"Pier to Pier"

Next week we are taking our annual family vacation to Florida with both of our families.  Recently, we have been doing a little shopping for Asher, and we came across this T-shirt that reminded us of an infamous jog that Elijah took with my Dad on one of our past family vacations.  Elijah has told many stories about the "Pier to Pier" run that proved to be a little more challenging than they could have imagined.  This shirt should fit Asher in time for next year's family vacation, and I'm sure he'll be ready to run "Pier to Pier" with the boys (maybe strapped to Elijah's back)!

"Trip to Maine"

The DeGeus family moved to Holland today! :(  A few weeks ago, before their relocation to an enitrely different CONTINENT, we decided to take one last trip together to Maine.

It was very relaxing there.  Elijah and I really enjoyed having a little time away from the city.

Fun in the Sun!

If you are wondering, I actully had to dig a hole to lay in this position!

A monumental moment - Asher's first kiss!!!

Two of Elijah's greatest loves - Stella and Bella(the car)!

We're really going to miss these crazy Dutch peeps!

"Photo Booth Fun"

"Trish and Erin's Wedding"

Trish and Erin got married on the 4th of July.  Their wedding was beautiful!  Congrats you two!

Stella stole the show as the flower girl!

Elijah and I had a great time, and I think Asher also enjoyed the music and gettin' down on the dance floor! :)

Kristin and David showed off their moves!

This is Kristin's beautiful Mom Alice!

Trish was truly a radiant bride.  I know she and Erin will live happily ever after...

"4th of July Picnic"

On the 4th of July, Elijah and I went to a picnic in Astoria Park.  Elijah made fun of me for wearing our country's colors, but I told him that I was just preparing for motherhood.  Mothers are of course required to go all out for every holiday and celebrate every cheesy tradition!

This picnic was also a farewell for the Kolmetz family.  We are very sad that they are moving to Florida and taking the adorable Cooper Riley away from us. :(  Yes, we'll miss Mom and Dad too!

Stella recognizes a moment of silence in tribute to the U.S.A.  How patriotic!

Elijah and David always find a way to incorporate sports into every occasion!

"Shout-Out to Sellers"

The adorable Sellers McKay Newman was born in March, and I have been meaning to post her debut pictures for quite some time now.  Many of you probably know my long-time friends Chris and Emily "Sellers" Newman.  They are the proud parents!  Although I haven't met her yet, I already love her!  I hope Sellers' Mom and Dad have been telling her wonderful (and only flattering) tales of her Auntie Raina. :)  See you in August!

Look at those beautiful blue eyes!!

This is Sellers with her slightly older cousin Katy.  What a cute pair!

"24 Weeks"

Well, the tummy is getting bigger, bigger and bigger!  There is no doubt that I "look" pregnant now.  One of the biggest benefits is getting seats offered to you on the subway, and everyone wants to carry things for you.  I'm also feeling a lot better.  If I eat every couple of hours, the nausea is kept to a minimum.  16 weeks to go until our little Asher arrives, and we can't wait!!!

"Fireworks"

On June 30th, Astoria Park had a little pre-4th of July fireworks display.  We had a lot of fun, and how convenient that it was right outside our door!

My cousin Libby was visiting from Nashville.  It was great spending time with her!

A big thank you to Mai for Stella's oh-so-appropriate Independence Day outfit!

"Maternity Clothes"

After passing the midpoint of my pregnancy, it became very obvious that I needed to make the switch to maternity wear.  Kristin helped me pick out my new wardrobe at Destination Maternity.  We had a great time, and now getting dressed is much easier.  Plus, everything is sooo comfortable!  Once you delve into the world of elastic waistbands, I don't see how you can ever go back!!

Shopping sprees are fun! :)

"Asher at 20 Weeks"

This is Asher's first close up.  You should be able to make out his face, arms and tummy.  This photo was taken on June 4th at our anatomy scan.  We got to see all of Asher's body parts, and yes, we are DEFINITELY having a boy!