Giving the Backyard Some Overdue Love

For the past few summers, our weekends have been structured around Brooks' lake house - a readymade weekend getaway all our own.  So, after it burned to the ground this winter, we realized - among other things - that we'd need to find a new playground for our summertime chill'axin' (stole that one from the boys) while Brooks rebuilt his dwelling. Turns out, we need not look any further than our own backyard! An blow-up pool, a fire pit, a couple of lounge chairs and voila - an oasis for the long hot summer days!

Although I hate to admit it (because it sounds so boring), I really am a homebody at heart - and by the way, so are my kids. We love being home - always have, always will! So, even though we hope to be back at the lake house come summer 2014, I'm so glad we invested some time and effort into our otherwise neglected backyard. S'mores, anyone?

From Unsure to Unstoppable in 10 Short Months!

Another year under their little belts! As I look as these photos I am in awe at how much their faces have changed - older, wiser, more confident. They are turning into little people right before my eyes. If I could freeze any moment in time, it would be this moment - Wil at age 8 and Ty at age 9. Oh, wait - I think I said that last year ... and the year before. When will I learn? Apparently, whatever age they are - at any given moment - will always be my favorite.

A+ for a Titanic Effort!

Ty and I have had a blast taking on his many, many book reports this year. While Amelia Earhart was fun, our piece de resistance was easily his Titanic project below! Ty has always been enamoured by all things Titanic and wanted to bring this historical event to life for his classmates. We came up with the idea of poking white Christmas lights though the front of the poster to show how the lights shone on the water as the Titanic sank.

Ty was beaming when he arrived home from school after giving his oral presentation. Apparently, the lights were a crowd pleaser! Mrs. Cerrone raved about Ty's knowledge of the subject and his creativity. There is no doubt that third grade has been a challenge for Ty, but we are so proud of him and the titanic strides he has made!