shel's house (thanks for hosting Tom and Michelle!). Next week, we will be celebrating with the Creason's (Justin's extended family) at Grandma Marge's house (thanks for hosting Grandma Marge).

Check in this week and next to see how we are celebrating the big "ONE."

Quick Update

I have returned from the Apple Store.

There was nothing left of the hard drive. Not even a trace of the video that I have worked so hard on since March. Not even a glimpse of footage. Nothing. Notta. You get my point?

What is a Mom to do? Well, this mom is dedicating most of her weekend to re-doing the video.

Bless the "Apple Guy!" I cried on his shoulder for a good 10 minutes before he offered to have the computer fixed in a matter of hours.

I'm off to spend hours in front of a computer screen.

Wish me luck.

Calling all Techno Geeks...

Most of you know that I have been working on Jackson's first birthday video for a couple of months now.

Tonight, at about 11:30, I was finishing it up. All of the sudden the computer froze...and it hasn't moved since. The video is only saved to the computer.

I am taking the computer to the Apple store tomorrow. I will keep you posted.

Right now, I am going to TRY to sleep.

Ohhhhhh....how I hate technology!

Please keep your fingers crossed for me!

Happy Birthday, Ashley!

Todd, Jackson, Ashley, Justin

Justin and I want to wish his sister, Ashley, a very Happy Birthday!

Ashley is a great Aunt to Jackson. She is always willing to babysit and sends us such great photos when we are away from Jackson. She is always calling me for his latest sizes and always has the cutest gifts for him.

Ashley was also an amazing nanny for Jackson for six months. She stepped in at a very difficult time for me. We were to start sending Jackson to daycare two weeks after my Dad passed away. Justin and I were both so emotional over loosing my Dad that we were not ready to leave our new baby with strangers (one traumatic event at a time). Ashley came to stay with us and help take care of Jackson while I returned to work. We can't thank her enough!

Ash,

We hope you enjoy your day! We can't wait to celebrate on Sunday.

lots of love,
Justin, Kristen, and Jackson!

Rub a little dirt on it...

Strike a Pose (what is this pose)! Check out the bruises on both cheeks!

My family often uses the saying "Rub a little dirt on it." It means, "your not really hurt, pick yourself up and move on." Jackson gets it.

He is walking every where. He walks to the kitchen, to the family room, to the bathroom (even when I am in there)...and he even walks into doors, walls, or anything else that gets in his way.

This past weekend, he spent the night with Grandma and Grandpa Bixler. He came home with both bags (this kid doesn't travel light...but neither does his mommy)...and a new bruise. While showing off his walking skills, he fell into a stool and picked up a nice bruise on the right side of his face.

Tonight, Jackson was following Justin around the house and Justin didn't realize he had a "shadow." Justin opened a closet door and BAMB...he helped Jackson land a matching bruise on the left side.

Jackson never cries very long...he just "rubs a little dirt on it" and moves on. I on the other hand hold my breath and pray there isn't any blood.

Tough kid...not-so-tough Mom (Dad isn't so tough either).

Girls Day Out

Kristin, Amanda, and Jill being creative!

Just starting the plate

"Love, Mom"

Here is the plate before it was "fired"

J-A-C-K-S-O-N to be glued to the plate

Today my girlfriends and I got together for lunch and then tried out a local pottery "paint it yourself" studio. I was committed to making Jackson a "special plate" that he can use each year on his birthday or other special occasions. I know I could have purchased this plate at many stores, but I liked the fact that I "made" it. I hope Jackson will like it too... :)

The day turned out to be so much fun. However, painting pottery can be very stressful. At one point, I was sweating! My girlfriends and I had great laughs (especially at my colorful language when I would mess up - oops!).

We don't have our finished products just yet. We had to leave them to be "fired." We are not sure what "fired" means...but we kept saying it all day long...just to act like we knew what we were doing! :) I promise to post a picture of the finished plate next week. Stay tuned...

Our day ended at the Flying Cupcake where we had the best cupcakes I have ever had! It might have been my favorite part of our day!

Thanks to Amanda, Kristin, and Jill for such a fun day. I had a great day filled with laughs! I love you all!