The Birthday Girl

Birthday Breakfast in Bed

Birthday Outing with Kelly

Stop One:  Olive Garden

Stop Two:  Nail Salon and Spa

Evening Birthday Celebration with the Anderson's Family

Trying Out the New Birthday Presents

Chemistry 101

Nothing like having Science Class with Daddy!

Valentine's Day

For the first time in our preschool/homeschooling career, we didn't have a Valentine's Day co-op to participate in.  Every other year we have had friends to make valentine boxes and exchange valentine's with; however, this year the stars simply didn't align.  As a result, Nick and I had to go a little out of our way to try to make the day special for the kiddos.  As part of that effort, we gave each of the kids $5.00--they had actually earned the money helping out with moving projects--and had them draw names much as they do at Christmas time.  Whosever name they drew, they were responsible for buying a valentine for.  It was a little bit cheesy, but the kids were very thoughtful in their selections and very excited to see what was especially chosen just for them.  They all counted down until Valentine's morning, and then made the exchange just prior to  feasting on berry filled crepes--a breakfast favorite at our house.  

Here are each of the kids with their hand-picked goodies:

And all of the kids after accepting their treats.  (You'll have to figure out who had who!)

And at the breakfast table.

Since Daddy was on call for the holiday, he left a few goodies on the table for the kids and I.  We later returned the thoughtfulness by making a visit to his hospital and bringing chocolate dipped strawberries and other fun treats.

Then we returned home for heart-shaped Papa Murphy's pizza and pop, 

and capped off the evening by inviting a few of the kids' friends over so their parents could enjoy a childless night out.  While at our house the kids all made chocolate suckers, watched movies, and had cookies and milk before calling it a night.  It wasn't the most romantic Valentine's Day I've ever spent, but when it was all said and done, I think the kids were pretty satisfied with their day.  What more could a well-intentioned mother ask for!

Winter Stargazing

When you live in Bismarck, North Dakota, it isn't unusual to have to get creative on a Friday night to keep yourself entertained.  So, on this particular evening, we decided to pass the time by attending the Science Museum's stargazing night.  The rocket ship crafts and space education booths were a little low-budget, but the kids loved the indoor star-education dome and the outdoor star-gazing.  The hot chocolate and cookies at the end were pretty great too.  And nothing makes the night seem more worthwhile than a little unplanned stardom. (excuse the pun.)  Mason immediately became the Science Museum poster child with this photo being the website feature of the month.  Thankfully, someone who actually views the web sight saw the photo and alerted us to our fame, otherwise, our moment in the spotlight might have passed us by unawares.  

Thanks Hetland Family for the tip-off, and cheers to something new to do on a Friday night.

Kid's Bedroom Reveal

The Boys Quarters

The Princess Suite