Evan's Birthday

Evan had a fun birthday party at the Children's Museum. I wish I'd taken more pictures of it, though!

Following in Dad's footsteps

Momoo & Dadoo

Jake's parents came for a FUN visit a few months ago. We totally loved having them around - they were so cute to play with the kids.

I have a really cute pic of Momoo and Skylar having "tea" at her play kitchen, but Momoo is still in curlers so I didn't know how she'd feel about me posting the picture. Although, I hear that she will wear her curlers to church on occassion! ;)

Evan is already so much bigger than he is in this picture. I guess that is when I can tell what a slacker blogger I am - my kids aren't even the same size anymore!!!

Sisters' Trip

My sisters, Bekah and Jessica, came to visit for a weekend. We wished Christina could have made it too!

Posing in front of the St. Louis Cathedral in the French Quarter

On the Swamp Tour - the coolest activity I've done since living here!

Gorgeous Louisiana swamps (egret in background)

I think the tour guide referred to these as "party shacks." Some have been rebuilt since Katrina, some haven't.

Feeding wild gators

Yes, that is my hand petting a wild alligator!

Shea meets Auntie Jess for the first time!

The redheads get acquainted

We had dinner at NOLA's, one of Emeril Lagasse's restaurants.

We finished off our evening at Preservation Hall, dedicated to the preservation of Jazz.

First Days

Evan did great on his first day of Kindergarten. It was me that had a hard time!

Skylar has really been enjoying preschool. She is making lots of friends and gaining confidence. Too bad this pic is so blurry!

Luau Party

Our little friend, Grace, had the idea of having a luau party in honor of the kids' return to school. Her mother and I threw together the party last minute. Sometimes the simplest activities are the best!

Packing for a trip to Hawaii. The shark sheets on the floor were Grace's decorating contribution!

The kids on the double decker "airplane" to Hawaii

I just had to show off my last minute centerpiece! ;)

After the treasure hunt!

The funny thing is that Grace's brother, Grant was here too! He just kind of did his own thing. He definitely participated in the cupcake eating, though!

Evan says

"Mom, you don't have to give me baths anymore."

I'm thinking, wow, my big boy is ready for showers.

"From now on I'm going to clean myself off like the kitties do."

"You mean lick yourself?" I clarified.

"Yep."

Guess he's still little enough for baths!