valentine's day

Joe is away for a ten days studying for the bar, so the boys and I fended for ourselves on this most commercial of 'holidays'. We did some painting, stuck lots of stickers, ate some candy.....life is good. Here are a few pictures from today. James has been practicing his wink, which leads to an awesome smarmy face. He also thought picking his nose for the camera was hilarious. E found my sunglasses this morning, and is in love with them. Good times were had by all.

well, he's not a southern boy...

overheard at brunch today following an attempt by the waiter to talk to the kids (who stared at him deadpan):

James: (slightly annoyed)was that guy trying to talk to us?
Joe: yes, he was
James: (sounding astonished) why?
Joe: to be friendly, I guess


Joe surprised us by coming down yesterday, so the kids are over the moon. We also went and got a bike (for me) and a trailer to haul the kids in. Joe has wanted to go on family rides for a while now.....so I guess we will be starting!

treading

It's been pretty hectic around here. The house is getting there. Lots left to do, but less than there was. We have had a gruesome bout of rotovirus, which knocked us out for a week. James started at the Waldorf school, and loves it (accepted! woot!). Joe is also moving down soon, which will be lovely!

christmas

here are a few pictures from this morning's festivities!

the great move

We have officially moved in, and are making leeway with the boxes. We got here just ahead of the storm that apparently swept the eastcoast, which was fortunate. The landscape is at some reststop in the Appalacian mountains, which were just stunning. I am really looking forward to camping and hiking this summer with the boys. Eliot and James are really enjoying having more space. Hide and seek has reached a whole new level (you can see E counting here). Overall, the adjustment is smoother than I anticipated!

okay, I was dishonest

I don't think you will mind though! Here are a few of the boys in their natural habitat, being thoroughly uncivilized. They are faster than I can focus, so excuse the blurriness.

pre-move glut

the boys both have pretty high fevers, so we had a quiet day. Thus, they were still enough for me to get a few pictures. This is likely all I will be able to get up before our move, so get your fill!