It's a lot of work to be crafty.

Or so Paul proclaimed after my last round of handmade goods. I recently made this for a friend's birthday.

And then I decided to make my sister a growth chart for her baby shower. I was quite pleased with the way it finally turned out, after I repainted the numbers. The first color choice was too pale.
And finally, since I had the privilege of co hosting her baby shower, I also made these cute and delicious cake pops for Robin. I got the idea from a friend's baby shower I attended recently. They are so much fun to make. I'll be making more soon so I can try out another flavor.

Body Art

Ahhhh summertime. There's nothing like spending some time outside after dinner on a summer evening. Tonight things got a little messy. I think Sam decided he wants to try out for the Blue Man Group.


Natey thought Sam missed a spot.


Tribal Sam

4 years and 16 months

Sam and Nathanael both had their check-ups at the doctor this week, so I thought it would be a good time to record some things about them.

Samuel- 4 years old

Check-up stats:
Weight: 35 lbs (42.67%)
Height: 3'5" (67.47%)
Vaccines: 4 (didn't shed a tear!)

(Sam's answers)
Favorite food: chips
Favorite color: green
Favorite friend: Henry
What he wants to be when he grows up: a builder (this hasn't changed in over a year, although sometimes he'll also say a rapper)
Favorite game: Candy Land

Sam has always been my little lovey boy. He is very generous with his affection, to me, Paul, and Nathanael. He's a good big brother, but doesn't like to share his toys. He still loves to play with cars and read books (his favorite things from way back in the baby days). He is shy around new people, but can warm up quickly. He is loud and rambunctious, loves to sing and dance, and is an absolute bear when he needs sleep. He is so imaginative and creative. He loves to make up songs, not a word of which you can understand, but he never repeats the same thing twice. It's his own little language- "mixed-up Spanish", he says.


Nathanael- 16 months

Check-up stats:
Height: 34" (97.5%!!!)
Weight: 25.5 lbs (58%)
Vaccines: 1

Favorite foods: Berries and grapes; grits, eggs, and cheese
Some words he says: ball, ta-da, uh oh, ouch, mama, dada, cheese, shoes, ice, I see
Naughty things: playing in the toilet, climbing on the kitchen or dining room tables, putting EVERYTHING in his mouth, sticking things in the electrical outlet.
Loves to: play outside!!, swim, eat, dance

Nathanael has always been my live-wire. He and Sam are complete opposites in every way. He keeps me on my toes. He is a sweet and happy boy, but he's stingy with his kisses. He loves to do tough boy things- climbing, whacking, banging, etc. He loves to play with Sam. I love our boys!