summertime injuries are no fun.

The day started with swim lessons, swinging outside, running in the grass, pushing baby in the stroller and helping mommy and daddy in the garden.


And ended with a trip to Kid's Doc.


Avery was walking barefoot in the backyard on our pebble path. It was hot from the sun and burned her little feet.


She has 2nd degree burns on both feet. We have to keep them wrapped in gauze and prescription antibiotic cream until the blisters heal. Her 2nd birthday party is on Thursday so we are hoping for a speedy recovery.

She was such a trooper at the doctor- no crying. In fact, she kept saying, "Thank you, Doctor" as the doctor cleaned, wiped and wrapped her little feet.


"Sweet Yogurt" (aka Golden Spoon) made it a happy ending.

a spontaneous trip to the....

Santa Ana Zoo

So, anyone who has tried taking cute photos of a two year old knows it can be a daunting task. Silly noises, silly faces, bribery, trying to milk the fact your toddler knows emotions- " Show me your happy face." Anything to get a good photo. All I wanted for this photo was Avery with the Santa Ana Zoo sign in the background. So, which method was used for this photo, you ask? Well, she was more interested in Beau's snacks than modeling for a photo. Thank goodness I was in good company with 3 other moms. After numerous attempts, I heard one say, "Avery, go take a picture for mommy then you could have a snack." So, this photo is Avery running towards me saying, "Cheese" right before her quick U-turn to get her reward- one of Beau's pretzels.


We saw camels...


and monkeys (never did find the monkey in this exhibit), but a pretty view nonetheless.


We took advantage of photo ops.


We took a train ride...


and a carousel ride. It was Avery's first time.


Avers mooched a little more from Beau.


We saw some rain forest frogs...



and more monkeys.



It was a fun day at the Santa Ana Zoo!

a festive fourth.

It was a fun day of celebrating. We spent the afternoon and evening with dear friends eating, drinking and chatting. Thanks Chris and Brent for hosting another perfect party!

What would the Fourth of July be without wearing red, white and blue...


swimming {with an ocean view}...


eating yummy bbq with friends...


corn on the cob...


a firecracker popsicle...


watching fireworks...


Oh, and a visit from Troy who stopped by while protecting and serving. He was a hit with the kids!


Hope you had a happy Fourth!

Who needs an ocean view at lunch...

...when you've got this view!








I love summertime lunches!

So far, summertime has brought....

lots of trampoline time... sometimes with hostages.



goggle wearing... she would have slept with these on if I let her.


a trip to Toys R Us for a water table... we got our money's worth in a day.


Stay tuned for more summertime fun!

cousin hugs and an apple muffin.

It was during a safety break at the water park and all that was said was, "Hey, Beau, can you give Avery a hug?"


Avery leans in with anticipation. This is how she "hugs" right now.

Beau stretches his arms and walks toward her. I'm pretty sure he was sneaking in a kiss, too.


I love how close in age these two are. It is so sweet to watch their "cousin relationship" blossom. They are learning together how the world works.

the ocean, a bbq and lots of dads...

That's what our Father's Day was all about.

We started the day off with a venti caramel macchiato while daddy opened up his gifts.

After a low key morning and a recharged toddler, we headed to Laguna Beach where Sean's brother and family live.

We walked down to Victoria Beach for some fun in the sand.



Avery LOVED the waves. I wish I had a video of her squeals and laughter. It made us all smile!

We walked back to a house full of delicious food and great company.




It's so special that all the dads in both of our families can all be together on Father's Day.

Thanks Mike, Jill, Tierney and Dane for opening your home to all of us!!