Merry Christmas!

My family and I went down to Trolley Square yesterday. Merritt and I met there almost nine years ago. Collin said, "So Dad. This is where you came when you only had $5 left in your pocket?" Merritt used his last $5 to get into a dance there...and the rest is history. Collin wanted us to show him exactly where Merritt and I were standing when we met. Then Collin stood there. He looked up at us and smiled.

We still don't have much more than $5 in our pocket. But we have three and a half kids. They are my treasure. My favorite movie of all time is Family Man. It's a modern-day version of the classic It's a Wonderful Life. I watch them both every Christmas. It's a ritual. And, every time I cry. I'm just so grateful to have a husband and a family. Nothing else matters. My sister took this photo of us. Love, and a merry Christmas to all!

Welcome Baby Madeline

My brother and his wife, Abi, had their baby girl yesterday afternoon. She is beautiful, and I love her already.

Grandma's Halloween Party

This was a fun start to the season! Thanks grandma...and aunt Amy (because I know she helped a lot too). We went to the pumpkin patch, carved mini pumpkins, ate yummy food, and played fun games. This year we had Collin as Harry Potter, Aunt Amy as Hermione, Luke as a knight, Owen as a dragon, Henry as a tiger, Nolan as a monkey, and Jill as a clown. Happy Halloween!

My Brother and Abi Are Having a Baby Girl...

Abi, me, and my sister Amy at the baby shower.

The view from the back porch during brunch.

Loved the pink straws in the old-fashioned milk bottles.

Best french toast I've ever eaten in my life (from Kneaders).

Loved this embroidered alphabet.

The candy shop...no money required. Loved the doll house.

The blanket Amy made for Abi from vintage baby fabrics.

So cute.

Abi's best friend Page, who is also having a baby girl.

Abi with her cute mom.

My brother and his wife are having the first girl baby in the family. We are all so excited. (After five boys it's about time!) The irony is that Ryan HATED being the only boy in our family growing up. And he wanted a boy baby so badly. But I guess the stars are stacked against him. We all know he'll love her though. He'll be a great dad. Baby is due to arrive end of November.

Today was Abi's baby shower. It was the most elegant baby shower I've ever been to. Abi has a friend that should be a professional party planner. I've attached some photos. I totally love Abi. She is so fun and nice. She is perfect for my brother. And, it's great to have another sister in the family. We all enjoyed a night out together, just mom and sisters. I'm so happy for her and Ryan.

My sister Amy made Abi a REALLY cute blanket out of vintage baby sheets. Check it out. I gave her a bath tub, bunny towel, and soap. Not nearly as cool, but practical at least. My mom and Jill missed it because they're in California. These pictures are for you Mom!

Oregon Coast Vacation

We had a great 10 day vacation in Florence, Oregon. It was so nice to see old friends and family. My boys loved the endless water adventures, including ocean, lakes, and waterfalls. I loved the hiking and peace of the forests. Definitely worth the sixteen hour drive! We send a special thank you to family--Ann, Deena--and my friend Amber who let us stay with them and provided meals for us. It made our vacation. Love to all!