a day with family

Last weekend we had the pleasure of having the whole Hammer family together! David and Rachel had driven down from Washington for a wedding, Jon and Julie came up from San Diego, and for the first time since Christmas we were all together for an entire day. It was so much fun! It helps that I have a super fun family. We celebrated Amy's and Maddie's birthdays with nothing but Paula Deen recipes ... except for the cake, a chocolate number from Bon Appetit magazine that included more than 20 ounces of melted dark chocolate. So the day was not only fun, it was quite scrumptious. Here's a few pics!

I was having fun trying out the effects of solar flare in photography.

Henry, the newest Hammer (just 2 1/2 months old!)

I suppose Nook is actually the newest Hammer. David and Rachel picked her up while they were in town. David is well on his way to the 27 dogs he wants!

Julie made these awesome sea-inspired cupcakes for Maddie. She's very in to dolphins and whales right now.

Amy's birthday cake. Isn't it beautiful?!

Josie on the swing.

Josie navigating sand for the first time since she learned to walk. Its tricky!

Maddie on the swing.

Josie helping Daddy throw his bocce ball.

Me, His Hunkyness and Her Royal Cuteness (who couldn't be bothered to actually look at the camera)

Amy and Maddie, the birthday girls, at the end of the day. What a fun party!!