My Pink Shirt

This was one of those every day moments where Eva was looking so grown up. I love her so much.

Girl's Night Out with Eva!

Last night I got to see my good friends from Howard Hartry Inc. Teresa's home overlooks Catalina Island. It was such an amazing view. I've known these women for many years, and it's like old times talking about every subject imaginable.

Eva fought going down at Teresa's house for two hours, and I finally ended up leaving around 8:00. Putting her down in her pack n'play at a new house freaks her out a little. It's so wierd. But, of course the minute I put her to bed at home she went right to sleep.

Although I love my child, next time I'm leaving her home with Daddy so I can relax. Sometimes you just need a night away.

Sunset View

Kym, Sara, Eva, Teresa, and Carrie

My Peanut

Our Oregon Vacation

More Oregon Pictures

A 15 hour drive, with a 15 month old, stopping only a few times was better than expected.  I honestly thought we would stop half way, but once we passed San Francisco around 12:00 p.m., Jeff looked at me and said "Let's go all the way."  The baby had done incredible, sleeping a lot, playing with her toys, and looking at books.  By the time we had gotten to Eureka, we were still about 2 1/2 hours from Brookings.  We stopped for dinner, and as soon as Eva saw that car seat again she had a fit.  Thankfully, sitting in the back, entertaining her helped come her down and we were on our way.  

We made it.  It was great to get away.  Different smells, sights, sounds, and stimuli.  The roar of the ocean, the pounding rain and wind at night was just what we needed.  Although, traveling with a toddler is definitely not what you call a relaxing vacation, it was wonderful to be together as a family.

The highlight of our trip was a private train ride up in Deadwood, Oregon.  Jeff found this man on the internet that had built his own train track, 1.5 miles of track, along his 41 acre property.  He invited us to see his train, and we went.  It was another 3 hour drive north up the coast, but well worth it.  Check out my pictures in my picasa web album to see what we experienced.  I felt like a little kid riding along what almost felt surreal.  His property was so beautifully landscaped with trees, flowers, natural ponds and rivers.  Maples, alders and pines surrounded his property.  

Much of our time was spent in Brookings.  Unfortunately we could not find one decent Mexican restaurant. Maybe I shouldn't expect much from a town of 6,000.

The redwoods were absolutely gorgeous.  I've been there several times, and each time I'm in awe at God's creation.  The day we took a trip south, it was clear, the light was filtering through the trees just right, and the air crisp.  We couldn't have asked for more from our little getaway.

Tis the Season!

Noah and Merrisa snuggling on Christmas day.

I had to get in my Christmas kiss.

Ahma, Papa, Eva and Me

A gift from Grandpa and Grandma Reed.  I love the chef's hat and apron.  It adds that special touch, don't you think?

She looked so cute in that jacket.  I had to take some snaps. Although Eva was with us last year, we had much to celebrate this year with the adoption being final.  For me and my family we felt a sadness and emptiness with the loss of both my grandparents in 2008.  My Nuna made everything wonderful and magical at Christmas time. It's time to create new memories and pass down those loving traditions that she instilled in all of us.  We had a wonderful time visiting with Jeff's family and my family.