Owls everywhere!

For many reasons, I have been very lucky to have Dave & Lori Michaelson as my godparents.  One great perk is that my Aunt Lori has made me several quilts including one for Ryan and one for Connor.  The pictures don't do it justice...it looks even better in person!! Thanks so much Aunt Lori!! Love you!!

Party Time!!

We celebrated Connor's birthday with a weekend of fun!  On Friday, we spent the day playing, swimming and enjoying Connor's first cupcake.  Then on Sunday the entire family made their way to La Grange for a birthday bash (and more cake)!

One Year of Fun & Snuggles!

366 days ago I was getting ready to go mall walking with Erin to, as I put it, "Get this kid out of here." It turns out we didn't need the walk as my water broke about 20 minutes before I was going to leave.  As I waited for Matt to pack (what?!!), I prayed that this labor would be easier (and much shorter) than Ryan's.  My prayers were answered! My water broke around 7 pm and we welcomed Connor Joseph in to our family at 1:27 am on March 7, 2013.  Needless to say, Ryan was thrilled to have a brother!!

Fast forward a year and we have an amazing little boy in our lives.  He is almost always happy (just keep him fed) and very laid back (just like his dad).  He has loved his brother from day one and Ryan feels the same way.  Connor loves nothing more than snuggling with mom and dad in bed first thing in the morning.  He gives the best hugs and loves playing in the bath with his brother.  He is already a pro at walking and has been trying out some "running".  He loves reading books and will back his butt up in to your lap to have you to read to him.

We couldn't be more blessed to have this baby zoo lion in our lives and can't wait to see what the future has in store for him.  We love you Connor!!

Tub Fun!

Ryan decided it was time for Connor to graduate to the "big boy" bath.  They are having tons of fun playing together.

What a weekend!!

We had a great weekend hanging out with friends and trying out a new play spot.  To celebrate Valentine's day, we had pizza and cupcakes with the Eder family.  To give you an idea of how important this "holiday" is to us, Matthew didn't even choose the heart shaped pizza option.  On Saturday, we headed to Wheaton to meet up with some old friends and their babies.  We had a great time and can't wait to do it again soon.  Today we headed to the Ball Factory in Naperville.  It was a madhouse but the boys both loved it.  I think we will try it out again but during the week next time!!

Connor & Raegan 

Ryan and Owen 

 The "old' friends

Jumping in the balls 

 Connor tasted every ball in this pit (I try not to think about how gross that is)

Portillos

What a Helper!!

There is no doubt that Ryan loves Connor very much (and the feeling is mutual).  He is also a great helper and big brother.  Tonight he asked if he could help feed Connor dinner.  Given my tendency to cry at anything, it was tough to hold back the tears.  They are just so cute together!!

January Roundup

What has the Sand family been up to lately?

Let's see...

Getting ready for summer...or swimming 

Loving pasta 

Ryan holding Jack for the first time

Connor finally "liking" Papa 

Happy Birthday Memaw!!

Cold Spell

Given the weather lately, we have been pretty confined to home and indoor activities.  Even so, we have managed to have some fun!

Connor was really confused by a doll Kate left at our house 

Big boy cup (Photo by Ryan Sand) 

Motorcycle ride 

Cheap entertainment 

Cute!!

Connor's First Steps!!

Christmas Celebrations!

What a busy few days!!

Santa came early to La Grange and brought with him quite a few presents.  Ryan loved opening all his presents (and Connor's).  After opening everything, he declared his favorite gift was the M&Ms in his stocking!  Later, he decided he really liked his Bears helmet too and proved it by wearing it on and off throughout the next 3 days.

I got M&Ms!!! 

A big hit with both Connor & Ryan 

Who needs presents when you have hats? 

Go Bears!

We headed to Hollowayville on Christmas Eve day to celebrate with the Golden side of the family.  Ryan was super excited that Santa came (again) and very patiently waited to open presents.  Connor was so excited that he was up at 5 am!  

Wearing his pjs from Santa's elves 

Ready for present opening! 

Direct quote from Ryan: "Mom, do football guys wear sweaters?" 

 Connor, Ryan, and Elsa

After our celebration in the Illinois Valley, we headed to Dwight to celebrate with the Sand family. Connor was thrilled to see his bestie Grandpa and even wore a sweater vest in his honor.  Ryan and Kate had a great time playing together and loved opening everyone's presents!

 Family picture (Take 50)

Grandma & Grandpa with the kids 

Loving the boxes! 

Cousin hug!

We had a great time celebrating with all our families and are thankful for them everyday!  Thanks for everything and Merry Christmas!!