Divine Intervention

This is the "Sophia" plant. Sophia planted this plant for Grandma B. on Mother's Day of 2009. It started out in a small, hand painted pot with just some dirt and seeds. I think it may have had a tiny sprout (we started planting a little late) when we gave it to her. Grandma took such care of it and had it by her window and watered it every day. It had 2 long stalks with just a few flowers on them. She was so proud of it and each time we visited she and Sophia would inspect it and encourage it to keep growing. After she passed, Sue took the plant home and repotted it. After a few weeks TLC she brought it over so that Sophia could have it and wouldn't you know that it has flourished. It's like a whole new plant! There are so many blooms and more and more each day. There is no way this is possible except by divine gardening, because, let's be real...I'm the girl who killed a cactus. It's so pretty to look at every day and Sophia is so proud. She talks about her plant and Grandma B each time she sees it and that makes me very happy. So, thank you, Grandma, for all that you keep giving us.

Lunch Date

Juan and Sophia had a table for 2!

Sophia was cracking up that the cow was wearing pajamas and sleeping cap! She stalked that poor cow all around the restaurant!

Juan and Andres get their cow cuddles in too!

We wanted to meet Cari, Juan, and Andres at the zoo but the day started out so rainy so we agreed to meet at Chick Fil A for lunch instead. It was a great time, but wouldn't you know it, it dried out and we probably could have gone to the zoo, but oh well! I like the Fil A play ground a little better than McD's right now b/c it's smaller and easier to watch Leo. It's also easier for him to maneuver which is better for me as well. Leo was terrified of the giant cow, which is nothing new, but I really think he was traumatized, poor kid! Hopefully we'll get to the zoo soon!

Soccer Camp Wrap-Up

even the spectators get worn out!

cheering for herself after knocking down a cone

here she dribbled down the lane and shot her goal between the cones...she scored!

Sophia finished up her week of soccer camp a day early. Sadly the last day was rained out! :( She was pretty bummed. I think she picked up some good skills and I think it was really good for her to be a little outside her comfort zone and have to listen to a coach. We looked at some other camp options for her this summer but it came down to a dance camp or another week of soccer camp and Sophia chose the soccer camp again. I was actually surprised, I thought she'd opt for dance, but I think this is a good choice too. I know it will reinforce what she's already learned and hopefully she'll remember some of it! We're also hoping to put her in a league this fall, so this is a good foundation!

Father's Day

Sophia chatted with her cousins in Germany via Skype...isn't technology grand?!
Daddy and his first baby

Daddy and his second baby

Papa Leo trying to wrangle the maniac

Ton on his first Father's Day with Baby Cooper

Charlie was a champ and actually mowed the lawn on Father's Day! Leo of course was eager to help!

Cathy hosted a delicious brunch at her place on Father's Day. It was a small but lovely gathering and Sophia and Leo got to rule the house as the only kids! Leo enjoyed exploring Aunt Cathy's apartment complex while Sophia enjoyed snacking and playing the fishing game! Most of all we all enjoyed being with the Daddies!!!

Dog Park

Every time after we visit the dog park, Sophia always begs to visit the "kid" park next. It makes me smile. They had fun, as usual, and Walter was happy to have lots of kids come over and pet him!

Snappy Snapshots!

We went to a free kids' concert put on by Dino O'Dell and Mr. Stinky Feet. We packed a picnic dinner and had a fine time. Sophia even got her arm painted with a beautiful mermaid!

I just adore this shot!

here they are putting on a concert for me. Sophia is playing the recorder, Leo is belting (and I do mean belting) out some tunes, and the guitar was just an arms length away, not to be forgotten!

Sophia got a new mitt and ball. She loves it! I tried teaching her how to play catch, but it's clear we need more practice! I should have bought one for Leo too, I got a pretty cheap deal, but I thought he wouldn't need it and it would be silly...but I should have known he'd try and steal her ball at every chance he could! ARG!

Soccer Girl!

Today was Sophia's first day of soccer camp. She has been so excited but was still a bit shy and hard to warm up, but eventually she did! Her coach is adorable and British and is very good at working with little people. We look forward to the week of fun!

More Pool Pics

let's hit some waves, Mommy
Massimo and Sophia splashing away

my little poser!

Baby Francesca basking in the sun!

Leo post throw! That kid loves to throw the ball!

We hit the pool a few days in a row last week. Since Charlie was out of town it was the perfect end to our day...pool, shower at the pool, quick dinner and early bed! Woo hoo! Julie met us out two of the nights so we decided to hit two different pools! Here are some of the cute shots from last week! We love the pool!

Skating Sweetheart

ready to roll!
what you mean it's a problem to sit down in the middle of the rink?! Don't you see how cute I am??

Dancin' Machine!

falling down stinks!

back up and at 'em!

Sophia has been begging to go to Toddler Skate recently, so we hit the rink! She insists on wearing the fast skates now and is doing okay. She falls a lot, but I have to give it to her, because she really does try and try again. She was much better this time than last, so it just takes practice! Leo enjoyed running around and chasing the disco lights. It was way fun!