...and that's a wrap.

Can't believe I'm typing this on the coat-tails of summer, as we usher in cooler weather and shorter days. WHERE DID SUMMER GO????

Oh that's right, I think I caught a glimpse of it there in the blur of activities and guests we enjoyed. I think I saw it streak by.

Goodness. Well, welcome September. I like the looks of you so far, as long as you stay sunny & warm, with no more than a light breeze...we should get along okay.

My family came to Seattle last month! My momma, daddy, and little brudder Josiah journeyed out our way, and stayed in our newish place with us. It's so fun to go and see new things that I havent even seen yet, constantly rekindling my love for the Pacific Northwest. I never would have guessed that I'd live out here someday, but now that I'm here, I can't imagine living anywhere else. Amy will testify to that, there's something magical about Seattle, I promise.

Here's my mom & dad while on our hike in Discovery Park.

Me & Josie.

Many of you dont know much about my family, so let me try to describe Josiah for you. It IS his birthday month here (21 in a few weeks....YIKES!), so I'll give him a little shout out.

Josiah came into our family when I was six years old, and although he's technically growing up into a man, that word just sounds funny to describe him. He's my baby brother, who gives the most affectionate hugs, has such a gentle heart, and the greatest sense of humor. I dont think I know anybody as creative as him, to be honest. I can never, ever guess what shenanigans he'll be up to next, inventing art and ideas out of thin air. He's a secret genius, clever, spirited, witty, talented in a thousand ways, good-natured, forgives easily....I love love love him.

here he is:

making our way to the lighthouse...

I cant get enough of this:

some touristy things. note my dad's packer apparel.

Even though I had to work some while they were out here, we were able to sneak away to Vancouver, B.C. for a night. Here's my dad practicing his arm shot...not too shabby, pops!

our view from the Hyatt...

Lions Gate bridge...

Zacharias Sushi night! I was so impressed with my fam's willingness to try something outside of the Wisconsin norm. We had some good laughs.

a natural with his tempura clams...

Went to see a suspension bridge & a maze of ladders & treewalks through the forest. Felt like a combination of avatar, fern gully, and National Lampoon's Vacation.

My momma, representin'. First Nation, baby.

thanks again, family for sharing our lives with us out here!

Just a couple of random pictures of a dinner Sayaka and I made a couple weeks ago. Trying my hand at asian food...a shrimp curry stir fry, chicken satay, and a spicy dipping peanut sauce. Mostly, I just love taking food pictures...

My buddy, Sandra, came over a week ago, and brought her giant stuffed tiger. It was hilarious to see Jack freak out over what she thought was a totally real jungle cat.

not the brightest kitty, I guess.

what's a post without soccer pictures? Futbol season will be wrapping up in not too long (probably by the next time I post, at my going rate...). One of our "all-star" players took his leave from Seattle to join ranks with the Chicago Fire. We played Chicago last week, and needless to say, our entire fan base has turned their backs on ol' Freddie. It was fun times. We're actually doing pretty well at the moment! Playoffs here we come!

Our lil' nephew-man, Owen, turned ONE last week! Where did the year go? It seems like only yesterday that Jon & I were driving, all jittery, to meet the newest addition to our family at Swedish hospital. It's been the best, seeing him grow and develop the sweetest, spunkiest personality. Here are some shots of the cutest birthday party ever. Way to go, Kristen & Ryan!

The birthday boy!

A couple of characters. Jon is the most ridiculous and hilarious uncle you've ever seen. These two love each other so much...it's pretty cute to witness.

And that's about all I've got in the way of pictures for now.

Jon was asked to be on a panel of people within his company to meet together in New York city a few times over the next six months, and we're trying to work it out that I can go with him at the end of the month. Fingers crossed for that.

Our community living experiment is going fabulously! I absolutely love living with Rachel!! Our place is great, the situation is great...Jack loves having an auntie to play with all the time...Jon loves Rachel's dvd collection....it's really great.

Rachel had a bunch of people over the other night, and we hung out on the rooftop, had on my record player, had some yummy food....great people, good talks....I just LOVE living in a place where lots of people want to hang out, and where we can fit them all! I've got visions of thanksgiving & new years parties floating around in my head.

Dave Matthews concert at the Gorge on sunday night! Binders are in town! The weather is awesome! Life is good!!