Germs begone!

Okay, so we are finally mostly healthy around here (Matt is still battling his ever present cough, and Clara has a bit of a runny nose). After my bronchitis, Lucy ended up coming down with pneumonia (poor dear- she was so lethargic), and Clara got an ear infection. After those cleared up we had a bit of a breather, and then new colds, a stomach bug, and conjunctivitis for Clara and me. We seriously need a break, here!

We enjoyed some special times with my family during our healthy days, including a wonderful time up at a friend's cottage. We only see my sister and her crew once a year, so our time with them is especially precious. The 4 kids really got along well, and it was so much fun seeing them interact and play.

Mimi and Papa Jack with all 4 grandkids (Caitlin is due with #5 in late Oct- a girl!)

Everyone together! Matt drove up to join us for the day, even though he was still feeling pretty sick. Go family loyalty!

One of our canoe trips. Sam and Lucy each had a turn in kayaks by themselves too.

It's a little dark, but I love Clara's expression and Lucy's dance moves. It reflects a common dynamic for them (Lucy as entertainer and Clara as admirer).

Some sister love.

Clara is really coming into her own- it's amazing. She has tons of new words, understands most everything we say, and makes and executes plans. New words include: Mimi, Papa Jack ("patchk"), dress, book, phone ("boh"), yes, no, more (usually shouted, like "maahh!"), swings, underdog ("uh-duh"), grapes ("eps"), shoes, and many more. And she can point to all sorts of body parts, on her and on us. She loves to be held and stroked- our little kitty cat.

Lucy is so much fun too. She seems much older than 4. She likes knowing what will happen from day to day, and making plans, especially play dates with friends or family. She's really into drawing pictures of us and writing the names of everyone in our family.  She is so spirited and loves laughing and playing. She's also very logical, and thinks things through. She asks questions like, "when I'm 100, how old will Clara be?" and "why do the peepers only come out when it's dark", and many more.