m a x + l u l a

Chicken Asparagus Pasta and Flat French Bread

Find this recipe at m a x + l u l a c o o k.

Or, click on the photo.

My friend Diane's Flat French Bread recipe.

The Arboretum

The Arboretum is one of our favorite places to go on Sunday afternoons.

Lots of grassy areas. . .good for taking a nap on, or having a potluck on.

It even has a fairy and troll village. . .which the boys love!

They even managed to fit in a troll house.

Lovely fairy homes. . .

Miles and miles of trails. . .

This past weekend we went to see the Peony Festival. This picture of the peony garden was taken about 5 weeks ago. . .

The pictures below were taken on Sunday.

A flower bed marker. . .

Seriously, my boy can not take a normal picture!

Click here for a map of the Nichols Arboretum

I've been wanting to post this for several weeks now, but I felt like I needed to wait until the necessary relinquishments were made before I introduced this sweet bundle of joy, who joined our home through the miracle of adoption. Words and emotions can not express how unbelievably happy we are. We are so overwhelmed with gratitude and thanks to our Heavenly Father for blessing us with this sweet, sweet boy. Welcome to our home baby! We love you more than you'll ever know.

Spring Asparagus Panzanella Salad

My take on a traditional Italian panzanella salad...only with asparagus, yellow bell peppers, white beans and a red onion vinaigrette. Perfect for spring!

Click on the photo for the recipe.

Or, try my fresh cucumber salad HERE...or click on the photo.

Friday Funny

I just couldn't resist posting a friday funny this week. In honor of Mother's Day this weekend, I hope you all get a good laugh out of this one :)

Happy Mother's Day!

Bahama mama

This past month, we were lucky enough to take an awesome vacation. Thanks to my parents, who provided/supplied the occasion, we were able to have one ginormous family reunion. The first week was spent in Florida, enjoying the awesome beaches, and, of course, Disney World! We even explored a state park, Lake Louisa, while basking in the lovely Florida humidity and heat. I welcomed every second of warmth though! The second week was spent on a 7-day cruise, traveling to Nassau, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. We had the best time ever! Especially after enduring one of the worst winters in Michigan...ugh! I was looking forward to some fun in the sun...and we did have a lot of fun! Thanks mom and dad. We love you!!!!!!!!!

These pictures are not in any particular order...just some of my favorites, capturing a bit of everything.

Enjoying a day at Daytona Beach, where the sand was white and so soft, and the water was warm enough to swim in! (Still a little cold though.)

The next bunch of pictures are from Nassau. . .

I'm pointing to (trying to show Max) the Pirate Museum in the background, however, it appears that I'm pointing to the man in the center. Or shall I say, tourist with about 100 fashion faux pas. He looks a little upset. But I would be too if I were wearing socks with my sandals :)