Robert turns 2!

Yesterday we spent the majority of the day at the Jodoins, celebrating Robert's 2nd Birthday! (he turns 2 on Tuesday) The first hour of the party, Logan was passed out in Robert's crib (he fell asleep on the ride home after being picked up from my parents, who had babysat Friday night to give Jon and I a free night out).


We had an excellent time - plenty of food, company, games and toys to go around for all. We even took the kids in the pool for a little bit (unfortunately, Logan didn't have as great a time as usual in the water, I think because the water was too cold for him), which was perfect since it was pretty warm outside.


Two highlights of the day (for me anyway) were when Logan tried eating with a fork and knife, something he's been all about these days. I’m assuming it’s because he sees us doing it and wants to do it himself. But still amazing to watch him try (sometimes successfully!) cut up his food and eat it. Just one more thing to remind us of how much our little guy is growing up!


Logan was also fascinated by Robert's new wooden train set - and it was wonderful to see him work out how to fit the tracks together on his own, and get a kick out of the train cars sticking together (via magnets). Jon and I have been thinking about getting him a train set sometime soon (if we can find the room!), so it was really fun to see him take to it so quickly!


Once cake and presents were done, most of the family and friends took off - and only the die-hards (the Hicksons and ourselves), stayed until the bitter end. ;-) We had about an hour break where the three kids were all napping, so we started a game of Settlers of Catan, but didn't get to finish before the kids woke up. I believe Jon, Nathan and Jarrod all declared themselves winners, but little did they know I had several points hiding in my hand. So, Internets, I think I was actually the real winner in that game. ;-)


We finally headed home after the kids started winding down, over stimulated from the day's events, I'm sure. Still, we had a blast and were so glad we could make Robert's big day. Happy Birthday again, Mr. Robert! :)


Today, Jon spent another handful of hours lying on his belly at the mercy of his tattoo artist while Logan and I did a little shopping and then lunched at The Counter with my parents before heading home to nap and do chores. With the wonderful summer weather, I've been trying to take advantage of our weekends as much as possible. The only downside is I'm totally whipped and need another two days to recuperate before work begins. Funny how that is.

(Click on any of the pics above for more from Robert's birthday!)

Summertime

August is the time for laying blankets out on the grass, cutting up lots of fresh fruit, breaking out the bags of chips and munchies, and hanging out in the sun (or in today's case, shade under a big tree).

There was no questioning who's diaper bag this one was (Hi Kim!). I loved the capture so much, I had to showcase it here on the blog. Not one, not two, but THREE bottles of sunblock. :-P


We got together this afternoon with a bunch of our friends, who all have babies close to Logan's age, for a little "family play date" (I suppose?) at the Vasona Lake Park. Logan was pretty content to just SUCK on pretzel sticks all day long and watch the action all around him. About the only time I could get him to crawl was when he was ready for another pretzel stick. I'm beginning to think our little guy is into carbs. Seriously.

As always, great company and all sorts of yummy food to munch on as the kiddos got to play with one another. And yes, we definitely had our hands full with all seven kids.

Starring...

*drum roll please*

Jamie (5 yrs) is one spunky little gal who cannot be contained. By far the eldest, she will be the model that all the little ones look up to. She will do what it takes to gain attention and approval from all, sometimes with a bit of a dramatic flair. She is the entertainer of the crowd, usually a silly little goose, yet is as lovable as they come (using her Aunties' laps as reclining chairs).


Robert (just shy of 1 yr!) is an active go-get-'em crowd pleaser. Loyal to his friends and an avid trendsetter (esp. for Mr. Logan who looks up to the only older boy of the crowd) in fashion, toys, new foods, activities, you name it. In your camera face, loves attention, can't be still and will be famous. Ambitious, stubborn, proud and honest.







Addison (11.5 mths) is kind-hearted and generous and will be a great listener. She loves to nurture and share (although sometimes NOT her chocolate chip cookies). She is caring, creative and shy but a natural helper around the house, and later to the world.


Molly (9.5 mths) is a lover, not a fighter. She is charming, easy-going and loves to please. When she's missing Mommy and Daddy's affection, she tends to be grumpy, having a rare off day (luckily, Mommy and Daddy have plenty of love to give). Balanced, constant, agreeable and polite. And definitely loves her raspberries.


Emily (9 mths): Calm as she may seem, there's a lot going on beneath the surface. Her need for a strong emotional connection (Mommy can never be too far out of sight) drives her intense, creative and magnetic personality. Loves to win and wise beyond her years, she will be a devoted leader.









Logan (7.5 mths) is a born adventurer and free spirit. Tons of fun, he is also impatient and gets into loads of trouble when bored (curiosity killed the cat?). Naturally athletic, which helps burn that excess energy. Loves to travel, particularly head dives off the couch. Optimistic, independent, honest, outgoing and happy.



and last but not least,




Jessie (3.5 mths), our little lamb. She's impulsive yet friendly. Adventurous, always pushing ahead of the pack and loves to rock the boat. She tells it like she sees it, never holding a grudge. Daring, competitive, self-reliant and outgoing. A promising lawyer or doctor, who knows. Bottom line, she's one tough cookie you don't want to mess with.


It's days like today where I really hate going back to work on Monday..... *sigh*

Hope everyone had a great summer weekend!