California...finally.

We are in the midst of September here, almost into fall already, so perhaps it is a perfect time to revisit our last summer vacation - California! We were there to celebrate the nuptials of the kids' Aunt Renee to her beloved Will, but we headed out a bit early to spend time with our old friends The Laughrey's.

The kids were very excited to be at the beach, to try and catch seagulls, and Alla in particular was in awe of the local flora and fauna.

 

That girl is convinced that she'll catch a bird one of these days.

I have always loved how her curls curl up at the shore.

Either I was a good vacationer or just lazy, because I didn't take my camera out too much. I did get a few shots of Fisher and Lorelei, but the other two of their girls never got their "bench portraits." Ah, well, another visit.

And then we were onto San Diego for the big wedding festivities, like getting our hair done. Here's Grandma and Aunt Ronna showing off their beauties.

Did I mention that all four of us were in the wedding? OK, so I didn't really take any photos that day, what with being a bridesmaid and mother of the "ringbear" and flower girl and counting carbs in Fisher's meal and all of that, but before things got underway I did catch just a couple of the all important getting ready moments.

What a fun day. What a beautiful bride.

Ten on Tuesday.

1. We are one full week into the school year, and starting to figure out those routines. I'm still quite stunned at the fact that I'm expected to pull up to the curb and let both kids out. And then drive off.

2. The kids and I just finished Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, which they loved. We may have to hit up the library for further Judy Blume/Fudge reading.

3. Before we sit down to read at night, Fisher likes to gather all my hair clips and brush. He gives my hair a good brushing, then proceeds to give me the world's greatest up 'do with every last clip. He's quite proud of himself.

4. While he's up 'do-ing away, Alla loves to give me hand and foot massages. I know! I'm the world's luckiest mom!!!

5. I personally am reading Me Before You, which is just great.

6. It was treat-making afternoon. Fisher and I made frozen salted chocolate banana bites, avocado pudding, and sunbutter bread.

7. Then we hit up the Farmer's Market. I got corn and carrots. I need a new veggie. Ideas?

8. I feel busy season approaching on the business front. If you're still in need of a fall session, shoot me an email! I currently have three October dates left.

9. Anyone have any ideas for good Friday night kid movies? The Sandlot was the last one I loved watching as a family:)

10. Fisher is all about the samples at the Farmer's Market. Today - a tiny Paula Red apple and a toothpicked summer sausage bite. Minnesota grows the best apples.

First days!

We, and by we I mean I, survived the first day of both kids in elementary school.

I felt quite emotional yesterday, and this morning, and walking into the school, but there was so much commotion, kiddos eager to get to their classrooms everywhere, that it just went too fast to be too sad.

I can't believe they both go to the same school, every day.

Daddy joined us for the celebration of school this morning, and saw them into their classrooms, too.

They both reported having good days, and are looking forward to going again tomorrow. What more can you ask for, huh? Here's to a great year!

The last night.

This is the last night of summer.

Tomorrow begins third grade and, sniff, kindergarten.

 

 

So the little boy got a big bed, finally, in celebration of this big step to elementary school.

 

Last night was his last night in that snug little crib, which I think he would have slept on right until his feet started pushing through the slats. He loved that bed, has been in it for five and a half years.

Tonight he sleeps in a big bed, well, a twin bed, the biggest bed that will fit in a small shared room.

And tomorrow he wakes up a kindergartener. Wow.