celebrate good times

the last weekend in january was spent celebrating with those we loved.

saturday we hosted a  small group of jordan's friends for a video game and pizza party.  bobby set up 2 tvs and 2 xboxes so the boys could play against each other.  some played in the boys' room and some played in the living room.  it was rowdy and loud and a bit out of control but everyone had a good time.  it was interesting to hear them yell out "take that",  "in your face" and "pwned!"  and no one's feelings got hurt. i restrained myself from using my mommy voice and saying "be nice." it's what boys do, i guess.

i made 4 pizzas and had snacks on hand.  can you guess what disappeared first?

and we snuck in a birthday sundae.

sunday we headed to laguna woods for january celebrations. and there was so much to celebrate.

 birthdays.

including gigi and jordan.

new babies. uncle ed showed off his grandson via pictures and video on his ipad.  born last tuesday, baby boden is at home with his proud mama, dada and grandma.  we can't wait to meet him in person. eta: just got the thumbs up to share a picture.

a visit from aunt beth.  it was a birthday surprise for gigi and we got to benefit too.  we love spending time with her and celebrating some special moments. . . 

. . . like the fact that amanda and nate  are engaged.  it has become a tradition that after grandpa ed says grace someone in the family makes an announcement.  it really is the perfect moment.  everyone is gathered around the table, we are all holding hands and quiet.  pregnancies, engagements and new jobs have been shared this way.  it is a truly special moment. and we look forward to their wedding in 2012!

and of course we had cake.  someone may have had 2 helpings.

what i love about getting together is that there is always something to celebrate or news to share.  there are lots of hugs to give.  we cook together, have conversations as a large group and in small groups.  we plan for our next get together or shower or event.  the kids play together and everyone is happy.  oh and there is always something funny to laugh about.

let's just say that gigi is the proud owner of this gift from a white elephant party.  oh, lucky her.

hope you had something fun to celebrate this weekend.