So much fun, so much rain...oh well.

We just returned from a lovely week away of vacation at the ocean. While I'd like to say that each day was sunny and beautiful...it was not. There were days when we thought we'd grow mold, LOL! However, on a positive note we did make the most of each day be it wet or dry. The challenge lied in keeping a toddler and three active boys happy in one 30' RV, which seemed to shrink as the week went on! For the most part I'd say all were happy and content, so long as we were dry and well fed. Speaking of food, we had a plan to eat some yummy seafood dish each night and indeed we did! The highlight of our trip, in my opinion, was our sunny warm days at the ocean. Both Cuzin' Dee and LL had never set foot in the ocean until this trip. So this made it even more special. Each has brought many fond memories home I'm sure. Overall, I'd say, despite the rain we would do it all over again.

Oh those summer nights...

Oh, those lazy days of summer. Remember when it seemed as if it lasted forever? I wish it DID, LOL!! This beautiful photo was taken on our recent visit to one of our favorite beaches. I just love it!

Short and Sweet....

I didn't have time to find our video camera, set it up, etc. but I HAD to catch this moment on film. Our LL is absolutely becoming a singer and dancer, no doubt. She hears a Latin beat and her feet start moving, she twirls, she "sings", it is absolutely delightfully hilarious and SO SWEET! Today was exceptional as she was in the mood to dress up so she had on one of Mom's nighties and my pearls. I put in DB's new Santana CD and when Maria, Maria came on the little dancer began her performance. Hope this makes you smile at least 1/2 as much as me. Happy Weekend!


Broadway Bound


Singing her little heart out!


You Go Girl!!


She's got her groove on!!


Check out those moves!


Waiting for the applause...

Four Days at the Lake = Four Days of Bliss...

Day One, Fourth of July, Parade and Fireworks

I think the Fourth of July has got to be my second most favorite day of the year next to Christmas of course. Mostly because it is the one day of the year that we can always count on our whole group of friends and their children to be together. It is also the day that I catch up with several of my high school friends that I grew up with. We are SO fortunate to have grown up in a small town where traditions run deep and the value of returning to keep in touch has not faded after (um-hum 20+ years). For this I am blessed beyond measure.

Day One began with our annual trip to the Town Beach in the neighboring village. In truth, it is more like an old-fashioned swimming hole. But the playground and picnic area is great and the beach is very kid friendly. I must also add that it is normally SO QUIET there that the maximum beach capacity is 35, yup, 35. That is one underwhelmed lifeguard. BUT...on the Fourth of July things are different. Thankfully they always politely overlook the headcount that day.


The Annual Photo of all the Children, Priceless!


Paul...what more can I say :0)


The Guyz, getting ready...


JUMP!!!!!


All Kids, Big and Small

The Parade in my hometown is a much anticipated event for the children for two reasons. The candy, and it means the fireworks are coming soon. This year was LL first Fourth of July up north. She held up very well, considering the pace, the over-stimulation, the number of strangers who fussed over her, the late night and the noisy (but AWESOME) fireworks. In fact she had us ALL just about splitting a seam when we were sitting lakeside waiting for the fireworks to begin. I'm not sure what inspired her, but all of a sudden she just burst into "song". It was absolutely hysterical!! She just stood there, with her little back to the lake, facing countless onlookers and sang to her hearts content. Then all of a sudden she would pause for a moment and clap her hands and say, "Yay-y-y-"! All the while fully expecting you to show your gratitude accordingly.


Our Group at the Parade


Santa Rides a Harley?!


Parade Fun with Mama


Um, whatever...


Singing for Joy, Reveling in the Laughter


Lovin' the Audience, Waiting for the Applause


Chilaxin, waiting for the fireworks


Patriotic Music Set Against a Beautiful Backdrop


Ah, There is No Place Like Home...

Days Two Through Four...Family, Friends, Frivolity


Tea Party-Adirondack Style


Flowers for the Centerpiece


Beach Beauty's


Lakeside and Lovin' It


Lovebug and Little Ladybug


LL's New Toy, Thank You Aunt Tammy!


Life is Tough...


Music by the Lake


Another Good Day at the Lake


Storytime with Mama Lovebug


My Three Guyz


BB, Hope your Face Doesn't Freeze Like That!!