happy heart day.

avery taylor is 4! christian timothy is 2!

How did this happen? How in the world do I have have two kids old enough to run around and eat birthday cake, and open presents, and have actual friends, and have actual birthday parties? They both had their party this year at Pump It Up indoor inflatables warehouse, where so many of our great friends got to join in the celebration. A truly fun and exhausting time was had by all.

This year, Avery has really grown up a lot. She has quickly morphed into her role as big sister, and is now pretty good at being my second pair of eyes and ears for Christian. She continues to be conniving. She continues to be incredibly sweet. She continues to be my ultra-independent, curious, and super-smart little girl. She loves doing any creative activity under the sun. She loves animals. And, she really loves being given a job, or put in-charge of something. Miss Leader in the making.

Christian is now a boy. Before, he was just a baby. He is the cutest thing to ever look up at you with those huge blue eyes, and itty bitty dimples, that a person can hardly stand not immediately chewing on his face. Jonathan and I find ourselves looking at each other so often in simultaneous recognition of his adorable-ness. He is our little gem right now. Absolutely obsessed with Jake and the Neverland Pirates, he runs the house with a sword and a hook. He would eat Pirates Booty chips all day long if we let him, and as long as he gets to hang with the big kids, he has a smile on his face.

I feel so lucky to have such sweet and fun kids. They are our everything, and more.

Click HERE for all of the pics. Password: Finch

a seattle christmas.

Avery and Christian were both old enough this year to really appreciate the magic of Christmas; the season, the food, family, and fun. The anticipation was all the rage, and Santa just Could Not Get Here Soon Enough!

The entire Finch family was here with us in Seattle, and all had a great time...dinner at Meredith & Brenner's new house, Santa presents at ours with aunt Ashley, more cinnamon rolls, and way too much wine. 

I'm starting to think that I may even need to use separate "Santa" wrapping paper next year for the always curious, intrigued, and never-outwitted Avery Taylor. I can rise to the challenge, little girl. Just call me the Minister of Magic.

Click HERE for all of the pics. Password: Finch

an alaskan thanksgiving.

We got everything we wanted and needed out of a winter wonderland away for Thanksgiving: a snuggly warm home, mountains of snow to play in, and oh so many family members to catch up with over a glass of wine!

Jonathan and I drove the kids down to Papa and Grandma's cabin, and stopped off at the Big Game park to see some serious antlers. Grandkids helped grandma roll out dough and bake her world famous cinnamon rolls. We trudged through the snow to watch some fantastic basketball downtown at the Shootout. Jonathan and I had a few great date nights out.

Halibut at Simons and Brewhouse. Pizza at Moose's Tooth. Libations at Whales Tail. Done, and done. Another perfect trip home with great company, ridiculous food, and warm memories.

Click HERE for all of the pics. Password: Finch