The Drake Rises

We didn't think we had enough going on, what with having two tenure-track jobs as researchers & professors, Charlie now 3 and Will about 1, and all the other stress life throws your way. No, we had to go and build a house. Again. This time up at Georgetown Lake, MT. It's a four-season paradise having a ski mountain 3min away, two lakes within a stone's throw, and a plethora of wildlife all around. We broke ground this spring and things have been moving quickly. Too quickly for us to post, so we'll get you caught up quickly! Here's are some photos from bare ground all the way up to framing and roof trusses. Come visit, but wait about a year or we'll put you to work...

The calm before the storm 

Gotta go down to go up

The bomb explodes

Lotta rock, some smooth, some not

Some wood to the mix

Basement

First floor

Boom. There she be.

12 Months of Will

First birthday!  Can you believe it?!  William was born on December 26th.  It is tied for the most magical day in our lives.  He is a such a sweet boy with a radiant smile. He loves to snuggle into all the soft, warm spots, and prefers to be in Mom or Dads arms.  He loves his sister and will follow her to the ends of the earth.  He is musical, loves to dance, and can rock out to almost any beat.  He is nimble and climbs on everything.  The word sweet is how we describe him; sweet and kissable.  We wish time to stand still for a while so we can enjoy all that is our sweet, magical Will.  Here are some pictures from the last month and his Birthday party!

 

Birthday party crew

Loved his cake

The Nat Pack

Blowing kisses

Handsome boy

Close up

Fell asleep in Daddy's arms

Showing off his teeth

Big smile (and lots of boogs)

Getting ready to walk

First Christmas

This was our first Christmas as a family of four.  Charlie has just begun to understand the magic of the holiday season.  She loved to see Christmas lights and Santa Clause (or Santa Closet, according to her).  We spent Christmas eve with the Stegmaier's at the feast of the 7 fishes.  All the kids were running around excited, opening presents, and being out of control.  Back at home, we put out milk and cookies for Santa and salt for the reindeer, and we got into our jingle jammies (thank you Auntie Em).  When the morning came, Charlie could not understand why Santa did not stay to see her. However, she quickly got over it and began to open her presents enthusiastically.  Will also liked opening gifts.  He especially liked any gift his sister got.  The day was marked by visiting with friends like the Masseys and the Hughes.  We ended with an amazing Christmas roast and chocolate cream pie. The holiday was relaxing and close to perfect.  We are looking forward to another Christmas at home next year.

Family photo on Christmas Eve

Our beauty

Will getting into the gifts 

Charlie and TT

New hat!

Charlie thanking Will for her new vest

Roast Beast