MSI

Took the littles to the Museum of Science and Industry to play. The electric trains are always fun to watch. Not sure if Rosie is watching trains or making faces on the glass. 

Saw the big tractor.

Gus wanted a pic by the combine. He had a great time, as you can tell by his face. :)

My fave pic is this taken after we arrived at our car. It was lightly raining as we walked out the door and in the three minutes it took to get to the car, it started pouring. We were all wet rats but it was an adventure. 

Gus goes to school

Gus had a great first day of school. He was excited to go. He picked out his outfit to wear. He painted a picture and stamped on paper. That's about all I know. :) But he loved it!

Blaise was happy to have a brother at school. See how he's making a thumbs up? He's got this totally under control. 

On the school steps with his little Curious George backpack. Blaise held his hand to go in and walked him to his classroom. He helped Gus put on his indoor slippers and put away his lunchbox. Awwww. Such a good "Captain of the kids."

After school we went to our favorite treat spot for the big banana split. 

Rosie of course got in on the action!

Can't wait to hear what day 2 brings!

This one's for you, Gus

Tomorrow is this guy's first day of school. 

GUS! 

You're a lively one. Dad had the intuition to choose your name, Augustine, and has it ever been appropriate. 

We call you Happy Gus, because you're always smiling. You're outgoing and up for fun, which wins you friends and admirers. 

Dad and I admire this about you, since we wish we had that "gene."  We think we know where it came from. 

You do things your own way and in your own time. That is good. We are proud of you and enjoy watching you grow. 

You've had ups and downs. When you were most down, God was by your side. Our special extended family was, too. You persisted. 

Soon you were back on your feet and ready for more. You aren't scared of pain and will try anything. Dad and I think maybe you should try football.

Our love follows you tomorrow and every day, Gus. Keep that spirit! Our prayer for you is that Mary, who you love, is always there by your side, even when we are not. 

And as Funny Uncle Danny told you, there are two things to remember at school:

1. Listen to your teacher

2. Make as many friends as you can

You should do just fine. 

Xo

Ohio

Had a great whirlwind weekend in Ohio. Did the usual Chik-fil-a stop, Gus had a milkshake because it was his feast day! :) St Augustine, bless this little guy!

Blaise reads to Rosie in the playground. Hah! 

We showed two movies along the way and offered an unlimited buffet of junk food. Rosie's never looked so happy in her car seat, and for the first time ever she didn't scream for our entire trip!

MarMar's house. Chillaxin on the deck. 

Dining al fresco

Skyline chili the next day for lunch. Gus got a coney. He was CRAZY excited!!

We visited Tommy's boxing coach in Columbus, then went to Papa Clark's for dinner. Blaise looked so cute in this hat of Papa's. 

Gus spilled his entire glass of iced tea on his shirt, but nothing gets Happy Gus down. 

The next morning we went to the newly renovated chapel at UD for Mass. 

Mary and Rosie with Mary and roses. 

We had a special trip to Ohio!

Art

One big bug

The kids found a cicada on our back deck and had to go all Wild Kratts on it. 

I would not get any closer to photograph it. These bugs are what nightmares are made of. "Touch him Rosie. He won't hurt you. He's such a cute little guy."

I'm going back inside now. Eek!

Blaise's first day

Second grade, here he comes! It was a beautiful day. Blaise was excited to go back and see his friends. It is a big year for him with his First Holy Communion. 

Tommy scoffed at the colorful outfit a bit, but he's my son after all :)

Rosebud, won't you ever smile for a picture? 😐

Gus starts in a week!