The Brindley's

Quote of the day

2012-02-16T09:39:00.001-05:00

The following is an interchange between Lilia and Alex this morning.

Alex: "I am the king!"
Lilia: "You're not the king, Jesus is the King."
Alex: "Oh."
Lilia: "And one day Jesus is coming back and we will let him into our house."
Alex: "And he'll play trucks with me?"
Lilia: "Yes!"

Got one for your bucket list

2012-02-16T08:48:00.001-05:00

Dave and I had the incredible opportunity to attend a recital at The Curtis Institute.
If you've never heard of this school, don't worry about it. I never did before November.
Dave saw a piece about it on Philly.com and learned that the school is 40% international. Curtis is the top music school in the world. If you get, IF you get in, you go there for free. The average age of a Curtis student is 14-16 years old. Most don't graduate high school; they are that good!
Dave contacted a family where all three siblings got into Curtis. They all play the piano. They are a Christian, Chinese family and the kids were born in America. They were thrilled to meet with Dave in order to gain his help with reaching out to their classmates.
Two of the three siblings were performing on Monday night and we were able to go and see them play. Daniel accompanied a girl on flute, while Ashley accompanied a violinist and a cellist.
Neither Dave nor myself have ever been exposed to live classical music. It was phenomenal!!! I loved it!
You know the best part; IT'S FREE!!!!!
Take a night out with your spouse or a good friend, and sit to hear up and coming professionals play extraordinary music. The theater is just off of Rittenhouse square at 17th & Locust. Believe me, it's worth putting on your bucket list!

Now-a-days

2012-02-11T09:34:00.000-05:00

We are in a really good place.
Dave's job (ministry to international students) is going really well; exceptionally well.
We are continuing to love our church and really feel at home there.
Dave and I are doing pretty good. We're getting date nights here and there. (It rocks that the kids are asleep by 7:30 most night.)
The kids are at a really wonderful age. Lilia will be 5 in about three weeks, and Alex is 2 and 4 months exactly (tomorrow).
They play together really well for the most part. Lilia is so much better at sharing. (I did read that developmentally kids can't share till about 5, so take it easy on your toddler.) Alex is pretty good at sharing too. That's probably only because he has a big sister.
Just now Lilia and her My Little Pony, Pinkie Pie, were showing around Alex's new Finn McMissle (from the movie Cars 2) . Lilia was introducing Finn to our kitchen, the chalkboard, and then upstairs. Alex was playing along and responding for Finn.
It's stuff like that happening quite frequently. I love it! It's glorious! I can be getting dinner together and they are just playing upstairs. Sometimes together, sometimes in their own rooms. I may hear bickering and tears occasionally. I don't go running up. If Alex needs me he comes down and I go to him. Sometimes they work it out.
I am really appreciating the kids right now and enjoying their ages.

Sincerely,
Thankful

Lilia's Quote of the Day

2012-02-08T22:17:00.003-05:00

As a family we were talking over dinner tonight.
I had made the kids carrots and we talked about how they help you to have good eye sight.
That also led to my comment of wearing sunglasses helps to keep your eyes healthy.
Lilia then says, "The sun is your worst enemy. Water is your best friend."
Dave and I look at each other absolutely puzzled!
I ask, "Where did you learn that?"
To which she replied, "Remember, Man vs. Wild."
Lilia and I had watched that show last week some time and Bear Grylls was in the Sahara Desert. I guess she was learning something after all!

Rainbows & Hearts

2012-02-02T19:46:00.001-05:00

Lilia's latest masterpiece. She's been on a rainbow kick.

For our next performance...

2012-02-02T19:45:00.001-05:00

Yes that is a tight rope, and yes, that is Lilia.
I love our adventures in Philly.
Yesterday afternoon after Alex played in his crib for an hour instead of napping (his usual routine now) we headed down to Clark Park.
As I was parking the car we observed a little boy maybe 4 walking on this same tight rope holding this man's hand (James).
We were all amazed and I asked the kids, while still in the car, if they would want to try it. They responded with an excited yes.
We walked over as the boy was finishing and we met James. James is just a random guy who put up a line to walk along. They kids both tried it, doing nothing more than standing on it. But I was very proud that they even wanted to get on and try it. James asked me if I was going to try.
Absolutely!
I love stuff like this. It was so difficult. I couldn't even stand on it, let alone move, without holding James' hand. It was really fun though!

Schooling update

2012-02-01T20:21:00.001-05:00

For those of you who know about/are praying for our school options, here's an update.
Last Tuesday Lilia was tested at the Christian school (Spruce Hill) at 42nd & Baltimore. She scored pretty much within her age range, falling behind in writing (she does not enjoy coloring) and excelling in the visual. Yesterday we had an interview at Spruce Hill and they unofficially accepted her. However, that means nothing.
The big thing with Spruce Hill will be how much financial aid they can provide for us. The school is about $6,000/year. So we will apply for that and wait to hear back from them.
Then there is the public school, Greenfield at 22nd & Chestnut. Dave was the 1st person to receive at date & time stamp from the school, which should mean we are in, but I'm not counting on that totally. We won't hear from them until early April!!!
Both choices are still on the table. We don't prefer her to go to one or the other. Since we moved here 2 year ago I've been praying about this and asking God to lead and guide us. I am confident that God will.
It's just a game of patiently waiting...

Fire trucks

2012-02-01T20:07:00.000-05:00

Who knew that a $10 roll of construction paper from Lowe's would become so much fun. A few days ago, when it wasn't gorgeous outside we read a book about a doggie firefighter. I then had the idea to create a giant one. We rolled out a 5 foot slap of paper, I drew a truck, and the kids added their creative touches.
We taped it to the hallway wall upstairs and the kids played fire, fire engine, something like that.

Saturday Outing

2012-01-29T21:25:00.000-05:00

Dave has come up with a list of at least 30 things to do in Philly. Some are free, some cost money, some are outdoor and some in. I will post the list sometime soon, maybe in 2 parts so as not to overwhelm you.
So Saturday he took us to the Fireman's Museum in Old City. We took the train down to 2nd street and walked a few blocks.
The museum is by donation only, so it's up to you whether it's free or not. The former fire house is filled with old fire trucks. Alex was in his glory. He absolutely LOVED it.

The kids could try on gear

Robin

2012-01-29T21:09:00.001-05:00

Shaving with Poppy

2012-01-29T21:07:00.001-05:00

Using the back side of the razor, my dad let Alex "shave" too. He loved it.

