My photos are somewhat in order, but not entirely. Since the wedding, Bill and I both celebrated birthdays, turning a pivotal age for some lives more momentous than our own. Nonetheless, it has made us reflect a bit on what we've accomplished thus far in our lives and where we may go from here. I happy to report I have now achieved homemaker status, level 4, having mastered: making my own chicken stock, baking bread from scratch, canning our own home grown dill pickles, catching a raccoon and mastering the toilet snake.
Bill has become a gentleman farmer, having transformed the old dog run/garbage heap by the shed into a veritable smorgasbord of fresh vegetables giving me plenty of fodder for my domestic achievements. We are nearly overrun in cucumbers with a nice supply of chard and green beans. Carrots and beets are coming and corn...and tomatoes will give me something to can in those giant quart jars I got for $10.
Reina has successfully become a prima ballerina, dancing in her first (and possibly only) dance recital. After an hour a week for an entire school year, Reina remembered the ending pose of her dance routine. And was adorable and hilarious on stage. Bill would be quite happy for her to pursue soccer instead, especially after seeing some of the routines and costumes of the older girls. She continues to swim, and well. This will continue through the school year I believe since she genuinely enjoys it and it is actual skill vs. cute trick. No offense to dancers, Reina just may not be one. Reina begins preschool in the fall and is counting down the days on her calendar. I am so happy for her and know she will be in her element but am bittersweet about her "last" summer as a baby. While we're blessed with the luxury of me being able to stay home with the kids, the school year will certainly be a jolt to me. Maybe I'll blog more...
Liam, now walking, fast, and climbing stairs, has succeeded in busting his face 3 times this week alone. The photos of him are pre-busted. We are headed to the dentist today to find out if he'll be joining the ranks of Uncles Ryan and Andrew and cousin Lizzie with his own crazy tooth. I was kind of holding off on a new family portrait until his face looked less busted, but that may never happen with this kid. Truth hurts. He is otherwise still a happy sunshiny little dude, content to speak gibberish or Ewok forever it seems. For somebody who talks all day long we sure can't figure out what he is saying. He is starting to get a bit frustrated, however, and sharing his opinion more often. He had his first full blown tantrum already over a bite of apple. The rolling on the floor kind. Not funny...but kind of was.
Aunt Lauren and Milo and Oliver visited us mid-Midwest move and we loved their company and were sad to see them go. Much naked time was had by Reina and Milo. Oliver and Liam can't take off their own clothes or I'm sure they would have joined in. I hear they're getting settled into their new home and I know Reina for one misses her cousin/friend and would love to visit.
As it is, we have no summer vacation plans. A bummer in a way but probably good in the long run. As we've discovered, our beloved new-old house requires frequent attention but perhaps some short day trips will be managed as Bill has some "staycation" time coming up.
That seems to be a general glossing over...on to explain some pictures:
Apologies to Austin and Jack's parents...candy cigarettes, FYI, from Bill. Attitude was all them, however.
I'm so done with taking pictures...
You know, I'm gonna take your job someday...
Liam with sweet gooey baby. 
Babes in a hammock 
Remember. I have a recital.
Daddy is gonna kill those that came up with make-up for 3 year olds. 
I'm free years old! Mom, you're flurty free.
Corn.
Okra blossom. 
Bucolic 
Last known photo of Liam's perfect teeth
your caption here...