Date Night...

Like any married couple with a child or children, it hard to imagine what life was like before they came.  I cannot even count all the wonderful ways our lives have changed since Stella has come into our lives.  I love everything about her.  But I would be lying if I didn't admit that sometimes I miss being just Brian's wife and not Stella's mom.  I miss having an adult conversation without having to make sure food isn't getting thrown on the floor or making sure that food is cut up, for that matter.  In saying all this, Brian and I decided (well actually I decided) that it is important for us to incorporate a date night into our lives once a month.  We (again I) decided that we would each take turns in planning it.

Well this past weekend was our first date night...  In the past year or so, Brian joined the Men's Board of an organization called Fresh Start (www.wehelpwomen.com).  And their annual Fundraiser Fashion Show/Gala was this past weekend.  When Brian first told me about this (a week and a half ago) I will be honest, I wasn't super excited until he told me that Katie Couric would be the mc.  I mean really who doesn't LOVE Katie?

On Saturday, we dropped off Stella at our friend's, Paul and Sherry, house for a sleepover.  (I mean who doesn't like a night out AND the next morning to sleep in.)  We got ready and headed out.

As we pulled up to the Biltmore, I admit that I was a little nervous about whether my dress was okay or my hair looked just right when the car in front of us stopped and this beautiful lady got out...

I know, I know it is wrong to make fun of others, my mother did teach me better than that.  However, in saying that, I took these pictures of her at the end of the evening... In my defense, I had a little bit to drink and had to be sure to include her in the blog.  Yes, those are pigtails and yes it does look like an orange bag.  (On a side note, I wish I had that much confidence in myself as she probably does.  Let's face it, you have to be pretty confident)

I figured that I would stand next to her all night and no matter what I would look great :-)

Anyway, we got out of our car and walked over to the long line to get our table assignment and bid card Brian and I both commented about how great the people watching was going to be.  There was about 800 people at this event and it was amazing.  The gowns were incredible and of course the people-watching did not disappoint :-)

The evening started with with a cocktail hour and a silent auction followed by dinner and a fashion show.  Our seats were incredible!!  Our table was right at the end of the fashion show runway.

A highlight of the night obviously included seeing Katie Couric and listening to her talk.  I took a couple of pictures of her, but neither of the pictures showed her in a glowing light so I am choosing not to post them.  Who wants bad pictures of them out on the web?

But to be honest, the best part of the night was spending a much needed evening with my husband!

Weekend in Pictures...

Started Out My Birthday Weekend at a Student Council Retreat in Prescott, Arizona.  I was lucky enough to have 400 junior high students sing me happy birthday on Saturday morning :-)

When I got home on Saturday afternoon, I noticed that Stella's bangs were getting a little too long so I decided to give them a little trim... BAD IDEA!!!  Needless to say, I have learned my lesson I will never be cutting her hair again.  Brian has been calling her "Boy Bangs."

Stella all dressed up to take mommy out to dinner for her birthday!

Again, can I mention that I spent the previous evening at a Student Council Retreat and I slept on the floor.  Not the most flattering picture because I was SOOOO tired, but I posted it because Stella looks too cute!

Best Birthday present ever!  I have wanted a pair of Uggs forever, but didn't really see the point because I live in Arizona.   So glad I finally got some, they are super comfortable.

Sunday afternoon with a fire in the fireplace... does it get any better than that?

Brian trying out his new smoker.  He made hot wings and ribs.  Stella LOVED the wings, she could not get enough of them.

And Monday morning...