Lazy summer days

I've been quiet on here lately. We're deep in the heart of summer - long, hot, sunny days where we try to squeeze in as much fun as possible, soaking up every second to make it through an impossibly long winter.

Mia is loving summer. This little blondie probably should have been born to surfers or year round beach people. We've had so much fun with her this summer. In spite of the tantrums and angry two year old drama, Mia has become a fun little person. Gone is the baby from last summer, toddling through the sand or timidly navigating the playground. Now, we have a conversation carrying kid who tackles the play equipment with determination and who plows through the waves, laughing as the surf knocks her down. She's been to the beach numerous times, the lake, Boston, wave pools, amusement parks, playgrounds, farms, etc. And the biggest summer news for this little one? Mia is potty trained. Started on 7/1 and was in "big girl undies" from 7/5 on. It's so fun to watch her master something and see her beam in pride.

I got a chance to have one of those proud mommy moments the other day. Auntie Katie took Mia on a day of fun - lunch out, a playdate at the park and swimming at her condo. On the drive home, she told me that Mia piped up from the back unprompted, "thank you for taking me to your house. I had a fun time today." How gratifying to know that she is becoming a polite, respectful child who deep down knows how lucky she is.

Ellie is doing well too! Miss E is almost 6 months old - time is flying yet again. She's been rolling belly to back since 4.5 months and now rolls back to belly. She's trying to get up on her hands and knees and has figured out how to propel herself forward for toys. She tried food for the first time the other night (sweet peas - yum) and rather than gag or spit it out, she guided the second spoonful directly into her waiting mouth. Maybe Ellie will be my good eater?! She still as sweet as can be, although she's fussier now than ever before. We're blaming teething and the "I'm so close to sitting/moving/doing anything independently but I can't" blues.

We've got about 5 more weeks until school starts for Mia. I can't believe I'm sending her to school. I woke up last night in a panic, wondering if she'd know how to make friends or if she'd feel sad at school. Maybe it's time to cut the cord and all, but we've been a pretty tight twosome for the past 2.5 years. It's hard to let her go. She is so excited and can't wait...and truthfully, it's only 2.25 hours, twice a week. I think I can handle it.

Hope you're all enjoying your summer!