Here we are again at the close of another wonderful weekend. These last couple weeks have flown by, and I have a feeling the rest of April is going to be fairly busy. Sometime this week Ava is getting her very first picture taken with the Easter bunny (so excited about this), I have some shopping to do for a sweet little girl that is turning one in a couple weeks, and I am on the hunt for a new family car. On top of that, Easter is almost here, and so is my dad's birthday. All of these events on top of school, Justin's schedule, and Ava's, needless to say, the Howland's are busy. We also started some Friday night family traditions as well. Friday may very well be my favorite day of the week. I know Justin is going to be off for the next two days, it's the start of the weekend, I mean who doesn't love Friday?

Anywho, today was great, so let's recap the weekend. Friday night we went out to menchies (I'd never been before), and that was a real treat. The restaurant was decked out in eighties decor, and it was just so cute. The food was amazing, and the kicker? It's right down the street from our house. We spent the night watching old movies, cuddling, and talking about baby names. I don't remember when we knocked out, but everyone (including Cooper) was out before the norm. Saturday we got an early start, and then we went to my hometown to find a new location for Ava's birthday party. The venue I finally decided on is actually booked for the day that we'd need it. I was a bit devastated, but we've got options for other venues. I came across a couple that I really like, so hopefully when I call tomorrow, they have some availability.

We ended up going to the Muckleshoot Casino for brunch, and that was a real hit. I keep taking Justin to these places I went when I lived in Auburn years ago. He enjoyed it, and was shocked that the buffet was open to everyone, not just those who are gambling. Shortly after, we finally made our way to the only Sam's Club within fifty miles of us. It's right next to the mall I used to work at, so naturally, Justin got suckered into some shopping. Ava is seriously set for next winter! I hit up Osh Kosh and Carter's for their spring deals, and managed to get such a great haul. I think we wrapped up Saturday with a trip to best buy (for a tablet) and watching the second movie to Thor.

Today we went out to Tacoma to do some exploring, and to have lunch with a friend of ours. Downtown Tacoma has always had some pretty fun murals, so it was great to get a look at those today. We hadn't seen Jennifer in almost four years, so it was definitely great to catch up. Ava took to her so well; I was shocked. At one point, Ava bug even refused to come back to me when Jennifer was holding her (if you know our Bug, you know that never happens). I think that's a sign for Miss Jennifer on the baby front! After our Greek lunch we went out to the waterfront in Tacoma. The last time I was there, I believe I was 19 years old. It was so beautiful. I seriously forgot how perfect Washington state is. There were people jogging, walking their dogs, and walking with their kids. Such a perfect environment. 

This past weekend was perfect. I can't remember the last time I had a complaint about my day. It feels good to be happy, and active!

Happy Sunday all! I hope you enjoyed your weekend. 

♥- Leilani

Holy Productive Monday

I am completely beat. From the time I woke up this morning, until this very second, I have been on the go and on my feet. I started the day off with a neighborhood stroll with a friend and Coop troop. I got some girl talk in while Cooper had a morning play date. I even managed to reschedule our family pictures for this Wednesday. I'm really excited! I just want good pictures, I feel like of all the things to ask for in the world, that is a reasonable request.

Shortly after that, I got ready for the day, and ran some errands. Justin and I had a lunch date topped off with a day of shopping for holiday decor... AND I got my Christmas tree! I have never been so excited for a tree like I was today! 7.5 ft Douglas fir tree. It's full, and pretty, and just lovely. I can't wait to get some decorations on this baby! While at Target, I signed up for the Target red card. You save five percent on every transaction when you have the red card. It's easy peasy. It's linked to a checking account, so basically it's like swiping your own debit card. Anyhow, the sales associate told me about another awesome savings method. the target cartwheel. It's an app on your phone that allows you to scan or enter a bar code, and it either shows the current coupons for that item, or it says nothing found. It was pretty awesome, and because of those saving techniques, I saved over $20.00 today!

On the way home I sat in the front seat. I know this may seem silly, but since Ava was born I haven't sat in the front seat like at all. I sat in the front on the way to Savannah (only because Ava bug was sleeping), and I sat in the front on the way back (only because our giant tree wouldn't fit in the trunk), I was pleasantly surprised on how well Ava and I did without being right next to each other. It was a sweet trade off too, because I got to hold hands with my sweet man all day! It was so nice. Justin said he missed having my hand to hold! That comment made my day.

The rental company called and said they are showing this house tomorrow afternoon, so when we came home we started packing things up. Oh, before I forget, Ava HATES apples. I know it's tarty, but this is day 3 of apples and she still makes that cringed little nose face. I'm glad we are moving onto pears tomorrow! On the upside, she isn't allergic to apples, she just isn't fond of them. So yes, packing. I packed our entire master bedroom this evening. All by myself! I love that Justin and I are flexible with watching the babe. He kept her happy and entertained, while I organized and packed.

I'm delighted we only have 3 more rooms in this house that need heavy packing like the master bedroom. We are opting to hire a moving company to load up the u-haul (makes moving day easier on us) and that will allow us to relax a bit more this week. We don't feel rushed, everything is on our time. I do have to visit with a few friends before we leave. I only have nine days left in the state of Georgia. With Thanksgiving, and Black Friday right around the corner, I know things are going to busy for everyone.

Day 23- I am thankful for pictures. They allow me to relive all the special moments in my life.
Day 24- I am thankful for bubbles. I'm 22 but bubbles still bring out my inner kid.
Day 25- I am thankful for my husband's kisses. They can turn any frown of mine upside down

Whoo, well the baby is asleep for the night, Justin and Coop are perfectly content with the PS3, looks like I'm off to do homework! Oh, guess who aced her last two courses with 97 percent? This girl! Happy Monday all!   ♥- Leilani

Busy, Busy.

I felt inclined to blog because I have a lot going on this week.

Monday
Slow day. Hanging out with a couple of Army wives.
Wading by the pool
eating lemon tarts

Tuesday
Level two ultrasound for Ava. Growth scan
FRG meeting for redeployment updates


Wednesday 
finding organic diapers for Ava to use
national sibling day
hanging out with Victoria while she does her DIY project
Slurpees!


Thursday
Home visit from lactation specialist
Babysit baby Adalin
Dinner at the house of huddle

Friday
growth ultrasound and non stress test for Ava
Getting my hair done for maternity pictures
On the hunt for maternity dresses


Saturday
buying Justin's grill from Lowe's for his birthday
Buy a birthday card for woobie/send it out !



Sunday
Watching my Church sermon LIVE from back home
Watching baby Adalin
Maternity photos


I guess things wouldn't be so busy if I didn't have to drive an hour+ each day just to get things done around here. Worst part about living in the country. Not a lot of things are close by. Especially fun activities.

My recent buys:
                                         

My hospital bag !

Tote

                                                      

Justin's early birthday present. Propane grill. porcelain iron cast.

Grill Master

Ava's DaVinci classic sleigh glider and ottoman 

Glider