Elliot - 11 months

Words can't express how I feel about Elliot almost turning one. WHAT!!??? It all feels like a blur. Like he's always been a part of our family. But then I do remember the days and weeks it took for all of us (especially his sister) to adjust to having another person in our lives. But we have adjusted. He adds so much laughter, joy and love to all of our lives. He now happily babbles and gurgles little sentences only he can understand. His interactions with his sister are pure joy. Okay, almost pure joy. At times Coco overflows with love for her brother, and smothers him with kisses, hugs and zerberts. Those encounters sometimes end in tears. Short-lived as they may be. He usually rallies quickly, and is back for more of his beloved Coco. It's fun to watch them bond.

He's an amazing little boy and we all feel so lucky to have him.

Gobble, Gobble!

We had a lovely Thanksgiving dinner at my aunt and uncle's house. It will probably be our last family get together at the "Roehl Resort" because they have their house on the market. Driving out to Lake Minnetonka was a tradition when I was a kid. It felt so good to bring both Coco and Elliot there - even though they'll never remember. Doesn't matter. We love you Laura and Corky!!!


Coco and great-aunt Laura discussing what color crayon to use for the Turkey coloring contest.


Let's ask great-grandma what she thinks...


Coco and cousin Olivia thinking about coloring strategy.


Elliot also enjoyed some turkey dinner. But he mostly just looked so darn handsome in his new holiday sweater :)