Seven months of this face

Baby Nico turns seven months. We are over the moon in love with this little peanut. His big jovial personality is infectious. Nico is on the move. If he can get his hands on it, it goes directly into his mouth. He can crawl anywhere backwards and sideways. It's super hysterical to watch. He has taken a real interest in baby yoga. Downward dog is his preferred pose. My daily dose of Nico is enough to make any hard day delightful. Love em.

*I hard a hard time editing down the photos. He's just too cute to not post them all.

My big boy started solid food today. 

Happy Graduation Day

Luca & Matteo graduated from early intervention today. Since the day we brought them home from the NICU, we've had PT, OT, and/or Speech therapy in our home each week. We've seen and met some of the very best in their field. I don't even want to imagine our life without their help over the years. Both Luca & Matteo had bilateral brain bleeds as infants. It has affected them each in different ways. We didn't know what delays they might have developmentally. Only time would tell. From being able to touch their hands at mid-line, to sensory processing, getting over oral aversions, anger management, feeling comfortable in their own skin, from high tone to low tone, and receptive language skills, we have seen them fight through their challenges and grow beyond my wildest imagination. They might not be at the same stage as other children their age starting school this year, but thankfully they will continue to receive accommodations in their special needs preschool program. We look forward to the future and we know it is oh so bright for these two stars. Happy graduation day my angels! I'm so proud of you.

Best places to splash around

The only way to survive east coast summers is pool-side. Joey says it's my job to find all the best splash pads, water parks, and pools in the city. 

Here's a list of our favs:

1) Yard's Park is located in the center of the Capitol Riverfront and was originally an annex of the Washington Navy Yard. My boys love the long shallow pool, water fall, and sprawling grass. I love it for the shaded area with loads of tables and chairs, cheap parking, and tasty food choices. Every Friday night throughout the summer they have the Rockin' on the Riverfront concert series with live music, raffles, and food trucks.

2) Pirate's Cove is a small water park perfect for all ages. It's $7 to get in, but after 4pm the cost goes down to $5.25 per person. There are several features at the cove. We hang out at the kiddie pool, mainly because it's fenced in. My boys could dig all day long in the sand at Buccaneer Beach. You can bring in your own food. They have a nice area with tables, chairs, and umbrellas.

3) Turtle Park is in NW DC tucked away in Friendship Heights. Normally we wouldn't go that far for fun, but this park does not disappoint. It is especially appealing to me because both the splash pad and play area are completely fenced in. I can nurse the baby and still keep an eye on my other little people.

4) Virginia Highlands Park is nice because it's not overwhelming. It's quite small. We like it because it's right across from Costco. It helps to entice my kiddos to go shopping if I say we're going to go to the splash pad too. They love it.

5) Georgetown Waterfront Park is a little tricky to get to. I don't go to this splash pad without helping hands. However, it is really beautifully designed in an amphitheater style with water and fountains in the center. Parking can be difficult.

6) Chessie's Big Backyard is incredible. The harbor has a large splash pad next to two great play areas. My boys go nuts running around this huge splash pad and all the pirate themed attractions. Even though the cost is free, there are employees readily available to help out. The only requirement is water shoes or flip flops with a sling back. Plenty of parking.

7) Potomac Yard Park has two fenced in play areas separated by a nice splash pad. My boys get a kick out of the trains passing by as they splash around in the water. There is usually open street parking. However, the closest restrooms are at Target down the street.

Stay little forever

I've been having the hardest time watching this little guy grow and become more independent. These days he loves his alone time with his own toys. I want him to stay little and snuggly forever. I am afraid that all too soon baby Nico won't need mommy any more.

Happy half-birthday

Baby Nico turns six months! It's hard to believe my little man is growing so big. I secretly want him to stay this size forever. We are all in love with his infectious smile. He is so easy going and an all around happy baby. Nico is mesmerized by his bigger brothers and their ninja like movements around the room. They've motivated him to roll over, scoot, and rock back and forth. Sadly for mama, baby's first tooth has poked through. Ouch! He loves to be held close and snuggled tightly. And he especially loves kisses on his cheeks and just under his chin. I can hear those baby giggles now! He lights up the room and brings a smile to all our faces.