weekend

I am truly exhausted tonight. Probably a combination of my incredibly busy work schedule and the busy weekend we had. Oh yeah, and I'm pregnant! I think spring has officially arrived in Billings. Today the temperature was in the 70's so Emma got to break out a new spring outfit. What a doll!

Bring on the spring dresses.

It was really nice outside both days this weekend, so we took advantage of the nice weather to start tackling some outdoor projects. First of all, we moved in Emma's new swing set! It was my Aunt Janet and Uncle Chris' and they gave it to us. It's a little old (13 years to be exact) but you can't beat a free swing set. Thanks so much again guys! Emma was so excited to get it and promptly went to town on the swings. She also spent several hours playing on it yesterday, even going so far as sliding down the slide head first! Needless to say, we have our weekend plans laid out for us for the rest of the summer!



We are also doing some landscaping projects, the first of which is to replant the small flower garden in front of the house. We're not big fans of using rocks, which seems to be really popular out here, so the first part of the job involves removing all the rocks and existing plants from the garden. After loading up a wheelbarrow full of rocks, not only did we realize we had not come up with a plan of where to put them, it was also to heavy for Nate and I to move! Whoops! I'm sure more exciting landscaping adventures to come this summer.

Removing the rocks, Take 1.

Saturday marked the 10 year anniversary of my and Nathan's first date. To celebrate the occasion, we went out to dinner and a movie. We saw the new Star Trek movie which I really enjoyed. I certainly would not call myself a "trekky" but I've liked most of the Star Trek movies. When I was younger, I used to watch Star Trek (the TV show) on Saturday afternoons with my brothers (yes you guys know you watched too!) while Dad would grill burgers, our traditional Saturday fare. Ah, the life!

Sunday was mothers day and a really great day overall. I awoke to breakfast in bed made by Nathan and Emma. Tasty! We then spent the majority of the day outside, but I did get to experience a nice nap while Emma took hers. Nathan got me roses and cooked me Mannicoti for dinner too, which was really nice. I also got my first homemade mother's day card from Emma. How cute! Happy Mothers Day to all mommies out there!

Pretty mom's day roses.

First Mom's day card from Emma.

Inside of card.

baseball

Before updating you all on Emma, a few shout-outs. First off to Josh, who graduated from Northeastern University last Friday. Way to go! Again, sorry Emma and I weren't able to join in the festivities, but it sounds like you all had a nice time. He also narrowly lost his lacrosse game which would have allowed his team to compete in Nationals. Bummer! He did end up being awarded first team All-American in his division for lacrosse, which is pretty awesome! To see a sweet action shot, click on this link. Josh is #28 if you want to scope him out in the other pictures on the photographer's site.

Also a big Yahoo to Sam who made Delphian choir at Great Falls High. This is the highest level choir and, speaking from experience, really fun to be involved in. As a sophomore, it pretty impressive to get chosen. Can't wait to go to some concerts next year!

We've also been able to see Sam play some ball games already this year. Last weekend we traveled to Helena to see him play and the weekend before that we went to Lewistown. I don't know what it is about watching baseball, but I really do enjoy it. Last year for my birthday Nate got us tickets to see the Mariners play and it was awesome! (and also my first pro game) Here's some pictures from Emma playing on the sidelines.

Take me out to the ballgame.

Running from Maddie.

Batter up!.

In Helena there was a nice playground to enjoy which reminded me a lot of the playground we went to in Red Lodge this summer. She's taken quite a liking recently to swings so was a little upset when we had to leave. I also have several relatives that live in Helena and we got to see most of them (nice Meghan and Ryan!) after the game. It's always nice to catch up.

The playground in Helena.

Swinging with Maddie and Gramma.

Loving the swings.

The Helena crew (starting with first row on the left): Aunt Jan, my cousin Maurika and her daughter Piper, Emma and I, my cousin Joe, (second row) Uncle Marc, Maurika's other kids Truman and Rileigh, my Dad, my Mom, and Maddie.

Emma playing with Rika and Piper.