Stop and Smell the Tulips

On Tuesday mornings, B, W and I always have a date while C is at school. Some days we hang out at the book store and others we come home and make chocolate milk and play monster trucks, but this Tuesday, we tried something new. I saw someone post on facebook about the Netherland Carillon Park where there are some amazing tulips in bloom, so after we dropped off Cullen, we drove a few more miles north to check it out. 

It was absolutely worth the visit.

The park was actually right next to the Iwo Jima Memorial- one that I have driven by a thousand times but never seen up close.

After a while, B decided he wanted to take my camera and capture his own images. 

Unfortunately, I had my 50mm lens on and it is a manual focus, but I still love what he came up with (all straight off the camera, no edits).

 Budding photographer, I think.

I think it can only be cute to take pictures of random Veterans if you are 3. 

 I feel like it is so easy to get caught in a rut and not go and explore and take advantage of this awesome city we live in- so I am very grateful for this beautiful morning with my littlest boys.

Spring Fever

As you are well aware, I hated the cold of this winter. 

One snow? No problem. Snow in March? No, thank you. 

So when finally we had some pretty Spring weather this week, you bet we were outdoors as much as possible. It had been a while since I took my real camera on a simple adventure, so yesterday afternoon, the boys and I, and my 50mm lens, drove down to our favorite playground for some fun in the sun.

I am in love with this picture of Bennett. His eyes are the most unique color and I think this is one of the best photos I have of them. I also love his chipped teeth. I think I will be a little bit sad when he loses them.

I'm pretty sure the writing above Bennett's head said something about 'calling Julia for a good time' but let's just be grateful they can't read yet. And that they aren't mean middle schoolers.

 It is amazing what a little fresh air will do for all of us. The boys were so happy running around and Wells just sat there watching it all. I know he can't wait to join in.

 The other big event this week was the boys' first Major League Baseball game. Our friends Alysa and Anthony hooked us up with some amazing tickets, so we left Wells with Marme and took the boys out to the ballgame.

 You might have seen this pic on instagram (@katedaffodils) but it still cracks me up. Cullen got a foul ball and Bennett could care less. He just wants to savor his $5 skittles.

Our seats were actually so good that we had to move back a few row so the boys could see better. 

First World Problems I tell you. 

 The boys had an awesome first experience, which actually will probably never be topped. We are so grateful for our generous friends who allowed us to make this memory together!

I hope Spring Has Sprung where ever you are!

And thanks to everyone who linked up yesterday- the linky will stay open for a few more days, so feel free to add a post or visit some of the wonderful bloggers who joined in~

The Simple Things

Sometimes, there are days when the big picture is a bit overwhelming, so it is focusing on the little beautiful moments that make my heart sing.

Like my favorite flowers popping up every where (and all the people who have text, emailed and tagged me in pics of daffodils- I love it!)

And my sweet lacrosse players who are going to be so annoyed the first day of their real practice (in 2 and 4 years) that the other kids don't know how to play yet. 

Climbing trees,

A baby's first wagon ride,

 Three boys chatting over lunch,

And of course, in Wells' awesome electrifying hair and super rolly polly body. 

The simple things and wine keep us sane, don't they?

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Side note: 

April is the Month of the Military Child and I want to do a link up next week, let's say Thursday, for all of us with, thinking about having, who have appreciation for and/or were raised as military children. Any type of post that deals with your experience with or appreciation for the Military Child will be welcome.

Promise I won't be the only one linking up? 

No, I Don't Want To Build A &*!%@ing Snowman

Well, look what we woke up to again. The never ending winter. 

Six inches and a few more on the way today. No school again. And my poor daffodils...

So let's talk happy things, like the fact that it was 65 and sunny on Saturday

 We spent the weekend with my inlaws, first at Mike's lacrosse game on Saturday (no pictures) and then at their house all day yesterday. We met them down at our home church and went and visited my Papa's grave (he died when I was in 3rd grade, but since the passing of Opa, Cullen has had a lot of questions and he was very interested to 'meet' Papa). Afterwards, we spent the day with Deb, Scott and Mike.

Bennett gave me his best 'O look Mom, I'm 17 face'

 Cullen made sand balls

 And Wells showed off his rolly thighs

 and giant smile.

After dinner we came home for another early night for everyone (Kev and my cold is still lingering) and woke up to not only snow but a visit from the mischievous leprechaun. 

 Feel free to join us any time Spring, flowers and snow just doesn't look right. 

Happy St Patrick's Day to you all!

Speaking of Spring

Look what little man and I spotted yesterday:


Daffodils make Cullen just as happy as they make me!