We have a 5-year-old??

It's hard to believe that we already have a 5-year-old.  My, how time flies. 

While in Nebraska, we celebrated Emily's birthday with a giant cupcake cake, and with Grandpa Miles and Rita coming over to help us celebrate.

Back at home the next week, Emily chose to go to Mall of America for her birthday again this year.  We did "Toddler Tuesday" which means toddlers get special deals on rides and at restaurants.  Both girls had a blast on the rides this year, and Bri was much more brave than last year.

Even though Emily is not into American Girl dolls, we decided to eat lunch there since we knew she'd love it.  The restaurant is above the actual store and looks out over Nickelodeon Universe.  It is also all things girly and totally pink.  They let each of the girls pick out a doll to eat lunch with us, which they thought was pretty great. 

Her actual birthday started out with the traditional donut from dad. . .

and then she got to open a couple presents. 

She had preschool that day so she got to bring treats for everyone.  While at preschool I was busy working on her Minnie Mouse cake.  It was then a very last-minute idea to invite a few of her girlfriends over for cake and ice cream that night. 

As you can see, it was quite the crew.  I think they all had fun and Emily sure had a special day. 

P.S.  My dear Emily, I don't mind you turning 5;  it's kindergarten in a few short months that has me a little apprehensive.  :)

The Good Life

Jeremy had a work convention in Las Vegas the beginning of April so we all drove to Nebraska together and he flew from there with his friend Brian.  Then us girls got to stay with my parents for almost a week, and had a ton of fun.

One day we went to Morrill Hall, a museum on the UNL campus.  It was a special "animals day" so we got to see lots of neat animals and do some crafts.

I don't know if this is my daughter.  I cannot stand snakes!

The weather was beautiful while we were there, a wonderful change from the long Minnesota winter.  My brother and I used to spend hours throwing rocks into the creek when we were younger.  The difference is that I used to get way closer to the edge than I dared let Emily get.

Making some Tinkerbell stepping stones.

A fun morning at the Chet Ager indoor playground.

Another day it was a trip to the Lincoln Children's Museum, which they always love.  Here are my little Huskers.

Snuggles with grandpa.

Lots of time was spent playing in the yard -- soccer, volleyball, ladderball, . . .

and swings.

Thanks mom and dad for a wonderful week!