Ears

Today Chris was playing with the kids and mentioned ears. Aria told him "You have big ears like a monkey!"

I have to laugh because he's always been self conscious of his ears, and I've told him for our entire relationship that I don't think they are disproportionate. Guess I'm wrong!

Aunt Starla's Visit

One of the amazing things about modern technology is being able to easily connect with people from all over the world with just a few mouse clicks. I've especially appreciated this when it comes to family! Aunt Starla and I "met" over Facebook years ago, before Aria was even conceived, and have kept in touch for many years. When one of her more local vacation plans fell through, she decided to come meet us for the first time instead! This was such a cool visit, since Chris hasn't seen her in 22 years either.
We really enjoyed the visit! We went on a pirate cruise, had a few BBQs, went on island adventures, and she and Chris spent Memorial Day exploring Pearl Harbor. One of the coolest things, though, was that she was here for Chris' promotion ceremony and was able to attend and pin him on. It was amazing timing for being just a chance opportunity for a visit.
One of the best things about being married is the wonderful extra family I've gained. I'm so thankful!

Splashlete

Minion number 1 has started swim lessons! I was a lifeguard for years, so I've been anticipating this day for a long time. Just like any other ex instructor turned parent, I've spent the last few years of the kid's lives dunking them or spraying them in the face with water for preparation! Aria is a very cautious experimenter, and water has just recently become something she's been willing to really explore. We've had a lot of ocean practice, so I'm sure the pool felt very tame!
The entire group of newbies was tested their first day to split up into three groups based on skill level. Once they announced every new test, Chris and I would look at each other and speculate on whether she would do it. Ari blew bubbles, floated like a starfish, and let them dunk her all the way under the water. When she was assigned to the top group I about lost it, beaming with silly parent pride. And then we took that kid straight out for ice cream with sprinkles, because sprinkles are for winners lol.