pumpkin time!

We had wonderful fall weather for our trip to the pumpkin patch with Aunt Sarah Uncle Dave and Rafi (who is almost 2!). After picking out the best pumpkins in the patch everyone had fun at the new playground. Jena even got to wear her costume to the costume parade at Chinese School.

Shana Tovah-- Happy New Year

three years of Jena

It is hard to believe that it was three years ago today that Jena joined the family. It is even harder to believe that Jena is now older than Stefanie was when we traveled to China. She continues to look at the world thru her rose colored glasses, always looking on the bright side. Every so often she will test out her angry attitude and march off in a huff. It seems so out of character that it is hard not to laugh at her. She is suprising us everyday with things she has learned like "look- I wrote 'Mommy' on my paper!"Everyone is her friend and everyday is a party. The world would be a better place if there were more people like Jena in it.

2nd grade already? and one happy peacock!

First day of school for Stef and true to form the bus didn't come. Why should this year be any different? Stef is thrilled to have two of her best friends in her class this year. Jena is now in the peacock room. Her 'elephant' class from last year has been mixed with the 'fish' class. Some of her friends are with her in the peacocks and some are in the giraffe class. I carefully explained this to her before the first day, a little worried that she might be upset. Her response to me was "That's GREAT- I get to make new friends!" I love her always positive outlook on life.

back from the beach --time for school

we had a great time with friends in the Outer Banks, NC. Wonderful weather, the girls spent all day in the ocean or the pool. And, big milestone....it was the first time in 6 years that Mommy got to sit on the beach with a book! Now time to go back to school.

come and play......

...everythings A-OK....we had a visit from Julie T, Kacey and Nana Susan too and all went to Sesame Place for the day. The kids had a great time and I am happy to say the adults were pleasently suprised to have a good time too! Here are some pictures of everyone enjoying the day. Jena loved meeting the characters and Stef got her 'hair wrap' that she had been waiting for all summer.

summertime fun!

It was visiting day for Jena at camp and here are a few pictures of her having a blast! Stef was at free swim during my visit and came over for a quick hello. I've also posted a picture of our driveway chalk-artwork.