Sarah's 30th Birthday in Gulf Shores

We had a blast in Gulf Shores, but it was bittersweet. We had two fabulous days on the beach before oil came ashore. It was heartbreaking to see those that depend on the gulf and beaches for their livelihood. Jake loved every minute of the trip, serving as the greeter everywhere we went. Whether the pool, on the beach or in restaurants he made it a point to wave to nearly everyone who strolled by. Between waving and pointing out all the seagulls (which he called "ducks" but since his vocabulary is limited we went with it), it's amazing his arms didn't fall off.

Happy's 30th Birthday in Breckenridge

Over six months ago, Happy decided he wanted to spend his 30th birthday skiing. He spent many spring break weeks in Colorado with friends skiing, but had not been skiing since college. I have never been, but was excited to learn! Grandpa and grandma Auer kept Jake while we were away, so we could devote our attention to the slopes and the night life in Breck. Kris actually drank a margarita while we were there!

Both of us did better on the mountain than expected. Kris spent most of his time on the blue and black slopes. I never made it off the green ones, but made a lot of progress!

The International Snow Sculpture competition was being held while we were there, which was interesting. Most of our evenings were spent walking from our lodge to get dinner and drinks, but we were we never stayed out too late!

As we drove home, Kris vowed to make it an annual trip. I don't think he will have any problem finding someone to go with him!

Jake's First Birthday

How quickly this year has past! Jake's birthday weekend was eventful, to say the least.

Jake spent Friday, his birthday, with Aunt Amy and cousin Maggie at their house. They brought him down to Lockton to say "hi" and go out for lunch. Jake loved having his cheese pizza served in a little red wagon at Tomfooleries! Later night, we took our last in the series of twelve pictures in the living room chair. Those pictures have been harder and harder to take the past few months, as Jake has become more

active!

Saturday (party day!) started off typical, but quickly became unusual. Jake ran errands with me in the morning, but insisted on being carried everywhere. (It's very hard to push or pull a cart in Sam's when carrying a toddler!) When we arrived home, I discovered Jake had a low-grade fever. Calls were promptly made to all party attendees to let them know they were still welcome, but that more germs were present than usual. Everyone showed up as planned, and although Jake bawled as he opened gifts, they all seemed to have a fun time. Jake did show some inter

est in his cake, but quickly became clingy and sad. Poor baby!

After everyone left, we took Jake to Children's Mercy South's Urgent Care Center. After a few tests, we learned he had RSV - a common but long-lasting respiratory virus. We ended the weekend unpacking all Jake's wonderful birthday gifts, and thanks to some rest and relaxation he was able to enjoy them. Thanks to all who were able to celebrate with us!