G.G. and Grandpa Jim's Visit

G.G., Grandpa Jim, and Jim's son Jason came for a lovely long weekend at the end of July. We packed in all sorts of fun things, like going out to eat, celebrating Jack's birthday, visiting the Frankin Institute and seeing the mummy exhibit, and going to Longwood Gardens. We miss you guys!

Summer Showcase

Ginny and Jim came to visit in August, and Amelia just happened to have a mini ballet recital during their visit! It was a lovely little performance, and it was fun to have family with us!

First Dress

This is the first dress I've ever sewn, with the marvelous assistance of my sister Sarah, and her mother-in-law Linda. Thanks for the help, gals!

Jack's 3rd

We went to see Cars 2 in 3D with some friends to celebrate Colin and Jack's birthdays. The boys loved it! They got matching Cars shirts just for the occasion. On the actual day, we celebrated by having a birthday breakfast with Ginny, Jim, and Jim's son Jason (who were in town visiting). Jack blew out some candles in his pancakes. Then we went to the Franklin Institute and finished off the day at a delicious Indian restaurant. It was a wonderful birthday month for all 3 kids!

Amelia's Birthday

For Amelia's birthday we went to a pottery painting shop with some girl friends where she painted a cute little box. On the actual day, all the kids went to Build-a-Bear with Mom, and afterward Amelia got Cheesecake Factory cheesecake and blew out the candles.

Colin's Birthday

Colin's big day started with a trip to the Aquarium and a new stuffed shark, and ended with strawberry birthday cake.

Fourth of July

Our Fourth of July was terrific this year! We spent our morning at a parade in a nearby town. The kids loved it, and I did too. The follow photos are all from the parade. After that, we had a barbecue in the backyard with some good friends where we lit fireworks. Then we were off to a local park to lay on a blanket and watch a real fireworks show. It was a wonderful and patriotic day!

Finger Painting on a Slow Day

Beach

The kids and I have trekked over to the beach a couple of times this summer. All three kids are old enough now to enjoy it, so it is really fun! We're only a little more than an hour away from many beaches in NJ, so it makes a great day trip.