We're Baaack!

We are back from our incredible trip to China! And although we have lots of stories and lots of pictures to share, it will be a while before we are able to get things posted. After two weeks away from Max, I am finding it difficult to let him go - even for bedtime. We cannot adequately express our gratitude to Mimi and Babba for taking care of our boy! He had such a good time that I don't think he even had a chance to miss us. Of course, a daily dose of ice cream does wonders for homesickness! We are glad to be reunited!

Settled In

Things I love about our new home:

1. Looking out the row of kitchen windows when we eat and when I wash dishes.

2. Having a laundry room on the same floor as all the laundry (i.e. the bedrooms).

3. A sprinkler system to make the yard very green (even if it is not yet landscaped).

4. The third floor with enough room for the most active toddler on a rainy day.

5. Finally determining Frank's true shade. He is "Provincial" just like our hardwoods. It is a perfect match!

Things Max loves about our new home:

1. Two staircases - one for up and one for down.

2. The front loading washer and dryer so he can watch Pelt "go round and round!"

3. The huge brick patio that is perfect for riding toys, soccer goals, and running in circles.

4. Going "up high" to the third floor that is his domain.

5. Chasing Frank when he escapes from the house on a frequent basis, "Ank got out! Get Ank! Go back inside, Ank!"

The few times we have ridden past our old house Max will point and say, "That my old home". When we drive up to our new house, Max says "There's my house! Mama, Dada and Max live there!" It seems to be a winner!

End of an Era

The first time Christina came to visit her sister (and us) at Furman, she was only 9 years old. This weekend it was her turn to graduate from Furman, thus marking the end of an era. We were so lucky to have her in Greenville for four years, partly to make up for her sister's ridiculous decision to live on the opposite side of the country and partly because we adore her, too. And even though Laura and the other roomies could not join us for the big event, they were there in pictures, in text messages and in spirit.

Christina's graduation also marked the end of Dr. Shi's reign at Furman. So few students truly know their college president like we did (even exchanging a kiss with him at my own graduation) so it seemed fitting to be present for his final commencement as well. To both of you, go forth and sing songs....or whatever it was that your graduation speaker was trying to say in verse. It's been a great ride.

Mommy's Perfect Gift

Your smile lights up my life.

Thank you for making me a mother.

Max's Derby Party

After being excluded from the Derby and spending the day with his grandparents, Max decided to host his own soiree, complete with hats!

Who needs horses to have a good time?

Win, Place, Show

When attending the Kentucky Derby, one might assume that the horses take center stage at Churchill Downs....

I disagree. The true winner at the Derby is always fashion.

This year, the weather presented some interesting fashion challenges. Intermittent rain showers provoked some people to sport:

Coordinating Rain Boots

The ever popular trash bag combo

And yet, Courtney proves that it is still possible to look elegant while wearing a school-bus yellow poncho.

Others chose to protect their identities, like these women who are clearly enrolled in the Witness Protection Program

Pink is always in style...

For women AND men

But enough of the slow horses.

Here are my exacta box picks for the 136th Run for the Roses Fashion Walk:

WIN

(Did he fly all the way to Myrtle Beach to have that done?)

PLACE

(A giant bird is being strangled on her hat)

SHOW

(The ribbon helps hold the skunk in place)

This crowd definitely deserves an honorable mention

Oh...and there were horses there, too.

Derby Vacations planned and organized by "Ward's Wonderful Travels".

Trip features include: Personalized Breakfast, Transportation, Parking, Snacks and Food during the Races, Dinner and After-Party. Book yours today!