First Day of School 2011

J - 5th grade; E- 2nd grade

V was waving goodbye, he wanted to go too super bad!

NYC

(6 years ago at our 10yr reunion)

There are some friends that you can just pick up with after 6 years like it's yesterday. This is one of those friends. She was an exchange student from Norway my senior year and although I remember meeting her I really don't remember what connected us specifically. But we were nearly joined at the hip that year. Since then we've gone on to lead very different lives but the friendship has remained. So when she asked me to meet her in New York for a few days how could I resist?

I was so excited at traveling sans kids I thought I'd try to capture every moment (this did not last) like waiting for the train.

I got there a few hours before her which gave me some alone time in the hotel room. Is it sad that I was giddy to be alone in a hotel room with the remote control all to myself? As you can see we had a nifty view to the left...

and to the right.

The first night we hopped on the subway and headed to Little Italy for dinner.

Yum. Really there are no other words. I am so glad that she loves food as much as me!

Strolled through Time Square on our way back. It was late Tuesday night and there were still a million people out. Crazy.

The next day we walked to and through Central Park. It was so beautiful and the weather was perfect. (For those of you who don't know, she is nearly 6 ft tall which means she is awesome at taking pictures at arms length.)

There were musicians everywhere.

We walked through the park with the intent of arriving at the MET. We picked a few things to see and I was not disappointed.

This is a favorite and I nearly cried. I heart Degas. I also hear Van Gogh.

The rooftop gallery with the park behind.

She had her fancy iPhone for some fun shots.

Because we were exhausted we took a cab back to Time Square at ate at this delicious Asian restaurant. Why didn't I take pictures of the food? I really should have. I don't think we were once disappointed w/ what we ate.

That night we went to see Wicked thanks to little miss generous(she also took care of the hotel). I also heart the theater. Always a treat and the show did not disappoint.

The evening was closed with a drink at the Top of the Strand, including a view of the Empire State Building.

We stayed in the Garment District and I was drooling over these little stores that were overflowing with fabric. I feel like this was quite an educational trip as I kept thinking, "Now that I know this...I can be prepared for next time."

Such a great time and it was just the right amount for this mama of four. Enough to get away and breath by myself, and still want to go home to my precious ones, and my main man. Thank you again Nana for taking a chance and asking me to come! Love you friend!

Summer

Jman is 10...what?

Seriously...what? How did these years fly by so quickly. Of course I know that every parent says this. But when I look at our one year old and then look at my 10 year old I'm blown away when I try to wrap my mind about one of them being the same size as the other was or is now. (Does that make sense anywhere else besides my mind?)

Jman requested a military themed birthday party and it's been a while since I went all out for him like I have for the girl. It's the big 10, we're talking double digits here people!

I tie dyed a sheet for a camouflage effect and I made the banner out of some jeans I've been saving for a project. Do not ask me how long I've been stock piling old jeans. Finally being able to use that which I saved is not good for the mini pack rat in me.

Burger & dog bar, watermelon, layer dip pasta salad

Water bottles (yes this is a way after shot, but I had to take a pic because I loved this detail :)

Lemonade

After eating the boys began their military training under the command of...

this guy. He did such an amazing job of "encouraging" the boys.

He lined them up.

Made them warm up (push ups were included).

Then they had to complete an obstacle course and E demonstrated.

When they completed their training they received these tags. (made by the sarge himself, aka my bro in law)

Next, if they chose to accept it was their mission. Armed with weapons of mass water destruction they hunted for these criminals.

and gave them a proper soaking. They loved that they had permission to attack their dads with super soakers and water balloons.

This was all followed up with sugar reinforcements. Mint chocolate cupcakes and ice cream. Presents and then playing until dark.

Vman especially enjoyed the card that played music, over and over again.