A mother's day treat

Today my lovely friend Tracy and I hosted a Mother's Day Tea/Stella & Dot party for some special girlfriends and their mothers, my lovely mother in law was also able to attend.  I'm so glad she was able to join us!  Unfortunately it was a little scattered and busy for me.  I ended up spending the bulk of my time in the kitchen serving food and drinks - so I wasn't able to introduce her around to everyone.  But from what I could tell she did a fabulous job getting to know all our friends on her own. being in the kitchen, away from the pretty jewels, did give me a chance to say a quick hello to the many guests.  Today was bittersweet as my wonderful mother wasn't able to be here :(.  this is the incredibly difficult part of being so far from family and my home.  I find these events both distract me from my sadness and remind me that my mother isn't close enough to have these moments with.  I wish beyond wish that they could and would just move here.  But I realize that's asking a lot and it's a big move to expect of them.  Not to mention that my mother is very much needed back at home as my family has had a pretty rough 2012.  That being said, it doesn't really make it easier when you want to be surrounded by those who love you unconditionally!  ugh.

On a happy note, I did find some very pretty jewels for myself.  And I look forward to trying them out and expanding my accessory collection.  First i expanded my wardrobe, then my shoes...now my accessories...one day i'll figure out how to put them all together and i'll really shock myself! HA.

It was a beautiful sunny day today, so thankfully, Andre was able to do fun activities with the kids - i understand they rode bikes, had a water fight, played basketball and enjoyed a bit of a play in our own backyard.  Andre did a fantastic job fixing up the back yard today - he mowed the lawn and reorganized the shed so our patio furniture is now out and all 4 - yes 4!!  bikes have a home in the shed.

We had been hoping to get 4 bikes so we could enjoy family bike rides together - but we never seemed to make the time to go look at them...then my very generous friend Shawna told me she had a bike they wanted to get rid of?! very exciting news.  I was able to pick it up this week and have it inspected by a local bike shop.  A bit of air in the tires and apparently she's ready to ride.  hmmm....perhaps that would be a fun mother's day activity for tomorrow.  yes, i think i shall suggest it!  i'm afraid jake might need a new bike again as he seems to be outgrowing his rather quicly.  but i think sofia would be happy to inherit his bike...she's having a less princessy phase right now and is asking for a blue bike :)

Here are some photos of sofia enjoying the backyard today. oh the memories of wasting away hours jumping rope!  good times. :)