Kids say the funniest things

On Tuesday I was helping Hayden get ready for Scouts as he was close to being late. As I'm stripping his shirt off, and in the process of putting his uniform on, he says the following:

Hayden: "Mom, I noticed the other day that I've got a new smell."

Me: "Like what?" (slightly distracted and trying to hurry)

Hayden: I got a new Man-smell. You know, like a grown up man. When I sniff myself, I smell like Dad. Kinda like dirt and sweat mixed together. 

Me: Huh? (chuckling at his description)

Hayden: (in his most serious voice) "I think I'm turning into a man already."

Me: (smiling & laughing at how cute he is) "Hold on there Sparky. Puberty is still about 3 yrs. away. And I do hope you grow up to smell as good as your dad. But for now, enjoy being a boy. And take a bath when you get home!"

Hayden: "K. Bye, Mom." 

And then he was out the door and biking off to be with a bunch of other 8 yr. old man-boys. 

Those are the moments that make motherhood so worth  it. So worth staying home and being a part of their lives, their conversations. I never know what they are going to say next! Usually it's something hilarious, and totally unexpected. It's so fun getting to see who they really are, and who they are becoming. Raising kids is fun!

Jen's baby shower

So my dear friend Jen is having her last baby, and her first girl after 2 boys, in about a month. She's never had a shower so I wanted to throw her one. Even if I didn't want to, my girls would've twisted my arm since they are so ready for a baby in our lives! 

The party turned out great. Some friends helped to bring finger foods and drinks. I bought the cutest poof ball decorations from a Martha Stewart party line of paper goods to go along with the balloons. (gotta love Martha's cleverness) One of the gals made the most amazing slushie-punch drink. Yummy. Another friend made the cutest custom Bingo cards for a game I wanted to play. It's so nice to have talented friends!

 Over 35 women showed up.  She got awesome, thoughtful gifts. Everyone chatted the night away, and it turned out to be 2 1/2 hours long so I'm guessing everyone had a good time. So glad for Jen and her baby girl. 

So part of my gift to her was  handmade artwork for Katie's room. I used a canvas and some of my scrapbook and art supplies. I think it turned out cute for my first attempt. The picture doesn't do it justice, but after a dozen shots, I give up!

Fun project. Fun party. Can't wait to meet baby Kate!

Birthday fun

Saturday was my birthday and had a great time hanging out with the family. I think the best part by far is watching the kids and how excited they get doing stuff for me. They woke up early to make me breakfast and give me their handmade birthday cards. Seriously, there's nothing cuter than a card made by kiddos. Got to open some presents, loving the craft/art supplies they bought me.
I got my hair done and then we went out and had some family time. We went to a gourmet bundt cake store and picked up some mini-cakes to celebrate.Then we dropped the kids off at home so Dino and I could have a date night. We went to the movies with the Busters, grabbed Red Robin take out, and then played board games with them til late.

The best part of the whole day was when I put Hayden to bed and he said, "Mom, I really like your voice. It's so soft and lovely. Some moms have crackly voices, but I just really like to tone of your voice. " Then he wraps his arm around my neck in the biggest hug. How cool  is that??

Lil' Heartbreaker! That was the best present ever! (and I can't believe my baby used such a grown up word like "tone"!) Not sure where he picked that up, but it was adorable coming from him. 
It was a great day. Very relaxing. Lots of love from my friends and family. Feeling very blessed.
Happy birthday to me!