#2

Look whose name hit the #2 spot on the Social Security Administration's Top 10 Baby Names for 2011!

For the record, Mason's name was #11 on this list last year when Brad and I chose it. We actually selected the name before we knew how popular it had become. I figured that it would make the top 10 list this year, but I'm a little surprised that it skyrocketed to the second spot. We don't know any other babies named Mason. Oh well. Brad and I contributed to the name's popularity this year. At least Mason should never be teased about his name!

peonies

It's taken three years, but my peonies have finally taken off!

I planted the peonies in 2009. In 2010, I had no blooms. In 2011, I had two blooms. This year, NINE gorgeous blossoms!

Is there a more beautiful or fragrant spring flower? I think not.

Mother's Day

As I prepare to celebrate Mother's Day, I'd love to hear about any special traditions your family honors for this day. I have a few ideas, but am always open to more. Please share!

behind

In my old life (pre-Mason), I would have been eagerly anticipating this announcement.  Now, a month has passed since it was made and I'm just now marking my calendar and blogging about it.

Still. I'm excited to take my little guy to the National Book Festival this year. It should be a much different experience than his first one.

neighborly competition

My front flower bed consists of hostas, gerber daisies, and a few varieties of lilies, among other plants.

My neighbor, Ed, who lives two doors down, said he drew inspiration from me, and also planted hostas, gerber daisies, and several types of lilies in his raised bed.

I take his copying my design as a huge compliment, but why did he have to do it so much better than I did?

transition

I've worked a few days from home thus far, and it's been busy, but glorious.

Granted, working at home with a baby present requires diligence. It's pretty easy to rack up five hours of solid work time each day during Mason's naps and some of his playtime. And the amount of work I get accomplished during Mason's naps blows my mind--probably as much or more than what I usually accomplish in an eight-hour day in the office. But I need to buckle down to log those last three hours each day at home. However, without commuting, getting ready, and socializing or otherwise futzing around the office, I do feel like I have much more time in my day.

I love being able to see my baby more as I wrap up my paying job.

easy spring - back yard

I keep thinking that I've forgotten something. How is my yard finished this early in the season?

My herbs are already going crazy.

The Columbine is blooming.

So is my azalea.

And the honeysuckle.

And the roses.

I'm waiting on the rhododendrons to bloom.

My vegetable garden is starting to take off.

I love this time of year!