Baker.

I am definitely not a professional baker, but we all know I like to make sweet treats--and I have a sister who encourages and teaches me.  This month has been the "month of cakes", two baby showers and a first birthday.  I love making my two tiered roses cake (and I like eating it even more) and after this month I have it down to a science.  Mix, bake, clean, make filling and frosting, clean, cool cakes, level, fill, crumb-coat (both tiers), stack, pipe roses, clean, and DONE!  Oh wait, EAT!

Rachael's baby shower--her fifth baby and finally a girl!

For Caroline's first birthday--this girl has the best smile!

Erika's bay shower, after 8 1/2 years this sweet little girl is almost here.  The shower was "owl" themed.

I did not make these (remember, no more cake-pops).  But aren't they cute? From Erika's baby shower.

I love making cakes for those I love--but this probably won't be a profession I pursue (hard on the waistline).  Can't wait for more cakes in the coming months.  My friend Tami wants to do a Rainbow layered cake and I still have a butterfly and rose creation to make for Presley and Stella's joint birthday party (butterfly themed, I may be going overboard).

This cake is from Martha Stewart and I hope to be able to make it soon!

In the coming year I hope to learn a few new tricks--like this Ruffle cake from Martha Stewart.  I am already planning a Ballerina themed party in my head for the girls!  Tutus, ballet slipper cookies, learn a little dance routine . . . maybe I could do party planning?

Weekends.

We have been busy the past several weekends.  The BYU mens volleyball team has had quite a few home matches in a row and we have been to all of them!  Well, the girls come with me on Friday nights and then on Saturdays they get to stay home with a baby sitter, while I get a chance to actually watch the match.

Last weekend I finally remembered to bring my camera and get proof of the fun we have been having.  We have loved having so many friends and family come to the matches to support the team (and Chris).

Pre-match team chant.

The block.  Usually the stands are quite a bit fuller . . . still a loud, fun place to play.

Chris is lucky enought to have his dad working as his volunteer assistant--here they are during a time-out.

I think Chris is having fun coaching the guys--the team seems to be doing well despite a handful of injuries.  Started off the season at #1 and currently are coming off a weekend win in Hawaii at #4.   I need to get pictures of Presley and Stella in their BYU cheerleading gear--they love to dance and scream and cheer on their dad!