Happy Easter!

Our family wanted to wish all of you, a very Happy Easter! What a blessed day this is! We're looking forward to celebrating our dear Lord. And spending plenty of time, with our family and friends!

I just might have baked a few of these cakes. And have tons of food, for later. The Easter bunny has visited. And we have our Sunday Best ready! Our family from Texas, has been visiting. And we hope to have an amazing day with them! Happy Easter!

~Manders

New in 2012: Bunny Cake

My new thing this week, was making this Bunny Cake. I'm not a "fancy" baker. I make cupcakes, pies, cookies, cakes, etc. But nothing too fancy. Not shaped. Not bunnies. No fancy piping.

But this week, a few friends and I, decided to meet for a "Lunch and Play Date." For us and our kids. And I wanted to make something fun. Interesting. And something "Spring-y."

Lola pointed me to this recipe. Which was amazing! Now I feel like, I should have been doing this years ago! There were a few "challenging" things, but it was overall super easy! How could it not be? You use a box cake, and store bought frosting!



The thing I learned about making this cake was, to be a little patient. :) And to bake it, when my kiddos were napping. That worked perfectly! After I baked the cake, and "shaped it," I stuck it in the freezer. Just like the instructions said. It made frosting, and decorating it, so much easier!

Now that I've tackled one cake, I might try something else! I don't know. Something fun for Mother's Day. But I know one thing, I'll definitely be baking this cake, for Easter. I'm sure my family will enjoy it!

~Manders

They're 2!

Dear Abby and Robbie,

Happy 2nd Birthday! We can't believe how quickly, you are growing up. 2 years ago, we welcomed you both, into our family. The perfect fit! The 2 of you, made our family whole, and complete.

We can't get over, how big you are getting. How quickly time is passing. And how much fun we're having! Sometimes, we just want to press "Pause." Because we know, that soon you will be too big for cuddles and butterfly kisses.

2 years ago, we were anxious to meet you. Lauren talked to you both, every day. Telling you, about all the fun, you'd have. And you know what, she was right. What a fun big sister, you guys have. She helps you 2, get into a lot of fun!

Just a year ago, you were both wobbling around. Really trying to master your walking. Today, you both are running full speed! Riding ponies. And showing me, how real cowgirls and cowboys dance!

These 2 years, have flown by! We've made so many memories. And we look forward, to all the memories, that we still have to make! Most of all, we look forward to, watching you 2 grow. And become amazing people.

We know that we're lucky! To be your Mommy and Daddy. That God sent us, 2 of the most perfect souls. And trusted us, to raise you. And shape you. Into beautiful souls. An amazing woman, and man. Your Mommy and Daddy, are trying their best. But most of all, we want you to know, that we'll ALWAYS love you both! Happy 2nd Birthday!!!

~Love, Mommy and Daddy

Happy Birthday Lola!

Today is a very special day. It's Lola's birthday! And we wanted to wish her a very Happy Birthday! Lola is very special to our family. She's an amazing woman, musician, Nana, friend, doctor, student, cook, baker, crafter, and did I mention best friend. :) We hope that Lola has an amazing day! Because she deserves it, more than anyone else that I know! Happy Birthday Lola! May all your dreams and wishes come true!

~Billy, Manders, Lauren, Abby, and Robbie

She's 5!

Dear Lauren,

Happy 5th Birthday! Sweet girl, where has time gone! I still remember you, being in my belly. Kicking and fluttering about. Kicking, when your Daddy asked nicely. And here you are. All grown up. 5 years old, and in school!

The day you were born, was so special. The time, that the 3 of us spent together, was some of the sweetest time. When you took your Mommy and Daddy's hearts. And you've had them, ever since. :)

Lauren, you've taught us so much. About love. And family. You've shown us the world, in a different light. You've softened your Daddy. And taught your Mommy. You Sweet Girl, made us a family. Something, that we will cherish, all our lives!

All those months, when you were growing inside me, I wanted to meet you. We both did. We imagined, what life would be like. But we could never have imagined, just how amazing, our lives would become! How you alone, would change our lives, so very much!

Today you are 5 years old! So big. And special. The most cuddly, soft spoken, loving little girl. Smart as a whistle! With the biggest heart. We are blessed! All of us! You have taught your Mommy and Daddy, how to be a Mommy and Daddy. To love, in such a different, and amazing ways. And no one, is a better big sister!

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl! We hope that God continues to bless you. To continue, to grow in your heart, and soul. To show you, the good in life. And to help you, to achieve all of your dreams. We LOVE you, more than words can say! Happy 5th Birthday Lauren!!!

