Guess who's...

Riding a bike...

WITHOUT training wheels!!!!

Go Dillon!

I'm so proud of my big boy. Last week I decided it was time to try, so I put on my running shoes and we headed out. It didn't take him long at all--maybe 20 minutes--of me running next to him and then he just took off! I expected a lot more whining in the process. When he'd lose his balance and run off into the grass he'd just start laughing. He's still a little wobbly on the starts, but all in all, doing a great job. I love you Dill. You're such a cool kid! Just about ready for Kindergarten if you ask me!!!

Richelle Part 4: Arboretum and other fun

We snagged a couple free passes from the library and hit the Morton Arboretum while Richelle was in town. They had finger paints set up for the kids. Pretty messy, but an awesome aunt jumped right in!

Trying to cool off in the water

Probably the favorite part for everyone was the tram tour around part of the grounds. The moving air was nice on the super hot day and the boys thought we were on some kind of train so of course they were in heaven. It was a nice way to see a lot of the Arboretum in a short amount of time.

After the Arboretum we went to Naf Naf--a really yummy middle eastern restaurant--and then Red Mango for yummy natural frozen yogurt! Probably the best food we had while she was here. Sorry no pics to show the yummy food.

I also failed to mention our outing with Richelle to Hinsdale (neighboring village) for a family fun day. Dillon loved the big blow ups. And he went home with a really cool shark tattoo too! (notice the red face---it was toasty!)

Richelle is so great and my boys really loved having their aunt in our home. This picture of Wesley and her is so sweet. Thanks so much for coming sis. We miss you already!

Richelle Part 3: The Beach

We ventured into the city to North Ave Beach with Richelle. It's always so fun be in the middle of the city and the beach at the same time. We love Chicago!

The water was freezing, but somehow it didn't stop us. (But notice I'm only in up to my calves!)

I couldn't believe Wesley was brave enough to pour it on his head! I wish this wasn't crooked, cause I think it's a cool pic of Richelle soaking up the sun and enjoying a phone conversation.

City boys

Dillon loves the water

Squeezes from my sweet Wesley! Beach days are always exhausting, but I think we all had a good time. Thanks for motivating us to do it Shell.

Richelle Part 2: Fouth of July

On the 4th of July we went to church and snuck in quick naps before going to a BBQ/Greek party thrown by a co-worker. The food was yummy and it was fun to see some of the people with whom Aaron works. They had two whole lambs roasting---tongues hanging out and all. It was pretty cool. Just as we left the party it started to rain but stopped by the time we got to the fireworks---perfect timing on our part! Here's the crew walking to meet up with friends for the firework show. Me and my cute hubby

The fam

My beautiful sister

This is Dillon with Selma, his adopted aunt, watching a neighboring show while we waited for ours to start. Watching the show with Aunt Shelly

Wesley kept pointing to the fireworks and yelling, "I love THAT one!"

Richelle Part 1: Taste of Chicago

My sister Richelle made a last minute decision to join us for the 4th of July. The first of many fun outings was to the Taste of Chicago. Aaron stayed home to work and let Wesley sleep so it was just the three of us. Dillon always loves when he's the only kid around to give attention to. Plus, we got to ride the train, which is always a treat.

This was a cute little fountain just to the south of the Art Museum near Grant Park Me and my boy on the carousel

A nice balloon artist handed these balloons to Dillon. I love this picture of Dillon and his aunt.

Happy boy, enjoying a treat by Buckingham Fountain

It was sooo hot--the watermelon Italian Ice was a lifesaver.

Buckingham fountain and a fun view of the South Loop

We wore him out---Dillon crashed on the train ride home.

Celebrating #2

On Wesley's birthday we went to 2 Toots Grill. Daddy's train pulled up just in time.

They brought out dinner and later the birthday cupcake on the train.

Wesley knew just what to do. He blew out the candle the second they put it in front of him.

Afterward, he opened his presents.

He was so cute tearing off each little piece of wrapping---he loved it!

And he loved all his presents. Both grandparents nailed it!

That weekend we had friends over for some birthday cake.

Happy Birthday Wesley. We love you!