Pretty as a Picture

My girlfriend Julie's little girl, Lily June, celebrated her 2nd birthday today. I had this adorable photo of her from Gabriel's cookie decorating party that I just had to frame as part of her gift.

I found the cutest frame at the Dollar Store (yes, $1!...it looks like wood but it's made of plastic) and I thought it would be sweet if I hot glued a bow to it. Then it hit me this morning that I could make an actual hair bow that could be removed from the frame.

Look closely at the left hand corner of the frame. I hot glued a small piece of white grosgrain ribbon, leaving space in the middle to slide the alligator clip of the hairbow in and out. How cute and simple, right?! I have big plans for this project...watch out Dollar Store, here I come!

P.S. Notice the reusable shopping bag in the background? That was a TJMaxx purchase this week...2 pack, both with an initial ("L" for Lily June, of course), one large and one small, for $2.99. That's less than I would spend on 2 gift bags...and they're reusable and so cute!

Happy Birthday Papa!!!

Today we celebrate the birthday of a super special man in our lives, Jay's dad Steve. I can't begin to find the words to express how important he is in our lives. He's Jay's very best friend and he loves us all so unconditionally. As his daughter-in-law, I feel so lucky to have such a positive father figure in my life. I can call him whenever and about whatever and I know he'll give me his most honest opinion. He's a father, but also a great friend. And as far as the kids are concerned, Papa is the best! Happy Birthday Dad! Happy Birthday Papa! We love you so much!!

Papa, can you fill in the blanks? Yes, it says "We Love Papa." Sorry that the 8 month old would rather eat the paper than pose for Papa's picture. And Gabriel just happened to have an itch at the same time. No chance to reshoot...turned into a meltdown...happy birthday anyway!