Bear Lake

 Another year at the lake with the Washburns in the books. Unfortunately, Stephen wasn't able to come with us this time because of work. We made some good memories. The first night we were there was Esther's birthday, so being the good sister she is, Rachel bought a cake so we could sing Happy Birthday to Esther. Then Rachel made the quintessential AFV video clip and ended up dumping the cake onto the floor! It was hilarious.

We spent lots of time at the lake. I don't think Zander got off the boat except to eat. Hannah loved finding shells, and Grayson loved being on the boat. He even jumped off the boat into the  lake to go for a little swim. And without fail, we get to enjoy seeing moose wander through the backyard or through town. I love this family tradition we have started.

Hannah Turns 5!

My fairy, princess, magic, unicorn, mermaid, and rainbow loving girl turned five years old. she's  been waiting for this day for a long time. In fact, she wanted to skip turning four so she could go from three to five years old just so she could go to school. To say she is excited to start kindergarten is an understatement. She asked for a fairy princess themed party this year, and I delivered. I made her a castle cake in her favorite colors complete with sparkly candles. The girls got to put sparkly make up on, they got wings and wands, a pretty necklace, and of course, a princess crown to top it all off. 

After they got all dressed up we had a magical lunch, then made our own flower fairies. After that we went outside to cast a freezing spell on the man on the unicorn so he'd give the girls candy. They loved this game! And it was so fun to watch them chase after Stephen. I'm pretty sure Stephen had fun playing this role; it was a riot. Then we sang Happy Birthday and opened gifts. It was an awesome party, and Hannah kept saying how pretty and beautiful everything was and how much she loved her cake and it was the best party ever. Those comments made all the time and effort I put into it all worth it. I, of course, couldn't have made it happen without the help of Stephen who did all the lunch prep so I could get my costume and make up on before the party started, and Zander who helped me put up all the decorations.

Hannah my love, you put the sparkle in our lives. We are so proud of the big girl you are becoming and so excited to see you flourish in school this year. You are able to make friends easily, and have the cutest laugh. You love to prank people, read books, play with Barbies and fairies, and boss your little brother around. You're more stubborn than mule, and I only hope that will become a strength to you as you become an adult and never give up on your dreams. You are beautiful, smart, and kind-hearted. We love you baby girl. Happy Birthday!