the ausborn boys: Surviving Seattle

I believe it started some time in 1994- the Ausborn/Terry Thanksgiving tradition. The two families living in Salt Lake City, away from other family and friends- decided to do their own Turkey Day together. Even though the parents live far apart now- the kids have kept this tradition going. Jaime (the hubs sister) was saying that one year there was just her and Lauren (a Terry) eating together.

This was my third time going and I think it was my favorite (although we were missing one of the Terry Girls- Allison and that made me sad!). We had lots to celebrate! Ellen- the eldest Terry sib- was recently married. I missed the festivities b/c I was 9+ months pregnant with Jack and the trek to Seattle would've been just too much. So I was exited to see them and hear all about it. AND we got to dine in their beautiful home! So lovely and beautiful. Joe had even started a cozy fire in the fireplace. It was perfect. The ever lovely Lauren (a Terry) was there as well- the baby and toddler whisper. The kids LOVE her. She really knows how to talk to them and everything. The newly engaged Jaime (an Ausborn) and Kelly were also there. It was fun to talk wedding with Jaime and get excited for August 2013. I have to say- over the past year I have really loved watching the relationship between Luke and Uncle Kelly grow. Kelly has such a great imagination and patience- Luke just adores him. It's super cute to watch. So much love there.

Playing on their iPhones together- LOVE

This post wouldn't be complete without a mention of the FOOD. OH THE FOOD! It was all amazing and I seriously dream of Joe's Mashed Potatoes. They are heaven. It really was a great meal!

THE REST: The travel. As you all know I was VERY nervous about traveling up to Seattle with Jack. But you know what- he was amazing. He slept the entire time except when we stopped to get gas or use the bathroom. He'd wake up- I'd nursed him- and then once we were on the road he was asleep again. BOTH WAYS! Luke, too, was super great- watched a movie on his portable dvd player, napped or played with his GI Joes. So cute!

Our Itinerary was as follows:
Friday- left around 130pm. Got into town around 5pm. Dinner at Bucca de Beppo (amazing and walking distance from our hotel. crowded- but great food). 830pm visit with Aunt Jaime and Stella the Terror (sweet, sweet dog- hates the kids. hahaha). In bed at 11pm.
Saturday- woke up too early. Breakfast. Pool Time. Showers. Seattle Children's Museum. Mommy got Starbucks to survive. Naps for everyone but Mommy. Dinner at Ellen's around 430pm. Got lost getting back to the hotel. Bed by 11pm.
Sunday- 3am woken up b/c Luke wanted to sleep with Mommy and Jack. In a full size bed. cramped for Mommy- boys slept until 830am. Packed while eating snacks. Lunch. Headed home. Home at 4pm.

*PHEW*

The boy and I leave tomorrow for my work trip to Florence, OR. A 4+ hour car ride for them. I am blessed to have my mom come with me on this trip- as I can't leave the boys home. Chris has a early morning work schedule and I'm still nursing Jack- so they're coming with! Another adventure awaits. WISH US LUCK.

Highlight pics of our trip: