Fun indoors...

The weather around town has been pretty dreary as of late. Lots of iced over snow, slush and most indoor joints need serious disinfection. So, we've found that staying at home and getting creative with what we have available often makes for the most fun--and memorable moments for us as parents--and for our kiddies. The royal bunch have been actively redecorating all the rooms with their many toys and books. We've constructed some interesting tunnels and forts to continue our focus on physical activity, muscle strengthening and hand-eye coordination activities, and have also given some additional attention to nutrition. You'll note the interesting video and photo of Alec's first experience with a banana--all to himself, below. :)

Prince Alec at play...so adorable!

"Are you lookin' at me...??"

Prince Aramis at rest....

Princes Abigail gives a quick half-smile....

The kids tackle new forts and tunnels...

Daddy stuck in a tunnel.... :( Alec lends a hand by throwing balls at his head! :)

And finally, Alec's encounter with a yummy banana!!

Kids being kids.....

After a lovely holiday and vacation, we're back to our typical routines. 2009 has started off as a much better year. King Tony is busily preparing for his first trial of the year, Queen Wendy just completed her first magazine cover story to appear in February and will launch her new business later this month. Princess Abigail is back in school, running everywhere and turning into a real 'chatty Cathy.' The twin princes are actively using sign language--although both enjoy talking a lot too. Alec's favorite thing to say is 'thank you' (love it!) while Aramis prefers 'eggs!' :) We will also soon welcome our new au pair, Sara-- a beautiful girl who is leaving her family and her Costa Rican home--to experience New England and all that it offers. Amid all the activity that surrounds them, our kids find ways to appropriately distract and drag us into childhood every chance they get. We've again become fans of puzzles and nursery rhymes, PlayDoh and flash cards and are thankful every day for our babies. Simply put, they make life better in so many ways--although never ask us if we feel this way when we're sleep deprived. You'll most assuredly get a different answer. :)

Here are our kids--just being kids.

"Sibling Wrestlemania - Part II"

Tunnels and Forts--what more could a boy want?

Birthdays and First Timers....

King Tony turns 39 today. It's a pretty big milestone as it represents the final chapter of one's 'thirties.' Although, Tony has the formula right. He's successful, handsome, strapping--even with the newly emerging gray hairs. He's a business owner, father, husband, brother, brother-in-law, volunteer, Trustee, Board member, editor and good friend. That's a big load to carry--and fortunately for us--he carries it well. Today also marks another major milesone in that our three munchkins were taken to a local kids hair salon to get their first haircuts! We figured Abby and Alec would do okay, but Aramis just HATES being manhandled. No surprises here--the photos tell all. Although, everyone now has a neat, clean hairdo to start off 2009. Even Tony went in to his barber for a trim before his birthday celebration commences later this evening. Now...all we have to do is figure out when Wendy can sneak out for a haircut!! :) Happy New Year!!

Alec sits for his cut as if he's been doing it for years...What a pro!!

He's such a big boy!!

Then, there's Aramis...who doesn't want anything to do with combs, scissors or drapes!

"Ack, don't touch me--don't comb my hair--I'm a boy and I like being messy!!"

"Oh the injustice of it all--stop, stop, stop manhandling me!!"

"I'm done.--thank goodness. Like my angled bangs??"