This is Doug’s baby photo, taken at what had to be close to the three or four month mark. See any resemblance to my new baby? I do!
Archive for the ‘Family’ Category
16 Oct
Surprising Gramma Great
My mom and grandpa conspired to surprise Gramma Great for her birthday this weekend, and we had the opportunity to participate by surreptitiously showing up on her doorstep Saturday morning. I think it’s safe to say she was caught off guard, though of course welcomed a sudden houseful of family members with open arms. We are so incredibly fortunate to know such a truly kind and generous woman, and we love her with all our hearts.
12 Oct
Overheard: Happy Birthday, Gramma Great!
Ava: “Wait, what? Gramma Great is HOW OLD? She looks like she’s 54.”
27 Aug
Three generations
I noticed that Doug, Bryan and Owen were all dressed this same last weekend. All that’s missing is a thimble-sized glass of bourbon, and Owen would be right in line with his father and grandfather.
These are two pretty great men—Owen will have some big Keens to fill, but I have no doubt he’ll continue an incredible Smith tradition.
21 Aug
Dance Fever
Ava and Olivia start ballet, jazz and tap classes this week. The 36-week session culminates with a recital on May 11th, and the girls are already VERY excited. Ava will attend class on Tuesdays, and Olivia will go on Wednesdays.
When we walked into the wardrobe filled with leotards and other apparel, I spied the sparkly pink dress below and just KNEW we wouldn’t be leaving without it. It’s a bit big, but Livie will have some room to grow in the coming months.
The girls already have a few moves of their own, of course.
When I mentioned the classes to my mom, she was reminded of another ballerina and her little sister…
29 Jul
Doug’s Photo Barn
Doug created a new site to host his photos, and it includes shots like these from his last visit to Lawrence. You can also find images of the girls and their friends from Ava’s seventh birthday party. Check it out!
21 Jul
Adding Owen
While back for a second visit last weekend, I asked Mom to add Owen’s name to the family bassinet. This little crib has held four generations within the Stolz family, including Grandma Great, my mom, me and my sister, and now three of my own children.
We were so glad to have Mom and Dave back for a visit—hope to see you again very soon!
14 Jul
Grandma Smith
My mother-in-law Karyl arrived again this week, bringing infinite patience and a cooler full of our favorite dishes. She calmed my rambunctious children, held my sleeping newborn and left us feeling more assured and relaxed than we were before she arrived. I was sad to see her go—we will all miss her quite a bit in the coming days.
12 Jul
Grandpa Smith’s Namesake
It took eight years for Bryan and I to agree on a first name for a boy, not counting the eight hours we spent debating a few options following our son’s birth. One thing was sure, though—we knew we wanted to honor Bryan’s dad by using Douglas. Someone suggested “Doug Douglas ‘Dougie’ Smith,” but that seemed like a bit of a mouthful…
Doug is easily one of the most amazing men I’ve ever met, and I’m so grateful to be his daughter-in-law. I know Owen will grow to love and look up to his grandpa as much as his father and I do.
Smith Family Weblog 