YOU CAN CALL ME AUNTIE

Last week I flew to Eugene, Oregon to feast my eyes on a little bundle of love named Ransom.

He is my brand new - and only - nephew. I am so in love with his soft baby cheeks, his gorgeous dark hair, his cute little ears, tiny little legs (they'll fatten up soon enough!).

Mom says his pondering expressions remind her of me!

Here is Rachel, in one of the many moments she is reveling in her new role of motherhood. She was the most patient mother a lady could be. Any of us who have had newborns know it can be a frustrating and overwhelming experience, but she is bearing it all with grace and beauty. Even at this tender young age, I think a newborn can pick up on the calm presence (or lack of) in his mother. Ransom was steady, even-tempered and a joy to be around.

One of the spots I really wanted to hit was Palace Bakery in downtown Eugene. It has a European ambience to it. And of course, it brings back memories of when Erin and I used to walk downtown when she lived only a few blocks away! Isn't it adorable? I forgot to take a picture of the delectable bakery case with all the mouthwatering pastries...

And Full City Coffee, where I had a heavenly drink:

Here AJ, Rachel and I are at Palace Bakery. Ransom's snoozing comfortably in his carseat :)

DOMINOES OBSESSION

We've had much enthusiasm for dominoes lately, especially a particular 5-year-old. Ian loves numbers, and Dominoes is his new favorite game. Nina fetches dominoes when we need to draw. She is more than happy to oblige (between doll fittings). When we draw our first dominoes, we keep them face up and it's been helpful as he's learning the game. But as he learns the strategies, we may have to change that a bit! I appreciate his generous nature as he plays. He's not overly competitive or cut-throat... yet. It is a fun way for us to spend time with him!