We've had a lot of celebrations over the last few days, starting with a birthday party for Granny at the lake. Last Saturday, we made a day trip to Lake Tillery to celebrate Boomer's mom turning 6-0. Carlin and Matt were there too, and Carlin had planned some surprises to make the day special. She decorated with lots of balloons, printed family photos of all the grandkids, and ordered a delicious cake that we all devoured. It was a laidback event, just how Granny would like it. Since the temperatures had dropped to a cool 60 degrees, there was no swimming during this lake trip. Instead we played corn hole in the yard and spread blankets in the grass. Boomer's dad fired up the grill for both lunch and dinner, and we just enjoyed the time with family. Happy birthday, Granny!
The celebrations continued on Tuesday with a joint birthday party for Grandpa (71) and Great Gma (89). Since it was a work day, it took some coordination between all three family units to pick up kids from school, and somehow I lucked out with not having to pick up anyone! Aunt Megan picked up Emmy while she was getting Maddox, and then Mom, Dad, and Eli met us over at the Houstons' for dinner. On Grandpa's request, the menu consisted of steak, French fries, and four different flavors of cake. Our gatherings these days are quite loud and chaotic and usually include tears at some point. We always still have fun and usually only remember the good memories! It was extra special that Grandma was able to come. It was the first time since March that she has been outside of her apartment complex and the first time the kids and I have seen her without a barrier of glass in between us. Happy birthday, Grandpa and Great Gma!
Today we enjoyed a fun morning at the Greensboro Science Center. We renewed our membership for another year, and whenever we have a free Saturday, it is our go-to outing as a family. Emmy continues to love all of the animals. Today she even played the teacher, with Boomer and Eli (in the stroller) as the line leaders and me as the caboose. She talked and talked the whole time we were there and kept us straight if anyone acted up. She used the map to lead us through the exhibits...even if we weren't always following the designated route - oops! After the Science Center, we went to Freddy's, and Emmy got a special treat since she stayed dry last night in her underwear. By her own request, she wanted to wear her underwear to bed, and she was accident-free this morning - yay! We were sure to celebrate with all the treats! She is again in underwear tonight, so perhaps we have kicked Pull-Ups for good. I'm so proud of my big girl!
Like with the Pull-Ups, there are little reminders all the time that the kids are growing at record speed. It was Picture Day at Emmy's school, and our girl looks so grown up. I love the little curls around her face; they always pop out around her temple and cheeks. I have reached out to the photo company to request a reprint (since her head is cut off!) so hopefully the final photos will be frame-worthy. Either way, we will be displaying them in our house and sharing with the grandparents.
Eli is exploring all over the house these days. He doesn't stay in one spot too long, and he has perfected a flop-crawl that allows him to get to wherever he wants to go. He is becoming pretty sturdy when standing and can even balance with only hand. I love his little grin in the photo with the activity cube. Grammy and Grandpa are so wonderful to send me pictures during the day while they are watching him.
Looking ahead to October and November, we have several more birthdays, including everyone else in my household! Our celebrations this year will be on the simpler side, but special nonetheless. Hopefully Mommy can pull off some memorable parties - no pressure! :)
