9 years.

{july 20.2002}


{07.16.2011}

9 years!?!?!
FLEW by.

Justin,
9 years ago we said I do. I remember when I stepped up to walk down the aisle I looked and saw you for the first time that day, I lost it. The months leading up to our wedding were so emotionaly draining, so hard and I was sad that Jared was not there to celebrate with us all... but all of the sudden in that moment I remember feeling so much joy and happiness that we were soon to be wed.

Nobody else can make me laugh like you do, nobody can make me cry like you do, nobody can make me happy like you do, nobody is you, my partner in this life, a true gift from God , I am so thankful that he gave you to be mine.

Wouldn't want to do this crazy life with anyone but you!

love you Just.

xoxo

Annie

Yucatecan Rice Salad

I made this salad for a baby shower a few weeks ago {pardon the cell phone picture} and while it may be claimed "girl" food, it is enjoyable for men and women alike. :)

YUJCATECAN RICE SALAD
{adapted from Cooking Light mag}

need:
1/2 cup water
1/4 teas. ground turmeric
1/2 cup instant brown rice {I used Uncle Ben's}
1/3 cup jalapeno stuffed green olives coarsely chopped
1/4 cup diced jalapenos {optional...but add a nice little extra kick}
1/3 cup red onion {chopped}
1/4cup cilantro
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 can {15 oz} black beans rinsed & drained
3 slices Pepper Jack cheese cut into 1/2 inch thick squares

1. Bring water and turmeric to boil in medium saucepan. Stir in rice, cover and reduce heat. Simmer for 5 minutes. Place rice in wire mesh strainer and rinse with cold water...drain well.
2. Combine olives,jalapenos {if using}, onion, cilantro olive oil, and black beans in a medium bowl. Add rice and toss gently. Then lightly toss in cheese.

enjoy.

Happy Independence Day! {4th of July}

{1 month}

Declan,

One month old! Can hardly believe it,but in many ways it feels like you've been here a lot longer...always a part of our family.

You have been a D.R.E.A.M. baby. So easy from the get go. You sleep like a champ, eat like a champ, even poop like a champ.

We are all just so smitten with you. You're adorably sweet...and you have been givng us the cutest little coos lately.

We are so happy to have you in our lives. So excited to see you grow.

love you Dex.

xoxo
Mommy