Wedding Photos











So, here are some of the wedding photos. They're not very good, because the lighting was difficult and it was crowded! There was lots of competition to get photos, I mean, there were like 5 pro photographers walking around plus everyone else was also trying to get their photos. Anyway, I'm glad I did capture a few precious moments. After Kate walked down the stairs and met with George, her dad, they hugged and had a few beautiful moments. Then, while Tara was walking down the aisle, Ryan just proudly and lovingly stared at his wife. Just after the wedding the wedding party was busy taking pictures, but we got a few cute shots in. During the reception I was able to get a pic of Gloria and her husband Miles dancing across the room from us.

Oh, I just love weddings. Needless to say, my tearducts were gushing before anyone even walked down the aisle. I especially let loose when I saw Ryan getting teary-eyed watching his sister.
There was such much love in the air! Especially from Kate and Brian...they are so in love and it radiated all over their faces.

Kate Weds

Beautiful Kate wedded handsome Brian last night at Gainey Ranch. The wedding was gorgeous with perfect weather. Oh, I love weddings! This was definitely a family affair. Dan, my father-in-law, retired pastor, officiated the wedding. By he way, my mother-in-law and father-in-law live next door to Kate's parents, so the kids have grown up together. Ryan, Kate's brother, and Tara, Ryan's wife and Kate's sister-in-law, were also in the wedding, with their daughter Riley as the flower girl. I watch their son Ryder on Wednesdays, so we're pretty close to their family. Gloria and Miles were also at the wedding. Miles owns an entertainment company and was the DJ for the night (by the way, he did a great job. If anyone ever needs an entertainment co for a party, definitely go with them). Miles is also Tara's brother. Miles' wife Gloria is a good friend of mine and we do play dates a few times a month. My mother-in-law and sister-in-law were also there. Whew. Even though we are not related to Kate, she and her family are definitely extended family. Because of all the relationships between our families, we see each other several times throughout the year at various family functions. Anyway, it was great to have everyone in one place to celebrate the marriage of a really great couple.

Kate and Brian said their own vows, and their words were so touching. They definitely communicated their love. The wedding was also filled with lightness and humor, which reflects the couple's personalities, and their families as well. George, Kate's dad, gave a great 7 page (!) toast, which was a riot of course. He's a retired professor at ASU, so he's comfortable speaking to a crowd.

All in all, a great wedding. I even got Justin on the dance floor a few times! But 2 glasses of wine and I am nursing a headache today!

Happy Birthday Eliana!


It is sweet little Eliana's first birthday! A whole year has gone and we have yet to meet this little cutie pie, but we are looking forward to meeting her in June!
Happy Birthday!

Arizona Science Center










We went to the AZ Science Center last month and here are some pics I'm finally posting. It was great because it is free to Bank of America card holders on the first of the month. The kids thoroughly enjoyed it and the bonus was we rode the light rail into downtown. These pics were taken before and after we went into the science center. Outside the science center there is a large almost pyramid-like structure with steps going up and then a flat roof with a garden. This was the structure that the kids were climbing in some of the photos.

Old Photo Machine



Found this really cool url that makes your photos look old. The site is written in Japanese, but it's simple to just upload your photos and then just press the button. Voila, the photos comes out aged. Read about it from Sweet Fine Day.

Sweet Little Ryder Turns One









I love watching Ryder on Wednesdays, and I can't believe this little baby turns one already. His party was lots of fun with many members of his large loving family. The party was at a nearby park and the weather was gorgeous. The highlight was the gift from George, Ryder's grandfather and my in-laws' next door neighbor. George is wonderfully talented in woodworking and made the most amazing rocking horse for Ryder. Eva couldn't wait to get a turn on it too!

Lemony Goodness





Sadly I don't own a citrus tree, though I'd really like to. Fortunately we have a neighbor that has a tree with heavy limbs full of ripe lemons. I received a large bag full the other day and knew exactly what I wanted to make. This lemon yogurt cake from the Barefoot Contessa at Home book is so moist and tangy and sweet. Dang. It's good.

Audrey Dress


I'm just lovin' this dress from Rockerbaby. The price is reasonable, but on the other hand, it seems easy to make. The fabric is by Alexander Henry, but I'd just have to hunt it down online. Eva would look so cute in it!

The Kids in B/W







Just practicing with black and white photos.

Kate's Bridal Shower








Kate is getting married at the end of the month. Tara threw a lovely shower for her at the House of Tricks. The food was delicious and the company was great-- what more could you ask for?
Kate will be such a beautiful bride and we are looking forward to the wedding!

Some homemade goodies in Eva's Room








I recently made this little pillow for Eva using some scraps I had. I also made the little frame in the first picture as well as the little clothesline with dresses.

Secret Republican Apology Machine

Just in case you need to apologize to the leader of the Republican party, the DCCC has uncovered the Secret Republican Apology Machine.

Walnut Blondie with Maple Butter Sauce


Oh my. That's all I can say. Cannot wait to make this yummy dessert (recipe linked on Bakerella)