Cemetery

When we first moved here, neighbors and local were telling us we had to check out the local cemetery.  They said it had beautiful plants, a pond full of ducks to feed, plenty of hiking and biking trails, and more.  We shrugged it off, thinking it sounded morbid and an odd place to visit, especially with young children.  But after our first visit, we were hooked.  Here, cemeteries are more like parks, and are frequented daily by dog walkers, bikers and joggers.  Our local cemetery is just down the street from our house, and we now walk there nearly every Sunday.

Here are some pictures of a recent trip (OK, not THAT recent, since you can see that Hannah was still here!):

 One of our favorite climbing trees!

It's always great when Daddy can meet us there after a long day at work! :)

The "wildlife" (turtles, frogs and tadpoles, ducks, fish, etc.) is always a hit with our animal-loving children!

A fallen log in one of the cemetery ponds is always a welcome challenge.  We venture out as far as we can, and I'm always the first to turn back (The Mr. and the children are much more daring!)  

Angel has actually fallen off the log before...but that doesn't stop her!

Love

This evening as we were driving in the car, Grins said "Angel, I'll tell you who I have a crush on if you promise not to tell anyone."  "Who?" she asked.  He then told her about a girl in his class he really likes.  Then, realizing that I had probably overheard the whole conversation, he told me as well.  I said, "A crush?  What does that mean?"  He replied, "It means you are a little bit in love."

That was too sweet - I just had to jot it down so I can remember it forever.  But it gets even sweeter.  He then asked Angel who she was crushing on.  She said "I'm not telling!"  He insisted "But I promise I won't tell!" over and over again - but she still would not divulge her secret.  Curious, tonight, while I was snuggling Angel, I asked who the secret crush was.  I told her I wouldn't tell a soul (the blog doesn't count, right?  So - if you are reading this, you are hereby SWORN to secrecy!)  She finally let me in on the secret:  Grins.  "Grins?"  I asked, not sure I had heard her right.  "Yes," she said, "I just really love him."  My heart melted.  It was one of the most tender moments I can ever remember.  I can't think of a greater joy than knowing that my children love one another.  I am a very lucky mother!!!

Family moments

Stargazing on the trampoline was SO much fun!  We watched as the light faded into dusk and then dark, and then saw a skunk make his way across our yard.  We had originally planned to sleep outside, but the gnats and mosquitoes eventually drove us inside - but not before we'd found several constellations of stars and enjoyed some good conversation!

I find Wiggles reading to herself or a doll or stuffed animal several times a day.  She loves her little rocking chair - it is adorable!

Grins is such a kind and patient brother - one day he patiently lay on the couch while Wiggles brought out doll after stuffed animal after doll.  It kept them both occupied while I made dinner! :)

Dancing with Daddy never gets old!  The other day, the Mr. and I were both dancing with our girls, and we suddenly locked eyes and both had tears streaming down our cheeks, as we cherished the tender moment and realized how quickly our sweet children are growing.  We truly enjoy every moment with them!

Pineland farm

I had the wonderful opportunity to accompany Grins' kindergarten class on a trip to Pineland Farm.  We had SO much fun touring the farm - and the highlight was certainly milking the cow!

Of course, petting the calves was a close second!

We started feeding the cows, but they were more interested in nibbling on my hoodie!

It was so much fun being able to spend some time with Grins and his friends!

Nathan and Justin

June also brought a visit from uncles Nathan and Justin!  What fun!  We didn't have a lot of time with them, but Wiggles immediately latched onto both of them and they were so loving and tender with her.  It was adorable!  We took a quick lighthouse tour with them one night (apparently my flash wasn't working....)

It was so much fun seeing them and getting to spend some time with them!  We love you guys! :)

Fort Williams

Though we've been there dozens of times, I don't think we'll ever tire of Fort Williams park!  

This picture makes me laugh - notice Wiggles' face is the background! :)

This is hilarious - watch as Wiggles enters the tunnel....

She makes her way through...

...but suddenly has to use the restroom!!

Whew! Wiggles needs to relax after that long day!