Weekend in Photos: An All Kids Weekend

I had the kids all to myself this weekend, and I decided I'd test my Mom skills by taking them to places we've never been before. First up - Governor's Island. Or in our case, all the playgrounds that distracted us from even getting on the ferry to Governors Island. The only thing that took Griff away from this awesome "spiderweb" contraption was the Ample Hills Ice Cream stand. Then, just before we got to the ferry dock, with chocolate ice cream dripping down his chin and arms, we passed the most incredible water playground - "The Water Lab." As soon as we laid eyes on this magical spot, the ferry didn't stand a chance. We were there for hours & I already can't wait to go back. 

We also hung out under the Manhattan Bridge, threw rocks into the water & played at the nearby playground. New playgrounds are like new little worlds, and I get so stupidly happy seeing Griffin explore these new-to-him spaces. 

At the end of one day, while enjoying his good boy treat (the carrot I dangle in front of him all day long), he says, "Mommy take a picture of my mad face" (above) and I say, "Okay, but now show me your happy face." (below)

Mommy had both mad & happy faces this weekend too. They looked just like this.

Sorry I didn't take any pics of you, Louise. Mommy loves you for being so portable & easy-going :)

Brother Sister (Quick) Hug

The other evening, we returned home from an early bird dinner, and Griffin surprised us by asking if he could hold Louise. We said 'Of course!' and quickly put them both on the couch, where he sweetly embraced her & gave her a little kiss on the head. Our hearts burst. Not ten seconds later, he says, "Okay, I'm done." 

Fleeting, but precious. :)

Girls Weekend

I had Louise all to myself this past weekend, and it was such a treat. The heat wave finally broke (thank goodness!) so we went for a few longs walks - in Prospect Park and in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. I also took her into the pool for the first time! I forgot how noisy and bustling indoor pools can be - especially at open swim times, I guess. She had on her serious face, so we sat on the edge of the pool observing all the kids splashing and laughing. I eventually got in with her & she didn't totally hate it - a success I think! I have to say, I think 6 months might be my favorite age. I think I say that at every stage, but right now, there's no talking back, she's got pretty easy food requirements, and she loves  smiling. In some ways, it feels like she was born yesterday & I was pinching myself that she was here and that she was a she! But now of course I can't imagine life without miss Louise. I love this little big girl.

Outdoor Products Bag

Now that I'm back in the studio pretty consistently, I'm carrying a ton of stuff back & forth every day. I'm currently using my trusty L.L. Bean bag (which I usually use at the beach), but I've started to search around for something just as durable with a bit more of an urban feel & multiple compartments or pockets to keep things from getting lost in the boat tote abyss. While these wouldn't solve the problem, I'm totally loving these Outdoor Products bags. The construction and colors are perfect. But, sadly, I think my quest for the work bag continues.

[images courtesy of Opening Ceremony]

Birthday With Dad

My dad and I share back to back birthdays - the truest birthday gift of any measure, of which I've only realized as I've gotten older. We've always shared a cake and opened gifts together. Every birthday photo is of the two of us. As we got older, a whole weekend has been planned around it, months in advance so the whole family could be together. My birthday celebration was our birthday celebration - and it didn't get much better than that. Today is my second birthday without him, and it still just doesn't feel right to celebrate without him. I know I'll get there, but for now, I'll leave the blowing out of candles to Griffin, who is more than happy to take over :)

Naturally Dyed Totes from More & Co.

My birthday is coming up, and I'm going against the oldest rule in the book and buying myself something: This naturally dyed tote bag from More & Co., based in Portland Maine. Beautiful & useful will always be my favorite combo. Add Maine to that and there's no decision making. It's just done.

I went for the peach one. Love.

[photos courtesy of More & Co.]

Swedish Egg Candle

John's Swedish cousin Anna makes the most beautiful candles and brought us this one as a gift when she came to visit. It's is about 5" tall and feels so smooth & weighty - I'd imagine what an ostrich egg or even a little dinosaur egg would feel like. I absolutely love it. She says it will burn for about 50-60 hours! I feel like I'm going to treat it like paper goods and never want to use it. But she says it's better to use it :)