Alex's quote of the Day

2012-01-25T10:13:00.001-05:00

"Alex, what are you going to be when you grow up?" -Katie
"A man. With money and trucks!"

Little boys will be boys

2012-01-25T09:56:00.001-05:00

Last week I met my friend Jing and her 2 year old son Christian at the Academy of Natural Sciences. One of their exhibits is a butterfly garden. When you have a pass, it's free to go in.
We've been in their plenty of times and we know to watch the floor, don't touch the butterflies and check yourself on the way out.
Last week there were more butterflies than I've ever seen. They were everywhere! There were a couple on the floor and we were watching out step.
Alex was observing one on the floor and then before I could even blink, 'STOMP!' Alex crushed the butterfly.
Immediately the young man came over, scooped it up in his hands and gave me a look that said, "How could he have done that!?"
I consoled Alex as he began to cry. He knew he did something wrong. We left pretty quickly after that and Alex got over it. Although I'm not sure the young man did.

Snow Day!

2012-01-23T19:52:00.000-05:00

"Catching snowflakes on my tongue."

"Snow angel!"

"Now what?"

"I'm ccccc-cold."

A boy & his bear

2012-01-23T19:48:00.002-05:00

We brought stinky bear out and gave him a ride on the sled too.
I think he liked it.

A visit with Sarah

2012-01-22T21:12:00.000-05:00

Alex and I stopped at Starbucks to grab some tea before meeting Jing and her son Christian. When we got out of the car there was Sarah.
I had seen Sarah before, but we hadn't met. I saw her when I went to this same Starbucks to spend some time reading by Bible. Sarah sat down at a table that was already occupied by a college girl on her computer. The girl was greatly annoyed that Sarah sat down. The girl put on headphones to make sure Sarah would not talk to her.
As soon as another table opened up the college girl very loudly moved to that table leaving Sarah alone. I watched the whole interaction. I kept peering back at Sarah's face, at the girls face, trying to understand Sarah a bit. I felt bad that this girl so rudely wanted nothing to do with Sarah. I can understand though; someone like Sarah isn't easy to love.
So when Alex and I got out of the car and Sarah asked me for a dollar, I knew I had to engage her. I told her I didn't have any money, but I would love to buy her a coffee. Sarah said alright. Alex right away told Sarah about stinky bear.
Starbucks was crowded as we walked down the stairs and stood in line. Sarah doesn't talk quietly either. We got in line and I asked her if she was hungry. She said yes. I ordered Sarah a breakfast sandwich and a coffee, as well as my China green tips.
Sarah asked me if I lived around here. I said I do and that I come to this Starbucks to read my Bible.
Sarah also commented that she didn't get any sleep the night before. I encouraged her to get some rest this afternoon and be sure to get some sleep tonight.
Before we parted ways we introduced ourselves. I think she thanked me, but that doesn't matter. I was more than happy to provide her with some food and a drink, even if it would contribute to her awakeness.
As I buckled Alex into his car seat he said her name, "Sarah?" I tried to tell him that we loved Sarah by getting her some food and coffee. We then prayed for Sarah as we drove away.

There are always opportunities to love people and I don't often take them. I'm far too selfish, I'm too busy. Heck I can't do it, "I've got kids."
This one though seemed too easy. Like it was on purpose. What's a few dollars on some food and a drink. It's nothing to me, but to Sarah it probably meant so much.

Stones

2012-01-22T20:57:00.001-05:00

Clark Park redid one section of the park and added a circle full of stones. Do you think they knew how much kids would love playing in them?

Holiday Concert

2012-01-17T20:23:00.001-05:00

Here are some pictures from Lilia's holiday concert from December. Dave's parents were able to join us this year which meant a lot to Lilia.

Lilia chose her outfit (of course) and she wanted to wear this beautiful and warm vest that friends sent us from China. It started up some conversation with one of the other parents who is from China. Dave and she were talking; he got to practice more of his oral Chinese.

Alex with a mouth full of grapes, Al, Lilia & Marilyn

A cry for help

2012-01-15T19:57:00.002-05:00

Alex has been refusing naps for most of the past week. He stays in his crib and plays for over an hour, which I am incredibly thankful for, but boy oh boy is he crabby when he doesn't get much sleep.
Today in his crib, after playing for a while he grabs a plastic cup and clangs it against the crib rails shouting, "Emergency, emergency..."
After laughing hysterically we brought him out to play with Lilia.

On the inside

2012-01-10T20:58:00.001-05:00

Ok, here's how my creative side works. I search through super creative people's blogs and I see something that catches my eye...(this banner made of burlap and cardstock).
I like it, but I don't love it.
Lilia's birthday is March 7th. I already have a theme she wants to do along with a color scheme (party planning 101).
I know I have felt rectangles that would look really cute as the background for a "Happy Birthday Lilia" banner. I just need to cut out big letter in fun vibrant card stock colors of our color theme, red, pink & purple. I love how they did the banner strung with clothes pins on string. Easy & cheap!
Here's another way I'll do fun creative stuff for her birthday that's also cheap...
Cupcakes iced in our color themes.
How can I make them say "My Little Pony?"
Buy My Little Pony stickers at least 1 inch in size and a jar of toothpicks. Put stickers on either side of a toothpick and stick it in the cupcake! There you have it. Now I don't have to search the globe for a way to make a My Little Pony cake or cup cake flags.

Creative Blogs I follow...
u-createcrafts
http://www.moredesignplease.com/
http://www.realhousewivesofbuckscounty.com/
http://www.makeit-loveit.com/

Time to make a book

2012-01-06T12:57:00.001-05:00

The other night Dave was working through dinner. I got out a notebook to entertain the kids with drawings. I drew some owls for Alex and a giraffe for Lilia. She was inspired by my drawing to then make a book.
We spent the next 40 minutes illustrating, glueing and writing out our own book. From Lilia's 4th birthday party in March, I had traced and cut out these animals from cardstock paper to make into a banner. I've had them in a drawer just sitting around. She came up with the scene and the words for each page and we stapled it all together. I love it so much; I think I'll get it laminated so we can keep it and read it to Lilia's kids one day.

"The watering hole is all for the animals so they can play in. But it's not for you to play in because there are crocodiles."

Lilia's Quote of the Day

2012-01-05T13:50:00.000-05:00

Context: Dave is working form home for a bit this afternoon. Lilia and I just came down from reading stories to Alex and putting him down for a nap.
She walks down the stairs and says to Dave, "Dad, after I eat dessert and brush my teeth you and I are going on a date."

