Memorable

We spent 2011 Memorial Day at the pool. Together, we visited a tennis/pool club nearby where Dom has been playing tennis- and then attended a Family Friend's BBQ pool party. Rhys has been out of the water for some time - but got a bit into it again. He preferred throwing the balls into those of us in the water- rather than actually swimming - reminding me that swimming lessons are a must this summer. Claudia -- more of the same, but was more enthusiastic by the end - walking into my arms from the deck. Ah, the fearlessness of a toddler.

It's Magic

During a short interview/singing session, Rhys came up with a new song titled either: "You Are Not Magic Because You are a Woman" or "Daddy Is Not Alive"...While we embrace his creativity, that was news to both of us, I am sure. We will take bookings for weddings, bat mitzvahs...

Here's a quick snapshot into his almost 3.5 year-old thinking.

Tennis, anyone?

Claudia has taken an interest in balls and tennis racquets... I wonder why?

Two Little Monkeys

Jumping on the couch....

And one fell off and bumped his head!

Thanks Nolidans for another fun-filled playdate.

Ready for Action

What a relief it is to have a firefighter living with us...

With fire dog by his side.

It's all about the accessories, Mama

Necklaces, shoes and sweaters make the outfit just right.

It's not all about me

Ah, Mothers' Day....my fourth as a matter of fact. Did I spend it at the spa, asleep in bed, or at brunch? No - not this year. We were on the road and that means little sleep for anyone. Following a fun Derby Party on Saturday, Sunday morning started nice and early for us. We were one of the first at breakfast - followed by a quick trip to the beach with my son and a race to get dressed up in our finest. After almost 14 months of life, Claudia was baptized on May 8. Yes, it took us nearly a year longer to coordinate than with Rhys, but a quick trip to Chicago and a call to our old church for a spot - made it all happen.

Trying for a family shot

Success - Rhys was enjoying his new sunglasses from H&M that day.  Thanks Jo for the photo session!

We followed up the lovely service (Rhys was in the nursery and Claudia was walked around by one of her parents for the majority of it), by having lunch at one of my favorite spots from my time at the Newberry for our friends who were able to join us: four three year olds (give or take), four one-year-olds (give or take), and ten adults. What a lovely day. Thank you! And Happy Mothers' Day to my mother, mother-in-law, and sisters-in-law, who couldn't be there with us.

Rhys and Caroline enjoy pizza and laughs with their friends Jamie and Millie.

Baptism tuckered her out...

Sporty Spice

Claudia likes to mix up her sports -- basketball and golf were on the menu today. Tomorrow - a little tennis and Big Wheel racing.