Zoo

We took AJ to the SD Zoo for the first time and all he wanted to do was run around! That kid can sure move. I think his favorite animal was the leopard but he also liked the hippo, monkeys and elephants. Can't wait to go back when it is a little cooler and less crowded.

Marci's getting married!

We celebrated my sister's last couple of weeks of singlehood by hanging out in downtown San Diego. We stayed at the Hard Rock hotel (which is quite funky), lounged by the pool, and hit up the night life. Those girls sure can party...I could barely keep up with them (not to mention being pregnant!). It was a fun weekend with the girls. 2 more weeks until the big day!

Anniversary getaway

I woke up on our anniversary to fresh baked banana chocolate chip bread shaped like a heart, sitting on top of a little wooden table. Alex made the bread for us to share on our drive to Santa Barbara and the table as a miniature replica of our next furniture purchase. 5 years is the 'wood' anniversary so we decided to finally get a dining room table and chairs.

As soon as we arrived at Bacara, we changed into our suits and lounged by the pool. It was a beautiful Santa Barbara day.

That night we watched the sunset and ate a yummy dinner at one of the resort restaurants.

We woke up on Sunday and went for a hike/walk in the cool morning fog. There are lots of hiking trails surrounding the resort and in the neighboring foothills. Bacara owns acres of land in the hills and has avocado and citrus groves that they grow specifically for the restaurants on the resort.


Our plan was to lounge by the pool again but it wasn't nearly as beautiful as Saturday. The fog never lifted so we played lots of Yahtzee, Boggle and Gin and tried our best to keep warm. We decided to go into town that night and on our way out to the car, we saw Michael Jordan in the lobby! He had a hat on and I did not recognize him but Alex did. I didn't believe him so I walked by him again and got a good look. I then asked the valet attendant if he was here and he said yes. Not bad for a celebrity sighting! We ate dinner on the SB pier and cruised State St.



It was a perfect mini vacation for Alex and I. We missed AJ dearly (and talked about him a lot while away!) but were grateful to spend some uninterrupted time together. AJ had a fun weekend with Mimi, Popi, and Auntie Marci. They went to the park, the zoo, and even taught AJ how to walk down the aisle holding the ring bearer pillow. Only 3 more weeks until the real deal...we better get practicing. :)

Little boys in hats make me melt

5 Incredible Years

It is hard to believe that 5 years ago Alex and I began this AMAZING journey of marriage. I look back at our wedding day and what I see is two innocent young adults with no cares in the world and very little on the to-do list. August 8, 2004 was the most perfect day. We stood in front of our families and closest friends and pledged to live our lives as one, before God, from that day forward. On that glorious day I married my best friend, my soul mate, my lubs.




The last 5 years have been filled with beautiful memories as well as heartbreaks. The Lord has surrounded us with incredible friends to help us along this journey; some that were around pre-Melissa&Alex and others that we have met as a married couple. We bought our first house and have enjoyed making it our home. We grieved the loss of our first child, celebrated the birth of AJ less than a year later, and are so excited to meet the newest addition to our family in January. He gives and takes away- blessed be His name!

The to-do list may be a mile long and the cares and concerns are ever-present, but I am beyond grateful and humbled at this journey God has taken us on in 5 short years. He knew Alex was perfect for me and allowed him to be the one to walk beside me along this incredible adventure. I pray that this is only the warm-up lap to a long and fulfilling life as husband and wife.



I love you, Alex, and thank you for 5 unbelievable years!

Playtime!

We have been enjoying our summer! It has been so hot recently that we have taken refuge at the pool, beach, and in our air conditioned house. AJ loves playing with his friends and with anything that has wheels.

The neighborhood gang




Putt Putt date night. The belly is growing!

Cheers to 40 Years!

Today marks 40 years of matrimony for my mom and dad. They have such a fun and strong relationship and I admire their loving devotion to one another. Staying committed to the vows they made 40 years ago and solidifying their marriage on the rock of Jesus is the best gift they have ever given me. They are beautiful examples of husband and wife and a testimony to the sacredness of marriage. Congratulations!

In honor of this milestone, my brother, sister, and I threw them a surprise party on Friday night. About 45 of their close friends and family helped celebrate with us aboard the Dream Maker yacht in Newport Harbor. My parents were totally surprised when they walked up to the yacht and were greeted by a loud ‘Happy Anniversary Bill and Judy!’ It was a beautiful evening of cruising the harbor, catching up with friends, and loving on my parents.

Then (aren't they adorable!)...




And Now (they are still adorable!)...







The toasting flutes they used on their wedding day