Putting others first

2012-01-01T09:07:00.000-05:00

So on our wall between the kitchen and the dining room we have wall decals with three phrases/words.
1. Put others first
2. Honesty
3. Fun
These are our family values. I've posted about them before, but they are actually having an impact on our family.
Yesterday at my in-laws, Lilia and Grammy were playing tic tac toe. After a couple of rounds Grammy told Lilia to go first again. Lilia stopped and said, "No Grammy you go first because we have 'put others first' on our wall at home."
I was so thankful/happy/proud of her in one moment. Those few simple words on our wall have made an impact on her. They haven't even been up a year and already she uses them as a grid for what she says and does. (Our value of honesty comes up a lot more often.)

Family

2011-12-26T19:34:00.000-05:00

My brother Matt, his wife AnnMarie & their beautiful daughter Ellie joined us on Christmas day before heading off to be with AnnMarie's family.
Ellie will be 6 months next week. She's such a sweet and easy baby. I'm so happy for them!

Christmas Day

2011-12-26T19:31:00.002-05:00

We are fortunate in that out families live close by and they enjoy one another's company. My mom loves to host Christmas and the Brindley's come over for dinner every year. We love being all together and we are thankful to not have to split our time and run all over the place. We are so very thankful!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-26T19:28:00.000-05:00

First of all I apologize for the grainyness of my photos for the past 4 months. Our digital camera broke so I only have my 3G Iphone camera, which isn't bad, but not great either. Dave and I are getting each other a nice camera for Christmas. Our plan is to get it after Christmas on sale or on ebay when people upgrade and want to sell their old ones!
Anyway, The kids looked so cute I had to take their pictures.

Christmas with the Brindley's

2011-12-26T19:24:00.003-05:00

On Christmas Eve morning Dave's family came over and we celebrated Christmas with them; exchanging presents, skyping with his sister Julie & brother-in-law Pete in Colorado Springs.
The kids had a blast opening presents and playing with everything right away.
Aunt Karen made it in from Pittsburgh, which was a surprise to Lilia. She was thrilled to see her Aunt.

Lilia played some songs for us on her new keyboard & microphone.

A visit to Morris

2011-12-22T09:11:00.001-05:00

I'm sure those giant eggs look familiar to you. If you've ever visited Morris Arboretum in the past couple of years, then maybe you've visited the giant bird's nest.
Maybe you've played like the squirrels way up in the trees?

We also saw the trains for the first time. The set up is absolutely incredible! The intricate details of the houses is just stunning; leaving you wondering, "How did they do that?"
They had a Thomas & Percy train that the kids loved.

Sillies & Smiles

2011-12-22T08:55:00.001-05:00

The kids favorite part was playing in the small log cabin. Lilia was pretending this was her home; cooking for us, getting water from the pump, catching animals and preparing them for our meal.
We needed to head home, but there were so many complaints. They did not want to leave.
Oh, Alex spent the whole time collecting dried leaves and throwing them into the fireplace.

Christmas Party

2011-12-18T10:11:00.003-05:00

One of the easiest ways to share about Jesus with International students is to have a Christmas party. This is the time of year when we celebrate Jesus' birth and why not invite our Chinese friends/students to be a part of it?
Last night we hosted a party. Dave said it would be small, 10-15 people. Well it was almost 20 students with 5 volunteers.
We played games, ate food, sang Christmas carols and heard the story of Jesus' birth from the Bible. Dave then explained our need for God as everyone listened. He then encouraged them to visit a Christmas Eve service at either of the churches that were represented last night. (One of which Dave's best friend Pete Manni will be leading worship.)
I think the kids had the best time. Lilia loved showing off her room, playing games and hanging out with the Chinese women. Alex loved being doted over and all the attention.
The kids do have a favorite student though; Walker. When the doorbell first rang Alex ran to the door and yelled, "Walker!"

Walker, Alex, & Lilia

The kids finally went to bed at 10pm! Whoa! I think we are going to make it a very chill week. I know I am exhausted!

Date night

2011-12-16T08:52:00.000-05:00

Date nights are amazing. They completely change the dynamic of your relationship with your spouse. For the time your out, you can chat about anything (hopefully not the kids). Last night we went to The Continental, mid-town. It was pretty cool; I'd go back. Last night we hit it up for dessert and drinks.
Dave brought some questions from a book he's reading, "Listening is an Act of Love." They were good questions. They were thought provoking. Even though we've been married for 9 years we've changed; a lot. We also had fun reminiscing about the past; laughing at old stories. Ah, the good ole days!
I used to wear home-made clothes and had long hair. Dave used to care way less about what he wears and now he consistently dresses like he has somewhere important to be.
The point is, even when you think you know someone, take the time to get to know them. Here are some of the questions to ask on your next date, with your family during Christmas or even at work over lunch...

General interview Questions

• Where did you grow up? Can you describe it?

• What was your favorite food growing up?

• What special recipe do you remember from childhood? Who made this?

• Did you have any pets?

Yup, we sat in basket chairs.

• Did you get along with your siblings?

• What did you do for fun?

• What did you wear? To school? For fun?

• Did you ever get in trouble? What did you do? What happened?

• Did you ever have an experience with prejudice, bullying, or injustice?

• What chores did you do at home?

• What was your first job? What do you remember about it?

• What were your neighbors like?

• Did you have any pets?

• What were the holiday traditions that you remember from your childhood?

• How do you celebrate special occasions ? Birthdays, anniversaries, holidays?

• What songs did you sing? Can you sing one for me now?

• What were your favorite movies and music?

• What was the role of books in your life? Did you have a favorite author?

• Have your tastes changed as you’ve gotten older?

• What was the greatest gift you ever received?

• Have you traveled? Did you have any adventures?

• What was your first car?

• What is your favorite place?

• When did you first fall in love?

• What are you most proud of?

• What was the happiest moment of your life?

The saddest?

• Do you have any regrets?

• What advice do you have for young people?

• What do you see as the greatest challenge for the

next generation?

• Is there something about yourself that you think no one knows?

• How would you like to be remembered?

• What are some of the most important lessons you have learned in life?

• What does your future hold?

