The German Mary Poppins

Repeated recent viewings of Mary Poppins have us thinking of our babysitter Michelle, who is also practically perfect in every way. From her cheery disposition to her varied games (all sorts) and crafts she did with the kids, she definitely put at least one if not two spoonfuls of sugar in the medicine of life without Brandon.
We were quite sad when the wind changed, whisking her away to San Francisco for a glamorous stint as an au pair of two gorgeous girls (Claire's cousins Sophie and Marianne). However, we managed to console ourselves by knowing how many adventures they will have with Michelle and how hopefully, we will see her again soon. Meanwhile, here are some pics of her going-away party, thrown by her friendly and very cool family.
"Goodbye, Mary Poppins. Don't stay away too long."

My baby

Eventually, I'll have to cut Jackson's hair. But it's so cute I can't bring myself to do it.

Reality TV- Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, we enjoyed the great art, Anne Frank House, and one of our favorite playgrounds. The kids wanted their dad to know how much fun they had at a spot we discovered when our four family went to Amsterdam together in March 2009.

Reality TV

While it's true that we've enjoyed many really great trips this summer, much of what we've done is take in great backgrounds while doing regular kid stuff like chase pigeons and play on the swings. Here are clips from Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland and Berlin, Germany. More to follow. Brandon, we miss you, and your kids want you to see how cute they are every day.

Berlin Bonanza

Here are some pics from our first day in Berlin. It was hot, humid, and lots of fun.

Poseidon at the Beach

Just below the temple of Poseidon, we found a nice hotel that let us use their manicured beach, chairs, and umbrellas. Best 10 Euro I have ever spent. It was a beautiful, perfect day, and I had so much fun just being with my kids and slowing down a bit.

Temple of Poseidon

My friend Patty recommended we spend a day at the temple of Poseidon in Sounio, south of Athens. It's on a little peninsula overlooking the ocean on three sides. It was a bit windy but fantastic. This temple was the last thing the ancient Greeks saw as they sailed away from the Greek mainland on their many adventures. Claire took the chance to strike several (Grecian?) poses, while Jackson just kept trying to run down the hill to play in the water.