Tuesday, July 03, 2007

Summer has arrived

Hey all - yes, it's been a while. But I'm busy! Imagine that?!

Seriously - managing three kids plus a full time job is not the easiest thing to do. But hey, billions of ladies have done it before me and billions will in years to come.

'Nuff about that...

Biggest news in our household:



Little Miss Bee-ya has been so hesitant to start, but she's off and running now. And there you have it - I have managed to capture all three of my kid's first steps. We're so proud of her! Another stage behind us :(

The girls are all doing really well - they've adjusted quite well with my return to work. They adore their nanny and she's making sure they get to enjoy all the nice weather we've been getting.

This past Saturday, we wrapped us their swimming sessions: Preschool A for Peyton, and Parent 'n' Tots "2" for Leah & Paige. Thanks again, Rich for the help on the Saturday AMs. And thanks to my mom too who didn't miss watching from the side of the pool - not once :) ALSO, thanks to Jenna for substituting for Paul that one Saturday...and I personally thank you for not making me put on my bathing suit...ha!





Peyton received her first official swim badge - she's quite proud of it. This was the first class she was in where she didn't have a parent present. And she did so well! She was the "teacher's pet" always just sitting on the ledge of the pool with her hands folded across her lap until she was instructed to float, jump, blow bubbles, chase water toys...etc. She THRIVES in a teacher/student role, and we're so happy - and surprised - to see that.
Paige enjoyed the lessons from the get go, but Leah on the other hand took a class (or two) to warm up to the idea that this was supposed to be FUN! But in her defense, Rich says the water was COLD.

Chantal, Colin and 4 week old Catherine - along with Rich & De were over on Saturday night. We saw a tidbit of the green monster in Paige with the presence of the baby - but strangely enough, it was DE that she was possessive over - she didn't even notice when mommy was cuddling the babe :) But Catherine's okay - it's funny to think that in one year's time, she'll be just as rumbunctios as the others...so much can happen in a year.

Sunday - Canada Day...started off horribly! We'd planned on taking the kids downtown, but had a slow start. And by the time we were almost ready to go, the twin's nap time had arrived and everyone was in full blown meltdown. So against every instinct and belief I hold, we still packed the crew into the van and headed into the city. Along with Rich, De and Tanya, we spent roughly 4 hours celebrating in our Nation's Capital. And it was FUN! Now those who know me well know that I run a very strict and regimented household. And I am an absolute slave to the nap. As a result, my kids tend to have a lot of difficulties sleeping while out. In fact, they don't. But it worked out just fine - and the twins didn't end up napping until we were on our way home. Anyway, the weather was miserable, but we still perused the streets, people watched, Peyton got a tattoo and silly balloon, we had snacks and beverages on an outdoor patio on Sparks then we made our way home.
Some pictures ...
















and one last video...the ride home :)



So we got home, the kids all had a good nap, then (again despite cool weather) we sat out on the deck and had a BBQ with Laurie, Heron, Jenna & Mitchel, along with my mom and Tanya. Paul's parents JUST arrived home from Cape Breton, so they stopped in for a quick visit. And THEN (Rich, you'll be upset to hear this) we set up the chocolate fountain and ate chocolate covered strawberries and bananas until our tummies could take no more. Yup, nice way to end the day.

An eventful day like that led to all three kids sleeping in nice & late yesterday AM. Good for Paul, as I left the house at 6:45 to spend the morning at work. Sigh. Anyway, our PM was good yesterday, with a trip to the "big park" and then a nice quiet evening.

So that's the update on us. We have a good weekend coming up, with Dan & the family arriving on Friday. Another few weeks of work, then we're on holidays! THAT, I cannot tell you how much I am looking forward to. Not too much scheduled yet (just the way we like it) but we've got a trip to Wonderland the the Toronto Zoo planned. And with any luck, the deck will be finished by then so we'll be able to enjoy our backyard again (no pressure, Paulie!!)

I'll write again very soon! Hope everyone is well!

Kari
xoxoxoxoxoxo