Christmas with My Family

Maile and I got to spend almost two weeks with my family, since Tim had to work over Christmas, and even when you're "used to it," spending Christmas alone just isn't fun. So, we packed a bag and caught a short flight to Iowa for the holiday. My baby sister was home from college, and my middle sister and her little family were able to stop in for a few days too, on their way to their new home in Phoenix. (So much closer than Brevard, North Carolina -- hooray!) Everyone's lives seem to be a whirlwind these days, so we had an especially wonderful time slowing things down for a bit.

And since all Maile can talk about now is Marmee and Papa, and Auntie Molly, and Auntie Em and Uncle Clark and "our Michael," this is me telling everyone that west is best, and we want you nearby! Miss you already.

Pella: Part I

Our trip was great. We weren't quite sure what we were in for, driving 11 hours with Maile. We thought it might be hard, but surprisingly -- most of it wasn't, at all! Her sleep schedule even stayed mostly on track. And when one of our very first visits was to the famous Jaarsma Bakery, we knew it was going to be one awesome visit. Pella is known for its traditional Dutch architecture, and I have to say, it definitely has lovely European flair!

It was wonderful connecting with my parents, sister, and nephew (none of whom we get to see often enough), eating familiar meals, and just spending time in a small town, where everything moves a little slower (Denver may not be a frantic big city, but it's still a city).

Michael and Maile's cardigans c/o The Wishing Elephant. We let Michael borrow Maile's Monogrammed Cardigan for the day; he's such a cutie!

Don't forget to enter our pink essentials giveaway, sponsored by All That Glitters! Ends Friday.

Small-Town America

We just returned from the quaint city of Pella, Iowa.

We're enjoying time together as a family,

unpacking,

and trying not to think about Tim leaving for work again.

Back soon!