It has been a very good couple of weeks.
We’ve spent a lot of time getting wet….
…at the splash park…
…and in the pool.
Trouble has started sleeping in the big girl bed.
At least some of the time.
Princess had a “camp out” in the living room…
…while Trouble pretty much did her own thing.
I was completely spoiled on my birthday.
(Thanks honey.)
The girls and I had fun testing out my new tripod and the self-timer on my camera.
Our garden is growing!
It is so exciting.
We even got to enjoy our first fresh garden salad!
Granted it was just some lettuce, and baby lettuce at that, but it tasted great.
We had a fabulous day boating out to the Gulf islands with some close friends.
We first stopped for lunch at Cabbage Key….
…then laid on the beach at Cayo Costa State Park, which is only accessible by boat.
It was gorgeous and the weather couldn’t have been better.
And in other big news, Princess “graduated” from preschool!
She is now officially a Kindergartner.
So beginning yesterday, it is officially Summer Vacation in the Soukup household.
Yes, I know it is a little early. Our school district is on a year-round school schedule so she will be starting Kindergarten at the beginning of July. Weird, huh? But considering that this is the absolutely best time of year in Florida while July and August tend to be almost unbearably hot, I kinda like it.
Princess and I decided to kick off the vacation by making a list of a list of all the things we wanted to do this summer. It was funny to hear some of her ideas. In addition to baking cookies, going to the beach, & doing crafts (not too surprising), she also wants to eat marshmallows, go look at pretty flowers, have a picnic, and play babies (“We can be the mommies and Trouble can be our kid.”)
But my personal favorite?
“Mommy, we can have a race!”
Me: “A race? What do you mean by that honey?”
“I can blow the whistle and you can run around, and I’ll tell you when you’re done.”
Yeah, that’ll happen.
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Kristine Stoner April 5, 2011 at 2:20 pm
I just had to tell you how beautiful your pictures are and your family. Those are beautiful daughters you were blessed with. Thanks for all you do and share. I just started this couponing craze maybe two months ago and I’m so hooked. My problem is I have a full time job and I can’t get thru a day at work now with checking on deals and messing with my coupons. But I love it just the same.
Thanks again,
Kristine
Ruth April 5, 2011 at 4:16 pm
Thank you Kristine! I’m glad you’ve discovered how much fun coupons can be….But try not to get too carried away! Sometimes it is hard to think that you might “miss” a great deal, but trust me, there will ALWAYS be more!
Alisha April 5, 2011 at 2:46 pm
You tell such great stories with your pictures — I love it!! All the pics are great, but I think my personal favorite is Trouble in the dollhouse. So cute!
Alysha April 5, 2011 at 3:04 pm
Kids are getting so big. What great adventures you guys have been having! Hope to see you soon. love ya!
Ruth April 5, 2011 at 4:18 pm
Ditto!
Ruth April 5, 2011 at 4:17 pm
Thanks Alisha! That kid just cracks me up. She is constantly doing the goofiest things and making us laugh.
Crystal L. (Crafting & Rambling) April 5, 2011 at 3:54 pm
Oh my goodness what a wonderful time! So happy for you to be spending that special time with family (and friends)…my mind cannot even comprehend that beautiful weather right now, lol!
Love all the pics – such fun and joy captured perfectly! 
I have to agree with Alisha though…the one of Trouble in the dollhouse just might top them all. 
tfs
Ruth April 5, 2011 at 4:19 pm
Thanks Crys!
Debi April 5, 2011 at 9:21 pm
Belated Happy birthday Ruth! How fun! Your husband is so sweet! You’ve got a beautiful family.
Ruth April 6, 2011 at 3:47 pm
Thank you Debi!
Marcela Sorina Costea April 6, 2011 at 7:36 am
I love your photos Ruth! …and your girls are so cute! The Happiness is reflected on them faces!
I’m happy for you,
sincerely,
Marcela
Ruth April 6, 2011 at 3:48 pm
Thank you Marcela!