What's In A Name

Erin mentioned hanging wooden letters of Jacob's name in the nursery. After browsing on-line, I suggested to her that we just get some letters and paint them. I also mentioned that I could draw the vehicles from Jacob's crib quilt onto the letters. She went for the idea and the photo is the finished product. There weren't enough vehicles to complete the letters, so I thought it would be nice to add something from Iowa - hence the John Deere tractor. And of course Texas had to be represented - I chose the state flag and the police car is in honor of Jason, the proud father. Papa Dave will have the pleasure of hanging the letters when we visit in May.

My Grandchild Chair

As I promised in a previous blog I'm sharing Dave's latest project - a chair for our grandchildren when they come to visit.

When we were in the Amana's we visited a furniture shop and I was admiring several pieces. One of the things was a napkin holder. I was tempted to buy one and Dave spoke up "I can make one for you" and he did. I also admired a quilt rack - is there any hope I might get one of those some day?!?

Easter Basket

Makenna had a fun time digging in her Easter basket this week. Sorry Makenna the chocolate is for your mom and dad. Every child needs the book Pat the Bunny and Makenna seemed to enjoy hers. Couldn't resist getting her a swimsuit. Now she just needs a sun bonnet and sunglasses... I think the bonnet will be coming soon to protect that pretty little head of hers!

Best Gift Ever

This past weekend Dave and I traveled to the Amana's. For Christmas Dave gave me a two night stay at Annie's Garden Guest House. We had never stayed at a bed and breakfast before, but I definitely would recommend this one. The house itself was built in 1893. There were 3 guest rooms on the 2nd floor - each having their own bathroom - there was also a dining room and a full kitchen. On the top floor(an attic) we could watch a big screen tv or read by a fireplace. The best part was a delicious breakfast each morning. Annie shared lots and lots of info about the Amana Society - how it was communal until the 1930's and what it is like today. Of course we took in all the Amana shops and brought home an Amana woolen sweater, baked goods and chocolates(to enjoy Easter day).

Saturday evening we took a side trip to Iowa City and enjoyed some of my nephew, Jason's fabulous cooking at the Summit. The carrots were scrumptious and Dave loved his homemade sauerkraut. What a treat!! He then showed us the house he had purchased. He has a challenge in renovation, but it should be a fun experience for him. We wish him the best...

Thanks Dave for a wonderful weekend. This gift will be hard to top!

Jess and Gabe

Yesterday I had a nice visit with a very dear friend, Jessica. Actually she is a friend of my daughter, Erin. They became friends in 5th grade and stayed extremely close ever since. She was like the third daughter I didn't get to have.
Anyway, she had a baby in February and I was anxious to meet him and see how they were doing. What a handsome young fella Gabe is... He slept all the time I was there, though. Just cuddled right in and went to Never, Never land. Jess looked grrreat and motherhood suits her well. Way to go Jess!!