My Baby Graduated!

One week ago today, my baby graduated from high school.

So many years ago, people would tell me, (usually "old" ladies) "Cherish the time you have with them now, they grow up so fast.", Or, "Time Flies.", or "You blink and they're all grown up."

It's true. It's all true.

I love being a mom. I loved every stage. And as we get ready celebrate Hannah's graduation, I am reminded to savor our days ahead...the stages in their lives...in our lives, the moments and memories. They pass by all too quickly.

Newborn Hannah

Hannah at 1

Julia and Hannah 2&1 (bad colds and cute jammies)

Julia, Jessica, and Hannah, our 3 girls

Hannah and Julia

Congratulations baby Er!!  I love you! We are SO proud! :)

Weeding &Things

Finally, a beautiful morning! It's still over cast, but before 8:00 a.m., I got a lot of weeding done. Although the grass is beginning to green up, not many flowers are peeking out yet. But we do have a little color...

Bah! Really? It's a whole bouquet! 

OH!  I almost forgot!

A couple of weeks ago, (you know, that Trader Joe's outing)  I also stopped at Goodwill. Sometimes I find great deals there, but usually I find a lot of things I can live without. On this particular day I found 2 things for under $10.

This adorable, vintage aluminum lazy susan...I love useful and especially cute finds.

And this almost new pair of heels. (Also cute and useful!)

I couldn't resist the color. 

Too bad my ankle is still to weak to wear them. 

Cold Weather, Hot Soup & A Warm Heart

It's been raining (some snowing) here for a week now. Alright already, Wisconsin. I'm fed up.

Speaking of being fed... First, "A rabbit trail", as my mom calls it.

 Days like the cold, damp ones we've been having lately really takes a toll on me. It's hard on my body and mood, and I dislike being out in it. (I know I'm not alone in this)
Yesterday, however, I had to go out. My husband and I are in the middle of a few projects right now and a client needed some tile samples. So off I went. We live out in the country, so we try to get as much done on these trips as possible. After I was done finding samples, I stopped at Trader Joe's to get a few things. I've heard a lot about the store, but have never actually made a purchase there...

Okay, it's my new favorite grocery store. It was worth going out for. :)

I got everything on my list for a new soup I wanted to try, plus normal stuff for under $40.

Here is the recipe I couldn't wait to try: Edie's creamy chicken tortilla soup, is 

D E L I S H and very quick and easy to make. 

I made this soup for lunch today. It was just what our bodies needed around here and this damp, cold day. Then, when I went out to the studio, I found something that warmed my heart...

Even at 18 years old, my Hannah thinks to leave little (quickly written) notes to let me know that she loves me. *sigh*