We went to the Butterfly Festival at Powell Gardens today with Pepper, her mom, and the kids. It was a good time, but we won't be going back for a few years. There wasn't a ton to do and it was a very long drive! Let me just say that I am extremely blessed to have found Pepper (and I'm not sucking up because she doesn't even read our blog!). I couldn't take M nearly as many neat places without Pepper's help. Here are a couple of the butterflies we saw.

And another...

PepPep and the kids.

There was a "parade" of kids- Sawyer had M's hand the whole time and it was so so cute. They got sidetracked at the fountain.

The fountain was small and then periodically it would get bigger and bigger. M thought it was amazing.

After the parade we went inside to make butterfly wings and antennae. I was able to nurse G while Pep helped M get started.

M was quickly bored so back out we went for a photo shoot.



Checking out the caterpillars with Pep. Not too sure about them.

Pics of me and the kids are hardly ever worth keeping...

Some pretty water lilies.


Hibiscus.


Both the kids were really good. M didn't fall asleep in the car which was great. We got back and did the walk-through on David and Lana (my in-law's)'s house. I am really really excited about them moving back. I know that sounds crazy to some people that I am excited about being a couple of miles from my in laws but it's true. I'm excited for M to get to spend more time with them. I also love showing off my kids to people who actually care!
Then I took M over to Casey's to nap while I cleaned some more around here. B is having fantasy football draft here this weekend. The kids and I will pack up and spend the weekend at my mom's. Should be interesting. I think the house is nearly as clean as when we moved in. It's not about impressing the men, it's about if it starts out spotless it won't be quite as bad on Monday!
As a side note my friend
Karen is adopting in September. They have just had a heartbreaking experience with an adoption falling through at the very last minute. They really need good wishes or prayers (whichever you prefer). It would mean a lot to me if you could spend a minute or two thinking of them. I know they are terrified right now and we can only pray that things go well this time around. Their daughter will be so lucky to have them. If you can help- please do.