Let summer begin

Most of you know that summertime at our house means lots of friends, food, and wine!!!

Well, Seattle had its first run of nice days, so what better than an impromptu BBQ?

We lost the pepper grinder behind the stove, and since neither of our short arms could reach it we called in reinforcements.

Ahhh success!!

Its good to have tall friends not afraid to climb on major appliances. 

Elaine, sorry to post these shots, but we have so few of you!

After dinner dessert!  YUMMY!

I have to get every last crumb, it is sooo good!

Food, sugar, wine, games, and good friends!  

I love the "summer"!

Better late than never...

I realize that his is a touch late, but well...

I am pregnant, people!!  

This is 27 weeks. My belly is expanding exponentially.   

My future son-in-law

6 months ago my BFF gave birth to my future son in law, and since we will be having two girls for him to choose from, I think it's a pretty sure thing.

He is an absolute 

angel while asleep.

This is Julie's first baby, Chunk.  He was feeling left out, so here is his handsome face too.

Handsome devil!

He is so tender!

Perfection! I am in love with this boy!

Seriously... 

I can't imagine how I will feel when mine are here!!

More from the windy city

No trip back home is complete without a visit to see Abue.

Aren't we all the cutest little Ecuadorians ever?

Fickle Little Mama

For some time now, little miss Nora has been talking about the two baby lions she has in her tummy.

At the shower Nora was looking great after the delivery of two baby bunnies!  Coincidentally she has named the bunnies Marlo and Emerson.

She is really getting a handle on this mom gig- find a play pen and put them to bed!  One down and one to go.

Now, both snug on the rug, lets make sure the side rails are safely in place.

Wait... What is this?  Who is this handsome devil? You are not my cousin!  Maybe we should meet.

Hi Lady, is this your cutie?  My name is Nora, I have lots of toys and a great smile! 

Check out the smile on Ethan's face... I think this is a good sign.

First, lets get this paci out of you mouth and wait until Aunt Teresa is not watching.

Now, go in for the kill. HE IS MINE NOW!!!  I hope my boyfriend Ben Wolf never sees these pictures!!  But wait... what is that in the distance?

An unattended plate of cream puffs?

Ethan? Cream puffs? Baby bunnies?  The cream puffs win!!!!  YUMMY!!!!

Chicago showers bring July babies.

As all the de la Calle and Wiersch family extravaganzas go, this one did not disappoint.  We knew the joining together of the two families for the first time would bring great results.  The shower was filled with the love and laughter of family, friends, and lots of food!  

The excitement started as soon as I walked in the door with the guests of honor... in the belly.

Couldn't even get my coat off before the pictures began.

Ahhh the spread...

Mom puts it out and these two jokers will eat it up!!!

some Wiersch family lovin'

Super duper friends we have missed so very much!

Little Annie is always making people smile!!  Look at abuelita/grandma Nancy practicing.

PRESENTS!!!!  No one was more excited than Nora!  Just take a peek at all the magnificent handmade Andino/Arellano knits!  The girls will always be warm and stylish.

Look Annie, first you take a big present and then you rip it open!!  Try it, you'll love it!  

At the very end we were tired, full, and departing with a bit of chocolate.  That is, if there were any left...

This was a day we will never forget!  Our girls are very lucky.  We love you all!!!!!