Living Large: Embracing the Moment

This past weekend, we went away to my Grandparent’s cottage where there is NO internet or TV.  Other than one quick trip to use the free wi-fi at the Arby’s in town, we didn’t check our e-mail, seek out the latest deal or blog for five whole days. I read an entire book, went swimming and boating with my sons, and simply soaked up the moment.

I had to ask myself, “Why don’t I do this more often?”

While were in upstate NY, we also celebrated my parent’s 40th wedding anniversary.  While my family has been known to throw large, loud, and elaborate affairs in the past, we decided to keep things simple this year.  We held the celebration at a park and each family brought  their own addition to the meal, including this deliciousness made by my sister:

And yes- it tasted as good as it looked.

This year we opted to ask a friend to do a photo shoot of our family as a gift to our parents.

I highly recommend this gift.  Not only did we have a blast, but it’s the gift that will keep on giving–even to future generations!  Here are a few of my faves:

No small accomplishment to get all of us smiling in one picture!

Love this kid.  (Even if he was a bit of a grouch for most of the shoot!)

Yes.  That is my Mother.  (Look closely and you’ll see my Dad too.)

Three generations of smoochy-smoochy.

Priceless.

Thanks to Lindsey Davern for doing such a great job with our pictures and our crazy family!