Dumplings and More

Jan, the lady that bought our house, has invited Carli over to cook with her several times. First was cookies, then doughnuts and yesterday dumplings and fried rice. It is really a nice relationship and Carli really looks forward to these outings. Since Eric is in China for Carli's actual birthday, we decided to surprise her and celebrate at Jan's house after dinner. Dinner was delicious, cake was yummy and Bananagrams afterwards was competitive! Jan has a cat named Miller. He is a 25 lb. orange (my favorite) cat. He was all over me last night, including climbing over my back.

Birch Removal

We have (or had) a 50 foot Birch tree in our back yard. It had a fungus and needed to be removed. We are redoing our backyard, anyways, so it all worked out in the end. Removing the tree, though, is no small feat! I took pictures so that you could see the stages. It basically took four guys all day to remove it. And they certainly cannot have a fear of heights!

Birthday Party #2

Last night we had a family get together for Pearl's birthday. Not only did she eat tacos and red velvet cupcakes, but she received even more presents! No wonder she has been talking about her birthday since before Christmas. Turning four is pretty good!

Birthday Party #1

This morning Pearl had a party with a few friends at PDX Playdate. It is a crazy place but the kids love it!

Pearl is 4 Today!

Pearl is very excited to now be a "big girl", according to her! She woke up to singing and presents. She had her birthday lunch ( her choice) and I convinced her that "birthday naps" are extra special. The birthday celebration continues tomorrow with a Playdate with her two friends and then a birthday dinner with family.

Happy New Year!

We rang in the new year with our neighbors. The new year celebration featured Cuban night. All the food we prepared was Cuban (and very good!) Even Mickey got into the celebration.