July in 30 Secondsish

The 4th of July is big time around these parts. We have a neighborhood parade that could rival Macy's Thanksgiving parade....okay, maybe we are a few floating animals short of a NBC production. We still rock Woolworth Blvd baby. Last year we won the "best non-motorized" division. We were champs and it was confirmed with fancy blue ribbons. We had our eyes on a repeat. Our kids were cuter. Our float was fancier. Our spirits were on fire. The victory was ours to lose. Well, lose we did and I would say that the kids (ok, ME) are a bit sore about our loss.

Next year we will WIN. Production has already begun, a countdown established, theme tucked away, and staff sworn to secrecy. Brady shares my thirst for victory and has been mowing the judges lawns. Well played son, well played. It's on Field Club 4th of July "Non motorized" division, it's on!!!

 We flew to California to see G-ma Robin and Papa Bruce. Our kids were angels on the plane. ANGELS. I was slapping superior parenting high fives up and down the aisle.

 It turns out Brady is a bit of a beach boy. Every time a wave came in he engaged in the wave dance. He welcomed the salty waters with a scream, smile, clap and tap dance. He single handily brought the "stank leg" to the west coast. Your welcome Venice beach, you are welcome!

 Mallory was a bit more cautious of the ocean swells. She preferred chasing the birds and building sand castles. Unfortunately, the sand fleas/little critters thought Mals was super sweet and took about a million bites out of her. She was not as fond of them and swelled up like a little tomato. I'm thinking our girl may be trading sandy beaches for city streets.

 Jeff and I were grateful to have a few days to ourselves. The grandparents and Aunt Hailee were sweet as honey to grant us a few precious days to hike, paddle board, eat and drink ourselves into a peaceful state. We love our littles, but we also love time away from them. Fortunately, they were amazing for their team of babysitters. Unfortunately, upon our return they melted into a puddle of tantrums and hissy fits.

Brady turned 4! If you ask him how old he is he says "or." He starts his second year of pre school in a couple of weeks. He's pretty pumped to be an upper classman this year. I over heard him talking about the "fresh meat" coming in this year and I had to remind him that his heart belongs to Claire. Yep, our darling Claire is still around and as beautiful and sweet as ever. She starts Kindergarten this year. OMG. Brady has planned her first day of school outfit to include a shirt that states "taken."

 Da and Day! Brady calls Mallory Da and Mallory calls Brady Day. They are 2 peas in a pod. Their relationship is evolving by the minute.

 Mallory turned 2! She is growing into a strong willed, funny, caring and compassionate kid. She has developed an obsession with baby dolls and sun glasses. No departure is complete without both in tow. It is a joy to see her spirit spring to life. At times, Brady would love a bit less "spirit," but he knows she is a work in progress.

Brady and Mallory hammered down a monster cookie for their birthdays. Their mouths were stained blue for days and I think they are still coming down from the sugar high. I didn't plan a big birthday celebration this year, but we did sing and celebrate in our own special way. Both kids are lucky to have such wonderful friends and family who insisted on making their days special. Thank you!