Fourth of July Fun

This year we spent the 4th doing what we usually do. Parade in Winnetka, Races, and Glencoe Fireworks at the beach. This year the Thatchers joined us. It was fun for all.

The most memorable part--The little girls first 4th of July. Don't they look sweet in their polka dot outfits? In addition, Tina and I ran in the Winnetka Races. I took last place, I think. It was a sad sight. I ran the 65 yard dash in like 5 minutes. That is how out of shape I am. Ryan got it all on videotape too.

All in all it was a great day!!!

Parades, BBQ, and Fireworks -- Oh My!

It was another great 4th of July. This year all of the Ray ran in the Winnetka 75 yard dash. Ethan and Holland ran better than this year. Rachel took 3rd place (out of 4 girls...ha!) and Ryan looked hot while running. We had Kathy with us which made it even better. We love 4th of July in Chicago! It is by far my favorite holiday to celebrate here.

Party of the Year

They were little troopers...stayed awake until 12:01 am

Happy New Year!

Halloween every day...

We celebrated Halloween, like, ten times this year. Here are the photos for all to enjoy!

Church Halloween Party

Halloween Baking

(click here for the best sugar cookie recipe)

Pre-School Halloween Day

Halloween Pumpkin Carving

Trick or Treating in Village Square

(Buzz and Lightning McQueen's driver discussing the upcoming election)

The Real Halloween

(we forgot to put on Holland's shoes; no wonder she was walking around the neighborhood so slow)

Halloween Breakfast

How many times did you put a costume on your kid this year?

The Fourth was Fun

We are still recouping from the holiday weekend. It was a real blast.

Here is the Ray Recap:

The kids were waiting all week to take their flags to the parade.

They are such proud Americans!

patiently waiting for the parade to start

At this angle, I am sure this is what Ryan looks like to the twins.

Winnetka Parade & Races

Neither of them won the race...we will have to practice for next year.

More Beach, Food, and Fun...we spent the afternoon at local beach listening to music and hanging with the Thatchers. It was a bit chilly in the evening, but I was excited to cuddle little Ethan during the fireworks.

Independence Eve




We spent the evening before the 4th at the Taste of Chicago with Tina & Trevor.

It was N-U-T-S!

The crowds were kind of scary. The line for funnel cake was enormous. However, that did not stop Ryan for getting me what I was craving. It was delish too. The fireworks were incredible...all in all it was a fantastic night!

Favorite Holiday

photo found here

Happy 4th f July! Isn't this the best Holiday? I was a little teary eyed when a patriotic song was playing during our town's parade. I am so grateful to live in this country!

This photo is in front of the "married with children" fountain downtown Chicago. I can't post any of my photos because my home computer has crashed. Bummer!

We had a great 4th with Fun, Friends, and Fireworks!

Eggcellent Easter Weekend

We had a fantastic Easter weekend. Here is a recap for ya'll...

Saturday Morning Easter Egg Hunt w/ our Church

Dying Easter Eggs

Easter Morning @ Home

Easter Sunday @ Church


Opening Gifts from Mimi...thanks!

Easter Dinner with Friends

It really was a great weekend. I love to hang out with my little family and our friends. The kids really enjoyed hunting for eggs. In fact, Ethan is really great at it. During the Easter Egg Hunt, his basket was filled with eggs before most of the other kids. He donated a few to some of his friends because he has PLENTY. Holland loves her Easter presents. She is now carrying her Easter bunny with her wherever she goes.

Sunday was really great because we were reminded what Easter is all about - Jesus.