tea time at scarrington

Tea time!

bathtime at Auntie Ardleigh's

Trying to get Charlie to clap

Speak no evil

picnic at ferry point

Continuing with our picnics theme, we went to Ferry Point Park this time for a scenic picnic spot. We've been really enjoying these times - trying to soak in this time where the kids (mostly) want to hang out with us and still believe we can protect them from all manner of monsters. When Schuyler or Charlie wake up in the middle of the night screaming a chilling cry usually reserved for breaking and entering by a large savage animal, I burst into the room and, suddenly, I realise I'm a Dad. Suddenly, I realise that these kids depend on us, believe in us, have utter confidence in us. That just a hug from one of us can insulate them from unthinkable fear. That they have no idea how scared we are about things in the world. To them, we are fearless, brave, and omniscient. We are trying so hard to appreciate these moments because there will come a time in the not so distant future when they think we are out-of-touch losers with no real knowledge of anything. Hopefully, it comes full circle again later... or as Mark Twain put it: “When I was a boy of 14, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be 21, I was astonished at how much the old man had learned in seven years.”

burning off energy

victoria park

We've been trying to get "outside" more. There's something about fresh air that is vital to a happy life and today was a happy life day. We spent the morning strolling through the farmer's market and then kicked a ball around in Victoria Park while Schuyler watched the "big boys" skin their knees on skate boards. Strangely, I think Liz and I enjoyed kicking the ball around more than the kids.

eating with the fish

Sorry, Magic!

Charlie learns about the primary prey of the grey snapper: Hovis Whole Grain Bread.

Although a good eater, Schuyler can be a bit stubborn/particular at times, however, if you want to get her to eat whole grain bread, just tell her she can't eat the "fish bread". Luckily, in this case, it was just leftover and not furry with mold like our normal fish food.

picnic with a peacock

Still getting the most out of our BAMZ family membership, Liz had the sprightly idea to have a picnic at the aquarium which went surprisingly well considering we were visited by Schuyler's nemesis: Mr. Peacock. It was a really lovely day of cheese, crackers, and apple and a visit to the long-awaited and slightly underpopulated "Madagascar" exhibit.

caption contest!?

So the time has come. The professional class pictures. So we dressed her up including a hair clip which she managed to lose between 8:15am drop off and 9:30am photo shoot. We have lots of great photos that capture our cub's personality as we see it. The resulting photo from this professional dude doesn't quite do it. I'm not sure who this girl is below. So send us your captions in the comments:

1. President of the Very Young Republicans Club
2. "Go on... ask me to smile again... I dare you!"
3. ??

uncle chris

Charlie, you should thank your Uncle Chris. Right now you may only know him as the dude who showed you how to put your foot in your mouth (which is something your dad will make you expert in). But soon enough, you will come to understand that Uncle Chris has much to teach you about being a man that your dad doesn't. For instance, your dad isn't entirely sure who's winning when he is watching most sporting events... nor is he entirely sure which teams are playing... or the actual sport being played. Moreover, your uncle Chris is infinitely more likely to fix something himself if it breaks than your Dad. If something is wrong with the car, your Uncle Chris will look at the engine and have some idea what is wrong. Your Dad will stand there and, on a good day, may be able to identify the steering column.

maragaritas

"Well, Lila... looks like them wheat fields need a choppin' again. Got's to get me on my tractor and start a threshin'."

Almost any time we are in a public place, Charlie seems to think he's running for public office - keen to flirt with any human in the vicinity.