I want to ride my bicycle

We bought some wooden Like-A-Bikes for the kiddos this week. Andrew took to it quite fast, but is still working on getting some speed.

Brooke didn't like it as much (her feet don't quite reach the ground yet), but have I ever mentioned what an awesome runner and dancer she is?

Grandma Marlene

Anthony's mom arrived on the 6th for her first trip to Europe. We tried to take advantage and show her as much as we could:

7.06.08 Luzern, Switzerland

Chapel Bridge, Mill Bridge, Lion Monument, street markets, train rides

8.06.08 Fussen, Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle

9.06.08-10.06.08 Salzburg, AustriaHohensalzburg Fortress, Mirabell Garderns, St. Peter's Cemetary, Mozart's Home...

Hellbrunn Palace, trick fountains and Sound of Music gazebo



11.06.08-12.06.08 Venice, Italy
Beach on Lido


Brooke's favorite activity: terrorizing pigeons


Venice at day


Venice at night (and raining)


Day two Venice


Day two Lido



13.06.08 Verona, Italy
Gladiators, Roman Amphitheater, Piazza Bra



13.06.08 Ascona, Switzerland



14.06.08 Valle Verzasca, Switzerland
Lavertezzo, Ponte “dei salti” (Bridge "of the leaps"), Rimarchevole (the church)


Finally, we stopped in Locarno for a picnic and playground break before heading home. As we walked back to the car, we noticed this orange Lamborghini and said, "Look, guys, a super fast race car!" They ran to get a closer look and laughed, "It's Lightning McQueen!" pointing to the little red hatchback parked right next to the real sports car.

It was such a wonderful vacation, and we loved being able to share it with Grandma Marlene. Thank you for making the long journey out to visit us Grandma!

Daddy's big bandaid

Anthony separated his shoulder playing soccer with some work friends this week. He called us about 9:30pm from the emergency room on Monday asking us to pick him up. Since we've had to bid farewell to the Hemmerts, our beloved neighbors (and babysitters), I woke up Matthew, loaded all three pajama'ed kiddos in the car for what I thought would be a quick pickup. 3 hours later we headed home with a broken daddy, a big "band-aid" and lots of pain killers! This makes four visits to the emergency room in the last three months!!! On a positive note, Anthony says it made for a relaxing vacation (post coming soon) as his mom and I had to carry all the kids and bags.

Water Water Everywhere

The gradual progression of Andrew and Brooke playing in a water fountain. First just toys, then fingers and hands. Next thing you know they're completely soaked.