Appetizer Party

Last night we had friends and colleagues over for an appetizer party. I asked each guest to bring an appetizer or dessert. We had lots of food ranging from chicken satay to fancy cheese to salmon rolls to veggies and dips. It was delicious! There was no need for a real dinner with all of that food! The desserts were also endless and amazing.

The house was busy and full with chatting adults and buzzing kids. I was really happy to fill up my home and entertain again. It will be even better when we can all go out back and let the party spill outside.

We were so busy last night that it almost felt like a wedding. The bride and groom have so many people to talk to that the night feels short and busy. I also completely forgot to take pictures. But, as I write this note this morning I am so happy that we had fun!

Next, we have neighborhood parties and I would like to host a BBQ with the warmer weather. Fred is helping landscape an area for our future picnic table, chairs and barbecue. It will be wonderful!

Thanks to everyone for the delicious food and lively conversations! cheers!

Howell Farm

We returned to Howell Farm to see signs of Spring! We saw the new baby lambs. There were a few little white ones and a few little black ones. They were very cute! We also saw the oxen, horse, chickens, geese, ducks and the resident cat.

It was a little hectic with several preschool classes also visiting. Usually, one can just go and wander on a self guided tour around the living history farm. We also accidentally knocked an entire bucket of maple sap off a tree. Shh! don't tell!

The weather was amazing and by lunch time we had our coats off! We enjoyed the sunshine during our picnic and let the kids play. It was fun to go with so many friends to such a beautiful place. We will definitely keep going back to Howell Farm.

March

March certainly did come in like a lion this year with the most snow in one night since Winter started! I was ready for warm weather, Spring showers and flowers. I guess I am stuck in my California ways.

The girls and I enjoyed a great trip to California just recently. We were treated wonderfully and it felt like a vacation for me. No cooking meals, little cleaning and mostly relaxing. I was also so lucky to see friends often and also to visit my father's beach house.

Since I am in the first trimester of my third pregnancy, it is probably good that it is Winter still and that we are not that active. I get to lie around most afternoons and take it easy. I will have energy again when the weather is nice and we want to go take walks, plant flowers and visit parks. For Summer, we are planning to buy a lot of patio furniture and a bbq. I also intend on getting TWO kiddie pools! One for my large butt and one for the kids. It should be a nice way to beat the heat and humidity when I am so big!

There is a lot to look forward to and in the next couple weeks I think so many changes will be coming our way. For now I am resting and staying warm. I am also trying to keep my girls busy with indoor fun like painting and playing.