Meet Amar'e!

Saturday afternoon Ib and I packed up the puppies and drove to Phoenix to meet the newest member of the Contessa family: Our nephew, Amar'e Vernon.

Cooper's favorite part of any road trip. He knows the rule: At least 2 feet in the car at all times. (I've also got ahold of his harness & leash!)


Proud Uncle Ib!


Auntie Lisa, trying not to look like an amateur. And the puppies...getting a little taste of what's to come...sharing the Mommy!


He's such a quiet and content baby! He slept almost the whole time and never cried once. I pretty much kidnapped him all afternoon and just held and admired him. Then I tried my hand at feeding...thanks to a little advice on my technique from Shanika! I think I just might be able to do this!


In the meantime, big brother Jayden was making friends with the puppies. He found the way to Vinnie's heart.

Cooper was mezmerized by Jayden's light-up shoes (which sure look a lot like his beloved laser-pointer) and followed him around the house all afternoon. Then, when he put on his matching light-up jacket...it was all over. The poor dog is going to need therapy, I think!

What a sweet big brother!


We ended our trip with a BBQ and warm bed at Hass & Amy's. Then Hass gave Ib a run for his money on the weight bench this morning. Thanks to everyone for a nice overnight getaway! And Congratulations to Farlan and Shanika on your beautiful new addition!