{Yellow} is a Valentine's day color

You would think that I would know what day of the week Valentine's day falls on this year.  After all, it is Jonah's first Valentine's day.  Even though Valentine's day is a commercialized day, giving reason for many to spend money on flowers and chocolates,  it really should be every day we tell others we love them. But of course, I give into the commercialism and love when this day rolls around.  I am all smiles on this day, because..well...that's me, and if I have an excuse to wear red, make cookies, eat chocolate, give valentines, and celebrate love..well then I am all in! It also marks the first day Patrick and I spoke 9 years ago (yes,..I am that crazy to remember that!) and I cannot resist the urge to celebrate my new love of 'mommyhood' so of course this year is special in, and by, itself. 

So, as stated...I thought I'd know when the 14th rolled around this year. For some reason I convinced myself that Valentine's day was Tuesday of this week.  I had celebrated the day on Friday of last week with Patrick, as he is currently on a trip and we'd miss the day together. I still had planned on celebrating the day with Jonah--fully equipped with the appropriate love attire, a menu of red/pink/white foods(yes..there are purees he can enjoy festively), and of course smother him with all the hugs and kisses I desired! (because I know there will be a day when embarrassment will set in--affection from mom will be forced to drop down a notch in front of his friends..I can just see it now!)  It was all ready, but all ready for Tuesday. Not today. 

Nope.  Today I dressed him in yellow. It did not appear to me until I was on the way to the gym that TODAY in fact, was Valentine's day. Really, Sarah?! He had the cutest little shirt to wear.  Yes, for a second I thought..I can turn around, go back home, and change him. (I truly am admitting that) I then decided not to.  It didn't matter.  The little boy in the backseat was babbling away.  Looking in the rearview mirror, I just smiled. I love that little man. His laughter and innocence makes my heart melt.  My worries of what he was wearing became so cynical in my mind.  At that point, it really didn't matter if he was wearing a snowsuit. 

Most likely Jonah will not remember his first Valentine's day, let alone what he wore.  And who really will notice anyway, except me?  He did manage to have some strawberry puree this morning..so celebrations are somewhat still present.  It just goes to show you that sporting your festive attire on the 15th, rather than the 14th states that we never need an excuse to celebrate love.  So tomorrow Jonah will be decked out in his, "#1 with the Ladies" onesie.  Today, yellow will be just fine for my little Valentine. :)   

{showers of many blessings}

Recently I've had the privilege to attend two wedding showers honoring Monika. Each one reflected creativity and thoughtfulness.  Petite chicken curry salad sandwiches, chocolate soup, bleu cheese/apple quiche, and Austrian twist pastries were just a few items on the delicious food spreads presented.

The first was hosted by a dear friend, Ann Wylam.  Cards of advice were handed out, and guests shared stories.   A slide show reflecting Monika's journey towards love was presented, gifts opened, and many laughs shared.  Jinx Brandt, a long time family friend hosted the second shower.  Her creativity shined from the start, as invitations called to decorate a 'paper doll' bride with words of wisdom on her gown.  Guests released their artsy selves and displayed their paper gowns at the shower. I orchestrated games around a kitchen theme.  Gifts were given, laughs held, and a few tears of joy were spread. 

 Each shower revealed how blessed Monika is and the friendships she has. Guests in attendance portrayed a pure joy, love, and happiness for Monika and her family. It was clear that this time is very special to all those in the lives of the happy couple. Stories of how family members met, and the devotion of attending this special day warmed my heart. As I sat assembling Monika's 'bow bouquet' at each shower, I couldn't help but notice her ever present smile.  She glowed and will continue to! Witnessing the love, laughter, and joy in each room will always sit in my mind.   I cannot wait for this special day!!

        

      

  

  

A mindful conversation

Remember the movie, "Look Who's Talking"?  Iam sure the writers of that movie had fun coming up with a script!   Sometimes I really wonder what is going through little Jonah's mind.  Is he just rambling to ramble, or truly having a conversation?  Is he mimicking sounds he's heard?  This video is pretty funny-just watching his motions and thinking what could possibly be going on in that little mind of his.  

Jonah the jumpin' machine

We took this video a while back, and I just found it on our computer and had to post it.  He loves this jumper and it gives him all the exercise he wants!  This video makes us laugh every time we watch it.  Enjoy!