Our Secret Garden

So this past week we spent a week in Cambria at Patrick's parent condo. We had such a wonderful trip exploring Patrick and my absolute favorite places on earth...the tide pools, moonstone beach, the east-west trail and more. One of the most special moments of our trip was taking the kids to the garden Patrick and I were married in seven and a half years ago. We were able to capture a picture of the kids in front of the fountain much like my favorite wedding photo.

It's the most wonderful time of the year...

So I thought I was so organized for Christmas this year. The Christmas tree was up and decorated before Thanksgiving, the rest of the house over Thanksgiving weekend, presents were purchased and wrapped weeks ago, I even had the Christmas cards purchased in October....so how is it I still feel like I have a million and one things to do?

Even though the holidays can be stressful and lot's of work....I still love Christmas. Seeing the joy in my boys eyes when they see Santa, Evan telling me the house looks beautiful, decorating Gingerbread houses, Christmas music in the background and the time spent with family make all the hard work and effort worth it!

Blake's Last Soccer Game

Blake had such a great time playing soccer this year. Saturday was his last game. Here are a few pictures of the boys.

Ry's Gingerbread Birthday

So this past weekend I had Ryan 5th birthday party at the house. Having your birthday a day before New Year's Eve can be a bit of a bummer. I wanted for him to have a special day with all of his friends from school. Seeing as I am obsessed with Christmas, I decided a Gingerbread birthday would be perfect. Ry must be a popular kid...or the mommy's wanted to check out their future teachers home : )...not sure which, but we had thirty kids at the house! Everyone had a great time decorating,eating tons of sweets, sipping hot cocoa and playing with the rocket in the backyard. It was a wonderful day!

Our Last Thanksgiving

Well, Thanksgiving was especially meaningful as it was our last holiday we would spend in our childhood home. We were so blessed to grow up in an incredible neighborhood full of wonderfully, caring families. As much as I am going to miss our home...I am so thrilled to have mom and dad with me in the desert!