S'more fun and Mother's Day

Brian and I decided to get a patio set this year so we could really enjoy the warmer Midwestern springs and summer. In June the fireflies grace us with their fiery dances and Jackson spends hours trying to chase them down. We also splurged on a new fire pit, which has turned out to be the best decision we made.

Every night Jackson begs Brian to light a fire so he can make s'mores. Despite the wicked allergy season, we all venture outside for our new evening ritual. The ipod comes outside and Jackson usually shows us his new "moves" while eating s'mores. The dogs also join in the fun and chase each other around the house while we have our family time.


The other night after soccer practice, Jackson really wanted to light the fire. We agreed and the s'mores ensued. We were all enjoying ourselves when Brian noticed Jackson furtively trying to sneak off to his "special" spot in the yard, where he relieves himself in emergency situations. Brian told Jackson that if he needed to use the potty to go inside. Jackson denied having to use the potty and instead informed us that he "was just looking for a quiet place to pray." Needless to say, in less than 5 minutes Jackson was running to use the toilet inside. I sure hope he had a good conversation with God.

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On Mother's Day, Brian took us to the Pere Marquette Hotel for Mother's Day Brunch. We had a fantastic time. While waiting in line, Jackson informed the hotel staff that he was wearing a tie that his Grandma got him. "It has bees on it and she loves bees." He also told them all about Grandma's favorite color and his school. Later that night on the phone with Grandma, Jackson told her she could be called the "Queen Bee". No doubt this kid understands how to score points!





The brunch was amazing! They had every type of food imaginable! Jackson immediately identified the items he wanted -- waffles and cheesecake. Since he eats well during the week and never has issues with his vegetables, we are more than happy to indulge him on special occasions. And boy did he indulge!

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I quickly started to lose my appetite watching Jackson inhale his waffle followed by TWO pieces of cheesecake. I waited...and finally, after taking a few bites of his chocolate eclair, Jackson informed me he didn't feel well. I can only imagine! Those types of lessons are best learned first hand.

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Charlie opted for a more savory than sweet menu and enjoyed his first omelet with Brian. He also loved the hash browns and bacon!

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Despite the sugar coma induced by so many sweets, Jackson did not lose any of his own sweetness. He was polite to the staff and sweet to his mommy. Both Jackson and Charlie are quite the little charmers! Whenever Charlie gets attention, Jackson promptly stands up and introduces himself as Charlie's big brother and waits for his own compliments. I'm happy that he is no wall flower.

Brian planned the entire day, which was a gift in and of itself. However, he also surprised me with a diamond cross necklace and made the day extra special -- especially after our recent Cursillo weekends.

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Sitting at church and at brunch with my three boys -- Brian, Jackson and Charlie, I truly felt blessed. This time next year, God-willing, I will have another reason to feel blessed! The question is will I have three little boys or a little girl? Only time will tell.