New Life

Introducing... Parker John Haver Ellard, the first of a new generation in the Martin family and Angie's new nephew. And for those of you who haven't met my little sister, this is Erin Ellard. Parker was born on January 24th around 7:30pm in Calgary Alberta at the Foothills Hospital - the same hospital that Erin, Bill and I were born at!

I think this photo says it all really - exhaustion, relief and most of all pure love.

Congratulations Erin and Ben. Keane and I are proud of you both. Parker, you have chosen two of the finest people possible to be your parents.

Winter views

Hi everyone out there in blog-land. Happy 2008! Well, I would say 3 months between posts is a tad too long wouldn't you?

This was the view from our balcony one morning recently. When we wake up in the morning, we never know what the landscape is going to have in store for us, but it's usually stunning. Looking at this view while eating my cereal in the morning has got to be one of the best ways to start the day.

We had a fabulous holiday. It consisted of staying at home and doing exactly what we felt like doing every single day for over a week. We watched some movies, listened to music, read books, cooked gourmet foods and did some skiing on Grouse Mountain, which you can see in the above photo.

Next year we'll be right back in the thick of the big family Christmas. My new niece or nephew will be there to celebrate it with us, and I can't wait. My little sister is due to give birth tomorrow, and I still can't believe it. It's the most amazing thing in the world. I know that giving birth is nothing new, but god, I still can't help but feel that Erin is an exceptionally brave and strong woman, who is handling all of it with such grace. This little one is going to be an important part of our lives. Keane and I will be flying out to meet him or her on February 20th, and promise to bring you back some photos!