Full, Warm House

We moved in to our new place in early July and now feel quite settled!  Serena and Brad, residency friends, (and shih-tzu, Shabu) came up from the Bay Area to visit this weekend and were around for our Housewarming Party.

It was pretty tricky (and I was stressed) about preparing food for (around 50) guests while having a busy toddler (who totally deviated from his normal nap schedule on the day of the party, throwing another wrinkle into the preparation), but thankfully, we had help with food items (thanks especially to Lori/Craig and Ramona for contributing), as well as to Charmeka and Serena for some key babysitting.

Lori and Kelvin took most of the pictures from the afternoon/evening.

Iver has found a new buddy (Serena), to whom he stuck like glue during the event!

my former MA, Mandy, and big-sister-to-be, Baylie

The badminton on our back lawn was pretty popular 

  (Peggy and Mark)

Hanging out on the deck (I think the actual deck furniture was used sparingly!)

Iver with his favorite backyard tree (he particularly lies to eat the pinecones)

The food spread!

 The fruit skewers by Ramona were a HUGE hit, especially with the kids! Aren't they gorgeous?

S'mores bars I made turned out ok!

Taco bar...

... and wings

Noodle salad...

There was some karaoke-ing

With no children hurt and no wine (or play-doh) on our carpet or couch (and guests who said they enjoyed themselves and the food), we'd call it a successful gathering!  It was fun to have such a full house of friends. Thanks to everyone who came out to celebrate. Our hearts are full.