Mia's 1st birthday

Mia's first birthday was a success! Although there was torrential downpour and high gusty winds, the party went on. Mia had lots of helpers to open gifts, good thing too because she was not so interested in opening them herself. Mia did great for most of the party, but became very exhausted by the time 7pm rolled around. Here are a few snapshots of our ladybug party (thanks mostly to Alexis for taking these photos!) And HUGE compliments to my Mom-in-law and Sister-in-law who made and decorated the cake/cupcakes!

We are traveling!

o as I prepare to leave for our trek east to PA, and NJ. I wanted to take a moment take a moment to stop and reflect on the past year...Mia is about to turn 1! I just can't believe what a huge blessing and joy she has been in our lives. I have learned so much from her. We are heading east for the AOTA conference and to celebrate Mia's first birthday with family. We are excited for this little adventure. We are so in Love with her!

The simplicity of children

Earlier today, my mother-in-law and I were at Easton sitting at Five Guys burgers and fries right by the escalator. While we were people watching and eating our lunch, a mother and her 2 children approached the escalator. 1 child was in front, the mother in the middle, and the 2nd child brining up the rear. Both the 1st child and mother casually got on the escalator and proceed down. Meanwhile, the second child developed an on the spot sense of fear and was unable to willingly propel herself onto the escalator as her mother and sister continued to ride down and disappear from sight. The child was standing at the top crying, saying "I can't do it. Mom, come back, I can't get on it, I'm scared!" The mom proceed to coax her child onto the escalator without having to climb it back up herself, but to no avail. In a instant, another mother and her daughter (who appeared to be of similar age as the crying child ~7 y/o) approached the escalator to ride down. This child without hesitation casually grabbed her hand as she stepped onto the escalator, prompting the crying girl to follow while holding hands. They rode all the way down together. They did not know each other but it amazed me how such a simple gesture from a 7 year old stranger helped this little girl overcome her fear. It was so precious, and the look of pride on the mom's face behind the 2 girls as they rode down together was priceless. I pray that I am able to instill such courage and compassion for others in need in my own little girl.

Coupon Queen

So couponing has been something I thoroughly enjoy and have really gotten into over the last year. Now I am not even close to extreme as those on the new TLC series Extreme Couponing. I am learning little by little and I am proud when I am able to score a great deal to save money for my family. Today I went to CVS and this is what I got:

1 box of Puffs

1 box of Pampers Cruisers

2 boxes band aids

Pocket Calendar

Package of Sharpie's

2 Oral-B toothbrushes

4 Herbal Essence Shampoo/Conditioner

Dawn dish soap

2 Right Guard bodywash

My total savings was $51.54 and I spent $18.91 (Less then the cost of the box of diapers!) along with $14.98 in extra care bucks to use on my next shopping trip! And to make this deal even sweeter, the cashier called me the "Coupon Queen of the Day!" :)