relaxing on the beach....

is a thing of the past.

Now it's all about keeping my eyes glued on my boys as I try not to lose them at sea. Or let their delicate skin burn in the hot sun. And trying to prevent them from crawling over broken shells. And swallowing the water. And eating the sand...

This was Graham's first visit to the ocean, and he had no apprehension about splashing in the waves.

In fact, he was absolutely drawn to the water, and we couldn't contain him on the beach blanket for even a minute.

This might have been the only moment he was still, all day.

My boys all love the sand. And they certainly don't get that from me. I was cringing all day at their positively coated with sand little bodies.

They did occasionally rinse themselves off in the waves.

And eventually we hosed them off at the house my aunt was renting for the week and headed to the boardwalk with cousin Angela, for dinner and rides.

When it was time for ice cream, Jonathan was unfortunately po*ped on by a seagull. And just a few minutes later, so were my aunt and cousin. It was all funny enough until Graham was the next target. Poor bubs - isn't that just so wrong? I couldn't pack things up in the car fast enough, after that.

We were all "done" by that point, anyway.

Birthday & Bible School

Vacation Bible School at our church is held the same week every year, and it just so happens to fall over Jonathan's birthday. Since our VBS takes place at night, we opted to meet Jonathan for lunch and ice cream in the afternoon. He was also greeted with birthday message on the driveway when he arrived home and fresh baked cupcakes. Tomorrow we head to his parents to celebrate with cake and on Monday the two of us will sneak out for dinner while my mom watches the boys for us. I think by the time all the celebrating is over, I'll have gained 10 pounds ;)

I wasn't able to snap many pictures at VBS this year, since at the ripe old age of seven, Harrison has decided it's completely embarrassing to be photographed in public.

We had 225 kids participate this year! And you'll be happy to know that instead of raising money for reptiles, we collected to provide back packs and school supplies for families who can't afford them.

NJ - the 2nd best thing...

The best thing to come from New Jersey is clearly the endless entertainment that the Real Housewives provide. Holy moly drama, I can't stop watching.

The next best thing is the Camden Aquarium. A couple of weeks ago we took a day trip with the boys, with a quick stop at Cracker Barrel for breakfast along the way. Harrison and Sawyer pet the shark, stingray and starfish. Graham liked being able to get up close and personal with his friends from the sea. We got there when the doors opened and virtually had the place to ourselves, it was great.

A short walk from the aquarium is the Battleship NJ. The boys were thrilled to explore the decks. Being close to 100 degrees out, I tried to stay in the air conditioned captain's quarters as long as possible.

I'll be back soon with a report from the beach :)

nine months

I can't even put into words how much we love this little bear.

His hair is getting longer, and is surprisingly blonde.

He's 22lbs and in the 80% for weight and height.
He had his first (pitiful) trip to the ER for Croup, last week.
Graham can clap and wave bye-bye.
I miss him sleeping in our room.
He still has no teeth.

Right now he's in a "clingy" phase.
He eats puffs and Cheerios (and water ice and ice cream)
He loves to dance.
When he's crying in the car, we all sing to him and play peek-a-boo (well, not me when I'm driving...but the boys do!)

Graham is attempting his first wobbly steps.
He has a bruise on his forehead to show for all his efforts.
He gravitates to outlets and staircases.
He leaps out of my arms to go to Daddy.
Of course, we're all convinced we're his favorite, and it's unanimous that he's ours!

Star Spangled

Each 4th of July I find my heart swelling with more and more pride that I am an American. This is a great country, and I am incredibly thankful for my freedom and for those who fight to protect it.

The annual parade was held on Saturday this year and Harrison's learned over the years to be prepared for the candy that lands at his feet. He decorated bags for both himself and Sawyer.

In addition to the candy there were kazoos, toothbrushes and coupons for free water ice.

Graham was happy to wave the flag and listen to the bands.

We had it made in the shade this year.

Today we celebrated with Jonathan's parents after church and then Nanny & Cappy came over with dozens of fireworks for an impressive driveway display.

Happy 4th of July!!!