T minus 6 days...

I thought I was doing OK with the thought of leaving my family until tonight. My sister decided to have everyone over to her house, to have a family dinner before we leave on Saturday. And I noticed two things tonight:

1) Over the years, it has gotten easier for our family to get together. Ever since my parents got divorced over 10 years ago; family occasions have a slightly strained and stressed atmosphere. Yes, everyone makes an effort to get along, but you can feel the tension and uneasiness in the air. Not tonight. Everyone got along wonderfully. Everyone talked to each other. My mother asked my step-sister how she was doing. My dad talked to my step-father about his computer. Stuff like that. And it was great.

Last week, we got together with some friends, and my friend Bryanne was having trouble with her in-laws. They were having trouble being in the same room with each other, which made Christmas difficult. And I mentioned that sometimes family just has to put their differences aside, to make an effort for everyone else. And that's what happened tonight. It made me really happy.

2) And it made me really sad. It hit home tonight how lucky I am to have such a good relationship with my family. And how lucky I am to have them living so close.

A Very Happy Birfday...

Well, I am back from my 10 day long start in Seattle. I think we've found a house (waiting on final confirmation,) I met all my co-workers, and saw my little cubicle. I'm sure that I will have lots more to say about my time away from my family (for those that saw my posts on Facebook.)

Right now, it's all about this guy.
Who changes every single day. I swear, I think he grew two inches while I was gone. He's grown up so quickly, it makes me a little nostalgic. Our teeny tiny little baby with the giant feet is gone. In his place is a tall, smart, talkative little boy with giant feet.

Who set the table tonight for the first time, and did it correctly.

Who devoured his plate of chicken, broccoli, and carrots tonight, and asked for seconds. Last week, you couldn't get him to eat anything but PB&J and hot dogs. Don't get me wrong, I'm not arguing. But it's the third night in a row that he has asked for seconds at dinner.

Who runs to the door so happy to see me, and is so affectionate. He loves to give hugs and kisses.

Happy third birthday, Sutton Button. Daddy and I love you.