Birthday surprise

2011-12-12T20:02:00.001-05:00

Mmmmm....Lindt chocolate. (Eating while I blog.)
So today was a delight. I knew my mom was coming over for a few hours to bring me presents and wish me a happy birthday in person, but then the doorbell rang.
I thought it was Dave coming home for lunch and his hands were full. Well I opened the door and much to my surprise was my brother, Matt and my niece Ellie. I screamed with joy in their faces and hugged Matt as he came in.
We sat around and ate lunch; then I opened presents. I got some really great gifts already and my birthday isn't even until Wednesday!
From my in-laws, we celebrated on Saturday b/c it was Al's birthday, I received a gift card to Blue Mountain. I can't wait to go snowboarding again this year. Maybe I'll go again by myself again or maybe it will be with a friend. Either way I'm happy to be able to hit the slopes!
My mom got my the coolest bird cage thingy with pictures behind it. You have to come over and see it. It's really neat. She also got me a cool tea pot that sifts down into your mug. Again, hard to explain; you gotta see it!
Matt and AnnMarie got me a super cool bracelet. It's handmade and it's just gorgeous. It's so unique and really beautiful. Wow, I can't wait for the week to continue on!
Maybe 32's not so bad.

Starting young

2011-12-10T08:05:00.001-05:00

Alex was napping and we still needed another 100 Christmas cards. Dave was home yesterday afternoon because he works Friday nights so Lilia accompanied me to Home Goods. (One of my top 5 favorite stores!) Of course she fell asleep on the way there, but on the way home we got to have a good chat.
She proceeded to tell me how she was telling one of her classmates in preschool named, Guru, about Jesus. She started off with telling him how both herself and him are going to die. (Not an approach I would use.) But her heart was one of love for him. She wanted to make sure that he believed in Jesus and would live forever.
She was sad that he didn't believe right then and there. So I suggested that we pray. I told her that pray changes things. She was surprised and replied, "It does?!" So we prayed for Guru right then and there.

Making memories

2011-12-09T09:19:00.001-05:00

As a kid, Matt, myself and our parents would, most years, cut down our own Christmas tree. Now that Matt has a family of his own, he suggested we all head out and carry on that tradition.
We headed out to Wata Farm, near Quakertown and the adventure began! The kids ran around in the woods playing "bear hunt."
We trudged around looking for just the right tree. We each came home with the perfect tree and had a blast doing it!

Saw, saw, saw some more

2011-12-09T09:16:00.001-05:00

Helping Poppy cut down the tree

Nannie & Alex watching

Lilia & Alex helping Shu Shu Matt

2011-12-09T09:13:00.001-05:00

Matt, AnnMarie & Ellie

Ellie, 5 months

3 trees, sawing, sweat & lots & lots of fun!

Moving Day

2011-12-06T15:03:00.001-05:00

Dave's youngest sister Karen moved out to Pittsburgh on Saturday. Al, Marilyn, Dave, the kids and myself helped Karen pack up her stuff.
As sad as Lilia was to say goodbye, the kids had a lot of fun playing in the truck.

Up & Down

2011-11-30T17:29:00.001-05:00

This weekend will be one filled with up and downs.
Friday we help pack up and say goodbye to Aunt Karen (Dave's sister) as she moves out to Pittsburgh to start her new job. I know it will be difficult for Lilia, but thankfully Karen's dog is staying here. Lilia loves to visit and care for the dog.
The kids and I will spend the weekend at my parent's. We'll go Christmas Tree hunting with my parents, my brother, his wife and their 4 month old (almost 5) baby, Ellie. Then we'll celebrate my dad's birthday Saturday night.
Lots of good times with family; quality time spent.

Lilia's Quote of the Day

2011-11-21T18:02:00.001-05:00

So we were in a hotel all weekend.
We were getting ready to walk out the door when I asked Lilia to please put her shoes on.
She was carrying in her arms her blankie and a toy and replied to me, "Do I look like a have a free hand?"
Dave and I laughed so hard and for so long. I know it was with a hint of attitude, but it was too funny. Also, I wonder where she learned that line? I have NO idea!

"Sushi"

2011-11-20T13:46:00.001-05:00

A weekend away

2011-11-20T13:03:00.001-05:00

We are having a great time at Regional Staff Conference in Arlington VA. It's such a beautiful town. It's like Philadelphia meets Charleston with some of the houses. Love it!
The kids are having a blast staying in a hotel! They are sleeping better each night and with each nap.
I am getting to have great conversations with old and new mom friends.
God is showing up and doing a lot of work in my heart to change me from the things I worship other than Him.
I met a girl named Anna that reminds me so much of my dear friend Emily who lives overseas with her family. I love it!
I discovered a store called, The Paper Source. Oh SNAP! I could spent countless hours and money there. I wish I could work there, but I would spend all my paycheck in the store (plus I'm not allowed to have another job working with Bridges and I'm thankful for that).

Little boys & cars

2011-11-17T22:10:00.001-05:00

I apologize for the lack of blog posts lately. I haven't been on the computer much, which I guess is a good thing.
So Alex has moved on from balls/sports obsessions to cars, including Thomas the Tank Engine, which he excitedly watches EVERY day, without fail.
Someone gave my mom a huge original (iron cast) collection of matchbox cars. Dave's mom also went up into the attic to pull out Dave's old collection. In terms of cars Alex is set!
As you can see from the picture below he doesn't go many places without at least 2 cars, generally many more than 2 though. He wants many of them in his crib and if I took them out he would be very upset. When he sleeps at night I just tuck them into the corner of his crib. It works out just fine. I knew I had to capture this on film to show him this adorable passion when he's older.

The sights of fall

2011-11-17T22:07:00.001-05:00

Gingko trees

Add caption

Always Prepared

2011-11-17T22:01:00.001-05:00

Somewhat early one Saturday morning Dave, myself and the kids headed out on our somewhat usual trek of walking to Clark Park, playing and then strolling through the growers market.
As usual I had packed a very large mug of tea, and much to her personality, Lilia packed some essentials that you see pictured to the right.
It was a frigid morning! The kids tried to run around to warm up to no avail. I asked Lilia if she wanted to try some of my tea to warm up. She was willing.
She pulled out a toy wine glass from her bag and I proceeded to fill it up; topping her off as she would finish off the small portion. It certainly helped, she warmed up nicely!

Quote of the Day

2011-11-09T19:02:00.002-05:00

"It will always remain true that a preacher, a teacher, a parent will achieve more by encouragement than by scolding." - William Barclay

I'm not really into quotes; in fact I can't stand quotes. I hate seeing them posted or up and around. For some strange reason they make me want to rebel.

However, William Barclay has changed my world around. Almost every time I open his book I am writing something down and wanting to share it with others. Amazing!

This quote is going on my fridge because I have a hard time remembering to encourage when my natural tendency is to scold.

