{ summer thoughts for teachers }

This week was Teacher Appreciation Week. If I had my way, I'd give every educator a huge cash bonus, a large cocktail, and a big hug. But since that wasn't possible this year, I provided some thanks in the form of sugar and butter.

So, a very special "YOU ROCK" to ALL you beautiful teachers who do so very much. And remember ... summer is near!

{ fiesta }

Aidan's class has been studying Mexico. As a unit-ending celebration, their having a "fiesta" at school tomorrow.

We're sending in chips, queso and homemade salsa, but I couldn't let the opportunity pass without taking advantage of one of my favorite cookie themes -- FIESTA!

{ birthday color }

{ zumba }

{ green bay packers }

{ iowa hawkeyes }

{ tennessee titans }

{ Minnie's Bowtique }

{ purple & chevrons }

For Baby Madeline's first birthday.

{ lobster bake }

I'm not ashamed to admit it ... these New England natives took me a long time to crank out!

It was my first attempt at airbrushing as well (thanks to Lisa, The Bearfoot Baker for the inspiration!), so these little suckers will probably show up in my dreams ... er ... nightmares ... for quite a while.

But again, labor of love, folks. Labor of love.

Now pass the butter.

{ biscuits for olly }

My trainer, Oliver (he's from England, hence the biscuits in the title), recently got engaged.

I know it sounds sort of nervy to make cookies for one's  personal trainer, but it's the best way I know how to give a gift from the heart. And besides, how fun would a vegetable basket be? ;)


So, congratulations, Oliver and Eilleen. May you spend many years together living in health and happiness ... and building muscles. :)

{ summertime cookies }