Our neighbor’s dog has finally decided (after three and a half years) that I’m not scary and he doesn’t need to bark at me.

My first real cake! Baked for our neighborhood block party. ‘Twas delicious.

Enthusiastic soliloquy on the downgrading of paper quality used in her favorite series of books.

My sister’s basement is the boys’ favorite LEGO building spot. Cushy carpet to lay on and giant messes that only need to be cleaned up every few days? Yes and please, thank you.

After deciding that homeschooling plus attempting to be my kids’ music teacher was just one thing too much, I outsourced N’s music lessons (in the easiest way possible! V decided to take up teaching again) and it’s been the best. decision. ever. N loves piano and practices diligently, often playing whenever she walks past the…

I love having one kiddo who enjoys fashion and carefully picking out her outfits. When she’s especially pleased with herself, she demands to know if she looks like “Teta Tina.” (yes, be happy with yourself, oh sister of mine)

Two attempts at a “first week of school” photo – both times battling a cranky child. P (4th grade) wearing his newly sorted-into-Hogwarts-Gryffindor-House shirt, A (2nd grade technically, but doing mostly 3rd grade work) always in green, N (Kindergarten and So Excited About It) joyfully wearing (and re-wearing) her favorite “chess board” dress, and E…

Having fun is an exhausting job.

False fall brimming with possibilities and cool weather.

Welcoming in September with a spin in her new twirly dress.