Our first outing as a family of four

We went to the Saturday Market, shared a huge tamale for lunch, enjoyed shaved ice and let the kids play in the fountain. Joshua did fantastic too:o) - slept the whole time. It felt so good to be out of the house and in the sun.

Baby Josh is here!

Joshua Iason Noah Paulson ~ September 17th, 2009 ~ 6:44pm ~ 6lbs 8 oz

After 2 hours and 44 minutes of labor he was born so quickly that the nurse delivered him 10 minutes before the doctor arrived.

One Last Family of Four Outing

We decided to take one last trip to the beach ( I know, risky!:o) as a family of four this weekend. It was the perfect way to celebrate what our little family has been for the last 41/2 years. We walked through the town of Cannon Beach. The kids brought their money and shopped for toys (really wanting to find something for their brother - so precious!), and Bryce and I enjoyed just watching them and being together. We visited one of our favorite coffee shops (where we took most of the pictures as it was rather rainy) and just enjoyed each other.

Not sure what she was thinking about this drink - but she downed it:o). Hot Chocolate on a rainy day at the beach is pretty hard to beat!

Of course we had to stop at our favorite dinner place - Camp 18

Our next post will likely be about our newest family member!

Elie's First day of First Grade

September 9th 2009 marked Elie's first day in First Grade! She was so excited, and nervous at the same time. She got the chance to meet her teacher and a few classmates the night before, which was wonderful and I think really helped her in feeling ready. Her teacher is very sweet, and seems to be on top of things. The work she's doing is pretty much a repeat of last year in Michigan - but for now, as Elie adjusts to new school rules and friends that seems to be just fine.

Proud brother and mom - Elie just a tad nervous

Getting more excited as we get to school (Dad not quite ready for this either:o)

Hanging up her coat and backpack

A last minute call from Grandpa Mike - made her day!Settling in just fine.

Right before we left she gave us hugs and told us she would miss us. She also looked like she was ready to cry - which of course didn't help her mama any! But when we picked her up she was all smiles and excitement.

The first week was a short one (Wednesday to Friday) but we were all exhausted! Going all day long is a lot for such a little one. But she's LOVEing it! :o)

Last Days of Summer

The last few weeks and days of summer were filled with a lot of moments spent with cousins and doing all the fun summer time things we could cram in last minute. We went to the zoo, the beach, the fair, played in the yard, had family BBQ's, played in a local fountain, visited the Vancouver Saturday market, ran through the sprinklers, and, of course, continued the un-packing and getting ready for school projects:o).