I started a new job last fall, and every year, I will have a busy season from January through April. Between driving back and forth from Olympia (about 3 hours round trip), writing, reading legislation, providing analysis, endless meetings, and late nights, the blog has been largely ignored.
The good news is things are starting to return to normal, so keep checking back for regular updates.
The Patricks and Nonemachers both welcomed new members of the family. First, welcome Rory Flynn Patrick! Is he a cute little Irish baby or what?
Patrick Cousin #1 - Baby Rory!
Nonemachers are quickly growing in numbers to form an entire professional sports league, not just a fill a team roster. My brother, Matt, and his wife, Emily, welcomed a 4th daughter, Violet, a couple of days after baby Rory was born.
Nonemacher Cousin #6 - Baby Violet!
Busy season wasn't all work and no play. We managed to get a couple of days of snowshoeing in.
Amy, Byron, and Wyatt on the trail.
Arlo's days in the backpack are numbered. He's growing so fast!
Quiet Mountain Scenery
Family Photo
We also celebrated Ryan's birthday. Arlo loves singing, "Happy Birthday" and blowing out the candles.
Birthday Brownies!
Arlo is starting to figure out the joy of climbing trees.
Now we can't keep him out of them.
And, of course, the MLS season is back. We love cheering on our Sounders!
He's a wild man during soccer season.
To break the tension during a game, Ryan pulled out the guitar and Arlo helped with the chords.
Another day, another birthday cake... this time with a painted face!
Practicing driving a tractor so he can help on Grandpa Tom's farm. He's ready!
And a transition to a big boy bed!
It's been a busy few months. Now, the tulips are starting to wither and wisteria buds are on the brink of bursting. Another spring and the hope of sunny weather and more adventures!
