Misc. Monday: Easter (Last Edition)

 

He was pierced for our transgressions He was crushed for our sins. The punishment that brought us peace was upon Him And by His wounds, we are healed.

Isaiah 53:5

 I gave up playing candy crush for Lent. I haven't always followed this practice, and may not do it every year, but felt like I needed to this year. When I was bored and wanted to play, I would praise God for all that I have and thank Jesus for His amazing grace. It may sound silly or trite, but so often I find myself moving busily throughout my day, never even thinking about the one who made this life possible. I want to be more aware, joyful, grateful and in touch with my Savior because He has paid a debt for me that I could never repay.

Sew Crafty Satruday: Easter Eggs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Dyeing Easter eggs has always been a bit of an event in the Michael household. We usually have a few friends over for snacks and crafts, but this year, we decided to go it alone. The girls had such a nice time. They were focused and content. The boy was very interested, and after drawing on his tongue, trying to drink the green dye, and knocking the cup over, I sent him to bed. Lilly, Iris, and I continued on for another hour. I  bought these fun kits at Target and we used them as center pieces for Easter dinner. It was such a lovely afternoon. I guess growing up isn't that bad after all.

Wee Ones Wednesday: A Hunting We Will Go!

 

...in the Garcia's neighborhood.

 

 

...at home. first ever coin hunt, ending in bank filling.

 

...at Grandpa and Grandma Rydell's.

 

 

 

Wee-Ones Wednesday: American Girls

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Mom and I took the girls to the American Girl store at The Grove last weekend. Lilly and Iris have been wanting these dolls ever since they saw their first catalogue, and watched their cousins play with them. I was really torn about buying the dolls because they are sooo expensive, and I couldn't understand the appeal. We decided that the girls would spend their own money on the dolls, and G.ma & G.pa and Dan & I would help with the extras. I did my research and decided if we were going to do this, we were going to do it right, so I made reservations at the café.
Words can not express how sweet the girls were the entire day. They were appreciative. They were excited. They were grateful. They did not fight once. They picked out their dolls first. We paid for them, then shopped for outfits and accessories. There is so much to see at the store... a hospital, hair salon, library, rooms for the historical dolls, and there was even a place to set your doll in the bathroom.
The luncheon was magical; our dolls sat with us and had special little pink lemonade cups. Our waiter told jokes, riddles, and asked us questions. We were served a perfect 4 course meal that was simply beautiful. We were there from 10am until 3pm, and the hours just slipped by.
At bedtime, they asked me to make their dolls pajamas, and every night and morning since, they have changed their dolls' clothes. Lilly named her doll Lillian, and Iris named hers Lucy. I truly believe this was a day they will never forget, and that's totally worth it!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Dads, Dolls, and Diamonds

to say lilly was excited for her father-daughter dance would be an understatement.

dan pretended like he didn't want to go, but I know he was happy.

so gorgeous!

 

she can't wait for her turn.

 

official photo, gotta love the corsage.

i was quite jealous of those nachos.

the marshmallows and chocolate fountain were pretty popular, I hear.

...and they even danced!

I'm so grateful to Acacia Elementary for doing this for the girls, and couldn't help getting a bit weepy. She will always remember that her daddy took her to her first dance. Take that, prom date!

 

 

Misc. Monday: Grammy

 

 

 

 

Grammy turned 70 in March. Abby, Ryan and the kids came down to celebrate. We BBQ'd, broke open a piñata, sang, and opened presents. She was happy!

The next day, her friends surprised her with a birthday party. She was surprised! Hugs abounded, food was devoured, and she played along, reminding us that turning 21 again wasn't that bad. We love you, Grammy!!