baby you can drive my car

beach bums

we spent the weekend enjoying the sun, surf and sand on Wrightsville Beach.  both girls loved playing in the sand and splashing in the ocean.  and amazingly, both mostly behaved and slept awesomely.  though it's definitely a 'trip' when you bring the kids v. a true vacation without kids, as illustrated by kai pulling his hair out, and a mischievous Ru getting into a baggie of cheerios that was in the diaper bag.

P(arty)

for Luci's 4th bday, she had her classmates, some special friends and her cousin join her in making a craft at a local craft studio, Bull City Crafts.  it was a fun time, even though after only 5 minutes of painting, Luci declared herself done.  Somehow we survived the remaining 1 hr and 25 minutes with 15 children - the power of snacks and cupcakes!

fantastic four

On July 6th, Luciana turned the ripe old age of 4.  I can't believe how big my little girl has gotten.  It's definitely bittersweet.  She had a great day with family and enjoyed the gifts she received - only one of which requires batteries!  Over pizza that night I asked Kai and my parents to tell Luci one thing they loved most about her - their responses were - her ability to have fun in any situation, her imagination and her sweet and caring heart.  My favorite quality about Looch is that she always appreciates the little things in life. I am proud to have a daughter who embodies all the characteristics that I strive to have.

high tea at the carolina inn

to celebrate Luciana's last day of 3 and as a mother's day gift to my own wonderful mother, Luciana, my mom and myself indulged in high tea at the Carolina Inn.  it was a very nice experience and it gave us an excuse to dress up, and act like the fine ladies that we are ;)  Luci was served pink lemonade, PB&Js with the crusts got off and chocolate chip cookies - she loved having her own little teapot and tea cup.  She also tried almost everything else, including the delicious scones, blueberry toast, chocolate covered strawberries and pink shortbread cookies. she behaved very well, even let me talk in a phony British accent and say 'oh darling' a lot, though there was a brief period (most likely due to a sugar rush!) of running around and jumping on the couches and cushions, but hey you are only 3 once.