Friends

Sometimes I'm not sure how in the world I let so many days slip by without snapping a single photo, particularly when, as of late, we have so many fun things going on that would provide great subjects! And yet, that quantity of fun things is often also precisely the reason, as I get caught up in enjoying it all and neglect documentation - which I suppose is a good thing, in certain perspectives. In any case, last week we had Ben's sister and her husband over for dinner one night, and then we enjoyed our first-ever "progressive dinner" party at three neighborhood homes - both of which were wonderful events.

This weekend some longtime friends came to visit; we've known them since before any of the four munchkins in this photo existed, and we've had the pleasure of sharing many special moments with them. We lived in the same town for many years, but both of us moved to new cities two years ago. Luckily, we still get to enjoy visits several times a year, and this weekend was one of those. The kids had a blast playing together nonstop, and we grown-ups had a lovely time as well. (In fact, I'm pretty sure it was the most lovely ever, as our conversations seem to increase exponentially with each visit, as the kids mature and can play independently for longer stretches of time.) On Saturday night we all experienced an annual tradition together for the first time, viewing the parade of "Christmas Ships" on the river. It was a simple, fun, and festive activity - and with the addition of a thermos filled with cocoa, a bag of marshmallows, and some glow lights, it was a great evening!

So there is E (3.5), T (5), M (3) and A (6.5) - huddled together enjoying the parade!