~Love, Mommy and Daddy

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Happy St. Patty's Day! Do you have any special plans? Well, we did. Until Wednesday. When we found out, Lauren had to dance. It was a last minute thing. So it put a wrench in our plans. But that's OK. We all enjoy, watching her. She's seriously, the cutest little dancer, that I've ever seen! :)

We are starting our day with green pancakes. Yum! Billy has actually, just headed down to the kitchen. And our kiddos, are all half asleep. Just climbed into Mommy and Daddy's bed, for Saturday morning cartoons. How else, would you start St. Patty's Day?



After Lauren performs, we're going to my friend's Baby Shower. She expecting her 3rd baby. Her 1st little girl! Talk about an excited lady! :) And we get to see Lola again! She's hosting the shower.

Then the whole "Birthday Party Schedule," sorta fell through. Because of this dance thing. And Spring Break. And my In-Laws can't come. Oh, and the Rodeo next weekend. That means, Sals is going to have her 2 parties next weekend. And I'll have our 2, the following weekend. Gives me a few more days, to finish up my projects!

It's not all bad news. Just a few complcations. But nothing, that we can't deal with. I'd rather postpone, and have my In-Laws here. It wouldn't be the same, without them. And this way, I can help Sals.

My girls and I, are sporting our green nails. And we've all, picked out something green to wear. Billy and Robbie have big plans today. To go help J, with a project. I'm not exactly sure of the details. But it's "Guy Time." That I'm sure, they're all excited about!

I better get going. I have lots of cuddling to do! With my 3 kiddos. Before breakfast is ready. And our day really begins. Happy St. Patty's Day, from our house, to yours!

~Manders

Oh So Innocent!

Early this week, Lauren and I, ran into Walgreen's. Billy was home with the twins. And he called me, to ask me, to pick up a few things. Right after Lauren's dance practice, we stopped. The lines were crazy! And these are the times, when I'm grateful for my kids. My easy going, don't throw tantrum kids. :)

Eventually, they opened the register, in the Beauty section. And we headed that way. Lauren had been a doll! Carrying a card we picked up, some cough drops, and a pack of chapstick. The girl, didn't even ask for anything!

This Mommy, was feeling oh so guilty! You see, I was carry milk, bandaids, some chocolate for Billy, and 4 magazines. Of that stuff, only the first 3 were on our list. So I told Lauren, to pick something out. We had 2 people in front of us. So I wasn't worried.

What I hadn't noticed was, Lauren was eyeing the nail polish stash. All the gorgeous colors, lined up. Immediately, she went for this green nail polish.



Her reasoning, it was perfect for St. Patty's Day! Because she has to dance that day. And won't be wearing green the whole time. I think Lauren's worried about getting pinched. So we bought the nail polish. Mommy might have also picked up a new lipstick. :)

What I will say is, my girls LOVE nail polish. We actually have weekly "nail painting" nights! This week, we all went for "Innocent" nails.

2 things about this nail polish. I LOVE the color. It's not a crazy neon. But a nice, bright green. I also love the consistency of the polish. It's really easy to work with. Even with 2 little girls. 2 coats later, we were ready for St. Patty's Day! Between, that was 3 days ago. And there is no signs of chips! Best $2 nail polish, that I know of!

On a quick note, Happy Birthday Cari! We can't wait to celebrate with you. How exciting this day is. The beginning of you, becoming a real "woman." Happy 13th!

~Manders

Fast Food...

I've blogged many times, about Lauren's Little Pink Playhouse. To date, it's the best money, that Billy and I, have ever spent on a toy. No lie!

Anytime that Lauren has some money, she wants to buy something for her playhouse. When anyone asks Lauren, what she wants for Christmas, or her birthday, she asks for something for her playhouse. Lucky us, T-Lo always sends something fun!

I can't lie. The other night, I couldn't sleep. So I logged on to our computer, and started "Blog Hopping." :) Not only did I find a fun, and new blog...I found this fun pattern!



In our house, we make pancakes once a week. And on special days...like birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. This was a "no brainer" to me. I printed off this pattern. Looked through my yarn. And tonight, I'm going to start working on it.

This is going to be one of Lauren's birthday presents. :) I just wish that I could find some other quick, and easy patterns. Because I know that she will enjoy some new toys, for her playhouse. I don't mind buying the patterns either. So if you have some ideas, please leave me a comment. I'm always looking for new ideas, patterns, Etsy shops, etc.

~Manders

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day! We have some rather simple plans for today. Billy is making us all breakfast in bed. In fact, I'm supposed to be sleeping still. :) But I could smell the pancakes, and I couldn't will myself back to sleep. I do believe, our kiddos are still snug in their beds.



Lauren has school today. And her goodies are ready to go. We're giving our kids a small treat, and new outfit this morning. And tonight, we've planned an indoor picnic. Spaghetti is on the menu. With these cakes. Which I need to bake! And Lady and the Tramp.

