Split open and MELT

We're sorry that there haven't been any blog posts lately, but that doesn't mean we haven't had the batteries in our camera charged. Some things you've missed if you haven't been here: Jason's Boston Creme Pie for his birthday, Anya sitting up, Jack and his FUTBOL adventures, Lucia's tiger roar to protest her TWO ear infections, and everybody (including el perro Chaplin) playing in the leaves.

super-sized summer posting

Coming up to Labor day and, man, it feels like we've put an exclamation point on summer! The photos below are snippets from grandpa Meyler's great visit, a Brewers' game, Jack's b-day and b-day fiesta, first days of school for Jack and Lucia, as well as many sweet moments in between.

summer 2011

Summer's in full swing! We've celebrated Lucia's birthday; we enjoyed our block party; Tia Maggie and cousin Elke came out for a visit (and took more pictures than we did - see their blog on the right); we've gone to a couple farmers' markets; and we've been teaching Anya to smile, laugh, pull hair, and shake a rattle. Loads of fun, no?

pasándolo bien con Anya

Hola y Feliz Verano: Truth is that summer appeared for about two days and we haven't seen really warm and dry weather for weeks. Been having a good summer though: gymnastics, summer playground, kiddie pools, block party, birthday celebrations galore. Aunt Maggie's coming out with Elke before too long and we hope others will make the trip to see one sweet little Anya and her siblings. Enjoy the pics...

Welcome Baby Anya

Our beautiful little baby was born on Sunday the 17th. Some notes of interest:

1. We're surprised to say it's a GIRL! (Jack and Lucia were not surprised)
2. Name = Anya Louise (middle name is a homage most immediately to great-grandma meyler and grandma stanley)
3. Born 7lbs 14oz - just like Jack
4. Anya has adorably chubby cheeks - somewhat unlike Jack and Lucia
5. Anya has two very excited siblings who are proud to be big brother and big sister
6. Anya is now home
7. Anya has a tired mother who is doing well with the new addition
8. Anya has a tired father who is doing well with the new addition
9. Anya thanks you for your well wishes and hopes you enjoy the following pictures -

it's almost time for the new addition to our family

April has arrived with some lingering cool weather, but we'll take the sun when it pops out. Speaking of popping out, the little one in mama's belly has dropped into pole position and is getting close to making its appearance. Mom and dad are filled with that strange mixture of excitement and nervousness, while the kids are busy planning all the things that they will teach they baby such as: going potty, doing summersaults, to dance, and to go to sleep. Keep your celphones charged as we're expecting the new one any day now...

busy times...

We had some busy times during the holidays as we were with loving families, great food, gnomes, cookies, rescue animals and more. We also missed being with other friends and family that we love so dearly...