In and around Seattle

We just got done with a whole host of visitors that stayed with us for awhile.  Sarah's parents came out a few weeks back to visit because we had a whole group of people from Brazil coming as well.  The whole Butler clan still has a lot of friends down in Brazil from their time there.  One of the families that they were very good friends with have had a couple of opportunities to come visit and were able to make a trip here in April to come see the States.  So we had a family of 4, Tainah, Gildo, and their 2 boys (3 and 4 months) along with Tainah's parents Milton and Marcia.  Then all 4 of us plus Joe and DiAnne and we had one full household, 12 people in total, was quite the scene.

With everyone here we were able to get out and about a bit to see some things in Seattle.  The first thing that we did was get out to the Tulip Festival.  This is an annual event where a Dutch immigrant starting growing tons of tulips here many years ago.  So now they figured out how to really cash in and get people to drive several hours to see the Tulips.  Was pretty cool though.

Ella's 8th Birthday

Just about a week ago, Ella hit the big 0-8.  Big milestone for her because she no longer needs a booster seat in the car, she was pretty excited about that, I had to drive her to school in the morning so that she could try it out.

We kept things pretty simple this year because we are headed to Hawaii in another week as part of her birthday.  We just had dinner at home (she wanted Sloppy Joe's), and her friend Tayla and her family came over for cake afterwards.  Grandpa Joe and Grandma DiAnne are also in town to celebrate with her.  The dessert of choice was an ice cream cake from Dairy Queen.

Easter Time

Easter time is always nice around the household.  Sarah's parents were in town for a visit so we were able to spend Easter together.

For us, we started a new tradition last year where we eat cake for breakfast.  No real good reason for it, but I have never let the lack of a good reason prevent us from doing anything else.  A nice bunny cake is in order, although this year's was not as tasty as last year's.  Didn't stop us from eating it, just lessened the enjoyment.

After church, it was time for the obligatory family photo.