Summer fun

We've had a fantastic summer, and I can't believe it is winding down. Last week, Katherine started preschool, two mornings a week, so we're pretty much in autumn mode. We're already nostalgic about the fun times we've had this summer.

Katherine turned 2 on July 5th, and celebrated like every two-year old would want...a day of new toys, balloons, and cake. And some attention too. Katherine had two sets of grandparents in town to celebrate, and we all enjoyed great meals together and a trip to the blueberry farm down the street. Katherine never was able to keep any of the blueberries in her own bucket...they all were gobbled up instantly.

Katherine's cake-eating technique is consistent.

Our big family vacation was in Stone Harbor, NJ. It's been a few years since we've been to the Jersey shore, so it was especially great to have my huge extended family meet Katherine for the first time. She had a great time, and loved that ice cream was a nearly nightly treat.

Katherine and Daddy getting a kick out the monkeys at the (free!) Cape May Zoo...highly recommended!

Chocolate chip pancakes at the famous Uncle Bill's.

Family photo op at the beach pavilion where John and I tied the knot almost 7 years ago.

On the drive back home, we stopped at the National Zoo to feed Katherine's elephant obsession.

Katherine likes to line up her car collection in a very specific way.
Pants - NO!
Galoshes - YES!!

First day of preschool, with lunchbox in hand!