Time has been flying and we cannot believe it's already nearing the end of June! We were especially excited, yesterday, when Uncle Joe and Aunt Carla McLernan went out of their way to come visit us, as they traveled down from Philadelphia (for Great-Uncle Bob and Great-Aunt Jean's 50th Wedding Anniversary) back to Florida. We had a wonderful visit. The girls thought they were "really fun people" and had a blast when Uncle Joe jumped on the trampoline with them. Aiden was right at home in Aunt Carla's arms, and Kona enjoyed all the extra attention.
Girls' Night (+ Aiden) was a success. We watched one too many movies, ate far too many snacks, and stayed up way too late. The next day everyone needed naps--Clyde, after all night on duty, and the rest of us from partying too hard. Clyde, exhausted from working 24 hours and excited to be home with his family, was only slightly disheartened when Lauren asked Clyde when he had duty again.
For Father's Day, we made chocolate and peanut butter chip pancakes for breakfast. The girls made cards for Dad, with Lauren making an extra on behalf of Aiden, and Ciala taking the time to fashion one to represent Kona's daughterly love. Ciala also made oatmeal cookies with walnuts, just for Dad. Lauren made Dad his own iPad (he had bought one for me last week, so she wanted him to have his own!).
We decided on Family game night to keep the Father's Day party going. One of our favorite things to do for "Family Game Night" is to play Clue. For me, it is also nostalgic, as it is one of the games I most remember my family playing for "Family Game Night" when I was growing up. Ciala is especially methodical at her investigating, and is always up for a round. Lauren has fun, but does not embrace the note-taking, as she is a spontaneous girl. Thus, she prefers to trust her hunches as she predicts whodunit. Often times, she teams up with her Dad, and we all try to remind her not to say too much (and give away her info). It's a blast.
Another girlhood activity the girls have allowed me to share with them is making jewelry. Courtesy of Mom Lyons, we have a beautiful variety of beads and supplies, and love to make necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and such. The girls decided to make a few items for cousin Claire ("Peanut") for her 4th birthday, so we slipped it inside her little purse and sent it on to Colorado. Happy Birthday, Claire!
Friday night Mom and Dad Lyons are coming through on their way back from Philadelphia (50th Wedding Anniversary Uncle Bob & Aunt Jean McLernan), and Pittsburgh (we love you, Grandma & Grandpap Valentine!). Ciala's hoping they'll be up for a round or two of Clue!
Ciala, Uncle Joe, Aiden (who would not be still), Aunt Carla, and Lauren.
Professional jewelers at work.
The scene is set... Who killed Mr. Boddy?
Team Clyde-Clyde-Lauren consults their notes before making a prediction.
Ciala blows on the die, hoping for a "6".
Aiden is fascinated by his Great-Aunt's and Great-Uncle's hands.
