congrats to my daddio

My dad surprised us all recently when he quietly announced his retirement from a long career (36 years!) with Social Security, at only the young age of 57. Lucky duck!! I just wanted to acknowledge what an amazing career he had - there are so many people who admired him and respected him over the years. What I observed about him over the years was his ability to lead and manage people with humility, fairness, honesty, and dedication. This picture of him and my mom and sis is at his retirement reception, which unfortunately Jeff and I couldn't be at. Wonderful things were spoken about him, and I wish we could've been there! People keep asking me - what's your dad going to do now? - one thing's for sure, he won't be sitting around folks! This summer is already booked up with twice-weekly hikes through the mountains with my two uncles. And after that, the sky is the limit!

CONGRATS, DAD! :)

jamie jones photography

Just wanted to share the talents of my friend, Jamie, who is a local photographer, and a talented and creative one! She recently did a little photo shoot with me to remember this maternal state I am currently in :) ... but she also does everything else - weddings, senior pics, and amazingly creative newborn shots. She is a sweetie and so fun to work with!

Visit her blog here, and her professional website here.

no way...really?

Just had to post this pic - my mom was on a plane for work recently and saw this! Apparently this Great Dane was a "service dog" but the only place he could fit was on an actual seat! Not something you see everyday, eh?

butterscotch pudding

My absolutely favorite dessert as of late - a few of you know this already - is the butterscotch pudding from Irving St. Kitchen. A few times now this lusciousness has graced my lips, and the other day my sweet hubby surprised me and brought it home for my birthday. The restaurant offers a to-go version, also in an adorable little Mason jar, but minus the crispy cookies and whip cream that normally come along side it. The pudding also comes topped with a banana-caramel goody-goodness layered on top of it ... ahh, I am drooling as I write this. You must try it!