Besties

I finally got to meet Ella's favorite friend at school, Lauren. Ella is a little "Single White Female" over this girl. I guess technically it would be "Single Eurasian Female". But Lauren is the sweetest and she is always willing to share her Fig Newtons with my daughter so I approve. Although, Lauren could qualify as Ella's "bestie" at school, Viv occupies most of Ella's heart. Earlier this week while coloring, Ella stated that light blue was her favorite and then turned around to say Viv was her light blue. And yesterday, after disolving into tears when Viv dug her nails into both of her cheeks, Ella "kept Viv company" on her time out stair "because she was lonely". I know she didn't get her big sistering abilities from me. Poor Josh spent his childhood dodging whiffle ball bats and little bro degradation. From what I hear, Jerry didn't escape the wrath of his older sibling either...I think there are holes in his parent's drywall to prove this. I'm not sure what is fostering this dynamic between our daughters. I'm sure there will be hell to pay once they start sharing clothes though. Until then, I enjoy every minute of their relationship.

Halo Halo Love

Easter 2012

It was a whirlwind of activity this weekend. Trying to crunch in as much cousin, niece, newphew, brother, sister, Lolo and Lola time as possible. We celebrated Dean's birthday, went to the Boston science museum, had an epic Easter egg hunt and most importantly got to meet our new baby newphew Dylan. It was happy chaos. Jon, Jo, Jer and I got some much needed adult time thanks to very brave grandparents. How they managed five kids under the age of four amazes me. How they do it with smiles on their faces amazes me even more. Jon dropped us off at the airport and as he drove away I couldn't help but get that ugly lump in my throat. The one I always get when we leave. I miss them. Rumor has it that they will be in town this July.

Look Mom, First Position

Return of the dance class.

We finally made it to a Chicago-legend, Twin Anchors, over the weekend. This dive has been pumping out quality barbecue since 1932. We sat at the bar gnawing on slabs of ribs and pulled pork. Ella and Viv were entranced by the bartenders mixing and pouring...it was better than an iPad. We're hopeful they picked up a few tricks for our next dinner party. They were gifted a box full of animal masks prior to our departure. You know Jerry and I do this stuff on purpose. Viv was a giraffe that was reluctant to be photographed. Here is Ella just outside the restaurant waiting for valet. She is holding her first Shirley Temple. Upon receiving it, she asked the bartender if it was wine. She's so European.
It was a good evening.