Home Sweet Home

It's hard to believe that we went nearly nine months without a trip to the states/home, but at the end of April we headed back to the West Coast for Greg's brother's wedding. We were both able to tag a week of work on which helped us really maximize our trip with lots of quality time with friends, family and some hardcore shopping.

I was very excited to be back in Seattle but also a bit nervous - what if I didn't 'fit in' at work or with my friends anymore. Thankfully, that wasn't an issue, and in many ways, it felt like we never left. For the most part, not all that much has changed in Seattle since we left. The biggest exception being that they FINALLY finished the flipping of the house next door to ours- I'd say this will help our property value considerably!

Our first week back was hectic with trying to work, managing doctor appointments and seeing friends but it was well worth it. Several of our friends had children before we left and it was amazing to see how much they had grown over the past year. It was really fun to see get to know their personalities.

We were fully de-jetlagged in time to enjoy the second week of the trip where we were officially on vacation and things were considerably less hectic. One of the many highlights of the trip was a group dinner with most of our closest friends at Herb Farm. Karen secured us a private room and we manged to behave ourselves for the most part. A few of us stayed over at Willows Lodge, which was really nice - very relaxing and a great spot for a future weekend away.

Early in the second week, Greg set off for a boys golf trip to Bandon Dunes (see photo below) which granted me some great girl time with my sister Nicole. She had the week off and came up to Seattle for a few days to hang out. We had a fun time shopping around and being 'ladies that lunch'. It was also really nice to finally introduce her to many of my Seattle girlfriends after hearing about each other over the years.

Mid-week, Nicole and I headed down to Portland. After a bit of tax free shopping, I made my way out (way, way out :-)) to Forest Grove for a great dinner with Nikki. They recently built a beautiful new home - I don't know if I envy her farm sink or home theater room more...it's tough to see their 'posh' new home when our flat in London doesn't even have a clothes dryer!

The next day Nicole treated me to a lovely spa day at her fabulous new gym. It was great preparation for the wedding festivities that kicked off that night. Saturday we were able to meet up with my dad and Jan and hear about their preparation and plans to spend three months on the boat this summer in Canada - I sure hope they both make it back in one piece!

Greg's brother, Todd and his beautiful wife, Sarah, had a lovely ceremony at the Benson. They had to have been the most relaxed bride and groom I've ever met. It was fun night, and I must say, Greg did a fantastic job with his speech - I was quite proud. It was fun to catch up with folks and meet some new people.



It was a busy trip, but we really felt fortunate to be able to see as many friends and family members as we did. It's a bit weird not having any visitors or trips home scheduled until we return in November, so don't hesitate to come over and see us!

Our trip wouldn't have been nearly as fun without the support of so many of our friends and family, and a few special thank you's are in order:

- Verhasselts - I had a great time hanging out with you guys. Thank you for driving me all over the Seattle metropolitan area and, as always, for the great conversation - even you T!

- Pannonis - Your seeming ease at amazingly gracious hospitality always amazes me. Thank you again for letting us stay (Nicole too), feeding us (especially the carne asada!) and introducing us to Guitar Hero!

- Tottens - I can't believe you changed the oil and re-newed our tags! Thank you for taking such good care of little H. Can't wait to see catch up over a good Chianti in July.

- MorDees - I had such a good time hanging out together! I soo needed that spa day. Not even sure where to start about the t-shirt - rocks.

- Hueys - Thank you for collecting all my packages :-). It was good to see you but when are you going to come visit?

- Newlyweds - We had such a great time at your wedding. It was a memorable night and we are thrilled for you guys - ditto on the visit for you guys too!

- Dees - I appreciate you making the effort to drive from Cathlamet. I know you guys are busy, so it means a lot.

-Huhs - Thank you for organizing HF and for the A - it saved my life! It was fun to meet Wasabi!

-Matthews - Thanks for a delicious dinner and a fun night - You MUST come visit!

We know how lucky we are to have you in our lives and feel really appreciative of all your love and support!!