Esther's Baby Shower

 It was dreary and drizzling outside, but inside was bright and festive!

Everything was set, and ready to bless one of my best friends as she and her husband prepare for their daughter's arrival.

 Menu:

Make-your-own fruit pizzas

Chocolate fondue

Muffins

Juice, Coffee, Tea

(it was all delicious!)

 And, for the tables, little (fake) presents with baby things on top.

And candy. There was candy.

 My dear Esther and her sweet mother:

 Esther's sister-in-law, Rachel, is also expecting and helped put the shower together.

It was fun to get this picture of all 3 of us!

 I know that everyone was happy to gift Esther and Joel with many things they need for their baby.

They are well prepared for her arrival!

I can't wait to hear news of the little lady's arrival, and my girls are excited to make her their newest friend!

Family Photos {2012}

O Christmas Tree {2012}

Pumpkin Cranberry Muffins

 INGREDIENTS:

2 c. flour

3/4 c. sugar

3 t. baking powder

1/2 t. salt

1/2 t. cinnamon

3/4 t. allspice

1/3 c. vegetable oil

2 eggs

3/4 c. canned pumpkin

2 c. fresh/frozen chopped cranberries

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Sift together dry ingredients

Whisk together oil, eggs, and pumpkin

Combine dry and moist ingredients, then fold in chopped cranberries.

Spoon into greased muffin tin. (Makes 12)

Bake 20-25 minutes. 

These store well in the refrigerator.

They are one of my favorite breakfast muffins!

(Disclaimer: I didn't make this recipe, but I don't remember where I found it. So, I'm giving it out, but remember, it's not mine originally.)

Childhood

 The years we have to play, to be simple, to be children

slip by so quickly.

I am thankful my Littles are in the years of simplicity.

Picnics with their play food...

Fitting just right on Daddy's shoulder...

Raw, stunning beauty that takes my breath away at every angle...

 Learning, sharing, together...

Taking a chance to be young and find out new things by simply doing...

Childhood is valuable.

The molding and shaping of every moment

to become adults of character, strength, integrity, dignity.

and in the brief moments of childhood

the future is born.