Don't sweat the small stuff

It is said, don't sweat the small stuff. Well, sometimes small stuff is waiting 45 minutes for your table at a busy resturant with your husbands whole family and wanting to FREAK OUT on life because your kids are FREAKING HUNGRY and freaking out. (laugh) No seriously, this post is an honest one. But we made it and once seated the kids settled down and eat like hungry tigers. (smile)

Tortilla faces.

Life has been really busy for the past month and I have had to remember to not sweat the small stuff. The week after Christmas Mike's family was in town and we had a relitively busy but wonderful time catching up and spending time together. Mike's older brother Jason eloped and we got to be there for the courthouse ceremony and reception. It was a wonderful memory that we got to participate in.

One thing that is great about being in Houston is seeing Mike's family more often. Jason and Jeanne are so much fun. They are both foodies and we loved to hang out around a bottle of good wine and delicious bits of yummies. I have not just gained a new sister-in-law but truely a good new buddy to.

Mike's mom was in town too and we had some fun out together a the Houston Zoo. The kids loved the merry-go-round and the petty zoo. Compared to Portland, the place is huge and I love that we can be there in January and it is 70 degrees!!

(Yes, she is sitting on the goat.) Funny girl, she loves to sit onto of everything or everyone!

Then we were off to Portland on the 2nd for 2 weeks, just me and the kids. Thankfully we had direct flights both coming and going and it was relatively easy. But I was completely ready for it, had my 2 in tow routine all down and rehearsed for the plane rides. Again, had to remember to not sweat the small stuff, like crying on the airplane, a breakdown at security or just the thought of taking Jack to the potty in the airplane. ;)

While in Portland, we spent some fun time with my family. My bother Josh was in town from Maryland and my sister came down from Tacoma. We went to OMSI for the first time with the kids. They enjoyed the discovery of things like the boat races and the ball room.

I was freezing cold in Portland..goes to show I'm now a Texan use to mild winters. But we had some lovely sunshine and I love my parents house - anytime.

The kids spent the 10 days with my parents, being completely entrainment and spoiled with love and attention. Most notable was all the walks they took in the field. Many of which were to plant mole traps.

What are you doing Jack? "I'm catching moles mommy"

Too fun!

Cutting out ginger cookies.

Playing with Buz with Aunt Meg.

Wearing Papa's hat.

Life is full of moments when you feel your cup is half full. After Portland, I felt like it was overflowing and at times, not in a good way. More like overwhelming gushing that I just had to turn off. But it was a lovely trip and I know when we return it will be with Mike so we can more fully enjoy it.