Lawnmower Party

Last weekend we headed home to Cedar Falls to celebrate Crusher's 8th birthday. My parent's have been having a birthday party for the lawnmower for over 30 years. This year over 100 people came to the party. That means that the lawnmower is technically more popular than me, and I'm OK with that.

John prepared for the party by reading a little of The Girl Who Played with Fire. Both he and my mom really liked The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. I haven't read it yet, as I am waiting for Kathleen's verdict first.

Justin and Amy were at the party this year. It's always fun to see them. Justin does the best impersonation of his Dad.

At the end of the party everyone moves to the screened in porch. It was a little chilly this year, so we actually needed blankets after the sun went down.

Neither Kathleen nor I took many pictures. If John hadn't picked up my camera I would only have two shots from the entire weekend. Hopefully Mary-Claire remembered to take photos.

Cranberry Pecan Bread: Bread of the Week 14

This week I made cranberry pecan bread. It is a sweet braided bread that was perfect for breakfast on Easter morning.

My favorite part about cooking at my Mom and Dad's house is that I have a sous-chef that helps me with everything, from measuring to kneading to braiding. It is a lot of help, especially from someone who doesn't like nuts. He is also very good at pies and whipped cream. If you ever need help in the kitchen I highly recommend Conor.

While I was at home Mom gave me my great grandma's pastry blender. I am lucky to have a piece of family history at my disposal whenever I make pies.

Mom & Dad recently got a flat top stove, so Mom can no longer use the Le Creuset that they got for their wedding over 40 years ago. I was pleased as punch to be able to take home two long coveted pieces of kitchenware. I hope to be using them in 40 years.

I had a wonderful Easter with my family. It was great to be home and spend time together, even if my car did get egged (seriously, my car got egged. And no, I'm not in high school).

First hike of the year!

This weekend I headed home to Cedar Falls for Easter. On Saturday Mary-Claire and I headed to Hartman Reserve to do some hiking. We were both happy that it was nice enough out to get out and enjoy some quiet time in the woods.

The trails were muddy from all of the rain and melting snow, but we managed to find a path. We've decided it's a new tradition and are going to explore new trails the next time we're both home.

A Busy Weekend in Cedar Falls

Last weekend was a big weekend in Cedar Falls. Not only was it the Sturgis Falls celebration, it was also Mom & Dad's 40th Anniversary.

My favorite part of Sturgis Falls was the parade. As you can tell, most people were excited for the parade.

Unlike the rest of us, Rowan didn't seem too excited. Perhaps he didn't know what was coming.

I don't think he knew that Dad, Bailey, Ellie, and Jaden were about to ride past in a convertible. They were all excellent wavers!

Not too long after Dad & the girls it was Kathleen's turn. She was on her reunion float. She really had mastered the wave. Not everyone can pull off the two handed wave, but she did it with ease!

On Saturday we went to the Elk's Club to celebrate Mom & Dad's anniversary. It was nice to have everyone home to celebrate. I am so lucky to have parents who have taught me so much. It was hard being a teenager when they were always right, and it's hard being in my 30s and knowing that they are still much cooler than me.

While at dinner we found another way that Bailey takes after me: she's really good at hanging spoons on her face.

It's always fun when my two favorite guys get together.

We had to leave right after dinner to get back to Des Moines. I wish I could have stayed longer. I am so thankful to have such a great family.