Punkin' Girl

Our Lyla has grown up since she first joined our family several months ago. She was only 13 weeks when we picked her up. She was a little punkin' even back then and we loved her!

Now, she is 6 1/2 months old and a perfect fit to our growing family.

She is happiest when she is outside OR greeting us at the door.
She is curious and adventurous.
She is a GREAT napper.
She is house trained... and picked it up quick.
She is our constant companion.

Sure, it was a tough adjustment. Much earlier mornings. Dog hair on clothes and furniture. She's a stink pot at times. But...

She's our Punkin' Girl and we wouldn't trade her for anything.

a little Sunday afternoon nap

Isn't She Lovely

Today finds me thankful for my mother.

The oldest of 10 children. Wife of 37 years. Mother to Jane (34) and John (32). Breast cancer survivor. A school teacher for too many years to count... who, by the way, will be retiring in a matter of weeks!!

Here she is at our wedding last June. As beautiful as ever.


When I found out a few months ago that Gareth and I are expecting our first child this October, my mother was the person I was most excited to tell...

She was SO happy! I could almost hear her dancing over the phone ;)

And so, today also finds me looking forward to being a mother.

Yes, Gareth and I are preparing for baby (we'll find out the gender in 1 more month), and this Mother's Day is a milestone. The first holiday that we see through the eyes of family. It is an adjustment, but one that has brought us closer and made us a stronger couple.

There are likely many more adjustments on the horizon. We can't wait!