fall in Wenatchee

We had a really nice time visiting with some newer friends in Wenatchee this fall. We have a special connection with these families, as we have all adopted children through Antioch Adoptions. We hope to make this a tradition. The girls really loved trying out their walking and running skills in the wide open spaces. Our little city dwellers don't have much opportunity to walk with abandon.

the girls visit the Oregon Coast

cutie Mitchell and all smiles Paige


Catherine's (mom's side) family gathered for a long weekend in August on the Oregon Coast- Gearhart to be specific. We have found a lovely rental cottage that pretty near fits the whole family. The problem is that the whole family keeps growing. We are currently- 1 grandma, 5 siblings, 5 spouses/significant others, 9 grandkids and 2 more on the way. Oh, and those 9 grandkids are age 6 and under. Needless to say, this is not what you would call a retreat, but I think it's a blast! Gene loves the family too, but he's glad when we come home.

Madeleine and Claire turn one

Madeleine and Claire were in fine form for their first birthday. Little bathing beauties! We had about 20 friends and family over in the backyard for a great celebration. My big project for the summer was to make a "pretty" place for our party. With a huge amount of help from Gene's mom, we put in a patio and planted some plants. It's still a work in progress, but it made for a nice place to have a pool party.

Our first family vacation...we love the sun!

Somehow these were the only pictures we managed to take while on vacation in Arizona. It was relaxing- sort of. The girls were a hit with the other hotel guests! They made a lot of friends.

Babes in May

Madeleiene finishes breakfast with a smile!

These are a few of my favorite things

It's time to post a whole lot of pictures of our sweet girls. Since I am beginning this blog at 15 months old, I figure I have some serious catching up to do. This is primarily for the benefit of grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles and friends far away. I will try not to be too annoying, but as I've mentioned, we are very proud parents. Hope you enjoy the photo montage!

The family photo

Now, those are beautiful babies, don't you think?

I was inspired to begin our family blog today after reading my dad's blog. My dad is something else. He is a 50 something, cancer surviving, band teacher from Oregon. He is evangelistic about gmail and talking thru the internet. I will get there one day, dad. Most importantly, my dad is a man of great faith and full of wisdom.
So, in honor of my dad and his inspiration for starting our family blog, here is his picture (he's the one with the lovely grey hair).