Delayed Valentine's Day

Matt scheduled a surprise Valentine's Day outing last night. It was lovely to get away for a nice dinner and de-compress about the day over a good meal. We went to Parkside on 6th Street. We tried raw oysters for the first time (hmmm, still not sure about them), and split fried calamari, lemon risotto and a steak with fries. Yummm. We were going to go to a hip bar nearby, but around 9 pm, Matt said, "I'm tired. . ." I was glad he said it first because I was thinking it, too!

I can admit that I love Matt now more than when we first started dating because of the history between us and life's journeys we have shared - medical school, DC, Portland, residency, Remy, international travel, Austin, starting a new business. . . oh and three kids!!!

Beautiful Winter Day at the Ranch

Matt and I got up this past Saturday, realized it was going to be a gorgeous day, packed up the family and headed out to the Ranch for a few hours. It was so much fun. The kids are really starting to enjoy it out there and I will be anxious to have John start walking so he can join in the fun. We had a picnic lunch on the porch, made a fire, roasted marshmallows, read books, and walked around the property. What a great escape. It brings back good memories for me everytime I am out there. Bertram is where I learned to fish and drive a car! By the way, can you see the pic of Alivia holding my Cabbage Patch Doll? My mom took them out there and Alivia thought they were great. So funny.

Fellowship Boys (without Dugan)

We are blessed to be part of a Fellowship group that meets about twice a month. Our friendships have continued to deepen and we rejoice in the fact that we share life together and live so close to each other. The Schoolers had us over for a Superbowl Party and I managed to get a pic of almost all the guys in the group. We are missing Matt Dugan. . .

From L - R: Rob Truss, Ryan Schooler, Matt, and Scott Davis

John's 9 Month Stats

Height: 26.75 inches (20%)

Weight: 20 lbs 14 oz (55%)

Head: 44.25 in (25%)

Snow Day!

Snow Days are rare in these parts so we really celebrate them. After all the hype, I was so relieved to see some snow falling around 3 am on Friday morning. The kids were giddy with excitement. The best part of it all was having an unexpected, fun play day at home with Daddy.

All Three Kids Have Worn the Same Baptism Gown

Then Mia monograms the slip inside with their name and the date of the dedication/baptism.

Top - Alivia (8.5 mos)

Middle - Will (6 mos)

Bottom - John (9 mos)

John's Dedication at Grace Covenant Church

Today was John's Dedication at Grace. He wore the beautiful baptism gown that all of the other Taylor cousins have worn. He looked like an angel. Pastor Matt said the sweetest prayer for John and the other two kids were so good while on the stage. On the way out of the sanctuary, Will waved to everyone and kept saying "Goodbye" as we walked out. Mia and Pops were also there for the service which was really special since Mia was literally the first person that John probably saw when he arrived in this world.

Afterwards we went to Austin Country Club for their amazing Sunday brunch. It was such a warm day that part of the time John was in his undershirt which makes me laugh because my mom goes to such great lengths to be sure that all of the kids are outfitted to the nines. Oh well. . .

John, today we stood in front of our peers to once again re-affirm that you are God's child on loan to us while here on Earth. We are blessed to be your parents and love you so much. May God continue to bless your life and ours as we lead you.