Years ago, we'd plan something crazy. Just my hubby and me. We'd get all dolled up. And hit the town. These days, these simple plans, feel so much more rewarding! Besides, it's all about the people you spend your time with. And I could spend an eternity, snuggling with my hubby and kiddos. Yes, that sounds like heaven to me!

~Manders

My Funny Valentines

This will be the 7th Valentine's Day, that Billy and I celebrate together. :) And I can say this much, I'm more in love with him, with each passing day. I honestly, couldn't imagine what life would be like, without my hubby!

With our itty bitties, it's a little tough for us to get away. Honestly, I don't think either of us wants to leave them. Not even on Valentine's Day! So we've planned some at home fun. Just for our little family!

Billy and I picked up Lady and the Tramp. A movie that our kiddos have been wanting to see. I'm planning a yummy spaghetti dinner. With these cute cakes for dessert. A big bowl of popcorn, with Valentine's M&Ms. And lots of snuggling.

We've made treats for the kids, and decorated the house. Lauren's Valentines for school, are ready. And love is definitely in the air! I can't wait for tomorrow to come. To celebrate this day of love, with my funny Valentines. :)




And this song, ALWAYS reminds me of my amazing hubby. This man that God sent me. To love me. To live this life with. To grow our family together. It's just #7 for us. I can see us celebrating well into our 90s!

~Manders

Fun Dessert!

Do you remember me blogging about Shay? She has this amazing cooking blog! Yum! Well, I was catching up on my blog reading, and I came across this picture.



Conversation Cakes! What a great idea. Now I know, what special surprise, I'm making for my kiddos. On Valentine's Day. I know, they just love them! Now I need to decide, what color to dye them. :)

~Manders

Planning 2 Birthday Parties

I spent 3 hours, last night, on this website. Trying to get some ideas. My kiddos' birthdays are in a few weeks. About 6 weeks to be honest! And I have absolutely no idea, what kind of party, we're going to have.



I do know, that we'll throw Lauren her own party. And the following weekend, the twins will have theirs. But that's all I know. Last year, Lauren wanted a Cowgirl and Pony party. That just what she got. :) It was really a lot of fun! And we had a cute Barn Animal party for the twins. This year, I'm all out of ideas!

Sals is planning a Sesame Street themed party, for her twins. Such a great idea. Because they LOVE Sesame Street. Me? I have no ideas. AT ALL!!! Lauren has no specific ideas either. Last year, she knew months ahead of time. This year, she just wants a strawberry cake with whipped cream. :)

Do you have any ideas? We'd welcome any suggestions! Any! To be 100% honest, I'm leaning towards a ballerina or dress up party for Lauren. She's big into both of those areas. And I think that she'd enjoy it. For the twins...I have no idea. What kind of party can I throw my sweet babies?

~Manders

Yum!

When I first met Billy, he always talked about Whoopie Pies. I honestly didn't know, what in the world they were. My entire life changed, in more ways than one, when I met Billy's family. I always remember meeting my mother-in-law. She came, with a HUGE tray of whoopie pies. And a HUGE hug! And these little desserts, they were delicious!

Every time we see Billy's mom, she greets us with a different variety. All yummy! But for some reason, I've never tried making them. Maybe I worry, that mine won't be as good as hers. And to be honest, I've never wanted to learn how to make them. Until now. When I read this recipe.



Don't these whoopie pies look so yummy? I think so. And I want to try them out this weekend. I'm thinking, if they turn out well, this would be perfect for Valentine's Day! More specifically, for Lauren's class. I think she'd enjoy talking these to school. With her little cards. By the way, if you haven't read Shay's blog, you are missing out! There are so many great recipes there!

~Manders

Happy Birthday Hills!

Today is my friend Hills' birthday. We became friends, via Lola. I read her blog. And soon, we became good friends. Hills is such an amazing woman. So strong! She's had a rough few years. But things finally seem to be turning around for her. I've never been so happy for a friend! And today, I just want Hills to know, that we all love her. Happy Birthday!

~Manders

It's 2012...Great News!

Where do I begin? 2012, is already off to a GREAT start! I'm pretty sure, that it's safe to tell you all. Megan and Robbie, our good friends, got engaged. Shortly after midnight, on New Year's! :) It was super sweet. They've dated for a long time. A super long time! But then again, Billy and I only dated for 4 months, before we got married. :)

Robbie had everything planned out. He bought the ring, and then asked all of us ladies, what we thought about it. Honestly, it was perfect. Just what Megan likes. The BBs were performing. And right before midnight, all of us "significant others," joined the band on stage. We counted down until midnight. And before you knew it, Robbie was down on one knee! It was so perfect. And beautiful!



