Sisterly Love

Alivia really loves John. They have a special bond already. When she gets in her booster seat in the car she always makes sure she pokes her head from behind the seat so that John can see her and give her a giggle. She likes to hold him and usually does so about once a day. She willingly will get his paci or pick up a toy for him when he needs it. She is a great mother's helper.

PS. John is 10 months old now!

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)