The Navy Yard

2011-11-05T09:37:00.001-04:00

Dave discovered the Navy Yard one day on his bike. When he saw it he knew he had to take us down, along with my dad.
Friday morning my dad and his buddy George came with us to the Navy Yard. George worked there for some time painting ships, and preparing them to go out.
George told us lots of stories and walked us through what it was like. It was so cool. My dad was shooting his camera at almost everything he saw. It was a great morning!
Then we topped it off we donuts at The Federal Donut on 2nd street. Dave met the owner waiting in line to get into Greenfield Elementary school. We tried so crazy kinds like, blood orange, nuetella, key lime and chocolate raspberry. The place was off the hook busy at noon on a Friday. They only sell donuts and fried chicken which they were just about sold out of when we left!

George worked on this air craft carrier in 1983.

Urban Outfitters also has offices there. They use the old buildings that line the ships. As we explored the area the scenery was blowing me away. What an incredible place to work! To be in those old buildings and have such cool surroundings would foster such creativity! In that moment, I longed to work there. (There's not a chance I could for various reasons, but it was fun to dream of what it would be like.)

Campus campfire

2011-11-05T09:27:00.002-04:00

Wednesday evening we played on Penn's campus. It's about 16 blocks from our house. The grounds make for a perfect playground that encourages lots of creativity.
On this particular day Lilia wanted to build a campfire. We collected sticks and sat around the campfire. It was hilarious to see Lilia's leadership ability come out. First she had me draw a campfire. Then she was directing me around with how many sticks to collect, leaves and fire according to the fire "recipe" I drew for her.

The Fine Arts Library

Rocks rock!

2011-11-05T09:22:00.001-04:00

On Wednesday morning I had a conference call that I knew would last close to an hour. After we dropped Lilia off at school, Alex and I headed to Kelly Drive to get in some exercise and enjoy the beautiful fall weather. We made it to these boulders just in time for my call. Alex played trucks on the rocks for the full 45 minutes without even moving.

Trick-or-treat!

2011-10-31T21:48:00.002-04:00

Candy dump-trucks!

The servant

2011-10-31T21:43:00.000-04:00

Lilia can be a lazy bones and Alex already has a servants heart at age 2.
Lilia was tired of carrying her candy-filled pumpkin at the end of the night. She asked me to carry it, but I said no way. So she pawned her pumpkin off on her baby brother.
What I love about this picture is Alex's hand-down expression as he carries the pumpkins. Like he's saying, "Oh this is such hard work to carry all this candy!"

Those baby blues

2011-10-31T21:39:00.001-04:00

No folks, those eyes are not photo shopped.

Halloween Quote of the Day

2011-10-31T21:38:00.001-04:00

Lilia wanted to hand out the Halloween candy tonight to the trick-or-treaters. Here's what she said to Dave, "I am doing my best to not think about keeping all this candy for myself."

Fall leaves

2011-10-29T17:07:00.002-04:00

Don't you love fall?

The Frog & The Giraffe

2011-10-29T17:06:00.000-04:00

Magnolia Plantation & Garden

2011-10-22T18:01:00.003-04:00

The Ashley River

Dave and I drove out to explore the grounds of the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. It was so beauitful.
Majestic oak trees were every where with spanish moss draped on every branch. The Plantation sits on the Ashley River.
Over the years the gardens became the main focus of the plantation, with the owners spending much time cultivating flowering trees all year long.

Katie sitting on a oak tree

A newt sits on a leaf eyeing an ant

Bamboo

Getaway

2011-10-22T07:48:00.000-04:00

Forgive the grainy quality. This was taken with my IPhone.
Dave and I have the opportunity to celebrate our anniversary, which was last month, in Charleston SC. Friends of ours live here, 10 minutes from the beach and 25 minutes from downtown!
This is a vacation! This is restful & relaxing!
We ate dinner the first night on an inlet. It was just beautiful.
We explored Charleston by foot yesterday. We were blown away at the houses and the gardens.
Unfortunately we don't have a working digital camera at the moment. So I broke out my old school film camera. It's a nice one; Dave got it for me as a wedding present. Oh yes, I said film.
It's so weird to think of the idea of it.
- The pictures I take on the trip will never make it on to our computer.
- Every picture I take will get printed out, whether it's good or blurry.
- I can't see the picture I just took!!!
- I am very selective of the scene, the angle & the zoom. After all I only get 24 shots on this roll of film.
- I can't "delete" a shot and try again.
I know, weird right!
Anyway, we are having an amazing time!

Surf, sand & shells

2011-10-22T07:41:00.001-04:00

As a kid my family would often go on vacation to the beach. When you live so close to Jersery beaches it becomes the default destination. That was fine by me! I love the beach.
Ever since I can remember I would collect shells. They could be whole or broken pieces. Some would be these amazing ones, but that was rare.
Well I have not grown out of that beloved hobby.
Side Note: This past summer we went to DE beach for vacation. Dave and I walked along the beach on our date night and the stones/pebbles on this beach were PERFECT! I spent the walk with my face to the sand picking up anything that caught my eye. Dave's pockets were so weighed down that his shorts hung very low.

So yesterday morning we checked out Isle of Palms beach. It couldn't have been more perfect. There was a place for Dave to hang out and read his book. This wasn't a bench, but a gazebo. If you know Dave, then you know his dislike for sitting in the sun. He read his book in a gazebo, shielded from the sun, while I scoured the beach for shells. I remembered a bag to put them in this time!

A starfish was washed ashore.

The beach

2011-10-22T07:33:00.000-04:00

Birthday at the firehouse

2011-10-18T19:00:00.002-04:00

Who wouldn't want to go to a birthday party at a firehouse?
Jesse Hudzina turned 5 in early October. Danae & Tom celebrated with a party at the firehouse and man oh man was it fun!
The kids got to play in the truck, go for a ride around the block - with sirens blarring, and fire the house. So Cool!
Alex is a typical boy who loves sports, trucks, diggers, cars, fire trucks and the like. He had such a great time.

2011-10-18T18:54:00.000-04:00

Firing the hose

2011-10-18T18:47:00.001-04:00

Jack Hudzina, Ava Manni & Lilia

Alex firing the hose

Turning 2 & all the milestones

2011-10-12T19:29:00.000-04:00

Alex on the day he was born

Playing with Nannie

Who knew that this tiny little baby who started out so unbelievably fussy and difficult would turn into such a wonderful boy. As an infant Alex had colic, eczema, and reflux. He was down right miserable! He didn't sleep well at night until he was 5 1/2 months. Driving in the car was terrifying because you never knew if he would explode into tears and nothing would console him.

