Deck In Progress

We have been working on the deck for the last couple weekends and when I say we, I guess I really mean Craig!  He has been such a harder worker dedicating his weekends to building us a new deck!  Our old deck was two levels and part of it didn't have a railing and just kinda dropped off into our yard.  It looked unfinished.  Our new deck will be all one level which makes it look so much bigger even though it's the same, it will have railings and a new set of stairs.  It's gonna look fantastic when it's all done, which will hopefully be this weekend so we can enjoy it! 

Here are some pictures of the new deck in progress:

Building the frame, being sure that it's square and level so the deck won't be lopsided.

Putting in the support joists.  Making sure they are sturdy and level!

 

Craig's dad Kevin was in town and got roped into helping lay the boards : )  The two of them made quick progress!  I made chocolate chip cookies to show my appreciation for their hard work.

The deck is almost complete!  Stay tuned for pictures of the final product!!

2 Celebrations for 1 Special Girl

We just got back from a trip to Minnesota to celebrate our niece's 1st birthday and dedication to the church.  We always have so much fun with Kevin and Sara and little miss Kennedy!  How did I get so lucky to have such an awesome brother and sister in law?!

Craig and I really enjoy loving on our nieces and nephew and jump into help whenever we can.  So we changed some diapers, dressed her, fed her, and we played a lot!!  And Kennedy absolutely LOVES Craig!!  I think that she thinks that he is her dad sometimes... can you see why?!

Or maybe it's just his familiar face or his gentle loving spirit that attracts her to him.  Whatever it is, Kennedy just loves her uncle Craig and often wanted him to hold her and play with her while sitting on his lap.  He has won her favor!  Which came in handy one night when she was crying and screaming and wouldn't go to sleep. It was Craig she wanted and he rocked her and soothed her to sleep.  He's going to be an amazing father someday!

Here are some pictures of our time in Minnesota:

Getting Kennedy ready for the day!

Playing with her favorite toy which just so happens to be a gift from us : )

3 Coder ladies at the botanical gardens

 

 

Happy 1st Birthday Kennedy!

She loved eating ice cream more than her cake... silly girl!

Kennedy opening her presents

stealing a kiss....awww

Kennedy loves to give kisses and I just so happen to capture this one on Sunday morning at her dedication.  Isn't the love between a father and daughter so precious!!! 

Kennedy wanted Craig to carry her around amidst all the people.   I love the goofy faces!

Our time with our family went by too fast and we are looking forward to seeing them again soon!  Love you Minnesota Coders!!