What's For Dinner? Week 18: Crock Pot Pork Chops and Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

 These did not end up looking anything like the picture in the original recipe, and because of that I apologized to Kris before even serving them! 

 

But, they were surprisingly really good.  I was afraid, based on how the chops looked, that they would be really dry.  However, they were very tender and we didn't even need our knives to cut them.  I didn't follow the potato recipe exactly, as I just estimated how much stuff I added to the mashed potatoes.  And I left out the roasted garlic.

Before tasting them, I made up my mind that I would stick to my normal means of making pork chops - either grilling or baking them.  But once I actually had a taste, I changed my mind and I would definitely make these again.  Maybe next time, they will come out a little prettier. =)

Our Weekend

We had a busy, but fun, weekend! On Saturday, we went to my parents' house, and although the weather was a little bit chilly and cloudy, Meredith and Caleb loved playing in the little pool.

 

 Shane had no desire to play in the pool, but still managed to have plenty of fun.

He played with the hose,

 used measuring cups to transfer water from the pool to the driveway,

 loved the little slide,

 played with Cubby,

 and had his first Popsicle.

 

 Tonight, we had a Small Group BBQ.  It was so much fun!

 C & C

 The best I could get of all the kiddos...

 Grill masters.

 The guys.

 The girls.

 The kids got so dirty!  They spent a lot of the time playing in the sand volleyball court, and baths were completely necessary when we got home.  Here's a little glimpse into what their faces looked like by the end of the evening...

   Roasting marshmallows.

 Caleb wanted nothing to do with the browned marshmallow, or a S'more.  Meredith took a couple bites of a S'more but decided she didn't like it.  They both loved eating the plain marshmallows, though!

 Shane was so tired, as it was waaaay past his bedtime by this point.  He asked for a marshmallow, and instead of eating it, he just held onto it while sucking his thumb.  Eventually, he did eat it (along with a couple more). =)

I love these types of days....full of sunshine, fun, family and friends, and food.  Although I have to admit that I am exhausted and ready for a down day tomorrow!

Preschool Graduation

 Our Caleb graduated (or, "gradurated") from preschool today! 

Posing for Momma before heading to school...

 Walking in...and yes, Pomp & Circumstance was playing. =)

The sweet kiddos had lots of songs to sing for us.

 Getting his diploma...

It's official! =)

 Waiting patiently as his friends had their turns...

 Proud Mommy and Daddy!

 With his buddy, Bryce...

 So handsome.

 A special present from Mom & Dad...

 If You Give a Mouse a Cookie...he has been wanting this book for a while, and was so excited!

 Kindergarten, here we come!