4th Annual NY trip

After our week at the river, we had a week at home- with VBS in the evenings.

Its become tradition for Mike to play drums.  This year I joined him as a "guide" for Lily's class, while Ben went to nursery.  It was truly one of my favorite weeks of the summer.  I have dropped back on activities, by choice, since Ben was born & felt like it was time to step it up again (hopefully something that continues into fall).  Lily's little class and group of friends were just so dear.  It was such a blessing to spend the week with them and worship together with everyone nightly.  VBS has become one of my favorite weeks of the year.  

We left after Mike's work the next eve for our annual NY trip.  I've discovered that I prefer the drive in the evenings/nights.  Thankfully, my chauffeur obliges me.  With a flight delay for one family, these four tried to keep the mischief to a minimal.

The weather was perfect mix of warm and cool.

Walks along the aquaduct are a highlight each year.

 Time in the pool is another highlight!
Peter & Bennett

 Charlotte

 The trip always falls near Lily's birthday and we are happy to celebrate her!

 Girls Table!

 Beautiful, Boys!

 A big number 7 on that cake- its getting real!  These kids are growing up!

 A snorkel set from Uncle Matt and Aunt Carrie :)

 We went to Church with M& C on Sunday morning, took family pics and then went out for a sail on a Tall Ship.  We left from Battery Park & sailed around the Statue of Liberty.

We had a lot to celebrate!  The sailing occasion was Pop's birthday!  That night we celebrated Goo & Pop's 45th wedding anniversary with dinner poolside.  Uncle Matt is a fantastic cook!  On the kids' menu were "squids"- hotdogs w noodles. :)

 After dinner, we celebrated Tom's birthday, actually ON his birthday! :)

 An evening swim

 Another day in the pool- even Goo got in on the game! :)  

We wouldn't be able to finish out our time without fireworks in the front year! 

Each year Matt & Carrie do an incredible job of hosting us, all while having worked, prepared, then parenting, taking us on fun activities, cooking, and a "host" of other things!  I truly feel like I've had a vacation when I leave and reality comes hard afterwards.
We were quite spoiled by all of the vacationing and dual parenting to start the summer!