Summer, summer, summer!

We've had a very nice and full few weeks since Sam has been on summer break. He's done mini science and gymnastics camps, and Milo's increased portability along with Sam's increased free time has meant many nice daytime adventures as well. We've seen the Picasso exhibit at the DeYoung, spent a glorious day geeking out at the Academy of Sciences, splashed like crazy at our local splash park, fed animals at Little Farm, visited and revisited the dinosaur exhibit at Lawrence Hall of Science, enjoyed the hands-on medical exhibit and the "crawlers' garden" at Habitot, taken in several baby story times at the library, practiced leaping and floating at the pool, visited the model train museum, attended the local Fourth of July celebration and continued to enjoy the walkability of our wonderful new neighborhood. All of this, in addition to Milo's increased skill at getting to and attempting to eat and/or knock over everything in sight-- with a huge grin-- has kept us all on our toes. No wonder we're tired but happy!

The past month has also seen us growing some new family friendships. Reaching out to people with kids who love reading, along with making some connections with folks who will be at his new school in the fall and reconnecting with local cousins has been really lovely for all. Milo is also the best people magnet around, drawing people to him wherever we go with his heart-melting smile. He has a couple of his own little friends and is truly delighted by their presence -- so much so that I spend much of the visit keeping him from crawling directly onto them.

Speaking of friends, ours have better cameras than we do, but luckily they like to take pictures of our kids :) Here are a few nice shots taken by friends on some recent get togethers.




Now, don't get me wrong. Spending all day, every day, with our two little guys isn't always giggles and grins. Four-and-a-half is high season for the testing of limits and, as mentioned, Milo is Mr. Destructo and wouldn't win any nap awards despite his sweet demeanor. It is, frankly, relentless and exhausting...but we know how very precious this time is and think we have two absolutely fabulous children.

Happy Summer!!!