Well that little baby is behind us and now our toddler is a joy. He is mostly pleasant, he loves his big sister so much, he makes us laugh and he is very polite. He is an excellent sleeper, like his mother. Driving is the car is no big deal; he's great. In fact any time we're in the car his eyes are open and he's looking for diggers. "Mommy digger!!!"

We love our little Alex. We are so thankful for him. Happy Birthday buddy!

Party Time

2011-10-09T15:10:00.001-04:00

Cupcakes baked in a cone

So for Alex's 2nd birthday party we went with a sports theme. He still loves sports, but currently he's far more into diggers, cars, trucks and Thomas the tank engine, also known as "TomVince." Dave's sister Julie gave me the idea for the cupcakes. The kids loved them. The die wasn't very easy to work with; too drippy. They turned out ok. Kids don't care!
Alex officially turns 2 on the 12th.

Lilia, Adeline & Alex eating their cupcakes

2011-10-09T15:04:00.002-04:00

We celebrated Alex's 2nd birthday with friends and family.

Alex with his cousin Ellie (3 mo)

Poppy, Alex and Grandpop

Grammy & Alex

Nannie & Alex

Leaf Art

2011-10-06T18:33:00.001-04:00

Today was such a beautiful day. The weather was perfect. It was just what Pennsylvania falls should be.
This morning I packed up some lunch for the kids and myself. Alex and I picked Lilia up from preschool and we headed to South Ardmore Park for a picnic lunch and some playground time.
I was looking down at a few of the leaves that had fallen when I was hit with an afternoon craft. Leaf rubbings! On Saturday we went down town to Philadelphia Fine Arts Museum. They were having free kids crafts. One that I loved was placing leaves and flowers between paper and hitting them with a rubber mallet to show the shape and color. So...when I saw the leaves it gave me the idea for the rubbings. We collected 3 and I showed Lilia what to do.
She was so excited that as soon as those three were done we ran outback and collected more leaves. I want to make a banner of some sort with these. They look so cool!

INSTRUCTIONS:
lots of paper
an assortment of leaves, not too dry
crayons with no paper on them

1. Place the leaves or leaf between 2 pieces of paper. Rub with the crayon and you've got it!

Dictionary additions

2011-10-06T08:00:00.000-04:00

I love the things I say differently as a result of having kids. I don't mean that silly parent language that you do to help your kids learn to speak, but I now have a new vocabulary because my kids don't say the correct word. Therefore I no longer say the correct English, but I often say it the way my kids do.
Let me introduce you to the Brindley Family Dictionary,

armpickle - armpit (Lilia)
creditor - preditor (Lilia)
TomVince - Thomas (the tank engine) (Alex)
Eeya - Lilia (Alex)
Aadi - Alex (Alex
Blah - no (Alex)
Beza - zebra (Alex)
Bubble Jum - bubble gum (Alex)

This is the Reason

2011-10-04T12:53:00.001-04:00

Read this quote slowly and carefully; read it twice if need be, but certainly take it to heart. It will change the way to live and look at life.
"Now, if a man's heart is set on earthly things, on earthly possessions, on earthly happiness, on earthly pleasures, on earthly ease and comfort, he is of all men most vulnerable. For, in the nature of things, he may lose these things at any moment.
There may come at any time a reversal of fortune, and he may find himself stripped of them all. On the other hand, if a man gives to Jesus Christ the unique place in his life, if the most precious thing for his is his relationship to God, that is something which can never be taken from him; no experience can despoil him of it; nothing can take it from him. Therefore, his is completely secure. His treasure is untouchable by the chances and changes of this life." - William Barclay (speaking of 1st Peter 3:13-14)

Wow! I mean wow! I certainly don't live like this, but I sure wish I did. I wouldn't be so grumpy, I wouldn't complain so much, I wouldn't get angry with my children as often, and I wouldn't care if the house was messy.

A night for a stroll

2011-09-30T08:35:00.002-04:00

Last night after dinner we went to Kelly Drive to get some exercise. It's close by, enjoyable and we don't have to be out for too long. Well we ended up with the kids on the bike path headed towards the city. They biked for a long time. Dave and I were in flip flops & dress shoes, thinking that we would just be on a stroll around the azelea gardens.
Lilia brought her "i" phone so she could take pictures.

Opportunity

2011-09-30T08:31:00.001-04:00

On Monday we dropped the car off for an inspection with a very trusted mechanic. I showed Alex the mechanics garage and then we walked next door to this place that rents out small machinery.
We were walking back to the car when this big burly man comes out. I explained how much Alex loves "diggers" and the guy said, "Does he want to sit on it?"
I was so excited for Alex, "Sure!" I exclaimed.
So Alex got to not only sit on this digger, but sit on the man's lap while he rode it and controlled the arm up and down.
Next they went over to the bobcat, also known as a skid loader. They drove that across the parking lot and back again. It was the coolest!!!

Wanted: Brown Squirrel

2011-09-28T13:16:00.001-04:00

Help, Bell's been kidnapped.
Seriously I'm not kidding. Lilia had this Bell figurine out back on the little porch thing, on the table. I looked out back while I was eating my lunch just now and saw a squirrel on the ledge of the railing with Bell in it's mouth!!!!!
Dave opened the door and yelled for the squirrel to drop it, but it ran away up a tree. I wonder if he chose it to be his future bride? Maybe he thinks Bell will make a nice companion in his nest during the cold, long winter months? Maybe she can do something tasty with all the nuts he stored?
What ever he does with it, it's bye bye Bell!

Quotes from the days

2011-09-27T21:50:00.002-04:00

Here are some recent funny quotes from the kids...
Yesterday after Lilia ate a huge dinner I said, "Wow Lilia your belly is so big!"
She lifted up her shirt and said, "Yeah."
Alex pointed to her belly and said, "Basketball in."
Lilia and I laughed so hard.

Today we were picking up Lilia from preschool and we drive past some construction. I pointed out to Alex that there was a "spinny truck," referring to a concrete truck. (Easier to say I guess.) He said, "Want Eeya (Lilia) see spinny truck."
So on the way home Alex pointed it out to Lilia, "Eeya see spinny truck."
Then we were coming over the hill on Lancaster Ave, just past Overbrook high school and Alex shouts, "Eeya see center city." To which Lilia replies, "Oh snap!"
It's more funny if you could hear his pronunciation of "Center city." Anyway, we see it 3 times a week, twice a day and he gets excited every time.

