Double scoop before dinner?

I declare, I might be the coolest mom ever.

Good day at the Brenton Arboretum.

Our first DSM Menace soccer game

Birdie Lovin

Another summer, another finch nest in my hanging fern!

I also went to monitor my bluebird trail today at Raccoon River park. It didn't even occur to me that there may be significant flooding. I found both park entrances closed, but no sign saying the park itself was actually closed. So I parked in a nearby industrial lot and hiked in. I was amazed at the flooding. Luckily, no water actually flooded the nesting boxes. But some of my bluebirds and tree swallows now have a rare, lakeside view to their temporary homes!

No fishing on the fishing pier right now

This is the beach the kids played at a few weeks ago. Now there is NO sand. The shower station is covered in water, as are the stone benches. 

I guess "Blue Heron Lake" is not only aptly named, but they can now call this "Blue Heron Bike Trail," too.

Safety City Graduation

Well, it's official. Gavin graduated from the incoming-kindergarteners-only Safety City. I guess he really can go to kindergarten in about 8 weeks!!

A nice day with friends

Gavin's good buddy Gavin K. went to a park with us today after Safety City. It delights me when they play in the natural surroundings of the park, rather than the plastic play equipment. Sometimes, admittedly, I have to lead them there. But it always turns out to be a good outdoor time.

Hard to be outside with boys before someone--or two someones--pee.

Next-door neighbor Shay likes to come play with the boys whenever he can

We enjoyed having our friends, the Alberhaskys, over for dinner and fishing tonight. Mike took all five of their kiddos down to the pond to fish, and we had a great time hanging out. 

Make Believe

The storm today made it possible for us to pretend we live at the base of a volcano-- a recently erupted one....

Or a mountain range!

Another one bites the dust

Benji's losing teeth like crazy

Rescue

I was heart broken today when one of the baby robins next door fell out of its nest. Thanks to the 18 ft. Ladder of a neighbor, Mike replaced it. Good karma, right?

Father's Day Fight

Had a fun water balloon fight today with Grandpa Smarty Pants and Grandma Suzi. They always like to bring activities!

Feeling grateful

There are far worse places to retire after a long day than a back deck with a view of this beautiful sunset.