Chicago Love

We just spent a few wonderful crazy days in Chicago. We packed in a visit to Mitchel & Heather's, a visit to Mom's, a baby shower, a haircut, a visit to Traci & Tom's, a visit to Dad's and a visit to Ray's Aunts Ruth & Marilou. Oh, and we returned with 100 pounds (literally) of baby goodies and hand-me-down clothes (thank you, Mitchel & Heather, for letting us raid your attic!!). In 3 days. Whew! There really is nothing better than spending time with people you love and it was good for my soul.

First of all, Mom and Heath, you are totally amazing for putting together that shower in only a couple of weeks and giving me a chance to see so many dear friends. Check out the cuteness:


And, of course, some pics of the kids:

Kyle the Diva: posing in Grandpa's pickup

Aubrynn the Tornado: getting into everything
Troy the Charmer: all smiles and chubby cheeks
Baby Tessa (Notice the ADORABLE Laura-made onesie!):Baby Parker... what is with little man playing hard to get?? Maybe he is camera shy. First my phone deletes my only picture of him and then we go visit and NO pictures were taken?! It must have been because I was too busy discussing nursing bras and *ahem* other necessities with Traci and the paparazzi (Ray) was having too much fun playing hide and seek with Jack. What I can tell you is that Parker is one cute, long and lean 3-4 week old! He definitely got his dad's soccer legs and I have a feeling he is going to be taller than Traci by the time he is like 11.

Baby Halo-Halo (When did this happen? It looks different from the top!):

While we were there we also found out that Uncie & Patti are expecting! I am excited to share this time with them and to add to Baby Halo-Halo's cousins/friends (or technically an aunt or uncle!) I hope they have a great pregnancy and that Patti & I survive the adventures Uncie & Ray cook up for the kids. Maybe Basi and Baby D will keep them in check... or not.

(All of our pics from Chicago are on Ray's smugmug.)

Friday giddiness

I am just so excited right now. Ray and I leave tomorrow for a few days in Chicago and I am beside myself with excitement at the prospect of seeing family and friends. And Ray is coming with! I get to hang out with people I love so much, meet Troy, Tessa and Parker, have some Chicago pizza (if the dairy police allows), get a cute haircut and feel the grounding that only your history can provide.

The only thing holding me back from jumping out of my skin with anticipation is the fact that we have to fly there... I have been a little more of a nervous flyer lately. Add to that the fact that last time I flew I was half-conscious and passed out on the plane... plus being 6 months pregnant... well, thank God Ray is with me or I might have worked myself into a panic attack on the plane. It is worth it all, though, to see (some of) you guys! I can't wait!

And next time I come home it will be with a baby - WHOA!

PLUS, we will be home only 2 weeks between Chicago and HAWAII! What a great month. :) :) :)

See many of you very soon! <3