Having Fun at the Beach - Family Photos

As our families continue to grow, the hope of getting all members to look at the camera and smile begins to fade. In fact, it generally takes at least 5 tries to get the four of us to take a decent picture, let alone 10+ people! But...we continue to try and do the best we can. So, here are a few family photos from this year's week at the beach.

Having Fun at the Beach - Part 1

We returned Sunday from a week at the beach in Emerald Isle, NC. We spent the week with Grampy and Grammy (Rich and Carol), Aunt Maureen, Uncle Patrick, and cousin, Peter. Grandpa and Grandma (Dad and Pat) and Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop (Biz and Doug) also visited for a couple of days during the week. The girls were fortunate to be able to spend time at the beach with all three sets of grandparents.

Rich and Carol rented a beautiful house right on the beach with its own pool. Most of our days were spent on the beach playing in the sand, splashing in the ocean, collecting shells and taking dips in the pool. We did venture out one day for lunch at a local seafood restaurant and then an afternoon of exploration at the aquarium.

We had a wonderful week filled with fun, sun and quality time with family!

Due to the numerous photos taken, I figured I would spread them out over a few days. Enjoy!

Back to School

Kate returned to preschool following Labor Day and has a week and a half under her belt. She is going three mornings a week this year and is so excited to be back! Although, only two of the girls are returning from last year's class, she still gets to see past classmates on the playground and before and after school. (Walking with friend, Ryan, in the below photo)

This year, the kids eat lunch at school as well, so of course, we had to buy a lunchbox. Kate was so excited when I came home a month ago with an Ariel one from the Disney Store! Now, she excitedly packs her lunch in the morning and holds "Ariel" in her lap the entire ride to school.

Let's hope the excitement for school continues for the next 20+ years!

Princesses, Princesses Everywhere!

Kate's birthday continued into this past weekend with a "Princess Party" for her and her friends. Each of the girls came dressed in their favorite princess attire. We spent the afternoon playing games, opening presents, doing crafts and eating cupcakes and ice cream. Each girl made her own tiara and necklace. To complete their princess look, each girl was given a handmade wand (that was my job the week prior).

I knew all of the preparation was worth it when Kate came up to me in the middle of the party and said, "Thank you, Mom. I am having so much fun at my princess party."

May all of your birthday wishes come true, Kate. You're one of our favorite princesses!

And you, too, Lauren!

Kate's Birthday Celebration

On Saturday, we celebrated Kate's birthday with family and friends. Kate's cake request this year was Ariel from the Little Mermaid. I'm finding her requests to be much more difficult as the years progress, but I did my best to produce "Ariel" for the event. Kate enjoyed every moment of her party and loved all of her gifts (which for the most part centered around the princess theme)! She has spent the last couple of days putting several of the gifts to use. Thanks to all who helped make her 4th birthday special!

Happy 4th Birthday, Kate!!

Happy 4th Birthday to our special little girl, Kate, who is growing up right before our eyes. We had a busy weekend filled with birthday celebrations and fun! I have plenty of pictures that I will post tomorrow, but for today, we just wanted to wish our daughter a very happy birthday and say thank you for 4 beautiful, loving years!

You have touched so many lives in such a special way and we are truly blessed to have you in our family. WE LOVE YOU, KATE!!!!!!!!!!!

Exploring Life and Science

Last week, the girls and I joined some friends and traveled to the Life and Science Museum in Durham. Our adventure began with a train ride through the woods, including a small tunnel followed by a slight hill, which felt similar to a child's amusement ride. We then explored the butterfly house and its beautiful creatures. We were able to see butterflies released into the environment just a couple hours after their birth! One of the butterflies tried to hitch a ride on my diaper bag, but was discovered before we left the building. Other highlights included the farm animals, the "clouds, " the dinosaurs, and the system of balls. The girls and I agreed that a future return trip is in store...this time with Dad.