Lisa n Tom (n James n Joseph)

Lisa writes: James has favorite songs. Whichever song is the current favorite must be playing on demand, on repeat, during every car ride. Luckily, they're all Sandra Boynton (and one Warren Zevon) so it's not as bad as it sounds.

 Lisa writes: We went to Philadelphia. We saw the Liberty Bell. We saw Independence Hall. Next trip up, cheesesteaks.       He's not crying. He found two seed pods and he's holding them up to his eyes. Because he's 3.  

Lisa writes: While Joseph and I were in Utah for Aunt Bev's funeral, James and Tom joined the rest of the clan to visit his dad at Arlington. Sophia is 6, Johanna is 8.

Lisa writes: Tom and James went on an exploratory expedition to Ikea to look at toddler beds. James likes his crib, has no issue with sleeping in a crib, wouldn't mind staying in his crib through high school, and has no particular interest in a toddler bed. But they had a good time anyway. We've been to the doctor a LOT lately, for check ups and a series of recurring ear infections, so James is very interested in the doctor's office.

Lisa writes: While baby Joseph and I flew to Utah for a funeral,Tom went to work, and Miss Sandy's daycare was closed due to the Memorial Day weekend, James joined a group of adventurous buddies to go to Mount Vernon. The fact that it's the home of our first president was lost to him; the fact that there are baby animals to feed and a creek to play in was not.

Lisa writes: One of Tom's sweet coworkers gave Joseph a set of baby musical instruments. This maraca rattle was a big hit. (Sorry for the sideways filming!)

Lisa writes: Flight was delayed for thunderstorms, then again because the flight crew was over their maximum hours. Joseph entertained himself by sucking on his feet, eating, throwing up all over himself (and me, and the chair, and the floor), and then taking a nap. James was champion once we were finally on the plane. Got home at 5:30 a.m. and watched the sun rise, then went to bed until nearly noon.

Lisa writes: I kind of can't believe that James agrees to wear a face mask AND ear plugs (this is the same kid who often has to be put into a full Nelson to have his teeth brushed), but he really, really loves mowing the lawn.