Spring Break 2013...

My mom, Lindsay and I decided to take a weekend trip to KC...bring on girl time! 



What trip wouldn't be complete without shopping, right?!?!...and good food!

The Country Club Plaza has it all.  We went to our usual shopping locations but found some unique stores that Tulsa doesn't offer as well.  We bought a few pieces from H & M  and Free People that are adorable for spring.  Oh, yes, let's not forget maternity from the Gap....

...posing with one of the bunny gatekeepers...
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We ate dinner Friday night at the Brio Tuscan Grill.  It is a quaint Italian eatery in the Plaza area.  I took a picture of our appetizer in hopes that Ben can re-create it at home. 

Roasted Red Pepper Bruschetta

with fresh mozzarella ,basil, parmigiano-reggiano and a drizzle of balsamic...delish!

For dinner, my mom and I shared the sweet potato and chicken risotto which  was soooo good as well!  In the past, she has always split dinners with Lindsay but now it's with me...lol!

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While resting in our hotel room, I was able to get my first "feel" of my niece.   She gave her Aunt Ali one little kick...it felt more like a hiccup to me. 

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On Saturday, we shopped til we dropped with a little rest stop at this cute chocolate shop. 
Check out the size of the strawberries below...

Mom and  I posing with some chocolate shamrocks...

These were well worth the $2.50 each price tag...

Chocolate filled martini glass

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Lunch at a pub on the plaza...

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We took a break from shopping to see the movie, Safe Haven...a suspenseful, romantic chick flick.

I happened to be reading the book; but, didn't mind spoiling the end because it was a chance to watch a movie with my mom nd Linz.  We need to do that more,,,

Lindsay's favorite movie snack...and if you know me, I'll eat anything... so sour it was. 

That evening we ate another nice dinner and turned in early. 

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On Sunday morning we made brunch plans with one of my dear college friends, Tisha. 

She lives about 5 minutes from the Plaza with her family. 

We were Zeta's together back in the day.  It's funny  no matter how much distance or time goes by  we can always pick right up.  

MY how times have changed since our old South Padre spring break trips...NOW we've moved on to brunch and coffee...lol.  Love and miss you,  Tisha!

Thanks Mom for a memorable trip...We LOVE spending time with you.~Ali & Lindsay

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March 10th, celebrating Lindsay's 32nd birthday at The Tavern on Brady Street. 

Back at Lindsay's house for her favorite dessert and gifts.  I know this was a special birthday for her with our little princess growing every day....and we are so thankful!

S'MORE than ever...

Ben surprised me with a little sweet treat the day after Valentine's.  He placed  marshmallows on a stick and we headed outdoors to grill marshmallows for smores.

It was so sweet and spontaneous... just perfect for a low cost romantic evening. 

Finished product...didn't last long...YUMMY!

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LOVE my shopping Saturdays with Mom and Linz...we stopped for a quick lunch at Wild Fork in Utica Square.  Lindsay got a few maternity pieces and we gained some ideas for her birthday gifts.  Her belly is really growing...I enjoy watching the changes.  Still waiting to feel my niece kick...hurry up little one!

  

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We had a brief but beautiful snowfall last week.  It was our first snow with Perry......as you can see in the tracks,  he LOVED running in it.  He made several circles in the yard but then decided that inside was a little warmer. 

Taking a break from his marathon...

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Today has been a cold rainy day with expected snow...fingers crossed.  My friends in the western part of the state are snowed in with record amounts and I AM jealous. 

We decided to make comfort foods..First up, homemade pretzels.  Ben used the kitchen aid to make the dough and I helped form the dough into pretzels.  They took awhile to make but they were definitely worth it.  Warm, salty goodness with two dipping sauces...just what this day called for..Thanks, Chef Ben! 

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 My Reac3h Coach position with the OSDE has been keeping me very busy...If I'm not on the road traveling to different schools, I am working on the next presentation....I love being in the different  schools and their classrooms...I definitely love making a difference...At least that's what I hope I am doing....



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...Love & Joy.....

                                                                                                             .....S'more than ever!