Yesterday, we celebrated Rachael and Andrew’s baby, Milo Andrés, who is due to make his appearance in the next month or so. Andrew’s mom did all the decorations; Liz and Andrew’s cousin, Natalie, came up with all the games; Ron’s mom made lots of food; and I made an agave-sweetened lemon pie. Three of Rachael’s childhood friends were there—Vanessa, Bree, and Natasha—along with Rachael’s former apartment-mate, Sarah, from Orange County, who brought one of her two kids. Bree brought her fiancé, Vanessa came with a friend, and Natasha brought her mom, who is a favorite friend of mine. Andrew’s sister flew in from Seattle, and, of course, his brothers David and Michael were there, along with Michael’s girlfriend. (David’s girlfriend sadly was at a weekend work retreat in Malibu for her new graphic design job.) Our whole California family was there, along with lots of friends and close family from Andrew’s side. It was a sweet, lively event, with kids playing, people laughing, and plenty of hugs for the soon-to-be parents. A first-rate baby shower where Rachael and Andrew were truly showered with love.

Here are some of the photos, just to give you a sense of the fun.

Rachael, Andrew, and baby Milo

Our daughters, sons-in-law, and almost five (!) grandkids with Ray and me

Rachael, Andrew, and Martha (Andrew’s mom)

Rachael, Andrew’s cousin, Natalie, and Andrew

Bree, Rachael, Vanessa, and Natasha – friends since elementary school!

Sister Sarah and Rachael

Sister Liz, Rachael, and Andrew

Rachael, Ray, and Andrew

Bree, Rachael, and Bree’s fiancé, Nick

The backyard celebration

Rachael, Liz, Ron, and Cindy (Ron’s mom)

Nico, Ethan, and Uncle Gregorio

Natasha, Elena (her mom), Nick, Bree (leaning down), and Andrew’s cousin, Monica

Lyla, painting, and Luna and Nico playing a game

Liz with Milo drink

Mama Rachael