Browsing Category

Holidays

Holidays, Santa Cruz

An afternoon on the Santa Cruz pier

Christmas is in high gear around these parts. December is already flying by. It’s quiet in my house tonight, the tree is glowing, Kelly Clarkson Wrapped in Red is on shuffle and I’m going through all of the pictures from our Sunday on the Santa Cruz pier with Heather. Jace’s first Christmas. Wow. This little sweetheart of mine is already 10 months & 2 weeks. I can barely keep up. He is so smiley. I am truly so blessed to have him. He is such a bundle of love.

This last one might be my most favorite. It’s so us and how we are with Jace. We’re constantly giddy and smiling around him. We’re all a bunch of hams. And then there’s Jace, always taking the hugs and kisses we smother him with. Until he’s over it and wants to crawl on the pier and ooh and aah at the seagulls. Thank you so much Heather for capturing all these little family moments for us. We love you!
December 17, 2014 by
Holidays, Jace

Christmas in September

Mr. Jace got an early visit from Santa Claus while in Arizona this month. A friend of our family wanted to stop by to meet our little man and showed up dressed like Santa Claus, an identity he’s trying on this season at some of the local hospitals in Phoenix. Jace wasn’t scared at all. He was giddy and curious and happy. Couldn’t stop petting Don’s beard, oops, I mean Santa Claus’ beard ;) I seriously cannot wait for Christmas. We are going to go crazy with the Christmas fun with Jace. Watch out little boy, the holidays are almost here.

{best friends!}
October 1, 2014 by
Family, Holidays, Jace, Santa Cruz

Easter Sunday at Vintage Faith

On Easter Sunday we went to church for the first time as a family. It was so special. Our church brought together all 4 gatherings for one big service at the Civic Center downtown. Not only was it resurrection day {he has risen!}, but we got to celebrate together as a whole church, no split services. It was a pretty awesome morning — the Civic Center was bumping with great song, prayer, worship and performances by Wanda Jackson. The message of the day? God is the light. May we continue to follow him and learn from his teachings and share his love with those around us. Lately I’ve been feeling like the world is coming down on my shoulders, so this message hit hard.  No bad day or insecure thought is really that big a deal when you have God by your side. There is always light, thanks to what Jesus did for us.  Hope you all had nice Easter with your loved ones!

John 8:12 — Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”

 

 

 

{Wanda Jackson! Can’t stop humming Hank Williams’ “I Saw the Light” . . .}

 

 

 

{Little Jace was a little overstimulated by the end, but overall a great success.}
April 22, 2014 by
Holidays, Inspiration

In the mood for Valentine’s Day

Other than a red toe nails, I haven’t done much to prep for Valentine’s Day this year {with having a baby and all}. There are so many wonderful images swimming around Pinterest lately, I couldn’t help myself! Hoping the hubby and I can still make Valentine’s Day special in some way. Here’s what getting me inspired for this adorable holiday:

 

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day? Hopefully you’re doing something fun with a loved one or close friend! ;)
February 7, 2014 by
beach house, Holidays

Christmas at the beach house

 

 

Christmas morning we woke up early, brewed some coffee, and quickly got on FaceTime with our family for gift opening. Almost felt like we were together, even though we were apart. It was hard to say goodbye; I miss them so much.

After gifts we went into breakfast mode. I made Heather’s B&B Potato and Boursin Frittata {with a side of bacon;)}. It’s seriously the most delicious breakfast casserole you’ll ever taste. I highly recommend! I might just make it again this weekend, ha.

{couldn’t resist these fox pajama pants for Rob!}

 

 

This year Rob and I exchanged one “big” gift, and then stockings. We of course had to hang one for little boy, and for the pups. We all made out this year. Rob did particularly well with mine!

 

 

 

 

Tacoma was trying so hard to get both the ball and bone in his mouth at one time. hahahahaha

While searching for a fun recipe for Christmas dinner, I stumbled upon The Pioneer Woman’s chocolate peppermint cupcakes, and now I wish I hadn’t. They came out sooo good. Eating 4 cupcakes is like eating a slice of cake, right? Riiiiight.

After scarfing down a few cupcakes, we headed out to catch a matinee showing of American Hustle. Amy Adams’ hair stole my heart. I really think I need some hot rollers now. I mean, wow. Look at her hair! Just wish the movie had more of a *punch* at the ending …

After the flick we took the dogs for a long walk on the beach to watch the sunset. It was one of the clearest days I’ve seen here in the Cruz. Just beautiful. You could see the entire coastline of Monterey Bay. God graced us with a gorgeous Christmas day in honor of his son. Thank you for such a warm, loving day.  We are truly so blessed, in so many ways.

 

For Christmas dinner I made spaghetti & meatballs {another Pioneer Woman recipe}, and we had a picnic in front of the TV while we watched The Blind Side {one of my stocking stuffers and favorite movies!}. I love any pasta dish by Mrs. Drummond. Probably because she almost always uses wine ;)

Not sure you were interested in the mundane details of our Christmas day, but I look forward to looking back at this special day. Our first Christmas away from family, and before we become a family. Crazy to think about it like that, but it’s so true. Next Christmas it won’t just be us. We’ll have a son {ahh!!}. Hope your hearts were warm this Christmas! Ours sure were!

December 28, 2013 by