Later today Lilia asked me a question. Context: Yesterday Lilia got two cavities filled. (What 4 yr old has to start flossing!!!!!!!!!!!!! She has horrible teeth; we brush twice a day.)
So she asked me, "Mom my cavity filled hurts, can I put ice cream on it?"

Alex's cute quirks

2011-09-20T20:44:00.000-04:00

Alex is so different from Lilia. One morning I was outside cleaning up leaves and he exclaims, "I want to help." So he proceeds to pick up leaves and put them in the trash bag.
Today I was putting the groceries away, while Alex was standing there watching for a minute. He them chimed in, "I want to help."
As you can see from the photo, whatever he took out of the grocery bags went right into the fridge. Frozen french fries to go with our turkey burgers are in front of the milk. Cereal boxes and triscuts are on the bottom ledge, and candy corn is being stuffed into the vegetable draw. I hardly think it counts as a vegetable, but we'll certainly add it to our diet.
I mentioned that Alex is so different from Lilia because for her to clean up anything is like pulling teeth. However for Alex to clean up anything, he gladly jumps in. In fact something he freely enjoys is dumping out the tub of Mr. Potato Head parts and then putting them back in. I'm not worried about this weird quirk. He's so friendly to anyone and everyone. He constantly says, "Hi man," to strangers that walk by, he gives excellent eye contact, and he's very outgoing. He just likes things neat and tidy like his mom.

My new friend

2011-09-17T07:53:00.000-04:00

Yesterday morning I got to bring a new Chinese friend and her son to the zoo. Her name is Jing. I met Jing at the BBQ at Clark Park 2 weeks ago. When we talked at the BBQ I learned that she is really open to Christianity.
As we talked yesterday I learned that she went to a Chinese baptismal service at Grace Chapel. That's where she first heard the gospel. When they sung praise songs, she said she was moved and almost cried. She told me what she understood of the gospel and then I got to fill in the gaps and explain it a little further.
She was so happy to have come to the zoo with me. Her son had a great time too. She also said that the next time we get together she wants to learn more about God and Christianity. I plan on sharing with her the Chinese/English version of "Knowing God Personally."
Praise God!!! Pray for Jing. She is SO close to becoming a Christian. Her parents have no objections, and she already believes that there is a God. Those are 2 huge barriers that many Chinese get stuck at. Praise the Lord!

1st Day of Preschool

2011-09-14T12:32:00.001-04:00

Today was Lilia's first day of preschool. She is starting her 2nd year at Overbrook Preschool. I love that place. It's really wonderful!
The shirt she is wearing is one she made this summer. I love the back. She wanted it to say "Lilia" and then she wanted a number below it. (I'm pretty sure she got the idea from Alex's Philies shirt.) The number she picked was 6100.
Right away she started playing with play-doh. Alex jumped in too playing with all the cars, trucks and fire engines.
I just picked her up from school and the first thing she told me about was that she got to meet a hermit crab. "Hermit crabs are shy." If you know Lilia, you know that would make her day because she LOVES animals. She talks about being a deer hunter one day, but one that keeps them as pets, not one that kills them.
When I asked her, "Did you like your first day?" She replied, "Kind of."

Alex

2011-09-13T13:00:00.002-04:00

This was a GIANT net in Foot Locker

Curious George, Monkey, Stinky Bear & Alex "The Gang"

Racing match box cars

Rac

Thoughts

2011-09-12T22:48:00.000-04:00

Tonight I met Lilia's teacher. Lilia is starting her second year of preschool at Overbrook Preschool, which I am super pleased with. It's a really wonderful school. Her teacher is originally from Greece and has been in the country for 20 years. She still has a beautiful thick accent.
Lilia also has 2 Chinese girls in her class. I met the moms tonight. It's so cool that everything around her is so international. I hope that constantly being around other cultures, whether it's Chinese students from the ministry, her school or even our neighborhood, will cause her to be more well rounded.
After I left school I realized that Lilia needs a new school bag for the year. I really didn't want to get into the habit of buying a new one every year. It seems so wasteful. However, her one from last year is ripping and that won't due. She doesn't have another bag that goes over her shoulders so I quick stopped at Target to find one. I had zero luck. They were completely sold out. Big surprise right! Duh. Why did I wait so long? I did end my night with a laugh when I looked down at my shirt, after I checked out mind you, and saw that I still was wearing my "Cat in the Hat" name tag that read, "Katie (Lilia's mom)."

Lilia's quote of the day

2011-09-07T23:33:00.000-04:00

The scene: Dave, Courtney and I were at the dining room table having a staff meeting.
The kids were cheerfully playing on the carpet in the living room.
Que in Alex making grunting sounds and saying, "See poopy Eeya." (Eeya = Lilia)
Lilia yells in to us, "Mom, Alex is making a poopy and that makes me hungry."
We burst out laughing while at the same time completely grossed out and trying understand what she meant by that.

A must do!

2011-09-06T18:16:00.000-04:00

Don't you just LOVE this idea! Succulents in tea cups! I mean, just too cute, right? I am totally stealing this idea. I got the idea from this blog...

Moredeisgnplease Blog

P.S. Any one have any old tea cups they want to donate to me?

A labor day to remember

2011-09-06T18:13:00.002-04:00

On Sunday when we came home from church our neighbor Mal was outside yelling at his buddies. He was drunk and probably high too. After things cooled down our family came back out. Mal's girlfirend lives at the house and she has a son, Elijah. He is 5. I found out from Elijah's mom that he watched tv all day Sunday while she worked and Mal had a BBQ.
Dave and I decided to ask if Elijah could join us for a labor day picnic. She was happy that he would have something to do because she worked all day Monday too. So she dropped him off before work and he spent the day with us. After some quick sandwiches we headed over the bridge to NJ for a labor day picnic with church friends. They roasted a 90lb pig that was so delicious! There were tons of kids and Elijah had a great time.
Elijah is full of personality, he's loud (fits in well with our family) and very sweet and obedient. He had a couple of funny quotes yesterday,
This one was in the context of trying to play some "fun music" in which he was highly disappointed in. He said, "Put on some hot music!"
The next one was when he told us "His two most favorite things in the world are rainbows and ... karate." Dave and I burst out laughing at how extremely opposite those two loves were.

Alex quote of the day

2011-08-29T19:24:00.003-04:00

Alex's quote of the day today was when we were in CVS and he spotted some helium balloons he said, "I want buy that." "Pease, pease." (Please, please.)

