Congraduation

What began as sisters-in-law going through pregnancy together
with their first child...came cousins born just 13 days apart.

38 years later, still only 13 days apart...our children are 18 years apart.Chris graduated from Magnolia High School this weekend.
Congratulations, Chris!(stashing his 'gifts' safely in his wallet)I was so thrilled to be there with this family,
most of whom I haven't seen in nearly a decade...
much, much, much too long.Reece is ALL into giving 'five' right now. Our usual routine is "Gimme five. Way up high. Down low. In the hole. You got soul!" He raises his hand in the air and says 'Shy'...which is 'five'...even when he's eating.

Gave lots to Tootie and Uncle Schuyler. Oh, uncle Schuyler...he was always my favorite uncle. He has such a warm smile and is just a happy person inside and out. He spreads joy wherever he is, and that's a place I like to be.) Aunt Gayla and Ollie (2 yrs) watching the video together.

Love this photo of cousin Jared laughing at his nephew's expense.Elton John impersonation? Looks like Reece is trying to avoid the paparazzi.Tootie and Reece watching the big boys play 'ow-side'.My aunts and uncles...Bonnie, Schuyler, Wright, and Gayla.Brunch bunch the next day.So, so, so glad we stayed the night and had a little more time to visit.And...just not ready to leave...in the parking lot...Candace, Ollie, and cousin Jeremy.Ollie and Reece...destined to be buds.

Sticks, Balls, and Chicks

I can really see a difference between the boys and the girls at this age already. At Gym Dandies, Reece is all boy with the drumsticks. I sit way behind him as he flails the sticks high in the air and wham, back down on the floor to play the drums. He's among the top of the class for sure....not sure if that's a good thing in this category! ; )Loves the way the bumpy stick feels on his head.
"Saw, saw, saw."Under the parachute...Throwing and catching the ball with Aidan.Alfalfa hair in the funhouse mirror at Town East Mall.Drivin' the chicks around...such a cool dude."Mmmmmm-mah", he said.
No self esteem problem here.
This was one of many kisses to himself in the mirror.
He also cracked himself up and offered himself a cracker.

Sprinkler Park

Got back from SeaWorld Sunday, just enough time ot meet the neighbors at the Sprinkler park. I had soooo been looking forward to Reece's first experience, since he was just a bit too young for it last summer.

I carried him through a few of the sprinklers, but he wanted to stay on the outskirts. He usually likes to watch before he jumps in. Maybe next time...

Sea World (creatures)

A few of my fav creatures from Sea World.
(Not much time for picture taking, especially day 1.)
Last post of the Sea World series.See why I love flamingos so much...I think he is winking at me.

Sea World (shows)

Started off Friday at Sea World with a banana in hand
and on his shirt.Then immediately off to Viva!Beluga whaleNot holding up well (note paci) after rough night Thursday.
The Dolphin tank was a fair distraction.Then a trip to the aquarium.
The serene, amazing, gorgeous spotted eagle rays made Darren and I yearn for a dive trip.Reece was yearning for a N A P.
Sooo fussy, he only wanted momma to hold him.
First day ended pretty quickly.

We got there early on Saturday and were proud of ourselves.
With the weekend visitors, it was more crowded for sure.
We made sure to be plenty early for the shows, and it was a fun day.The Cannery Row Caper (seal/sea lion/walrus show) was adorable. Loved it!

Dusting for prints....
You can come over any time and dust for me!Blowing a kiss!SHAMU!!!!!Enthralled by the fan Rockin' Ski Party was pretty much that....with some amazing stunts. All done.