I always said growing up that I would never stay in Minnesota. That I just wasn't meant to live here. I enjoy some winter things, but generally winter is far too long for me and I have a difficult time managing myself during those long days.

Alas, here I reside and plan to for some time....

This has caused me a great deal of appreciation for the springs arrival each year. Especially now, with 4 very small children, the arrival of spring signals so many physical changes. But it also signals a mental shift for me.

It allows me to relax a bit. I'm not certain why, but the sunshine allows me to sit. It allows me to sit even with a sink of dishes or a dirty bathroom floor. It allows me to relax.

It's almost as if there is a switch inside of me that mellows me out the moment it's flipped...and spring flips it!



Anyhow...all of this to say that I am here! In my mellow, relaxed, summer residence. The residence I take up of

-keeping children up too late

-taking children out early

-mealtime is whenever we feel like it

-nap time is not a necessity

-some clothing is optional (shirts, shoes, and the like)

-schedules are very optional

-drop-ins are preferred

-last minute plans are welcomed

This has, however, also led to my camera being left by the wayside most of the time.

So even though the above photos have NOTHING to do with this post..they're all I had!

**And yes, this is ANOTHER time my children had their faces painted**

Written by Alicia Overby - Founder & President of Baby Elephant Ears

Alicia is wife, mother, and creator of Baby Elephant Ears. Baby Elephant Ears was created out of parental concern, not financial desire. In 2005, when their second child was an infant, he cried all the time and just couldn't seem to get comfortable.

After seeking advice and suggestion from the medical community and alternative medicine, they eventually ended up in the chiropractors office where their baby was successfully treated for a subluxation, discomfort most likely the result of the strain during labor, which was now being exacerbated by the normal lack of infant neck strength. Only proper neck, head, and back alignment would offer him relief. When they couldn't find a product to give their baby the necessary support, Alicia took matters into her own hands and crafted her own infant support pillow. The first Baby Elephant Ears was born!

For more information, visit www.babyelephantears.com.