Elyse is 6

This girl has been excited to turn 6 about 6 months ago. She was a little happy to have a party and it seems to me that the days just sneak up on me. We planned the party on wednesday and I would have to say it was a success. She was a HAPPY Birthday girl!

Here are 6 things we love about Elly

1. She is easy going she gets alone with just about anyone.

2. She will melt your heart.

3. Giving (she already gave some of her birthday toys to Bryn)

4. Her happiness is contagious

5. Big heart

6. My biggest helper when it comes to making dinners...and cookie dough.





Meet our newest edition. He doesn't have a name yet. It's a tough decision.

Wanted to give this a try

Cookie Dough

I get asked DAILY for cookie dough. It's just not good for me to have any kind of treat in the home because I eat it and the kids ask for it all day long...but regardless I love that its something we love to eat and make together.




It is the best chocolate cookie recipe...ever!

2 cups shortening (butter flavored)
2 cups sugar (I use xagave better for you and makes the cookies SUPER soft)
1 cup brown sugar
4 eggs
2 tsp salt
2 tsp baking soda
5 cups flour (with the xagave I use almost 6 cups)
1 bag chocolate chips

Mix together shortening thru baking soda. Slowly add the flour. Then chocolate chips. Bake @ 350 (325 if you try the xagave) for 8-10 minutes. *Don't over cook* You gotta have them soft...right!

Happy 4th

It was a fun relaxing day. Just what I needed. I have been running around since school ended...and I just needed a slow down day. I did about nothing (bedsides watching a few episodes of Manhunter) and I loved every minute of it. While I was doing that the kids enjoyed playing outside all day long. They were slightly exhausted.

We look forward to this holiday...late night movie, sleeping outside, fireworks, swimming, bounce house and food. Love it thanks nana and grandpa for the fun memories.







Nate does have deadly farts