First Summer Read...

Over the holiday weekend we traveled to Iowa.  As we left the house for the 6 hour drive I grabbed a book.  Some time ago I purchased The Weight of Silence and I thought it would be an appropriate read.  The book is written by Dubuque, Iowa {where my skinnysister lives} author Heather Gudenkauf.  It is, in fact, her first book and it takes place in Iowa.

The Weight of Silence chronicles a day in the lives of two families who wake to find their little girls missing without a trace.  The reader learns what transpires through the alternating perspective of six lives impacted by the events. The book has good character development and touches on small town life, childhood friendship, first loves, and alcoholism and its effect on a family.

I found the book to be a page turner, although not dramatically suspenseful.  I thought it made a good summer read.

Any suggestions as to what I should read next?  I walked 5.32 miles with my friend Carolyn today.  I need to load a book on my IPod and get back into my walking schedule.  

A Fresh New Look...

I needed a change.  I have been so busy lately my little blog has been neglected.  Next week, I will blog for real... promise.

Happy Mother's Day...

adorable free printable from kikicreates

Happy Easter...

A few weeks ago I found this cute Easter Cupcake Kit at HomeGoods.

(camera on my phone)

My husband gives up chocolate and eating after 9 pm every year for Lent.  So yesterday Mom and I made these...

Chocolate cupcakes with chocolate frosting.

Happy Easter!

Happy National Quilting Day...

In addition to St. Patrick's Day,

it is National Quilting Day. 

How are you celebrating?  We went out last night for what my friend Mary calls "St. Practice Day".  Today was filled with knitting and basketball. 

HaPpY BiRtHdAy...

No matter how many birthdays come and go, you'll always be my little boy.

Happy 20th birthday Charlie!

The Party Favors...

Last week, Mary, DeAnne and I got together and made the party favors and name tags for the tea.

The outside of the favor read "The Perfect Blend" followed by the names of the happy couple and the wedding date.

The inside of the favor has two pockets, perfect for inserting tea bags.

And I was thrilled to find this tea to put inside.

If you'd like to make these favors, Catherine of Cee Cee's Creations has a tutorial here.