The girls take in a show and a museum...

Just had to post a quick update about two recent field trips...

The girls and I went to see the Nutcracker with our friend Courtney. I was a bit nervous to see how long we would last and had a goal to make it through the first act. Low and behold, the ladies were mesmerized by the music and dancing. We made it through the ENTIRE ballet! And as we were leaving many people commented on how they didn't even realize we had two 15 month olds with us. Needless to say, I was so proud!








AND....we also took the girls to the Academy Science Museum in San Francisco. We were able to get there before the crowds to take in many of the exhibits. The most amazing part for the girls was the Aquarium. They loved the "sisshies" and Hayden tried to jump into the tide pool! Instead of just touching the starfish, she wanted to swim with them. It was a great time and we both took so much delight in watching the girls really take in the sights of the museum. We will definitely be back.

Tis the Season...

It has been a while since we last gave an update. I guess that is typical for this time of year. It seems like Halloween arrives and all of the sudden everything happens. Last year watching my girls sit on Santa's lap for the first time was one of the highlights of my life. I am not sure if it will happen this year or next as they are okay with Santa in books and as a doll. But the real one who can walk and talk...they both pretty much start to cry instantly.

The point of all this is more about the feeling that the holidays have been redefined for us. Everything is different. And given what is going on in our world, we have so much to be thankful for; our family and friends are near by and have their health. We have a warm home, a snuggly dog and food to eat at night. And at the end of the day when I see my girls laugh and smile as they stuff their face with dinner or splash in the bath I realize that I have already been given my Christmas present for the rest of my life.

On that note...here is a collection of some pictures from recent events. We were in Sacramento for Thanksgiving with the Nelson-Pattison-Bartlett side of the family. It was crazy and fun.

We look forward to being home over the Christmas holiday and to spend time with friends and family in the Bay Area who are back home visiting!

At the Tri Valley Basket Brigade for Thanksgiving!


The Run to Feed the Hungry in Sacto


Playing with Cousin Mia


With our cousins at the ranch