We have a 1st Grader in the house!

Today was the first day of school. Fortunately, none of the natural disasters delayed the opening of school (several MD schools have already used 2 snow days because of Irene). Natalie was up and ready to start the new school year with a smile. She met her new teacher last week and feeling great about starting school.

Two of her friends (identical twins) from school just moved into one of the houses behind us so she was super excited to see them at the bus stop this morning.

The 3 girls crammed into the seat together and headed off to school. She had a great day and is looking forward to being in first grade. We were sad to see her go, but excited for what lies ahead for her.

The week of the Hurri-Quake

What an interesting week! On Tuesday we experienced an earthquake and last night was Hurricane Irene. However, yesterday morning, we had Team Lyon's first game. (If you remember, last year all the teams were European countries. This year, we are cities. Lyon is a city in France.) We did get a preview of what Irene was going to bring when just 5 minutes into the game - the heavens opened up and unleashed a total downpour. We all sprinted for the pavilion at the rec complex and waited it out. It only took a few minutes and then they continued playing in a light rain which eventually stopped. Irene would come back later though and we experienced heavy rains and winds. Fortunately, that was the extent. We didn't lose power, have flooding, or anything like that. We are very thankful.

Doesn't she look thrilled to have her picture taken?




Fraternizing with the enemy as they were both on sub breaks. This was one of her friends from class last year.


Running off the field after a great game.

And this guy...

This guy ran onto the middle of the field no less than 3 times during the game. Even once when Natalie had the ball and was driving down the field towards the goal. After the 3rd time, Greg took him back behind the action and let him run til his heart was content. We cannot wait until he's old enough to be on a team.

More pics later this week as Tuesday is the first day of school!

What a week! Make that two ....

Is there such a thing as too many pictures in a blog post? If so - then close your web browser now and move on to something else. If not, then scroll down and enjoy the ride. Over the past two weeks we have celebrated two birthdays and spent a week at the beach with family. Click on any picture to see the cute faces up close.

The first party was for baby Austin who turned one July 18th. Although we can't really call her "baby" anymore because she's officially toddling around.

Here's the happy family singing Happy Birthday.

Then we packed up and hit the road to head south to visit with my parents. I guess that was a little misleading. We did not drive to NC in a golf cart. This was once we got there and Greg and Ray took it for a little joy ride.

We spent some time at the pool

And at the beach

Natalie LOVED the beach

Danny ... not so much ...
He did not like the feel of the sand and pretty much stayed on the blanket or chair. There was no digging in the sand and playing in the waves for him.

Austin enjoyed some time in the ocean as well.

And of course there was golf. Natalie got a private lesson from her Daddy.

Doesn't everyone golf in high-heeled sandals?

This was a homemade version of bumper boats. Greg was pulling Danny around in the water in his little boat which quickly turned into bumper boats when he crashed into Natalie. Both kids loved it and there was lots of giggling.

And since we had such beautiful scenery, we took the opportunity to get some more formal shots.

This wasn't supposed to be a recreation of our engagement photo, but it kinda turned out that way. Oh well.

Jungle baby

The cutest bird watcher in NC

On Sunday we celebrated Danny's 2nd birthday. This boy is totally into all things Toy Story so there was no choice but to have a Toy Story themed party. This included Toy Story books, silverware, cups and even a Buzz Lightyear pillow pet.

On our last night we took the golf cart out for one more ride through the community.

Natalie did most of the driving and this is what it would be like to see the world through her eyes.

It has been a great 2 weeks with lots to celebrate and some good family quality time. Thanks to everyone for their generosity and hospitality.

R & R

So after being away since February, Ray is home on leave for some much needed rest & relaxation. I was fortunate enough to be able to be at the airport to welcome him home. I'll let the pictures do the talking.

Enjoy your time home together. Even though it's only for a few weeks, we're glad to have you back on American soil. We have some big plans for the weekend and next week so there should be lots of pictures coming soon.