Katy and Ryan in the Hot Tub

So, we just arrived home from a whirlwind visit to Alabama. It just wouldn't seem like the Fourth of July without a margarita on the lake.

Here's some images of Katy and Ryan, playing around in the hot tub, for your viewing pleasure.

And then the aftermath of all that activity. Both kids:

And both kids plus one big kid:

Fourth of July on Lake Martin

Images from this weekend's festivities at Mom and Dad's house on the lake.

As Brad would say, "Good times, good times!"

A simple request

Katy's new teacher at daycare had a simple request. "Please bring one small color photo of your child so that teachers can take it with them for field trips around town." I figured that it was a perfect opportunity to get out of trouble with Aunt Tracy and snap a couple of cute photos that show how she's grown recently.

Boy, was I mistaken. Yes, you can see how she's grown--into one of those "posing" children who is impossible to take photos of. She was insanely sassy during this little task.

Me: "Katy, smile a nice smile for Ms. Amy."
Result:


Me: "Not so big. Just a normal smile."
Result:


Me: "That's not a normal smile. You look angry."
Katy: "No, THIS is angry, Mommy."
Result:


Me: "Okay, you're right. Now try sweet and regular."
Katy: "Princess Aurora is sweet."
Result:

Me: "But I'm not interested in Princess Aurora. I'm interested in getting one decent photo of you so we can go get you ready for bed. Now, be serious. SMILE."
Result:

Me: "AAAArgh!"
Result:

Me: "Come on. We need to get this finished. Just one photo, please!"

Result:

Me: "KATY!! Stop it!
Katy: *laughing*

Result:

Me: "That's it. No book before bedtime if we can't get this photo taken."

Result:

Me: (exasperated) "Pleeeease!"
Katy: (gritting teeth and grinning cheesily) "'Okaaaaaaay"
Result:

So, there ya go....She's now five, going on 15.

I think we better hang on for a crazy ride w/ this kid!

Kasey's visit--Day 2 (DC)

Another great day, though the weather wasn't terribly cooperative. We visited the mall and all the monuments and then stopped by Rock Bottom for lunch. Lots of walking, lots of fun.