Hanging Out at Mom’s House

As mentioned, some of my family came into town over the weekend. My brother Rich flew in from Maryland, and my brother David drove up from Clearwater with his wife Valerie and their daughter Ava. Unfortunately, my brother Ben, as well as my step-brothers, were unable to join us.

My brother Rich recently turned 23. He’s super nice and incredibly intelligent. He’s a college professor in Maryland. And he’s single. Hey, I’m just throwing it out there.

My brother David entertained Ava and Jonah… for like 5 whole minutes.

Although initially ticked off about Jonah’s arrival, Taylor sure does like him now. Thank God.

Taylor attempted to pose for a photo…

…but I kept making her laugh. I adore laughing photos! They are my favorite. One day I shall create an album containing ONLY photos of my loved ones laughing. And I will cherish it all the days of my life. Note to self: Make this happen.

Taylor did my mom’s eye make-up. Even at age 13, she’s, like, so professional. I should let her do my make-up every day. It would look better than when I do it myself.

No, Taylor wasn’t actually punching Nathan. She wanted to, but no.

Valerie really wants Ava to have some siblings. We are hoping and praying that will happen sooner rather than later.

Andy helped the kids catch hermit crabs. Ava was fascinated.

Have you ever tried to pull a hermit crab out of his shell? Yeah, it doesn’t really work.

I tend to like the odor of my babies/toddlers when they’re a bit sweaty. After puberty? Not so much. Adult men who have been working outside in 100+ temperatures? Not at all.

I’m really glad Nathan didn’t slice up his feet on those rocks.

Noah just turned 3. Ava will be 3 in October. Noah has been potty training for three months and we’re still not done. Ava was potty-trained in three days. Sigh. Girls and boys are different in so many ways.

Jonah will stand for a second or two without holding onto anything, but he’s not walking yet.

Noah really took a liking to Valerie this trip. So sweet! I love family bonding.