Ending Summer With A Bang

Only one week 'til I am back at school...let's go back East! :) Joel and I had a great time this past week in Lookout Mountain with mom and dad, and in Asheville with Brennen and Sheila and their darling family. We started our visit in Asheville, where Joel taught Ryan a few poker tricks. He then proceeded to teach the rest of the neighborhood...

 

We all had fun with the new puppy, Jack, who is extremely patient and cute. Jack will even tolerate passengers such as Katie's doll Jennifer...but only for a second.


 

It's really good to be with your peeps and see them in their home! Now I can picture everyone right there....


 

The next morning we got to visit Joel's Aunt Karen and cousin William. It was fun to catch up. Then, off to Lookout Mountain! We spent several wonderful days with mom and dad. Highlights included visiting the Art Bluff Sculpture Garden, hanging out in beautiful galleries, doing a little shopping, and enjoying the summer thunderstorms from the coziness of the living room. It was the perfect end to summer!


 

On Sunday we visited Auburn and Zach, and were greatly amused by little Allie feeding popcorn to the giant dog Sampson. On Monday we had some wonderful visits, including time with our dear friends Liz and Clay. It was a fun end to our trip!

 

Daddy's really excited about his new Corvette model hobby. 

Kari's Baby Shower!

Today was a VERY festive day as we celebrated the soon-coming birth of Marigold. We had lots of family momentos to decorate the greenhouse window, and a watermelon baby buggy as the centerpiece on our buffet. Aunt Sherrie made the trip from San Jose, and we all had a great time of reunion and celebration. Fun!!
 

We had lots of yummy lunch and played games out by the pool. Then, presents!

 

Summer BBQ

We had a wonderful time with Bill and Bonnie and their daughter Maddie, and Amy and her two cute boys. From wrestling and hanging out in the front courtyard to watching Maddy "surf" and going for a refreshing swim, it was the perfect summer BBQ.

Mom and Dad even got to practice their grandparent skills! Clearly, they are ready for Marigold's arrival!