Mail call! So much build up, individual envelopes for each kid, a FaceTime call to Xanna for the grand opening, and inside were…things they forgot in Alaska! A single Lego piece for Holmes and hair bows for Meryl:)

Meryl is working on making lots of origami creatures to supply her upcoming origami shop. She gave two of them to the electricians today, so the shop may already be experiencing some supply chain challenges before opening.

Why were us parents having such a good time? Oh, because our dozen kids found a gravel pit just beyond our pizza patio table and decided to bury themselves in rocks.

These crafty kids totally conned Frank into their nighttime projects. And then we had to break up the sleepover party later on:)

The birthday party circuit continues! I’m still blown away by these wading pools at Seattle parks. They’re so cool!

And a caring big sister. (Holmes is fine, thankfully.)

Yet another week of summer camp complete! Meryl was in a Girls Rock Math camp last week, replete with several girl empowerment songs learned, a super long initially scary slide slid, and a ‘Girlafesto’ about being wise, able, and capable. Rock on, ladies!

Plus it was fun to drop Meryl off and pick her up in this old school turned community center. Best backpack hooks ever!

Every morning on our way to school, Holmes has to find ‘something’ to bring in the car. Inevitably, the entire kids corner of toys ends up in the car. The time of the tinker is upon us and it’s great to see him get lost in his own thoughts…except when we need to get out of the house!

We’re becoming a skateboarding family. Frank decided Meryl needed an early birthday gift…guised as an excuse to get a skateboard of his own:) Luckily, there are adult skateboarding camps so Frank can finally start his ‘Old Guys Skateboarding Club.’ I’m just hoping I can balance again on my college long board in the garage. Holmes is up next!