In other great news, my little brother who's in the Marines, is coming home! He has been stationed overseas, for almost his entire career! Let me tell you, it completely stresses me out. I pray for him, multiple times a day. But I know, that he's doing exactly what he wants to do. We had a serious talk one day, and he told me, this was his calling. This is what he's supposed to be doing with his life. I respect that. And I'm so proud of my brother. But let me tell you, when he told us, that he was coming back to the USA in September, I just about died of happiness!

Like I said, I know that he enjoys his job. To him, it's his calling. But it will be nice, to have my brother a little closer to home. In a much safer environment. At least for a little while. I know that our entire family, is looking forward to this.

And the last of our big and happy news, Billy's brother and his wife, are expecting baby #6! We're so happy for them. I think that this is going to be their last little one. So it's a little bittersweet. Do you know what I mean? We felt the same way, with our twins. We were excited about our twins. But we were sad, knowing that we wouldn't have anymore babies.

Yes, 2012 is already looking up. So many great things to look forward too. 2 days in, is your 2012 looking good? I hope so. With the state of the world, and our country, we all need something to hold onto. Something to give us some hope.

~Manders

Happy New Year's!

Happy 2012! I just can't believe that we're starting another year. Why is time moving so quickly? Wasn't it just 2006? And I was still a newlywed...



I hope that everyone had a safe and fun celebration. My hubby and I were working. But we can't complain. Our job is fun! Not many people get paid to do what we do. We work with our friends. Who are very much our family. Doing what we enjoy. I get the chance to do Lola's hair and makeup. Billy gets to sing and perform.

It was an amazing evening. After the BBs performed, we got to hang around. And were VIPs to our bosses' VIP party. Afterwards, a little breakfast with our friends was in order. Then to our room. We haven't had much sleep. But we're going to spend the day with our kiddos. :)

I couldn't think of a better way to start 2012. Ringing in the New Year with friends. And spending the day with our kids. We have another show tonight. But we still have hours of fun, with the most amazing 3 kiddos I know! From our family to yours, we hope that 2012 brings you much happiness, health, and good fortunes.

~Manders

Happy Birthday Maribel

Our family just wanted to wish a very Happy Birthday to Miss Maribel! Today she is 4 years old. And if I haven't mentioned it before, Maribel and Lauren are best friends. Born just 2 days apart. They see each other at least 5 days a week. No lie! Both girls dance together, and love to spend lots of time playing together. Yes, today is a special day. Happy Birthday Miss Maribel! Love and kisses from our family!

~Manders

Happy Birthday Lauren!

Today is Lauren's 4th Birthday! I just can't believe it. Where did all the time go? Honestly, 4 years ago, I was scared to death! Would I be a good mom? Would I know what to do? How would we handle going from a couple to a family?

But you know what? It was the best thing that has ever happened to Billy and I. 4 years ago, in Texas, we became parents. Our lives were forever changed. For the best! And we've had such an enjoyable time watching our little girl grow.

The things that I enjoy the most, are just cuddling with Lauren. She is the most loveable little girl. Crawling in her Little Pink Play House, it still tickles my heart. :) Watching Lauren play with her dolls, it just makes me think of our future. I know one day, she'll be an amazing mommy. She is just so loving.

And in the last year, while Billy and I tried to adjust to having twins, and a beautiful little girl, Lauren was just an angel. So loving to Abby and Robbie. Playing with them. Making them so happy. Reading a great book to her babies. I just love it!

This is a very special day. My sweet little girl is just getting so big! And I absolutely adore being her mommy. I couldn't imagine life without Lauren. She honestly has made me a better person. I thank God everyday for my family. And for my sweet little girl.

I just wish that time wouldn't go by so quickly. I feel like I'm not getting enough time with my little girl. But I'm honored to be her mommy. To be able to help her grow into a healthy, smart, and happy woman. I'm truly blessed. Happy Birthday Lauren! Your Mommy and Daddy love you so much. We're so lucky to be your parents.

~Mommy

Happy St. Patty's Day

Happy St. Patty's Day! Is it funny that I'm so excited about this holiday? I find now that I'm a mommy, I really enjoy every holiday. It's just so fun to get "into the holidays" with kids. I know, I'm probably a little crazy. But I'm excited about making my kids green pancakes today. And dressing up in green. It's just fun! I hope everyone gets some time to enjoy today. The twins and I are going to join Lauren at her Dance Class party. I'm thinking, this is going to be fun. :)

~Manders

Special Gift

When Lauren was born, my mom got me this amazing stained glass window hanging. Of a baby girl. Pink bonnet and all! I cherish it. And it is hung, in the window, of my makeup room. Well, my mom had been telling me, that she had a present for me. But she couldn't find it. I'd forgotten about it. Until today...



My mom not only found my present, but mailed it to me. 2 more babies for my window! These cuties are being hung in our kitchen nook window. I just love that my mom thinks of such wonderful and meaningful gifts. Thank you momma!

~Manders