Busy day today.

I took this photo at the end of the day while we sat out on the front porch. I just love the way Samuel is grabbing Kei’s finger and looking at the camera. So cute!

It started with a trip to the Nike employee store courtesy of some friends who set us up with passes. I wanted to get Thomas some sandles but I think we were a little late in teh season. Instead we managed to spend way too much money on other things, constantly justifying it with the mantra that we are saving money in the long run. I was actually more restrained than I have been in past visits. It may have something to do with the fact that I have no income for the next four months and we just spent a few thousand on plane tickets to Australia (don’t even get me started on the renovation). I bought some pants, t-shirts and a hoodie. A great Mummy uniform for the next few months. Kei stocked up on grey t-shirts and a variety of shorts and sports socks. I think we are moving toward middle age.

We got home just in time for me to attend a baby shower for my friend Jennifer who is due in about eight weeks. Her mum hosted the shower and I have honestly never attended one that was more relaxing and fun for the people in attendance. Sure, we played some games but they all had fun prizes and we were encouraged to give ourselves footbaths and hand massages, all while enjoying the views of the surrounding golfcourse from the sunny balcony.

I took Samuel with me and only saw him for a brief period when he needed to be fed. This period when people like to hold the baby is short lived. I definitely have to make the most of it. It disappears quickly when the poops start to smell and baby would rather be played with than fall asleep peacefully in your arms.

Kei spent the afternoon with Thomas at the park. They had a good time but I did get a message on my phone at aout 4pm from a little boy whining “Mummy, I want some mi-i-ilk.” The cute thing wa that he didn’t know he was leaving a message so when Kei told him to say goodbye he said “but she isn’t talking to me yet!”

The evening was a little tougher with a lot of whining and some resistance to bed despite Thomas skipping his nap. Every little thing feels like a struggle right now. I think this is what they call the terrible twos but if this is as bad as it gets then I’ll take. Please let this be as bad as it gets…

Week one of The Ishidas trying to spend more time in nature. We went to the Bybee wetlands again – quick, easy and close to home.

As always we came prepared with snacks and water but unfotunately not prepared for the millions of mosquitos who were enjoying the stagnant water and feeding on sightseers. Mosquitos are usually attracted to Kei which is good for me as I am usually spared. Not this time though. Either there were just too many mossies to enjoy a full meal from just one person or they are attracted to the smell of breast milk, because I was bitten by at least five and caught about 15 others in the act.

Thankfully Samuel was spared and we were able to enjoy at least some of the wildlife on display before heading home. I didn’t take my zoom lens so I’ll spare you my photos of really tiny turtles and waterbirds sitting on logs. Instead I’ll share this picture of Kei unsuccessfully trying to point out a Heron to Thomas. He also couldn’t see the turtle.

Nothing quite as beautiful as rose season in Portland. Apparently the Northwest climate is perfect. Makes me almost appreciate all the rain we’ve been having. Almost.

I just love this photo of my boys – although Samuel looks a little freaked out.

Thomas loves his little brother. So glad I could capture this moment. I swear I didn’t even set it up. It just happened.

I suspect this may be part of the reason he’s not sleeping well at night. Samuel was supposed to be having some tummy time but about 2 minutes into it he fell fast asleep. Sometimes I struggle to keep him awake during the day but apparently at 4am it’s party time!

“Horsing Around”. Thomas has a dinosaur book (a Dr. Seuss one) that explains the traits of some of the Dinosuars. Apparently the Iguanadon liked to attack people with its thumbs so lately Kei has been coming after Thomas with a cry of “I’ll Iguanadon You!” Much laughter and fun follows. Unfortunately it doesn’t do a whole lot to wind Thomas down before bed.

A summer’s day at the rose garden in our local park. I just love the energy of this place when the weather gets warm. This photo can only portray a little of what was going on – wedding photos, families having fun, dogs running through the fountain, a guy filming on an old video camera and this random bike just sitting in the middle of the space and waiting for its photo to be taken.

It’s been a while since I got a good swing shot. And even longer since I got one with Thomas doing his “cheese” face. Took this one at our regular pot luck night at the house of our friends Warren and Michelle. Their son Colson has the BEST backyard setup. I dream of a yard like theirs. Cool play equipment, a little bit of grass and a nice relaxing paved area where Mum can sit back on a warm summer day and just watch the kids play and read a magazine. We’re working on it.

I have so many photos of Kei and Thomas in this very same postion from when Thomas was a baby. Good to see the tradition is continuing.