A Gymnastics Party

Imagine having your birthday party and you weren't even able to be there. This happened to Abbey's friend, Lottie. She came down with pneumonia the day of her party. They still had the party, but rescheduled for the next week. This past Sunday we all gathered at The Little Gym. This time, Lottie, all recovered, was with us. Abbey and Elijah had a wonderful time. The day before, I'd unpacked Abbey's clothes for the summer that had been given to her. Inside our treasure trove of clothes there was a gymnastics leotard. She was so thrilled and wore it to Lottie's party. Hopefully, one day we will be able to enroll Abbey in gymnastics (when people begin to buy cranes again). She really appears to have a natural affinity for it.

On the way to the gym, she fell fast asleep.

Elijah enjoyed himself, also

Abbey's first taste of the theater

This past Friday, Anna mentioned to me that Millbrook High School was putting on this play:

I was sure that my resident Cinderella would love to go and see the show, but I didn't know how long she would be able to sit quietly. I needn't have worried. She sat through the entire show. She loved it and talked about it nonstop as we stopped for ice cream afterward. Woo-hoo! I have another person who loves musicals like Anna and I. 

Ready to go to the show

They sold magic wands at intermission, I just had to get her one

Here she is bibbity-bobbity booing with all her might!

Daniel's home

Daniel returned home tonight from Jr. Nationals in Orlando. His swims had some good news and some bad news. The good news was that he went a 59.4 in 100 breast. The bad news was that it was in a relay and didn't count. He also got best times in the free relays. Individually, he didn't achieve best times. He said he got so nervous when he was on the blocks that he was actually shaking. It was his first really big meet, and he said he just kind of "freaked" out. The good news is that the next time he goes to a big meet, it will be old hat to him. He was disappointed, but saw the experience as a learning opportunity. Anyway, I'm glad to have him home. This week he is taking a break from swim practice in order to concentrate on making up all the school work he missed. 

My new dining room

My dining room has been in desperate need of an update. We haven't done anything to it since we moved here over 10 years ago. I painted directly over the wallpaper. I wasn't thrilled with the bottom color, but in the end, I really like both colors. I'm please with how it turned out,  but boy it was quite a job with 2 little ones running around. John had to help out more than he usually does when we paint.  Now, on to the den...

The white chair isn't supposed to be there!

The picture that was painted in Chongqing especially for Abbey

What can we learn from a dead bird?

While walking with the kids and Anna last night, we saw a dead bird on the sidewalk. Abbey, of course, was very inquisitive about the bird. We told her that it was dead and wouldn't wake up. She asked what made it die? I told her that I thought it had gotten hit by a car. She then replied, "I guess he didn't take anyone's hand when he crossed the street."  She's learning!

This is her drawing of a house.  Pretty good isn't it?

Notice the self-satisfied grin (smirk)

She's into making funny faces for the camera. I'd say this qualifies.

I don't know if it is the fact that he's getting more teeth, or the fact that he can now feed himself, but Elijah is really starting to eat and eat a decent amount. Maybe he might break the 5th percentile for weight?

Chowing down on a waffle

There's a Shoe Bandit Among Us

Who Me??

Yes, you!!!

I knew we needed to watch that little guy!

Caught red handed, or (red footed)

With mom's tennis shoe

Maybe a slip-on in addition?

How about Anna's flip flop?

Or maybe daddy's shoe?

He spots an interesting boot

Getting his foot in there takes just the right aim

Success!!

At our house, you better watch your shoes. They just might walk away!!

And He's Off...

To Orlando!

John took Daniel to meet the rest of the team at 5:45 this morning. They are driving vans down to Orlando for the Jr. National Meet. They will have a relay this afternoon. He will swim 100 Breast on Wed., 50 breast on Thurs. and 200 breast on Friday. He will also be participating in relays throughout the meet.  He was so excited! Nike is giving each swimmer several items, as well as having the swimmers try out prototype suits during warm ups.  I'm not sure if Daniel is more excited about all the free apparel or the meet itself. 

Last night when I was putting her to bed, Daniel tried to tell Abbey goodbye. She took the book we were reading and put it in front of her face. She wouldn't even look at him or speak to him. Fortunately, Daniel recognizes that this behavior means she really cares, but is protecting herself.  Poor baby, she just can't bring herself to say goodbye. It hurts when someone leaves her. I really think it is part of her abandonment issues.  She'll be happy when he gets home (as will I). I sure am going to miss him!

Please pray for him: for safety and that he will swim well. 

 

 The pool in Orlando. It has a retractable roof!