Summer Update, a Bit of Everything

So I have a bunch of different things that I have wanted to write about over the past few days or weeks.  But it is summer and life has been very full.  Between swim team and my oldest daughter performing in the musical “Annie,” all my good intentions of blogging failed.  Like most summers, I am spending my time living life rather than documenting it.  But in an effort to catch up, here is a summer update post with some links, photos, and thoughts…

1. We went blueberry picking today. Temps in the high 90’s and low 100’s broke and so today’s high of 88 degrees felt cool enough to pick blueberries. It was a great afternoon and my sister snapped this amazing shot of Josie. Josie is now 6 months old, cute as pie, and the best baby in the universe (not that I’m biased or anything). What amazes me about this photo is that it just happened. We were sitting taking a break in the shade and my sister just took a few pictures. It may be one of the best baby photos I have ever seen of any of my kids and it was absolutely effortless. Sometimes things that should be easy are hard, and other times things that seem impossible (a great photo shoot of a baby!) are so easy.

2.  This past weekend, Gianna had her first real speaking/singing part as Molly in the musical “Annie.”  For the past several weeks I have seen very little of my little girl.  She has done a lot of growing up during this time.  She made new friends, learned all her lines, decided upon accessories for her costume, and even packed her own lunches.  She did all this without my help.  She didn’t need me in any of the practical ways that I’m used to her needing me.  I was overjoyed and a bit teary eyed about it all.

3.  When not at swimming practice or musical rehearsals, we have spent quite a few warm Saturdays at a small nearby lake.  I’ve let loose and gone wild–

4. What a difference a year makes.  This little boy was so sick last June.  He spent some time in CHOP, was failing to thrive, and we were on pins and needles with worry about his health.  A year later, he has gained 12 pounds, his health is MUCH improved, and he is enjoying the water.  Crazy how much can change in a year!

5.  Did you all see this great article in the New Yorker?  In case you missed it, it basically lets everyone know that American kids are spoiled rotten.  While 3 year olds in tribal cultures are learning how to yield a machete, teenagers in America don’t even know how to operate basic household appliances, like a dishwasher.  I guess it is complicated to pour in soap and push a button, right?  One benefit of having a large family is that the parents are forced to put the kids to work.

6.  A facebook friend linked to this story. In summary, a mother of six young kids (ages 2-11) ditched her Suburban for a crazy bike called a bakfiets, and now travels around Portland on the bike with all 6 of her kids.  She has lost weight and rid herself of depression, but she admits it isn’t for everyone.  I can’t decide if I think she is insane or I am inspired.  Probably a bit of both.  Anyone else think MaryAlice should take up biking as her new exclusive method of transportation with her crew?  h/t to my friend Alison for the link.

7.  And finally, one of the better articles I have read on the Health Care Ruling– A Vast New Taxing Power by the WSJ.