So, guess what...

it's true!

big, exciting stuff around here.

and we are feeling pretty darn happy and blessed about it.

The South.

Each time I visit the South I am completely taken with it.

  Each new place I've seen, I grow more and more in love with just about everything about it.

The seemingly slower pace of life, the smells...kind of earthy and damp, the way folks greet you and speak to you like you are a long lost friend.

I swear, part of me truly believes I was meant to live there.

This past week I got to enjoy a quick trip to South Carolina for a couple of days. And while it was a work trip peppered with meetings and dinners, they thankfully gave us quite a bit of free time to wander the gorgeous 22,000 acre plantation land.

Time to relax in my own private cottage on my own private screened in porch (honestly, is there anything more appealing than a screened in porch??!)

Time to read an entire book in 2 days.

Time to relax in a soaking sanctuary.

Time to ride the darling bikes they have parked outside each cottage around the grounds.

And time for an incredible facial, manicure and pedicure.

I came back feeling refreshed. And I'll tell you...I haven't felt refreshed in awhile.

Must be that sweet Southern air.

Well hello there.

Remember me?

  It's been awhile.

This little blog o' mine has been quite neglected as of recently.

How does time pass by so quickly?? How is it that weeks have passed and the thoughts I think of writing about 20 times a day never quite seem to make it on the screen?

Lack of time? Busy schedules? Rather snuggle a sweet little girl?

I think it's a combination of all of the above.

But...I love documenting our life here.

I love looking back and reviewing the past year's ups and downs. I love it not only for its timeline of events, but for the outlet it allows me. A way for me to take a step back and ponder...and through that pondering, more often than not comes a clearer realization of thankfulness.

  Thank you little blog...I pledge to be better at keeping up. If not for me, for Hans and Auntie Kay :)

And so...little things that make me extra thankful lately:

Sunday brunch with friends (and REALLY delicious Mighty-O donuts!)

The friendship between these two...

Easter gatherings with family, gorgeous weather, and a passed down dress on a little one that used to be mine.

The extra-excited-shake-face made quite a few appearances with each egg opening this year!

Zoo adventures

And little girls holding hands...

Backyard apple blossom tree.

First outdoor lunch of the season.

Just being outside in general...the vitamin D did some serious wonders last weekend.

Happy thankful week friends!

Not my best month.

I have to be honest with you.

March has not been my favorite month. Not by a long shot.

  I've been in a funk. And I hate being in funks.

Probably due to the fact it feels like I've been sick the entire month (this cough is STILL hanging on), coupled with the seemingly non-stop rain we've been having...it's just all left me feeling a little...bleh.

  And maybe the worst part it, probably the part that makes me feel the most guilty about feeling "bleh" is that it certainly hasn't been for lack of fun things to do. So what is my deal?!

We've been doing lots of coloring...

Zoo time with Grammie when she visited...

I think we may have a hoarder on our hands.

Birthday celebrations...

And lots of good family time.

But today was different. These last few days have been different.

The sun has been shining and I can feel the funk evaporating away.

I am so ready for Spring and everything that comes with it.

I'm ready to wear pastels, to open windows, and get my hands in the dirt.

Especially after the inspiring demonstration our Bloomers group had this week on planting large pots...I can't wait to figure out where I want to place some strategically around our yard!

I can feel the change happening...and I'm certain April will bring with it some renewed energy.

I just needed a little change of perspective.

And that sunshine doesn't hurt either.

Happy spring-sun-happy-positive weekend to you all!

Spring?

I agree Charlotte.

It's time for some spring wardrobe updates.

 

I'm getting a little tired of sweaters, coates and hats.

Not to mention the snow. Seriously? Snow. In March. (although it didn't stick)

Help us out here Mother Nature. We're ready for a little Spring action.

Out of commission.

Phew. This sickness that invaded my body last Wednesday has been a real doozy.

Apparently it's been going around.

These four things have been my constant companions as of lately.

 

I'm ready for some new companions.

Weekends away.

There is a balance to life that often needs a little shifting. And sometimes that needed shift comes in the form of the beloved "weekend away".

Time away from chores and mental to-do list's that should be getting accomplished.

Time just to relax.

I'm lucky that I have a husband who declares that anytime we leave the city it's vacation!..and we fully embrace our time away.

Time with friends to play games and have absurd dance competitions

(how have I never played Dance, Dance Revolution before? Ah-mazing.)

And of course...to eat a lot of good food and sip on our favorite poison's, depending on the time of day.

A weekend sans kiddos to do with whatever we pleased (while cozied in Mike's bosses amazing house in Whistler--BONUS!)

Uninterupted adult conversation is really a thing of beauty.

But then there's the other kind of weekend away.

One filled totally and completely with family. With exploring, returning home, a brother's 30th birthday celebration...these weekends as well, fill my heart.

She much prefers to push the stroller herself.

Oh, and I just have to tell you...the heart, fleece lined rain jacket? Found at consignment store in Walla Walla for $5! Score.

This weekend we are here.

Because as wonderful as weekends away are, there is something equally as wonderful about staying home. Hope this weekend finds you peaceful quiet moments mixed with some action as well!

Happy Saturday friends.

xoxo

All you need is love.

Love is all you need.

(And perhaps a very large stuffed bear photo opportunity.)

Him and her.

My valentine loves.