Weekend bike rides

For President's Day, Cora had Friday and Monday off from school. No, Valentine's Day normally isn't a school holiday, but it was sure nice to have an extra long weekend.

On Friday, the girls and I met up up with a Mom2Mom friend who moved into the area last summer. She has a four-year-old, 8-year-old and a 10-year-old. We went to the park with Sara and her younger daughters, while the oldest was at a sleepover, and then had lunch together.

Later in the day, we prepared our house for Valentine's Day.

On Saturday, Stace and Violet worked hard on the garden. Violet has been much more interested in helping in the yard.

On Saturday evening, my parents hosted a very lovely engagement party for Melanie and Nick. We all had a great time, and Melanie gave me the honor of asking me if I'd be her matron of honor. I've been a bridesmaid several times, but this will be the first time for me to stand next to the bride. I am so pleased she asked, and I just hope I can do a good job. Party-planning isn't exactly my strength! (But Melanie knows that...)

On Sunday afternoon, Cora had a playdate at Sophia's house, so Stace took Violet out front with her new bicycle.

And...

Ladies and gents, we have a fourth bicycle rider in the house!!!

Chalk up another win for the balance bike, as I know it made all the difference in Violet being able to ride training-wheel-free at 3 1/2 years old.

We are so proud of her, with the kind of pride that leaks a little from the eye sockets.

She really is growing up so fast.

Great job, Missy Mae!