Williamsburg in Summer

Williamsburg in Summer

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Panda Love







Meet Kate's new friend, Panda Bear. My mom and dad surprised her with this panda and a correlating story book a few weeks ago, and since his arrival Panda has not left Kate's side. She sleeps with him, she feeds him at meals times, she takes him on car rides, etc. I think my parents hit the nail on the head with this gift! Thanks!

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Blizzard of 2009

Well the snow started to fall about 9:30 on Friday night. And as we went to bed last night around 11:00 p.m. the snow was finally abating. The grand total at our house was 22 inches! It's been more than 10 years since I can remember having a snowfall of this magnitude! It is so beautiful to watch falling, and today's bright blue sky makes the snowy wonderland look magical!



We had such a wonderful day as a family! Josh did not work. And at about 10 a.m. Saturday morning (with only 4 or 5 inches on the ground) dear friends Paul, Peggy, and Zachary came over so we all could hunker down for the day and enjoy the storm together! Kate wanted to go out in the snow all day long. When we finally went out she wouldn't really cooperate for pictures. Zachary was more photogenic.




Zachary waiting for his ride in the "sled". Kate wasn't too keen on climbing in. She just wanted to pull Zachary through the snow!


Peggy playing with Zachary - while Zachary contemplates why we are outside in this very cold weather.

Shayla loved running around in the snow too. However, it was a little deep for her. She had a hard time finding her way in the backyard to go to the bathroom.


We spent a good part of the day indoors as can be expected. Paul and Peggy (fellow foodies) came over and started cooking within the hour! We had Peggy's chili for lunch with homemade corn bread from Paul. Paul made fresh bread that we later enjoyed at dinner on panini sandwiches with butternut squash soup that I made (care of Peggy's recipe). Our neighbor Jonathan tromped over for dinner and a movie too. We pretty much ate our way through the blizzard. Oh, and I should mention the Bavarian Hot Chocolate we had while playing a game of Apples to Apples while the kiddos napped (at the same time even!). and yes, Josh willingly played a game - and I think he kind of enjoyed it too!


Paul making his yummy honey oat bread!

Peggy prepping her delicious chili!

Baby Zachary - always happy and content!

Josh pulled out his violin and mandolin for some music. Kate and Zachary enjoyed listening to him play. Kate tried to join in too! Paul pulled out his guitar and they jammed for a little while. It was really nice to hear Josh playing again. It's been awhile.
Both the kids slept through the night, and we all awoke and had a yummy breakfast together before Paul and Peggy ventured home. Wish they could have stayed longer! It was such a fun day. Thanks, Lord for sending so much snow and making so many people happy!

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Just Chilling in the Backseat


I love this photo! I just had to share it with you. Kate and I were driving around today, and she wanted her sunglasses. Unfortunately, I can't seem to find her sunglasses since our trip to the Outer Banks in October. So I let her use mine for the duration of the ride. I had to snap a picture. It's moments like these that turn a rough morning around.