How in the world does a little boy who is not even 2 know how to put that sentence together? Oh man, we're in trouble!

Sleeping in the tent

2011-08-28T13:18:00.000-04:00

In our tent with all her animals and pillows.

At Smith Playground

2011-08-28T13:17:00.000-04:00

At the zoo on Tuesday

2011-08-28T13:16:00.000-04:00

Sleepover time!

2011-08-27T12:35:00.002-04:00

Last night we had a super fun sleepover with Grammy (Dave's mom). I set up mine and Dave's 2 1/2 man tent in Lilia's room and that's where she slept, while Grammy slept in Lilia's bed. Lilia loved it! She put every single stuffed animal in the tent along with pillows and blankets. It looked quite cozy.

This morning after a Clark Park Grower's Market run we headed to Payless for back to school sneakers and a bonus pair of ballet shoes. No Lilia is not in ballet, but every since she has been watching Angelina Ballerina some afternoons, she is really into ballet. Since ballet class is way to expensive, we decided we'll get a DVD that will teach her.

Favorite pass time

2011-08-21T20:59:00.003-04:00

Paper crafts are probably my top hobby. I love scrapbooking, making cards and anything having to do with paper.

My mom's friend's grandson turned 1 last month. I offered to make a banner for the party in the midst of conversation about party plans.

I had so much fun making this one. In fact I will probably make a very similar one for Alex's birthday party in October.

So...if you or someone you know wants a banner like this I can make one. I love it. Like I said before, it's my favorite pass time!

P.S. I've make one of animals for Lilia's b-day party so whatever the theme, I can probably do it.

Narcolepsy?

2011-08-21T20:40:00.003-04:00

One way to describe Lilia is that she is flexible.

Now I don't mean that she can touch her toes while keeping her back straight, but I mean that she is easy-going, go with the flow and ok with changes. Part of this is her temperment, but part of this is because we took her everywhere with us. All over West Chester, friends houses, churches, lots of drives, plane rides, Colorado, China, and Philadelphia. She has done a lot and been a lot of places. She can fall asleep within 5 minutes into a car ride.

Here are the pictures to prove how she can fall asleep any where at any time. I don't think she has narcolepsy. I do know that she runs hard all day, has given up naps at three and a half years old, and as a result when she sleeps, she's OUT!

On the back of Dave's bike.

In the car.

At the top of the stairs waiting for us to come home.

By the front door as you come into the living room.

Ringing Rocks

2011-08-19T16:01:00.002-04:00

This is a great hiking place close to my parent's house (Bucks County). You hike a short trail to a huge boulder field.

After you explore the field, the trail goes on to a river bed where you can jump around, get a little wet and walk up river a bit. It's a pretty cool place.

We're going for a hike; don't forget the hammer.

2011-08-19T15:59:00.001-04:00

You can bring a hammer and hear the different "ring tones" on the rocks.

Poppy & Alex

2011-08-19T15:58:00.000-04:00

Always surprised in the city

2011-08-19T15:54:00.002-04:00

This past Saturday my parents came down for the day. We decided ahead of time to go into the city. Even though they both grew up in the city and now live in the country, they love coming in to be tourists. Well we headed over to Reading Terminal Market and stumbled across a Pennsylvania Dutch Festival. There was a blue grass band, pony rides, a petting zoo, and a wagon ride pulled by horses.

Monday

2011-08-15T21:25:00.002-04:00

By the end of Monday, I have been asking lately, "Is it only Monday?" By the end of Monday it feels like Tuesday. I can't say exactly why, but it does.

In the summer our kids don't go to bed until 8:30 or 9. Dave and I some times take advantage of that. Tonight we headed over to Penn's campus to the "Big Pond." It's actually a small pond, but we call it that because Lilia watches Dinosaur Train.

The pond is filled with coy fish and turtles. The area that surrounds the pond is incredible. You actually feel like you're in the woods, except you can hear the traffic on Baltimore.

The kids had a blast running around and wearing themselves out. As a result it's pretty quiet in the house as of 9pm.

LOVE on Penn's Campus

2011-08-15T21:23:00.000-04:00

Lilia's Quote of the Day

2011-08-14T10:38:00.001-04:00

"Now we, now everybody has twistables. Except for grandparent's without kids."

Social Justice & The Bible

2011-08-09T15:40:00.000-04:00

"One of the mysteries of social thought is how religion, at least the Christian religion, ever came to be regarded as 'the opiate of the people,' or how it ever came to seem an other-worldly affair, which neglected this world to concentrate on some world to come. There is no book in literature with such a burning social passion as the Bible. There is no book which speaks so explosively and dynamically of social wrongs and social injustice. There is no book so burningly conscious that the great gap between riches and poverty is an active and terrible transgression of the law of God and the will of God. There is no book which has, in fact, proved so powerful a social dynamic as the Bible has." - William Barclay commentary on the book of James, chapter 5, verses 1-3.

This is THE best commentary I have ever read. I am no scholar, nor have I been through seminary, but this author has over and over highlighted the Bible in such a way that is profound, yet simple. It's a small and somewhat older book, the copywright is 1950, but wow. Wow!

Aunt Julie & Lilia

2011-08-04T16:38:00.002-04:00

Tea Madame?

2011-08-04T16:34:00.002-04:00

Dave's sister Julie lives in Colorado Springs. While my in-laws took Lilia down there to visit they had tea at The Navigators castle.

The Navigators is an international Christian ministry that seeks to introduce people to the person of Christ and once they become a Christian, help them "navigate" through life.

The dog trainer

2011-08-04T16:32:00.001-04:00

Lilia's current claim to fame when she meets strangers is that she is a dog trainer.

She really loves dogs. Oh darn, Alex is allergic to dog licks. I guess we can't get a dog.

Here is Lilia loving her Aunt Julie's dog, Remy.

An Italian friend

2011-08-02T08:26:00.002-04:00

This was the 2nd day in a row that we met people from Italy.Saturday night we played at the azela garden by the Art Museum and met a Christian church-planting family that lives in Kensington. We also met a man and his daughter from Italy.

This picture was taken Sunday morning when we went to the Horticultural Center off of Belmont Ave. Lilia played with this little girl and their family was kind to us by sharing their picnic blanket and toys.

Base. Ball!

2011-08-02T08:24:00.001-04:00

The friends we made had a bat and ball. Alex loved getting to hit the ball around.

Feeding coy fish at the Japanese Garden

2011-08-02T08:21:00.000-04:00