68

That was the temperature in Lincoln yesterday.  Not only is it the middle of February, but just 5 days earlier the high was 5.  I don't know if I would have appreciated 68 degrees as much if it hadn't been so cold the days leading up to it.  The warm air felt glorious.  It was like a gift from God all wrapped up in sunshine. 

It was not only the spring-like weather that made this weekend a great one.  On Friday the girls spent the night at Grammy & Papa's so Steven and I could go on a date.  I had the spontaneous idea to go to Holmes Lake before dinner in hopes of viewing a beautiful sunset.  Mother Nature did not disappoint.  The following pictures were taken by Steven. 

While Steven and I enjoyed great food and adult conversation, the girls had fun eating pizza, making crafts, and watching movies.  They also decorated Valentine cookies.

Frosting cookies is serious work that takes a lot of concentration.

Adding sprinkles is the final touch.

The more frosting the better.

Licking frosting off her fingers . . . yum!

Some of the finished cookies.

Finally, it wouldn't be right if we didn't take the girls to play outside in the 68 degree air.

Look! No jackets!

Hangin' around like a monkey.

Audrey's favorite is the carousel.

Running off all that pent up energy!

Enjoying a jacket-free walk on a nearby trail.

Run Audrey, Run!

I am not sure how much longer we can expect such beautiful weather, but you can be sure we will be outside enjoying it until it disappears.  For now, I am off to help with Madeleine's class Valentine Party.  2nd graders + Valentine Candy and games = one tired mama and I haven't even left yet.  Happy Valentine's Day!