90 Years Young

Mallory, Grandy, David and I just returned from my Grandfather's 90th Birthday in Albany/Green Island New York. Pockey (as we call my Grandfather) was born in 1920. He is super sharp, unbelievably witty, full of fun, and musically gifted. He still lives alone, still drives a car, and entertains all of the other seniors in the area by playing the organ and singing anything and everything. He is well-loved by all who meet him. He is the best practical jokester,carries magic tricks in his pocket, and plays the organ/piano completely by ear. He can play any song you hum to him, absolutely anything you request. He is hands down amazing.
My Aunts, Uncles, and my parents all planned a very fun surprise party with surprise guests from all over the country. Almost all of my family lives in New York so the party was about 98% family members. This is a huge, loving, loud, social, kiss on the lips type of family.
We had a great weekend reuniting with all of the family that we rarely get to see. Below are pictures from the party and an afternoon at my Aunt's house. Notice the family line dancing pictures? Now you know where I get all my dance moves from :) It is a wonderful family and stems from my Grandfather and my Grandmother (who passed away in 1997) and their brothers and sisters. They created a tight-knit, incredibly fun family for generations to come.
Happy 90th Birthday Pockey! You are amazing and we all love you very, very much.
About 1/2 of the birthday guests. We remembered to take a group photo a little too late in the night!





Slept right through the party!




My Godmother Nancy with Mallory.











Almost Crawling.....

Mark Family Baptism

Our family of four (with Grandy and Dandy) recently flew to DC to meet new baby John David and to celebrate his baptism. Flying with babies (mainly with 2-year-olds) is a story of it's own-so for now we will focus on the easy part of the trip- John David! John David and Mallory are only about 3 1/2 months apart and he is just as cute as can be. It was so neat to see all of the grandchildren together and to spend time with my brother, sister in law, and her family.

All of Grandy and Dandy's Babies. Together for the first time!





I love how Grandy is looking at John and Dandy is looking at Mallory. They should make it easier and just swap babies!






Godmother Meredith, and Marshall, "The Godfather" :)






John wore the same Christening outfit that my brother wore 32 years ago. What a special tradition.



My sweet sister in law surprised me with a birthday cake after brunch. (my birthday was the next day) That was so thoughtful of her, especially since it was John David's special day. It was delicious.


All worn out from the festivities.

Notice someone missing from the baptism pictures? Well, as much as Peyton loves Jesus- we just didn't think that Mass followed by a baptism was the best place for Peyton to be. Thankfully Kristen (Kiki) and Ian (Iana) live just down the road from the church and were able to keep Peyton for the day. Peyton has a great day playing in their "speakers" (sprinklers), drinking Fresca (which he called beer), and playing with Shiloh (their dog in her crate). He had a special day of his own and we are so appreciative of their help!

We can't wait to see these babies grow up together. The Mark family has been very blessed! Thanks for a great weekend David and Lauren and congratulations on your baptism John David!

Last Day of School

Today is Peyton's last day of school, his 2 year-old preschool year has come to an end. My heart is heavy and this is just a 2-year-old class, how will I ever survive the first/last day of Kindergarten?

We have had a great year at a fabulous preschool with an even more fabulous teacher. Peyton loves Ms. Darsi and has truly loved going to school. He has a great group of friends to play with. This year Peyton really enjoyed music class, the playground, painting, and reading!

Here is Peyton on his first day of school:

Sharing. A constant theme this year.


Here is Peyton at his end of year party:



Peyton and Ms. Darsi:


And not to be forgotten:
Mallory! Looks like you are ready for preschool too. 6 Months and already reading!


Scratch that. Make that 6 Months and already EATING....



Notice the purple ink on her face? Whoopsie! Now that she is somewhat mobile I need to do a better job of baby proofing. This was such a nice birthday card.


So the school year is over. Bring on the Summer! We're ready for play dates, trips, the lake, swimming, and FUN! And then we will be ready for school again, I am sure of it.

Hungry Little Caterpillars

We hosted Peyton's weekly playgroup again this week. Our theme- The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle. We read the book and sampled most of the foods that the caterpillar eats. We had a great time! We played outside, inside, in the sand, and Peyton did a great job hosting his friends.

The caterpillar eats apples, oranges, plums, strawberries, pears, and then moves on to more interesting food ;), we also tried pickles, swiss cheese, and cupcakes! After all that food the caterpillar gets a tummy ache and eats a big green leaf. My little caterpillars ate a mint leaf.






Our fabulous neighbor "Mimi" was able to join us with her grandson and her daughter Betsy (my friend). Fabulous does not do Mimi (our babysitter, lifesaver, angel) justice, I'm sure you will see an "Ode to Mimi" on this blog soon enough!


Lindy and Reese joined in on the fun too.I love this picture of them. Lindy is so perplexed by Reese's new "2 year old behavior". :)








We had Mallory's playgroup in the afternoon and broke in Lindy's swimming pool. It was Mallory's first swim. I had my hands too full with toddler, baby, and a nice glass of sauvignon blanc to get pictures, but will get pictures of her in her new ladybug swimsuit soon!

We love our playgroups- they make our Wednesdays so fun!