Swimming Vacation

We spent almost everyday in the pool. Anika was hesitant initially, but after the first day you couldn't hold her back. She still isn't big about going under water but we are making strides. Andrew was a different story. He didn't like being held nor would he tolerate a floatie so he didn't spend much time in the pool. He enjoyed the sand box, backyard, stairs, and a good afternoon nap each day!

Newest Nephew

Anika and Andrew couldn't get enough of little Isaiah (3 months). He is absolutely precious. Anika wanted to hold him every chance that she got. And Andrew has certainly learned the word "baby". He was quite taken with the little guy.

VanOostrums Lend a Hand

Well, I'm late making this post but I have to send a shout out (do people still say that?) to Marilyn and Analisa. While Lloyd was gone to Convention, Marilyn came almost every morning so that I could get my jog in and then she and Analisa watched the kids one evening so I could get out. What great people!!!

I'm not sure why this picture isn't showing up completely, but at least you get the idea of the Welcome Home sign that Anika and Andrew made for Daddy.

Sprinkler Park

After neglecting my kids in order to finish Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, I decided that I should make it up to them:-) (I jest. I was actually proud of myself for putting the book down and waiting until the kiddos went to bed.)

But with Lloyd gone at the YU convention, my fellow convention widow, Hester, and I took our kids to the sprinkler park in the Tri-Cities. It was an amazing time. There is a really neat place to get wet under the sprinklers, a huge wooden play area, a skate park, a pond, etc. . . We had a wonderful morning and a nice picnic lunch. Anika and Andrew also got to wear their new swimsuits. Dana Clark sent them presents from Pennsylvania that arrived the day before our adventure. Anika was ecstatic about her "hula" (as she called her "grass" skirt).

For Aunt Hilary

I know how much Aunt Hilary enjoys BBQ Ribs so I had to take a few shots of Anika. Needless to say, we enjoyed ribs tonight:-)

Monkey See, Monkey Do

Oh, my! This one is going to haunt me! Anika climbed up on the back of the couch and so (of course) her brother had to do the same. I didn't reprimand them at the time - instead I took a picture for the blog. (Bad parenting decision!) Now they are wanting to climb up there all the time. And Daddy isn't too happy!

Extended Family

I got a wonderful email from my cousin Melissa and Aunt Carolyn with some pictures they took while visiting my family in IL. I couldn't pass up the opportunity to share them here.

The whole family (minus the Wickers):

The McIlraths (I can't believe how much Eli has grown - distance stinks!)

Hilary, Isaiah, and Mom (I haven't even met Isaiah in person yet!!!):

Safety First

Anika is enjoying the helmet and pads that she got from Nana. Since riding a trike can be dangerous, she likes to get duded up.

Tea Party Time

Anika was delighted to invite Diane, our neighbor and friend, over for a tea party yesterday. We picked flowers and used real cups and saucers. Diane and I enjoyed tea while Anika had fruit punch. So much fun!!!

May I have this dance. . .

Sharing a Ride

A nice brother/sister moment caught by the camera. This isn't the usually state of affairs around here but I'll take it when I can get it. Anika has taken to screeching at her brother when he doesn't anything she dislikes - There is a lot of screeching going on around here:-)

Kissing Machine

Andrew continues to be fascinated with giving kisses. I had to get a few good side shots so everyone could appreciate his pucker:-)

Home Again, Home Again

Well, we are home safe and sound. And it is good to be here. Vacations are wonderful but we are happy to be in our own beds - and all the toys around here seem to be brand new:-) My dad was able to pop in for a quick visit during a business trip. So we enjoyed having him here - it made the transition nice since the kids were so used to having people around.

Family at the beach

Christine joined us at the beach with Simon and Nathaniel. The kids had so much fun together. Simon (almost a year) really got into the sand:-)

Andrew's new t-shirt is so appropriate!!!!

Anika & Nana at the beach

Andrew and Mommy build a sandcastle!

Mommy & Andrew at the beach