Early July 4th

We tried, but it was not to be this year. Garrison Keillor comes to Tanglewood each year around the 4th, and we've been going each year, with few exceptions for the last 6 or 7 years now. However, thunderstorms were gathering, and rather than risk the 45 minute drive with 2 kids, only to have to turn right around when the show started, we played it safe an stayed in.

Mia had a blast, both kids slept better than expected, but the trip was cut short unfortunately. I tried but was unable to get off work on Friday, and Corrie was called back early for a Monday morning meeting. That being said, Nate has proven how willing he is to be held by the rest of the family, Mia got to play with the chickens, and we witnessed the fastest, hottest pizza oven known to man.

Oh, and we got to observe the local black bear in his natural habitat, the side yard.

Overall a good time was had, but we'll have to do it right sometime soon. We have little control over our schedule, and Corrie and I have been infecting our uncertainty on everybody we come in contact with recently. Hopefully it'll get easier when the kids are older.

Bad Influence

At least for now, we're less concerned with the bad habits Mia picks up from other kids than we are with what she gets other kids to do. It appears she has an innate ability to rally the troops to her nefarious causes, and will one day, not doubt be the leader of a merry revolution. Until then, practice saying, "If Mia jumped off a bridge, would you do it too?", and be perhaps less sure how your kid might answer.

Saturday in the Park

Hadn't put up a video in awhile, and while there isn't anything particular about this one, it's been nice to go back and see how the kids were at different stages. We also had a close call on this end with a laptop meltdown, so the more material I can upload to Youtube, the more will be preserved when this computer eventually gives up the ghost.

Nate is now firmly comfortable with taking a bottle, and has started to roll over on his own. Mia is still in a charmingly bossy phase, so if she tells me to jump, I jump. Other than that, all is well on this end.

Progress

Well, the boy took a bottle the other day. If we can get him to take one consistently, the world will open up for us. It means we'll be able to spend more than 2 hours away from him at a time, and what do parents of newborns want more than to flee their kids?

Updates on this exciting development as events warrant. Until then, here's a backlog of pictures. Enjoy.

Father's Day

So what if my birthday is right next to Father's day? It's still fun to get all the attention from the kids.

Made in the Shade

It's 96 degrees here today, so Nate and I are trying to stay indoors. He's sound asleep in his little crib next to my bed, and Walter is curled up next to me soaking up some of the cool AC. Teri Gross is on the radio, and I have miles and miles of data to analyze while I can.

Nate has turned into a bubbly, smiley little guy. His newborn days seem over, and he's become a fat and happy baby. He giggles and coos and loves to have his feet tickled. His favorite spot is underneath a ceiling fan, where he can watch the blades turn round and round. When Mia comes home and hugs him his whole face lights up and he starts kicking and jerking his arms and legs in glee. Let's hope the little brother love continues.

Say Cheese

It's good to see 'em smile.