A cold, snowy, wonderful weekend in December

We had quite the weekend, it was full to the brim. 

Book Night: The Happiness Project

On Friday night, I hosted a girls' book night at our house. 

We met to drink wine, share a meal, and discuss a book we had all read (at least, part of), The Happiness Project. 

I was too lazy to take a picture of my book...this is from google images.

The guys took the kids out for some fun at Monkey Bizness, and it was such a treat to have some adult time. 

I feel like I usually have little bits and pieces of conversation with girlfriends...constantly interrupted by a plea for more snacks, a nudge to nurse, or yet another "Stop, Max!"

 We talked a little bit about the book and a lot about motherhood...The journey, the hard parts, and the good parts. 

I learned a bit more about each of my dear friends, and I think they learned a little bit about me too. 

 I look forward to more times like this with friends. 

 “The great motherhood friendships are the ones in which two women can admit [how difficult mothering is] quietly to each other, over cups of tea at a table sticky with spilled apple juice and littered with markers without tops.” 

- Anna Quindlen

----------

Lazy Saturday

On Saturday, we ventured out for some family time. We went out for a little bit of shopping, a ride in the wagon, and dinner. We brought along (empty) Starbucks cups to keep the boys entertained, and it was a successful outing. 

I'm a little sad to say that Max has already inherited my Starbucks addiction. He recognizes and points them out whenever he sees that famous green seal. We always order a milk box for him, but he like to hold the empty cups and pretend like he is drinking coffee. 

But, seriously, the last thing this kid needs is caffeine. 

We grabbed dinner at Panera thanks to a spot award that Julian got at work. We are so proud of you and all of your hard work Daddy. 

----------

Cookie Exchange

On Sunday, we got to spend some time with my sister-in-law-to-be, Jenny!

She helped us get ready for the cookie exchange at Ish's house, and thankfully she was there to direct things. Let's just say we attempted to make candy cane shaped cookies, which ended up looking more like stockings and I realized I might be allergic to peppermint oil in the process when my hands started swelling...never a dull moment around here I tell you. 

Ish is an amazing hostess, she puts together the best parties and the cookie exchange was no exception. We were also helping them celebrate Hanukkah, and Ish put together a delicious meal that included latkes, matzo ball soup, and homemade mini-donuts (can't remember the proper name). 

Did I mention that this guy can go up stairs now? I am not a fan of this stage where they know how to go up but not down!

The little ones provided plenty of noise and entertainment.
The toddlers are really talking now and it fun to hear their little commentary.
They all wanted the favorite toys, and Max played a little too rough, as usual, but for the most part they like to be together.

 And, of course, we never miss an opportunity to love on each others babies.
I think this is one of the best part of friendship in this season of life, watching them love your kids like you do, and caring for their little ones like they're your own.

Sweet baby Alice, I love her dress!

Thanks to Ish, here I am, in a picture!!

A rare moment, Shirhi got a little bit dirty, I love her expression.

 A group gathered around the driedel, and Max was mesmerized by that spinning top.

There were literally piles and piles of cookies. We arrived and left with six dozen cookies. Six dozen! Not so compatible with my efforts to lose the baby weight ;)

We had a lovely evening, and got to spend a little more time with Jenny when we arrived home.
----------

Time with friends, snow on the ground, a wonderful December weekend.