The next generation

I've known Nate since we were both tiny Catholic school squirts. We grew up together. He was my "illegitimate brother" on annual school trips to Cedar Point. Then, Nate and Mike got to be good friends in high school, both serious computer club geeks. And, a few years ago, Mike and I were overjoyed when Jackie joined our little club. As we watched Nate and Jackie dance at their wedding, we thought it was amazing how they just complete each other. They are so good together....supportive and natural...they bring out the best in each other. Over the holiday, Mike and I had the pleasure of meeting Nate and Jackie's new son for the first time. What. A. Trip. Dominic is amazing...so cute and alert. He maintained his holiday cheer, even when I couldn't resist getting in his face with my camera to snap a few pictures. (Do you blame me?! Check out those cheeks, oh my gosh!). It's a true blessing to witness one of our oldest friend's happy ending. We're so glad we got to catch up, Nate and Jackie! Let's be sure to do it again soon.

Christmas in the Park

The weather outside was definitely frightful, but we still had a great time with little Ellie and her parents, Saran and Johnny, hanging out in Millennium Park this past Sunday. What a great way to get into the holiday spirit. The Park looked beautiful, with festive flower arrangements and the ice-skaters gliding around under the Bean. Ellie was a trouper and was full of smiles for us, even when her little nose turned red from the cold (so cute!). And, I have to mention, so was the family dog, Ziggy! He was very excited to be a part of the family portraits. Thanks for a great time, Saran and Johnny! Have a happy holiday with Ellie and Ziggy!

Olivia

This little one had all the moves! Mike and I were tickled when Olivia put her hands in the air and danced around the living room to her favorite tunes. And then we were touched when she helped her mom put a few ornaments on the Christmas tree. But what really melted our hearts was when Olivia befriended Mike...insisting on sitting by him and offering him her favorite blocks! We had such a great time getting to know you, Annalisa and Brian! You have such a cool family and we are already excited to see you all again next summer.