Sweet Spot

I really feel like these days I'm in the sweet spot of parenting. Watch, I've just jinxed it.

And yet, my girls are growing up and more independent. We can go places without a diaper bag. Although wipes will be in my purse til the day I die. They have more defined interests and can have conversations and still, get this: want to be with me. Oh, and they're helpful...

It's sweet. oh, so sweet. Let it last, Lord!

Soccer

We took last year off of soccer. Why you may ask? And so I counter you with another question: have you ever seen a 3/4 year old soccer game through its entirety?
wow. It's one of the cutest slower moving phenomena I've encountered. One year off and Pea was back into it. She's really good when she focuses and a good defender. It must be said: the 5/6 team is way easier to watch then the herd of 3 year olds some crying some eating dirt (not kidding). And yet, when you have a sister you must do as sister does. So Harp is playing too. She has yet to touch the ball in an actual game, has a scowl on her face most of the time, but the girl really does try in practice. oh vey. I am learning that my girls aren't really competitive when it comes to sports and neither am I, but I hear that's half the fun so we'll see if next year takes...side note: Pea will not let me take her picture at soccer, I'll try to snag one...

Stay Classy

This past weekend Andi and I took a girls trip down to San Diego where we stayed with my brother's girlfriend (NOW fiance'! future posts to follow regarding this...) Shanna. Her apartment is right downtown by Little Italy, an amazing spot; restaurants, bars, and beaches! Our first day we had drinks at the Del in Coronado and generally became beach bums....

Then on Friday we decided to take an impromptu trip to the happiest place on earth: Disneyland! We got up early and got there right as the park opened. We hit every ride we could and mostly because when you're sans kids in Disneyland you can move with amazing speed. We did the Tower of Terror twice and all the rides our kids aren't into. I had my favorite mint chocolate chip ice cream which I normally go straight for upon entering the park. It was decorated for Halloween, which I'd never seen before, but it was SO fun. I'd do it again in a heartbeat. Just two gals taking on Mickey's Land of Dreams...

 

Saturday, we went to the farmer's market with Chase and Shanna and India (her sweet pup), then to dog beach in Coronado. That night we went out and I am lame because I barely have any pictures to record all that fun. We went to Vin De Syrah which is an Alice in Wonderland themed club. It was amazing, so sureal. We danced; while words fail me in describing what can arguably be the craziest dance moves around, I can safely say that Chase knows how to have a good time. Shanna was a delight and so kind to host us! So glad she'll be part of our family. SO much more to come on that. A BIRKY wedding approaches! Here's to next time San Diego. You stay classy. I know you will.

Family Pictures

Andrea took our pictures on Sunday and I absolutely love them! Here are some of my favorites. Thank you, Andi (photog, extraordinaire & assistant Miss Kyla)...

Hip Harp Does Preschool

This girl is too cool for school. Way too cool. She walked in cool as a cucumber and basically never looked back OR said a word according to her teachers. She doesn't have to talk; she's that cool. Oh, brother. Harp here's to you starting such an adventure and to two mornings a week where I can work out in peace. I love you dear girl. You got this, smarty pants. In case you forgot, Pea's first day of preschool was way more emotional and haggard...wonder what will happen this year? Also look how huge she is now compared to then...wow.

1st Day of 1st grade

This is a big deal. It's a big deal, because she's gone for so long and the 1st graders get to have almost all the same fun as 5th graders, WHAT? It's crazy how fast time is going and I want to capture every minute. I'm back dating this post a bit and the girl is loving the first grade and since she's doing looping this year I'm really hopeful for next year too. She's gaining confidence and I love her to see her personality grow and shape. Sweet Pea this is you, 1st day of 1st grade...

Getting ready...I'm not ready...