New Brighton beach trip

Two weeks ago while we were in California for Debra and Dave's wedding, we made a quick trip to the beach with Katie, Cade, and Cameron. We camped one night at New Brighton State Park and spent as much time as we could on the beach. It was very windy the second day, but Katie and the boys showed us how the beach can be done in any weather condition! They still braved the water and Katie helped Lisa build a sand castle. Lisa enjoyed playing in the sand--she would get this mesmerized look almost like she was meditating. She didn't, however, much enjoy the smoke in her eyes from our campfire. It was fun to watch the boys looking after her. They would go on little walks and take such good care of her. Lyra didn't really know what was going on, but she was mostly happy--her first camping and beach trip all in one. My wrap, as usual, came in very handy, especially since I have learned to use the knapsack tie. I really loved walking on the pier, seeing all the people fishing, collecting seashells and feeling that fresh ocean air on my face. We may not end up living in California, but it would be nice to visit the beach at least once a year.

Bugs and fish

Ryan has been planning fun outings with Lisa to get her excited about fishing and insect collecting. She still has a pretty short attention span, but she has been a good sport. She is usually willing to touch the insects and even helped dad clean the fish they caught. It is fun especially when she starts asking lots of questions-such a thinker, this one is. Lyra loves just being outside when we all go together. She got a little cold on one of the trips, so I put her inside my waders. Cozy little monkey.

Love these moments

A few nights ago Lisa said she wasn't feeling well (more likely stalling from having to go to bed, although she was very sick last week) and she wanted a bowl in case she needed to throw up into it. This is where it ended up. On her cute, little head. Nothing like the sweet feeling of an almost-five-year-old-going-on-fifteen-year-old fast asleep. With a bowl on her head. Love this girl. Moments like these give me the strength I need for the next day when I will surely hear the words "I hate you" and "You're not nice" more than a few times. Is she just testing the waters or is this what we have to look forward to for the next fifteen or so years? Good thing we get to share so many fun times to balance out the not-so-fun moments. Parenthood is quite the exciting roller coaster--screams of terror and amusement all on the same ride. But totally worth the investment. I only throw up sometimes. Just kidding! Parenting only makes me a little queasy, not roller-coaster-queasy. I hope Lisa reads this someday and laughs with me.

Preschool graduation for Lisa

Lisa had a fun year with Miss Kari's Kinder Ready Preschool. I can't believe it is over already. We wish she was going to be starting kindergarten in the Fall, but she misses the Idaho deadline by 10 days. Grrr. We will look for another preschool--maybe one that meets every day.

Her little graduation was short and sweet. They have been practicing this song, "Each of Us is a Flower" for quite awhile. I was surprised Lisa wasn't getting into it more cause she's been singing it very loud at home, but I think she gets shy when she's in front of a crowd. Not to mention she was still a little under the weather from being sick with throw-up the night before. Her favorite part, of course, was the array of treats provided afterward. This girl does love her treats!

The video is kind of fuzzy--she's right in the middle