LIFE LATELY

When my parents were here, Shawn and I were able to go on THREE dates, which is totally unheard of since we've moved. Honestly, the first date was a little awkward (sort of like a real first date), but we slowly got re-adjusted to uninterrupted adult conversation by dates two and three. I think we'll try for that fourth date when Grandma and Grandpa visit again.

Date #1 - Thai in Pacific Grove (slightly awkward first date)

Date #2 - Really amazing Chinese at Full Moon in Monterey (much less awkward)

Shawn broke out his best senior picture poses for our third date (super good Indian food at Ambrosia in Monterey). Btw he may kill me for posting this - that last picture cracks me up.

Backyard fun: 

Park fun: 

Sand Angel

And dinner with Jordan and family: 

Traverse City, Part Two

When we weren’t lounging around our Artist’s Retreat, we also had the chance to explore The Village at Grand Traverse Commons (the former mental institution), head out to the peninsula, walk around downtown and the pier, shop, and eat delicious Mexican food. There is so much to do in Traverse City that we definitely felt like we needed more time. If we ever get rich, we plan to have a summer home there. Traverse City is gorgeous!

Traverse City

Over the weekend Shawn and I took a vacation to Traverse City. My parents were kind enough to watch the boys for us. It was our first vacation on our own in years.

We rented a cabin on Spider Lake, just outside of T.C. It was tiny, but adorable. Its called The Artist's Retreat and the owner provides all kinds of art supplies. She also gave us access to her boat and kayak. It was beautiful up there!

Shawn hard at work on his painting

Five Years

Friday was our fifth wedding anniversary. Shawn brought home two lovely bouquets of flowers and a card and my parents stopped over with a delicious cake (that I forgot to get any pictures of before we all tore into it). 

On Saturday we went out to our favorite local restaurant - Pizzeria Vivo. Their food is amazing!

I totally meant to take pictures of our incredible lunch (we had goat cheese dip with toasted crostini, a side of baked mac and cheese, and pesto veggie pizza). It was delicious! So delicious, in fact, that this is all that remained by the the time that I remembered to snap a picture. Oops! 

And, finally, what could be more romantic than taking in a film together? 

For the record, Shawn is not a horror film fan and was not amused, but he went along because I LOVE Evil Dead and I was so excited to see the remake. Go see it! Maybe not for your anniversary though :-)

Life Lately

Noah has been up to more clothing design. This time he made an outfit out of Daddy's ratty old sweats. 

Photos from a couple of hot dates with the Mr.:

Ally's birthday celebration:

Belly shot:

Life Lately