Fake Fire, Real Fire Trucks

This past weekend, all the South Bay fire departments opened their doors to the public, and we knew our firefighter/police officer-obsessed kids would really get a kick out of an up-close-and-personal visit with these heroes. Holden, in true Holden form, mostly fretted about there being a "fire" during the demonstration, and complained that he wanted to leave. We didn't give in, and glad we didn't. There was no fire in the demonstration, leaving Holden relieved.
Of course, in true Riley form, Riley showed no fear as he ran from rig to rig, talking to the firefighters and making them smile.

Moms

Being a Mom lately has had its challenges. Quite honestly, there are moments when the whole Mom thing just isn't living up to the hype. Luckily, there are two other fabulous Moms who have lived through it and learned from it ... and are there to help me do the same. So on Mother's Day, we joined the Moms (aka Grandma Sheila and Grandma Bonnie) for a nice, relaxing day.

Kevin and I made photo books for each of our moms with a smattering of pictures of them and the boys and other family. We were really pleased with the way they turned out, and hope the moms will cherish them.After a Mexican fiesta lunch, we tried out my new Peppermint Patty brownies.


The boys took naps and we had a chance to visit with parental types kid-free - such a treat. When Riley woke up, he had nothing but cuddles and smiles for everyone.

Babies, Babies, Babies

In the last couple weeks, three baby girls were born to some people very near and dear to us, and we wanted to share these beautiful babies with you!

Introducing ... Kaytlin Elisabeth, born to Maggie and Richie. This is the third name she's had since her birth May 6. If you know Maggie and Richie, then you're not surprised. They plan to call her "Ella," short for Elisabeth, which was her first name until about two days ago. Elisabeth is also Maggie's middle name and her grandmother's name. We're so happy they and their three older boys will be moving back from Riverside in a month - we've been missing them! Ella was Maggie's long awaited girl, and every morning she looks in Ella's diaper ... just to make sure she really got her girl!

The week before, our friends Anna and Scott in Virginia gave birth to Ruby Bernice. She's joined her twin 2-year-old brothers, Oscar and Henry. Click here to see pictures.

Also recently, Beth and Stephen (Beth is Joyce and Michael's daughter - my mom's friends) welcomed Sierra Helena to the world. Click here to see pictures.

Congratulations, Mazel Tov and welcome to the girls. We can't wait to watch you blossom and grow!

Overheard: An Actual Conversation

Holden: "Riley! Riley! Riiiiileeeey! Riiiiiilllleeeeeyyyy!"

Riley: "What?!"

Holden: "On Friday, you can play with the helicopter. Okay?"

Riley: "K!!!"