Notes from the life o Lu

So bedtime has been a new adventure these last couple weeks. We're getting into a rhythm though (knock on wood). The hardest part for me right now is not laughing while pretending to sleep next to Lu's crib as she settles herself to sleep. She frequently checks in on me peeking out to see if I'm still "boring and asleep". And then she goes back about her business rearranging the lions (her two lovies), her blanket or seeing how loud a clucking noise she can make while in the downward dog position.

A few nights ago she did a little experiment to see if I really was asleep. She stood up, peeked over and then "bombs away" dropped Calvin (the fuzzy lion) directly onto my head. I played it cool and didn't move. She got bored and rolled away. A few minutes later she realized, "Crap, my lion is outside the crib. I'll just reach out and pull him back in." So out comes this little hand inches from my face. I'm practically having a seizure trying not to laugh as she starts hoisting the lion back in. It was the classic cookie jar situation though. Small slot. Big lion. I'm lying there trying to decide which would be better a) help her and give away that I'm not really asleep or b) have her tug and tug until she breaks down crying. I decided to help her and she was delighted that her little experiment worked. "Mom's awake and wants to play." As soon as Calvin was safely back in the crib, Hobbes (the other lion) came flying over the ramparts. Lots of pretend sleeping ensued. Sorry kid, it's bedtime.

Weekend fun

Lucy and Ryan explored the playground a few blocks from our house.

Friends John and Becky are lending us their backpack. Lu is really into it. She's even content hanging out in it in our living room. Novelty is such a powerful force.

We checked out the Children's Museum bubble festival too.

Family weekend in Minnesota

We spent a wonderful and relaxing weekend at the Uglem Family Retreat Center. Thanks Ellen and Lee for inviting us into your home!

Happy (early) 60th Birthday Pam! Lucy was clapping (and supposed to be sleeping) while everyone was singing in the other room.

Good god. We're making the same face. 

Fun times with Grandpa Brian.

Lucy could not get enough of Charlie. And Charlie couldn't get enough of Lucy. Especially after it became clear that she had snacks to share. 

Meeting Charlie.

Peas in a pod.

Brothers. Beer. Boats.

Party barge.

Don't mind me...I swear I'm a lap dog.

Eagles and osprey and loons oh my! 

Note: many of these photos are from Kelly. Thanks Kelly!

Blue is number one!

Lucy and 2/3 of the Uglem ladies. 

Two mammals pictured here like the situation. One of them does not. Can you guess who that is? 

Lucy shares a meal and her gross food covered damp paper towel with Uncle Neal.

chillaxin'

Ry made Lucy a "chair" out of one of her toy boxes. It's been a hit. And makes us laugh as she scoots her little butt up to sit down.

Children's museum

We landed in St. Paul pretty early so after lunch we stopped in at the Children's museum. Our Duluth Children's Museum membership gets us in there for free. TOTALLY worth it. What a great space. I look forward to going back. Fun for me as a museum professional and a parent. (ok, and a big kid that likes to build things with blocks)

Demonstrating her stove top roasting technique.

Amazed at the kids running every which way. SO close to running after them herself.

Water table time.

The stairs were one of the best most fun parts of the whole experience.

The little lady knight building her castle. She's reached this point where she wants to sit on everything she builds. It's a riot.

Blocks are fun for everyone.

Cribbage lessons start early

Little Sebago Lake

We took a quick trip north to Maine to visit with Mer, Daniel, Esme, Sawyer and their friends Janet, Greg, Sydney and Lila.

Nice to have some fun in the sun and laughs with old friends. And my goodness the kiddos are getting big.

Esme is definitely Meredith's child.

Kiddos chowing down.

Little man at work.

Atlantic Ocean

Feet in! Coast to Coast in her first year (well, 13 months anyway).

Who's this friendly seaside critter?

Is this how you're supposed to pick them up?

Pail. Shovel. Sun hat. Ready!

Sorting the beach. Very helpful.

These sweet kids from California shared their nets and prize catches (there are crabs in this tide pool if you look closely) with us all.