Big Deal

Mason saw his first movie on the big screen today. Not the most memorable movie, but he loved the experience. I took the boys to see Space Chimps, it was part of the FREE Family Film Festival. I forgot me camera :( Owen's first movie was also a summer freebie the year Mason was born, so I guess technically Mason has been to the movies before.
I plan on taking them again next week. It's a nice way to escape the sauna-like air outside.

3 months

Ryan at 3 months on the beach

Ryan is getting too big too fast, but I am savoring all of it. A lot more than I did with the other two. Of course it helps that he is so easy.

He is so much more aware of his surroundings. It's funny to see him entertain himself by watching his hands and feet. He kicks a lot and often hold his fists up like he is a boxer. I guess he is preparing to protect himself from his older brothers.

Both Owen and Mason love Ryan's new awareness. I know its only a matter of time before they are putting on shows just to get a smile and laugh. We still have to work pretty hard to get a smile but in the process I have even heard a few chuckles.
He still nurses 6 times a day and takes 4 naps. I think he has given up the pacifier. Which isn't the end of the world b/c he rarely cries.

Phillies Phanatic

Have I lost my marbles? We took all 3 kids to a major league baseball game. What in the world?!?! I never would have done that with Owen when he was 3 months old. We drove an a hour and 15 minutes each way into Philly. The game didn't start until 7:05 p.m. and we stayed until the 11th inning. Yes, it went into extra innings. They eventually one with a homerun hit in the 12 inning.
The boys (and I am including EJ in that) had so much fun. I did too, when I wasn't trying to protect Ryan's ears so he could sleep ;) The memories were totally worth it. We sat about as high as possible (not intentionally) and paid way too much for snack food, but the experience was awesome. I don't think Mason moved for the first hour and that just doesn't happen with a 3 yr old.

Owen was inspired by his new jersey that PopPop bought for him to wear to the game.

He made 3 posters for his room.

Ryan was unbelievable the whole night. Such a trooper.

PopPop came along, he is sitting next to Mason.

I felt a little sick when we made the climb to our seats.

Eventually I adjusted.

We attended the game with a high school friend of EJs. Every year this friend organizes a tailgate and orders a section of tickets. It was a pretty large group. There was even another 3 months old amongst the group. So I wasn't the only crazy one.

I love watching my husband enjoy his boys. I know he is totally reliving his childhood and also scheming to try things he didn't do that he wished he had.

Serving 6

Ryan worked his charm with Nana

Six years ago when we went on our first vacation as parents with Owen, I struggled with the realization that "vacation" had a whole new meaning. It was no longer just about relaxing. For several years I defined it by saying, "it's life just in another place." Meaning a mother's duty never ends. It's certainly fun to have a change of scenery, but ultimately I am still doing what I do every day. Well, I've noticed lately that I know longer feel this way. I am a mom and I am loving it. It's a ton of work and sacrifice, but its so worth it and I can't even explain why. I don't mind doing laundry, making lunches, wiping bottoms, etc. Sure, I have my moments. And fortunately I have a wonderful husband who lets me escape to the beach on my own during nap time. Love him!
I mention all of this, because as a mom our trip to Avalon is one of the more relaxing vacations for me. Nana loves to cook. So this means I get a break from the kitchen. I help when I can, but for the most part I let her do her thing and does she ever. She is an amazing cook. I am so proud of the boys. They ate with no complaints, even tried Grouper and steamed clams for the first time. Of course it helped that Nana always had fun desserts to follow ;)
She served us well. She served me well and I am grateful for the break!

Mason loved the clams.
He loves salty foods and butter, so this was right up his alley.

He also loved the challenge of scooping it out!

Jersey produce is sooo yummy! The corn, peaches, watermelon....

Thanks Nana and PopPop! We love you!

Sand Between our Toes

There is nothing quite like that first day at the beach. Feeling the sand between you toes, hearing the ocean and seagulls and being overwhelmed by the beauty of God's creation. Our first day was a hot one. Owen really enjoyed being in the water. Mason still prefers to keep his feet on dry land.


Ryan did great for his first trip to the beach. It sure is a lot of work getting all 5 of us ready for such a short window of time. We didn't have as much beach time as we would have liked, but I know next summer we will be back to speed. It's hard to believe this time next year, Ryan will be walking on the sand.