Back to normal - well, almost

It's been almost 2 months since Lera joined our crew, and we continue to be amazed at what a special little kid she is. She isn't growing much in size, but her language skills are growing so quickly! It is amazing to see. Her word list is now up to 43, and she's started using word combos like "ah wan" (I want), "ah neeya-neeya" (I need) and "ahm hungee" (I'm hungry). Okay, so her pronunciation isn't developing as fast as her vocabulary...but it is still fun to witness. It has also been a joy to introduce her to more family members and friends. (Including Grandma Hickey just this week!)

This is the last weekend of our summer - Kristin moves on to 1st grade at her new school, Aidan starts 3rd, and I'm increasing my work schedule. I must say I'm almost relieved to get back into a normal routine. But real 'normal' isn't here yet - we're hoping for that in about 5 weeks, when Russ' chemo will be behind him! (Two more treatments to go...fingers crossed we can stay flu-free around here.)

Here are a few pix of our past few weeks:

A & K went to a birthday party and came home with...two fish! Welcome Joey and Orangina to our gang

Lera's first road trip - to North Carolina for a fun weekend with some of the Hickeys

Lera loved the pontoon...

...but not the jet ski!

Cousins - Kristin, Lera, Anna

Nothing like a touch of home - she still loves this potty from Kaz (thanks, Jessica & Oxana!)

Aidan is a prince at his summer day camp's dance contest; they performed to "Kiss the Girl" from "The Little Mermaid." It was a stitch! (Kristin is on a photography kick these days - that's her thumb)

Another boating day at Brookville Lake near home - Aidy was excited to drive....

But "Ler-Bear" wasn't quite as thrilled.