Spring

Living at the edge of the forest definitely has its perks.  Just look at these cute bouquets the girls made by collecting mostly wildflowers (and wild weeds which are just pretty).   

Snowday(s)

We had quite the snowy winter this year.  I am not sure how many school days we will be making up in June but we took full advantage of the snow days.  Sledding with friends and neighbors, snowmen, snow running, a little attempt at skiing, sitting in front of the fireplace, Eric sliding around in the truck and lots of hot chocolate.  It was beautiful while it lasted but now I think spring may be on its way.

The Peak

I love Mary's Peak.  We headed up on a sunny Saturday, had some snacks, hiked to the top and enjoyed the sun.  The kids liked fighting over the stump and throwing bits of icy snow left over in the shade.  In case you were wondering Eric didn't get glasses, he just found them on our walk.  I can' t wait for Mary's Peak in the summer when the wildflowers are out, so pretty.

You may laugh if you like

Martin family photos are always very real. We do it really quickly, some people hate it (especially little Garrett), people don't seem to know they should be looking at the camera, it was cold and it's a large group.  I do love looking at these "real" family photos because they make me laugh. I will also remember this day better by the visual reminder of what really happens during family photos. 

Birthdays and Baptism

Winter months around here seem to be pretty busy, especially this year.  Sierra turned 12 and Allie turned 8, both big years.  Allie was baptized on January 11, 2014 by Eric.  My parents came along with my sister and her 2 kids and my niece Kenzie.  The cousins had such a good time together! 

Sierra turned 12 on January 13th.  She wanted to go to Portland for her birthday so we finally did on Saturday.  We hit Powell's Books, Little Big Burger, Salt and Straw, a few funky Portland shops and some clothing stores. 

I love both of these beautiful girls and am so glad to have 2 daughters, they are growing up!

Lola

Meet Lola, she is my 2 year old niece.  She is wearing the very same coat and hat her Grandma Bonnie (Eric's Mom) wore when she was 2 years old.  Have you ever seen a cuter 2 year old?!  Our family loves this little girl. 

And I thought they liked me

I guess it's going to take longer than 14 years for Eric's dad and sisters to really like me. 

Coast Christmas Part 2

Eric has been trying out some surfing.  He found out the beach we stayed at was not a good surfing spot.  I did allow him to go out to another beach early one morning.   My kids have always loved being in the freezing ocean water.  We added wetsuits to this trip and Sierra took full advantage of them.  She used my booties, hood and gloves and spent a lot of time boogie boarding in the water with Eric.  She is always willing to try a new adventure or challenge.  That first photo is of her and Eric heading out to catch a ride.

A few other fun memories that may become forgotten in years to come:
Our little white Christmas tree
The "Eyeful" tower in our rented house, such a fun spot to view the ocean
All of the kids getting to pick out a $4 souvenir at what Eric and I call the "junk store".  So many treasures to behold as a kids though
A quiet Christmas morning together
Mason enjoying football on the beach
Me leaving a whole bag of our food for the trip in the garage, oops. 
Yummy crepes at a little cafe
Eric surprising me with gifts from my favorite local boutique Emma's 
Blue, blue skies everyday!
Meeting up with Eric's family on the last day for a trip to the Aquarium and a seafood feast