Happy Valentine's Day!

This Valentine's Day was a bittersweet day. On one hand, it is difficult celebrating the 'day of love' while your spouse is across an ocean. But on the other hand, I got to dole out my love on my 4 little ones, and we did have a good day! For lunch, we went over to our friend's house for a mini Valentine's celebration. The kids had a blast playing with their friends, Haley and Dylan, who have quickly become our closest friends in town. (And their mom is great, too!) We had a yummy lunch, decorated some cookies, exchanged valentines, and read a couple Valentine books. 

Addie just loves to dress up in Haley's ballet recital costume from last year:

Bella is always so happy (and goofy):

 Cookie time!

 Virtual cookies for My Love:

That night we had an FRG (Family Readiness Group) meeting on base for Jake's battalion, so the kids and I decided to forego the potluck madness (with 4 children and flimsy plates, one inevitably ends up on the floor every time) and ate dinner on the way at Burger King. My little burger kings and queens had a good time. There was even an epic french fry battle, complete with ketchup-y blood:

After our FRG meeting, we headed home and I gave the kids their gift:

The Tickle Monster Laughter Kit. 

It is a book with accompanying monster mitts and as you read the book, you tickle the kids along with the story... on their toes, tummy, underarms, etc. The kids absolutely love the book and mitts, and my only wish is that I had more hands to tickle with! 

I received a beautiful bouquet of calla lilies and roses from Jake (which may or may not have arrived on Valentine's). Wink. Smile. Calla lilies are extra special to me as that is what my entire wedding bouquet consisted of.

I also received a new necklace - it is a heart-shaped blown glass charm. Very pretty. And I just happened to be wearing my 'proud wife' shirt when I opened the box... I think it was a perfect shirt for the occasion. 

Happy Valentine's Day!