Heaven on Earth

a

Costa Rica- unbelievable. Every year Kevin and I take a trip, just the two of us. For our 10 year anniversary we went to Costa Rica and we absolutely loved it. This year we thought we were going to do something different but we kept wanting to go back to Costa Rica. I am in love with Rancho Pacifico. Thats where we stayed both times. The staff is amazing, the views are amazing, the food is amazing. I would highly recommend this vacation to anyone (adults, that is) wanting to get a way and do anything from horseback riding to surfing to hanging out at the pool or getting a massage and reading a good book. Our plan everyday was simple. Breakfast was included and amazing! The hot chocolate is to die for and I can't even begin to describe the taste of the fresh jams, jellies and syrups they had for muffins and french toast. The breakfast wraps were out of this world- my mouth is watering! After breakfast we would go down the mountain and do something really active and fun (hiking, surfing, horseback riding), eat where the locals eat, then go back to Rancho Pacifico, get showered, get a massage, get dressed up and go to dinner in the dining room. They have the most amazing food ever (Did I mention that?)!

Lake Nona Lions

Last winter the kids decided they wanted to be Lake Nona Jr Lions. Avery would be a cheerleader, and Boston would be playing flag football. The kids have put a lot of hard work into their sport. They practice on Tuesday and Thursday and have games on Saturdays. It's a big commitment but they both are having lots of fun. Go Lions!

One of my greatest friends in Orlando is starting her photography business and is having a photo contest on Facebook. I took these pictures with Van in an old lion costume from a few years back. I think he's a pretty cute mascot, don't you? We were supposed to come up with a picture for the most spirited Lake Nona Lions. You can vote for our picture on Facebook here!

first day of school

Avery and Boston's first day of school

Boston started Kindergarten this year! I still can't believe he's old enough to go to school full time! He was excited to wear school uniforms like his sister. Both of my kids got great teachers this year. I was so happy to have Avery at the same school with Boston because after the first day of school they won't let you walk your kids to their class. I was so heartbroken with Avery in fear that she would get lost. This year was different because A. I was prepared for it, and B. Boston had his big sis to help him to his classroom. Even though my kids fight at times, they always stick up for each other and care about one another. It's going to be a great year!


Van's first day of school

This year Van started school in Celebration, at the Presbyterian Church. They have such an amazing program there and I just love all of the teachers. It is 25 minutes away from my home but well worth the drive- plus Van gets to play with Grandma after school on Wednesdays and he loves it (thanks Mom- you're the best)! The first day as we pulled into the parking lot Van was already saying "Bye Mom! Bye Mommy! Bye Mom!" I was completely caught off guard by this. Wasn't he going to miss me just a little bit? Luckily when I came to pick him up he was excited to see me and ran and gave me a huge hug. He is such a little sweetie. I can't believe how fast this time goes.

Kaelie

Kaelie is my youngest sister. We are 20 years apart and only lived in the same house for five months, when I married Kevin. She is one of the sweetest, kindest kids I know. She is so easy going and cares about everyone around her. I don't think she has a mean bone in her body.
My kids adore her and I absolutely love her.

Park with Steph