Teens, Teams and a Trolley Ride!

Thankfully, Mother Nature cooperated for Emma's 16th birthday on Saturday. 

 We've had something special planned for weeks and we were completely dependent on the weather because we were all going to be outside for 4+ hours.

 We rented this lovely trolley from the Grand Rapids Trolley Company to drive us to and from the West Michigan Whitecaps baseball Saturday evening game.

We had tickets behind home plate.

Emma got to throw out the opening pitch (along with a few others who were also celebrating birthdays).

She was also up on the big-screen for everyone to sing her "Happy Birthday" (yes, she was totally embarrassed).

Then, she had cupcakes delivered to her and her friends during the game (YUM).

The evening ended with fireworks and then a ride back home on the trolley, where the party continued with presents, more food and a sleepover.

It was a night to remember.  

Thank you Mother Nature for keeping the rain and snow away.

PS.  Blogging friends...thank you all the birthday wishes for Emma.  I still can't believe my baby is 16!

Sweet Sixteen!!

 Emma is turning 16 on Saturday and she will be celebrating with a very special girlfriend party!!  Hopefully, she'll let me sneak a few pictures.   Thank you for the beautiful cake, Mom!

 And even as I write this, I really don't know how it can be true. 

My little girl will be graduating from high school in two short years!

 The next few years will be busy and crazy and wonderfully exciting.

Emma, I hope you know how proud Daddy and I are to be your parents.

 We love bragging about all your amazing accomplishments.

 Josie couldn’t have a better big sister and role model.

 And no matter how old you are or how far away your life takes you (remember GVSU is a great university and I promise not to stalk you while I’m at work) you will always and forever be our baby.

We love you and wish for you the sweetest of
sweet sixteens!!!
   

Summer fun miniature style (a sneak peek)

Back on this post, I shared a small collection of dolls that I picked up from an estate sale. They were in great condition, but all the ladies were missing their former dresses.  

After all the birthday celebrations are done at the Plantation dollhouse, it'll be time to bring out the patriotic and summer decorations, so I decided to provide these gals with some red, white and blue attire.

Isn't that tiny croquet set darling?

 You can find a similar one here.   Summer fun miniature style.  Can't wait!
 

A sweet little addition to the gnome house!

Spring has finally arrived at the gnome house!

 

Tucked among the trees and toadstools, I found a few napping gnomes.

It's so nice to see the return of tiny bits of green again.

The woods are waking up and blooms are also starting to appear on the small shrubs.

Back on this February post, I jokingly said that my gnome couple might be welcoming an addition to their family.

It was such a long cold winter and I'm sure there were a few cozy nights for this pair.

I'm happy to report that a tiny gnome baby has arrived (by the way of Oriental Trading company)!

Such a sweet baby.

Isn't this a magical season of new beginnings and discovery!  

Welcome spring, you've been missed!

Celebrating Mom!

Wishing all the other wonderful ladies out there a happy Mother’s day (not just on Sunday) but every SINGLE day.

Thank you for all your guidance, wisdom and creative talents, Mom. 

Thank you for all the special ways you spoil me and the girls.

 Have a splendid weekend doing whatever makes you happy.