Summer with C and D

I started this little blog just over a year ago, with my main intention to keep my brother and his wife abreast of what was happening in our lives. You see, they were beginning their adventures overseas, teaching in Lebanon. And I figured this would be a perfect way to see what we're up to and to read about funny stories about the kids.

I had no idea it would morph into something a little bigger. I've come to enjoy posting about our lives (when I have the time!). It's a great way to record life with my two monkeys. So thanks for following along.

Back to our regular posting:
C and D arrived back in the Midwest in late July, and promptly spent a few days with the family. We've had so much fun with them, and it's sad to think they're heading back to Lebanon tomorrow. The summer flew by, but we hope that the time they spend overseas will fly just as fast.

After spending a fabulous time downtown with Mom and Casey while Uncle D watched the kids, we headed back home the next day, only to return to Mom and Dad's just a few days later. D and C hosted a party to unite their friends along with my parents' friends. It was a time for laughter, playing a song trivia game and enjoying some wonderful food. The kids even tried on their Arab costumes that Uncle D and Casey bought.

Not the best picture, but still adorable.
Their Arab names are Yazmina and Muhammad.

At the end of the month C and D headed out to our place to see Riley participate in a T-ball game. Little did Uncle D know that he would be entertaining some of the siblings of Riley's teammates, as he was kicking a soccer ball around. The next thing I know he has his own harem of about 5-6 kids!'

Kicking the ball with Uncle D.

Riley playing the infield.

D entertaining the siblings.

The kids with C and D after the game.

The next day C and D met up with us at the zoo. This is turning into a yearly event that the kids thoroughly enjoy. This year was the first year Casey was able to join us, as she battled the flu last year about this time. The kids loved showing Casey all around the zoo, which also included a trip on the safari bus. Both kids had been looking forward to that, almost as much as they were looking forward to going to the zoo with their aunt and uncle!

Riley on her favorite animal: flamingo.

Jeremy and Uncle D on the carousel.

Riley talking with Casey on the safari bus.

Jeremy doing his walrus impression, thanks to Uncle D.

Riley posing for the camera.

Jeremy enjoying a ride from Uncle D.
(Note that Jeremy still has an infatuation with
playing with hair,no matter what gender.)

Uncle D's favorite animals: giraffes.

A picture on the famous lions outside the zoo.

I think all parties had a wonderful time, and the kids promptly passed out during the car ride home. Thanks, C and D!