First time snow skiing

We finally got the kids up to the ski hill. This plan has been in the works all season, but was altered due to Stephan's achilles surgery. So today we decided to go for it, the weather was warm & sunny, and Stephan felt his foot could handle it. The initial reaction was not what we had hoped for. So after we rented their equipment, got them all geared up & headed to the "magic carpet" I was in a dead sweat (as I completely over dressed). Once I took my jacket off, got them on the magic carpet, and down the hill for their first run everyone's tune changed. Ravenna & Hudson both had a ball & really enjoyed it. We even went back out after lunch & they both got better & more comfortable. Everyone took some tumbles which was good so they learned it doesn't hurt. Ravenna would get to the top & say "hit it"! So cute! Hudson was able to maneuver the skis a little better & really did well. Whitefish Mountain Resort closes early April so we will probably have to wait till next year. We are so thrilled for their first time though, they liked it & that's all we can ask for.

Got our lift tickets & gear....all set!

Ravenna on her second run.

Hudson & daddy with the hoola hoop, which worked really well.

Heading up the "magic carpet".
Go Hudson!
First snow ski for the monkeys. March 21, 2009!

All done!

40 years

Stephan's Uncle Chris & Aunt Maureen just had their 40 year anniversary & their children threw a surprise party for them. So....Nana, Papa, Aunty Mimi, Bridget, Caden, Matt, Stefanie, Jack Hudson & Ruby all came over from Spokane (along with lots of other family).

They were truly surprised as you can tell from the first picture on the slide show. We had a fun evening catching up with family & the kids wore themselves out.

Hudson's Gotcha Day

One year ago Stephan & I were in Wuhan, China meeting our son Hudson LeRoy Wen Byrd. We were just talking about how this year flew by. I remember feeling the same way with Ravenna's first year. At times we can't believe it has been that long & other times it seems we just got him. He has learned so much in this year & taught us so much in return.

Hudson has: mastered the English language, joined a new family, become the best big brother to Ravenna, shown us his outgoing spirit as he is always up for trying new things, made us so proud with how quickly he learns new concepts, allowed us to see how sensitive he is at times, and blessed us with becoming our son. We couldn't ask for more perfect children. Often when we look at them we realize how lucky we are to have them as our kids. We hope that someday they will agree with us....until then we thank god for bringing us together. We love you Hudson!

Hudson LeRoy Wen Byrd on his "Gotcha Day" first year anniversary. March 10, 2009
Ravenna showing off her fancy bowling shoes.

Lining up the ramp for the perfect shot.

They loved carrying their balls & setting them on the ramp. Ravenna needed a little help, not quite tall enough yet.

Our first family bowling experience.

Giving it a big shove.

Whew! At least I broke 100 (keep in mind the bumpers were up, so we couldn't get a gutter ball).

On to dinner to celebrate one year with this handsome boy!

Spokane Time

We went back to Spokane for a few days last week. We had fun with friends & family. Since we have moved away I have found out, time at home seems to be busier trying to squeeze visits in. We were able to see our niece Hannah in the play Willy Wonka, which her school Cataldo put on. Her role was Violet, she did a fabulous job & her costume even puffed up like a blueberry. Great job "Bean"! I was able to catch up with some girlfriends & Stephan caught a concert with his brother & brother in law Vic(our family music/concert groupie...he loves them). Stephan also got to do away with his crutches/scooter. YEAH!!!! He is now in his walking cast for 2 more months & then hopefully good as new. The kids went to a birthday party for sweet, little Emily Todd. The party was at a Karaoke place & it was hysterical. We also spent some great time with my parents & Stephan's. Always fun to see everyone!