Rierson Cousins

This picture is from our dinner at Lindy's Landing for Chris' 39th birthday.  No picture of the birthday boy ... just this super cute cousin photo.

Mackenzie (5), Max (3) and Lauren (2)

"Two Cute" ... the dance class Lauren is in.

The first week of our Saturday morning dance class for Lauren, she sat on my lap and would NOT participate.  Really?  Is this my kid?  I decided to bring the miniature version of me with ... Mackenzie.  Lauren decided she would participate and then froze a little after getting out in front of all the parents watching.  Mackenzie and her friend Sienna (she is in Mac's class and her little sister Stella is in Lo's class) got out there and helped the 2 year olds out.  Lauren left and we praised her for her participation.  Let's hope she can start doing things without her big sister and her mom.  The first day of Kindergarten should be a lot of fun.

Lauren poses along the mirror as Miss Bridget takes attendance

Lauren is ready to go ... but as she checks out the audience, she may need some assistance from Mac

Mackenzie jumps in and holds Lauren's hand

Lauren is actually participating ... no smile or emotion would be shown ... she is SO her father

Using the shakers and moving around, she eventually cracks a smile and seems to enjoy the class

First Snow of 2012

It was inevitable that the snow would come at some point.  We've been lucky to have such a mild winter so far.  It just isn't winter in Chicago without snow and an extra long commute (as if the drive isn't long enough already).  The girls were so excited to put on the layers, get outside, and roll around in the white snow.  They went out when we got home and then again when Chris went out to use his new Binford 2000 snowblower.  Not sure who was more excited for the snow ... the girls or Chris. Ha!

Bundled up and ready to play ... did I mention there were blustery winds and the temp was about 20 degrees.

Mac and Lo play outside with the neighbor girls (Taylor, Paytyn, and Kiara)

Mackenzie prepares for a recital ...

Mackenzie took dance lessons two years ago then decided last year that she wanted to try gymnastics.  She loved both activities ... she was better at gymnastics, in my opinion ... but she chose to return to dance this year.  She is super excited because her "pre-ballet" class is performing to the song: Under the Sea (from the Little Mermaid - her favorite princess).  Their costumes are darling ... fish!  Here are some pictures from one class where they were learning/practicing the recital dance.

Mackenzie is in the HOT pink leotard

She really loves to dance and this routine is darling

Can't wait to see if these lessons pay off ... recital is in May

How our dog spends her day?

Most of you are aware that I was diagnosed with Vertigo on New Year's weekend after a week with an ear infection and the spins.  I spent three weeks off balance - LITERALLY.  During my week off of school, I noticed a pattern with our dog:
1. Wake up, have some water, go out and do my business
2. Go back to bed until the last person upstairs leaves then retreat to the downstairs bed
3. As soon as the sun makes it to the stairs ... move myself to the first step and lounge
Ahhh, the life of a dog!