Christmas 2013

Thanksgiving 2013

 The extended Ralph family gathered at my mom and dad's for a wonderful time together.  So much to be thankful for!

Kate's First Day of 1st Grade

Sweet Kate headed off to first grade this morning.  She was brave, but Mom -- not so much.  I cried all the way home.  So hard to see her growing up, but how thankful we are that she is becoming a kind and thoughtful young lady.  And, we're even more thankful that, just last week, Kate decided to follow Jesus. We are blessed beyond measure!

My birthday weekend

We borrowed a boat from some dear friends and spent time on Lake Austin this weekend.  What a great way to celebrate my 35th birthday!  

Friday night - an evening boatride to Hula Hut with good friends. 

On Saturday, we and the Conlys took our families out for a full day on the water.  The kids had a blast taking in the sights and swimming.

We returned home, waterlogged and tired...but not too tired for birthday cake!  As Josh says, his girls always have room for dessert.

Kate's a Kindergarten Graduate!

Kate's Garden Fairy Tea Party

Kate turned 6 on May 3rd, and at her request we hosted a Garden Fairy Tea Party for her fairy and elf friends!  It was a gorgeous spring day for taking tea outdoors!

The kids went on a treasure hunt to locate items to take home and create their own fairy houses like this one.

Aunt Sherrill and Uncle Casey did face painting.

Grandpa made bow and arrow sets for our handsome elves.

I made flower wreaths for all the fairies.

Before the tea party, we had a short discussion on etiquette.  We talked about how good manners help show that you are thinking of others and not just yourself.  The kids were a little in awe of using real china and silver, and I think this helped them be on their best manners!  It was really something to watch 5 and 6 year olds having a very civilized tea party.  

Wonderful friends!

So thankful to family and friends for helping make Kate's birthday so special!