Tampa Travels

Thanks to Gigi and Papa for keeping E, W.E. were recently able to take a "Babymoon" to Tampa, Florida for a few days. The fun, sun, sand, and water were a real treat! Thanks to some great recommendations from a friend, we enjoyed a lot that Tampa had to offer. This included Clearwater Beach, near where we went to Salt Rock Grill. We especially enjoyed our afternoon together in Hyde Park Village and Ybor's Latin Quarter in Tampa. We found an awesome restaurant called Waltz's Fish Shak. Waltz only cooks what the captains bring in from their boat that day so once the fish is gone, it's gone.

The first night we went to the "Sunset Celebration" at Pier 60 which is seen just behind us. This happens every evening in Clearwater.

Baby G #2 is getting bigger at 20+weeks.

One of the most beautiful sunsets seen at Pass-a-grille beach near St. Pete's beach.

Summer Splash Pad

Splash pads are some of the coolest places in town, literally. Bartholomew Park has a brand new splash pad, which is now open for play. The grand opening party was a good time as we got to hear our friends' band, the Dos and Don'ts, play. Check out the "music player" on the FB link to hear some of their tunes. What talent and brains these guys have!

Nana's Birthday

We have made quite a few hand squeezed key lime pies lately but our favorite was to make one for Nana's birthday. Using a whole bag of key limes, the pie was so tart, tangy, and quite tasty.

Will decided to try Papa's turkey-in-a-sack recipe for our "Thanksgiving Meal in May!"

What a true treat it was being so moist. We ate on this for many days.

The moment a child is born a mother is born!

Happy Mother's Day 2011! Our family tradition has been to meet up together and go to the Oasis for brunch. This year we happily celebrate the addition of Aunt A to our group of mom's. What a great job she is doing with D!

A great picture of Nana and B-Bob!

The family

What an admiring look D has for his parents!

You can see the new "islands" that have popped up at Lake Travis due to the severe drought.

To the mom who has taught me what hard work, love, commitment, and selflessness it takes to be a supportive mom and wife...I love you!

In My Own Backyard...

Father-Son weekend project included building a new sandbox. With $10 in supplies from Home Depot and the cost of sand, we have a whole new adventure out back during the dog days of Summer.

The garden is full of fresh veggies, beautiful wildflowers, and lots of pollinating bees.

These amaryllis bulbs were transplanted from W's grandparents house two Summers ago. We honor W's grandfather each time they come to full bloom.

Easter is a Gift of...

Hope, Peace, and Love in Him! This Easter was the first true Easter Egg hunt for E. The chocolate, eggs of various sizes and shapes, and surprises were so much fun for all to enjoy. Both families met up at the lake to celebrate together!GiGi and PaPa got new kayaks. Although they are single kayaks,
E got a special ride with Pa.

Cascarones ("kass-kuh-ROW-nays"), colorful confetti eggs, are a favorite new Easter tradition for our family.

In this picture I am at 16+weeks with Baby G #2!

Nana and B-Bob ordering lunch at E's "neat and tidy cottage!"

Just like Papa!

Water Boys!
What a catch...just like his mom, E would rather Pa put on the worms and take off the fish...

Garden Beauties

We are truly enjoying the fruits and veggies of our labor! This Spring the garden has been in full bloom. Eating well can not get much easier than out the back door.
E is becoming a great strawberry sleuth.