Fun Table Settings

As I was browsing fun blogs one day, I came across these super easy table settings. They are designed for the kids' table, but I thought they were darling for all festive occasions and for all ages. All it takes is scrapbook paper, 3D stickers, some glue dots, paper napkins and plastic cups (and whatever else you decide to throw in there). You can even use paper/plastic plates and utensils for added color and fun. My sister-in-law, Nikki, and I teamed-up for Easter and made them for the first time. We loved it so much, and it added a lot to our family dinner together.

I decided to throw something together at the last minute for Mother's Day, and they turned out great! It's fun to choose from all the different combinations of scrapbook paper and stickers--the possibilities are endless! It's a fun way to make holidays and special occasions a little more personal and vibrant.

Here's the original website: http://www.hostessblog.com/2010/03/budget-friendly-easter-kids-table-ideas/

The Blessing of Mother's Day

The reason I LOVE Mother's Day?

I get to be a mom to this ADORABLE...
AMAZING...
HAPPY...

CHARMING little girl!

Being Annabelle's mom is the greatest blessing I've ever known--definitely a role worth celebrating!

Mother's Day Prep Party!

This year for Mother's Day I wanted to do something fun to recognize two influential mothers in Annabelle's life: Brittany and Nikki (2 of her aunts). Next to me and my own mother, Brittany and Nikki are the most influential role models of mothers in Annabelle's life. Annabelle LOVES Brittany and Nikki, and they are both wonderful examples to her. She talks about them constantly and loves to visit them and their daughters. Most importantly, she is always taken care of and loved when she is in their presence, which is comforting to me. It is nice to have close family members willing to help out with babysitting from time-to-time, but Brittany and Nikki truly go above and beyond babysitting--they are caring, loving, strong, capable women and mothers who not only make sure she stays safe, but who also genuinely and sincerely LOVE her. This gives me peace. Annabelle and I are blessed to have them in our lives, and are thankful for their example. We admire their beauty, tenderness, spirituality, strength, cooking skills, patience, sense of humor, acceptance, and willingness to help out. When I was in the hospital for E-coli, Brittany and Nikki took turns taking care of her while my mom stayed with me in the hospital. They didn't take turns because the amount of time was too much for one person; they took turns because BOTH of them wanted her and they had to share :) What a relief and a comfort to be surrounded by wonderful women like that!

Well, Annabelle and I didn't think of anything fancy, but decided that we would have a little party at grandma's to paint aprons and bake cookies for these lovely mothers. It turned out great! I had Annabelle make Nikki's and I invited Paige to make one for Brittany. They both had a great time, and were happy to participate. The cookies didn't quite make it to them--sorry girls! :) We LOVE you and appreciate your love!

I like putting little dots of all colors on my apron!

Isn't it beautiful?! I love the rainbow!


Mmmmmm...Mmmm this frosting is delicious and makes us smile!

I think I'm getting the hang of this. But really, all I want to do is eat the dough!

Is it bad manners to lick the knife...A LOT?! I guess not when you decide to keep the cookies for yourself right? :)

The sugar has gotten to me, and I am about to pull out my super cute smiles and laughs!

Paige you are SO funny! That song you're singing cracks me up every time!

Happy Mother's Day!