Los Robinsons

So, I was thinking about the things that have become apart of our routine since the Summer has rolled in and here they are-
The Robinsons' Summer-time Essentials:

1. These overalls

Because it is so dang hot outside! Rhett can wear these about 3 days in a row before they need a good wash.

2. Outdoor thermometer.

To remind us just how cruel the Texas heat can be. FYI- this reading was taken at 8:30 pm.

3. Baby pool.

Not just for socializing anymore.We give Rhett his baths here every night because..well, why not?

4. Watermelon

If you are ever in route from the Valley up Hwy 281, they run 2 bucks a piece.

It's our son's favorite teething toy and what we eat for snack, desert, and a side item about every meal :)

5. Picnic table - for meals.

Because who wants to eat that watermelon inside?

We certainly don't.

6.Anything patriotic.

I LOVE the 4th of July, so here is my effort at the loudest wreath I could put together :)

7. A nice, comfy bike.

So much quicker to get from point A to point B. Next buy is a trailer for my 8 month old companion.

8. And finally, The ol' baby-in-a-dancehall-mouthing-a-beer-bottle-with-daddy's-cowboy-hat picture.

Doesn't everyone have one of these?

Yay! I have been LONGING for this season-and it is finally here!
My summer "teaser" was Memorial day weekend when my family came in town for some fun at the park and our first dip into the springs. This is me- taking all precautions..lean back, legs cross, and the ol-pinch of the nose.

My sister Kate and I thought the kiddos would really enjoy getting in the baby pool version themselves- not so. They froze and cried the second they got in. Not even worth whipping out the camera :(

And alas, it was time to say goodbye to our beloved Nanny Fay. She was Rhett's nanny while I concluded my days as a School Psych. and a working mom. It was so sad to say goodbye. My first day back of work when I was not happy with our childcare arrangements-I sobbed and pleaded with God to bring us someone wonderful while I finished out my job- and HE DID! "Nanny Fay" loved our little Rhett as he were her own little grand baby.

She was his one-on-one caretaker- could not have asked for a better arrangemnt. Thank you God! It was a bitter sweet goodbye-sad to end our time with her- but I am so happy to finally be home full time with our little one and the ones to follow, (no I am not expecting...) .

And here is a wedding for the books. We were in Florida last week to watch my cousin Laurel walk down the aisle- a ceremony that literally took less than 60 seconds due to the inevitable rain and lightening (outdoor ceremony). The wedding went something like this "David do you take Laurel as your wife, to have and hold, in sickness and health, from this day forward?" David: "I do!" Laurel: "I do too" Priest: "Ok, exchange rings- kiss your bride- your married!" You'll see in the pictures to follow why.

That weekend was also a weekend of firsts for Rhett- first boat ride, beach trip...It's funny, those things did not occur to us until they were actually taking place. Porter and I had a few of these exchanges over the weekend: "Is this Rhett's first boat ride / beach trip? It is! Get the camera!"

Porter and Rhett loading on my Aunt's boat

Little cousins Ella and Savannah and I - while Rhett is just hating life in his lifejacket.

And this is Rhett loving life after the girls asked to take him into the cabin of the boat:

After taking that picture- I paused, and had an image of Spring Breaks to come for him, which made me kinda nervous.

Our boat captains..my cousin Shawn and his first-mate Porter.

My aunt was calling in the dolpins and it really worked--this was so neat!

We were very impressed!

Rhett was such a trooper with all the attention from his little cousins. Ella (not be confused with "Ellie"), really took to him: She would help prep a bottle, rinse his passy, and even sang a lullaby to help him nap!She was also very concerned about the amount of drool he would put out. So sweet.

So the morning of the wedding- we made a quick stop for Rhett's first beach trip-I was dying to take a dip in the ocean- you can't go to Fl. without getting in the water! Rhett agreed. Although, next time we won't take him when he's hungry- the poor child started eating sand and he went from a happy beach goer- to completely miserable!

So now for the wedding- Rhett and I pose at the site of the ceremony- just in case it was gonna rain- I wanted a couple shots for Laurel if we had to relocate.

"Tut-tut, it looks like rain..."

After this, lightening struck- and I took Rhett for a mad dash inside as the vows were being exchanged. And right behind me came the bride and guests- hysterical!