Do you know the way to Santa Fe?

I took a long weekend last week and went to Santa Fe. I went to visit my friend Lynne - and to shop, soak up sunshine, and eat lots of yummy food! We had a fantastic time together and it was so much fun exploring Santa Fe.

Our first restaurant stop - Harry's Roadhouse - as featured on Diner's, Drive-In's, and Dives (that seemed to be the restaurant theme). It was so good...

After breakfast Lynne took me to the International Folk Art Museum where we tested our knowledge of the world:)

Then...We went to Lynne's work; The regional offices for the NPS - Lynne works on the National Trail system.

Then...I know busy day, right?...to Canyon Road - AKA Gallery Row. We went into about a million galleries.

Of course, we had to stop and eat - a great tapas place. After galleries - we continued on to the downtown plaza and walked all over the place - I don't know how I made it through the day - THEN we went to a fantastic Mexican restaurant Maria's - best Chili Rellenos EVER!

Next morning - Friday - another fantastic place.

Later that day we drove toward Albuquerque, stopped in a little town called Madrid, where Wild Hogs was filmed.

Cutest little town, lots of quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Saturday we woke at 5 am to catch the Mass Ascension for the biggest balloon festival on the planet.

Over 550 balloons covered the sky.

Some of my favorite...Luke, I am your father.

Only you can prevent forest fires.

Please drink responsibly.

Awww...little honey bees.

After, the balloon fest. we went to breakfast, of course, and celebrated Lynne's Birthday!

On the drive back to Santa Fe, we stopped at a historic site that was hosting a Harvest Festival. The site was built in the early 1700's as a camp en route to Santa Fe. They had demonstrations, local vendors, food, and tours of the site.

Lynne and I at the entrance of the main pueblo.

The next morning was packing and heading to the airport - but first - another Triple D restaurant; I'm already missing the great southwest food.

Thanks to Lynne for a fantastic time - I really enjoyed our visit, seeing the beautiful Southwest, and EATING all the great food!! Until next time...adios amiga!

Baby

We had our 13 week ultrasound/blood test yesterday. It was a screening test for chromosomal abnormalities. Lots of different measurements. But, everything looked great! The babies heartbeat was 157, and all the measurements were normal. We'll get the actual results on our next appointment. But, we're very excited! And, I'm very ready for trimester #2 :)

First Day of School

Lucas started preschool today! He was very excited. He switched to the morning class, five days per week. Looking forward to the everyday routine and a couple hours to myself everyday :)

Giant Sunflower

Lucas planted this at Easter - so far it is 12 feet tall. The flower is just starting to grow. I keep thinking he will climb it and bring me a hen that lays golden eggs.

Here he is at Easter planting the sunflower.

County Fair

Last week was the Kitsap County Fair. It was a perfect little fair - not too big, not too small. Lucas was big enough to ride all the rides, except maybe one or two. He loved them all. He and Madison had a great time together riding rides, visiting the animals, and eating lots of food!

His very first roller coaster!

Last days of Summer

It seems like summer is just getting started with the consistent, beautiful, warm sunny days. We are out and about enjoying it every day. I'm exhausted, but we've been having a great summer.

The kids today out at Long Lake for our end of the year MOMS Club Picnic. Lucas was out swimming all by himself, going as far out as he could, then swimming back in. He was doing a great job. I really need to get him in some swimming lessons.

Enjoying a carrot from the garden. The funniest thing that he loves to eat from the garden are the broccoli flowers!

Climbing up to the bow of the Lady Washington.

Turning the rudder

Swimming with Lilly in her new pool.

Gettin' warm

Hanging out with Aunt Jana at the Ollala Bluegrass Festival.

Becoming Spiderman

Spiderman!

Doin' some dancing at the festival.

It's really been a wonderfully relaxing summer, but I am so ready for school to start. Lucas keeps asking practically everyday when he gets to go back - 12 more days!! Ready for fall, but lets just keep the nice weather for another month or so :)

Salt Creek Recreation Area

We went camping at Salt Creek again this year - had a wonderfully good time. Last year it was two families, this year it grew to 5 families. All the kids had such fun riding their bikes, playing on the beach, exploring the tide pools, and running around from camp to camp. We had fun sitting around the campfire hanging out watching the kids.

He was the cutest kid on the beach in his pink wetsuit.

He really liked it too.

Having a snack at camp.

A beautiful sunset.

Wiped out every evening.

The island at low tide.

Randy and Lucas climbed to the top of the island.

Finding a sunflower star.

Under the bridge.

Watching the surf. - See you next year Salt Creek!