Double Happiness

Easter 2008

More hippity-hoppity Easter Bunny fun <here>.

(tickle tickle) Valentine's Day 2008

I've been really bad about updating our blog.  Here are some pictures from Valentine's Day.

(tickle tickle) New Year, New Adventure

It was January 1, 2008 - the first day of the new year and what better day to put our girls on an ice rink for the very first time?

They were enthusiastic about it on the way there and eager to strap on their boots but somewhat unhappy about their vulnerable footing.

Even so, a week later, they still talk about their first skating adventure affectionately and we expect there's more ice skating fun in our future.

Unblurry pic (and several other pics) <HERE>

(tickle tickle) Christmas 2007

Phew!  What a wild ride that was! 

Pictures and text and even a little video are on the private blog <click here>

I'll add more text to the photos when my head clears and the dust settles!  Until then, enjoy the pics!

These four collages were created from "quick pages" from one of my favorite scrapbook sites: Weeds & Wildflowers.  There were 12 pages in all and they're selling the Quick Page set for just $5 and donating all proceeds to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.  This album will only be available for 1 month  - until January 26th, so grab it while you can!!

Father's Day

It's nearly 10:00 PM on Father's Day and I'm just starting to put this post together.  Such is life with two 2 year olds, I guess!

But that doesn't diminish the importance of the three men in my life that I'm paying tribute to today.  First mention goes to my dad.

My parents divorced when I was 6 years old and I lived with Dad pretty exclusively until leaving home at age 17 (to join the Army).  My Dad taught me the best lesson ever:  "The greatest gift a father can give his children is to love their mother".

I don't, personally, remember his relationship with my real mom but I very vividly remember his relationship with my step-mom and it was clear that he adored her.  I never saw or heard a fight.  I always saw lots of physical affection and respect. 

The first man I ever loved was my Daddy and, when I grew up, I was sure I'd marry him.  I vividly remember dancing on his feet, snuggles, love and cuddles.    When I went looking for a life partner, I wanted a man that had the qualities I saw in my father. 

I hit the jackpot with Andrew.  He's the most incredible man I've ever known in my entire life.  He's smart and funny and compassionate.  He's a man of of the highest moral character.  He's honest and fair and, as if fate could actually put a cherry on top of the perfect sundae, he's wicked handsome too! 

Every adjective I used to describe him takes on a new meaning since I've known him (if you've got a man like this, you know what I mean).  I'll never have to tell my kids how fortunate they are to have him as their Dad.  They'll Just Know.

None of Andrew's qualities are a surprise when you consider where he came from.  His parents are simply wonderful.  They've been married over 40 years and I still see a sparkle between them when they're together.   

It's my deepest hope that our girls will see the same sparkle between their mom and dad and will, someday, seek a partner with their Daddy's qualities.    If they do, I'll never have to worry that they're happy and loved.