Seaweed, Park Pics, and Play Dough

After the 17-hour scream fest, aka the drive home from Colorado, we took it easy for a few days.  The very next morning was a celebration for the kids. 



Eating seaweed off the moderately clean kitchen floor??  Awesome.  Elliot is beginning to like seaweed even more than Lucy.  He can finish half a package at a time, easy.



I have some photo sessions coming up.  So I wanted to try out a park at sunrise to evaluate whether it'd be a good place for family portraits. 

 

It is not particularly easy to be the mom and the portrait photographer at the same time. 



But the kids graciously acquiesced to my pleas to sit still a moment longer, and I got a few photos I like of the two of them. 



My SIL reminded me how fun poetry can be.  And this came to mind yesterday:

First outing
With shoes
Toes hidden
Soft leather
Barely necessary



Yesterday was Jack's very first day of school!  I mean, he went to a different school last year.  But yesterday was his first day of public school, and I got to pick him up! 



He seems so big.  He's a second grader this year.  But he still let me hold his hand as we walked to the car.





Nothing celebrates the first week of school like peanut butter play dough. 


 

My mom used to make it.  I am convinced there is no better way to combine playing and eating.





Peanut butter, powdered milk, honey (or maple syrup if you have a baby less than 1 year old).  Couldn't be simpler.
 

 ...or yummier.

Carrie - you are strong and capable!  You are rocking COT.  Only 20 days left.
Heidi - you are smart and determined!  You are gonna master that new helicopter and help save peoples' lives!