Independence Day!

Another perfect weekend, and a good time was had by all! My Aunt Peggy and Uncle Mike were gracious enough to invite us down to Lake Oswego for the long weekend. Once we got through the traffic on Thursday evening, we found our weekend to be filled with laughter, wine, great food, dancing in Peg's kitchen and some more laughter - of course. Chris met my cousins Mike and Marie and their son Kyle. I can't believe how big Kyle is - what a great kid! He also met Aunt Peggy, Uncle Mike and my cousin Emily. Emily is 14 and is the most beautiful thing. She is definitely a product of her parents :-). Chris also met my Aunt Kathy and Uncle Rolen, my Aunt Carol and Uncle Eddie. My Aunt Joan was there as well, who Chris had already met. One familiar face I'm sure he was thankful for! Chris loved everyone and said he had a good weekend.

It was so great to just relax with everyone and spend time with them. This doesn't happen often enough. Friday morning, Chris, Marie, Emily and me went for a walk downtown Portland around the water. It was a great opportunity for me to catch up with Marie and Chris got to visit with Emily. Marie's mom is pretty sick so I wish her the best and will keep her family in my prayers. The afternoon was followed by a little shopping, a great lunch at McCormicks and a BBQ at Peggy and Mikes. Fireworks were put on by Emily, Chris and me, which was my favorite part of the night.

Saturday morning we all meandered around the Lake Oswego Farmer's Market. Chris and I had breakfast and strolled through looking at all of the vendor's goods. It was fun - we love markets! We decided to head home and returned to Remond around 4:00.

Peggy and Mike are such great hosts and have a beautiful home! Thank you so much for inviting us. We look forward to the next time we come down there. It's weekends like this that make me realize what a great family I have - they are SO fun!

Sunday we opted for a long walk in the morning to get some exercise before we headed to the Seattle International Beer Fest. The sun was out, the beer was plentiful and the company was my favorite. Chris and I spent the majority of the afternoon trying beers from all around the world and walking about the center listening to music. We ended our evening at the Matador in Redmond for some great Mexican food.