Late June & Early July

All Ashton's aunties and uncles had been on "baby watch 2008" since Memorial Day weekend and were eager to see her right after the birth. G-mum, John and Auntie A jumped on a plane from California, Gramps Howell from Idaho, and Auntie Auddie from Spokane. Auntie Lola and and

 Uncle Tyler drove over from Seattle, followed by Unlce Ethan, Aunt Trina and cousins Wren and Fisher. 

(Wren gave you your first kiss on the lips, which was a big suprise to all of us!)

 Grammie Brennie and Grandmother Roz both came for a quick visit at

 the hospital before you were born, and Grandma Jadyne soon after. Grandpa Miguel was in Mexico when we had our "thanksgiving" party at the farm house, but soon came home with one of your favorite gifts. You spend hours cooing at your fish mobile.

 

We have had an adventurous summer so far.

Auntie Lola graduated from Bastyr in late June and the whole Howell clan gathered around once again to celebrate. Lauren radiated beauty and peace. Her professors talked highly of her and not only her recent accomplishments, but of her bright, and unique future combining herbology and astrology.  

(Baby Izzi was happy to be in the sling nearly the whole weekend.)

Ashton went on her first camping trip just before the 4th of July. We explored Staircase at Lake Cushman before meeting up with Auntie A and Uncle Bo at their Hood Canal cabin.

In early July we went to several of Ashton's friends 1st birthday parties. Sydney Jean Corcoran turned one on July 2nd, and Ea Finnley Shepard on July 7th.