I'm up and running

We decided to be brave and we brought our rocking chairs onto our back screened in porch. Why brave? Because we have 2 little monkeys who are always looking for a new climbing opportunity. Meet Christopher monkey. Or tiger is you ask him because he refused to take off his tiger pj's this morning. Certainly not a battle worth fighting.
Aiden Monkey and his current favorite shirt and socks in our "accident waiting to happen" chair.

Christopher Cow at the ice cream shop.Who knew Grandpa could make such a great sheep?
What a handsome horse.
Chris (L) and Aiden (R) trying to "help" Mommy get a picture of our Thursday morning monkeys. Ashley had better places to be and as you can see, Aiden LOVES to be a helper! Too cute.

It has been a quiet week on several fronts. My computer got "hacked" mid-week last week and my Internet capabilities went kapootz. So, while I was unable to use my computer, someone else made themselves very busy sending lovely spam emails to probably many of you who are in my email address book. I do apologize and I am still trying to figure out how someone could find humor or enjoyment in that kind of an act? Could be worse for sure. So, I sent my computer off to be fixed at a local shop and I am once again feeling "whole" as I was able to pick it up last night and it us running like new and is SO nice and fast! What a treat in the end (okay, a treat minus the fun repair bill.)
We had several change of plans this week and have actually been enjoying a bit of quiet time. It's been gorgeous and we have been soaking up the sun... and the rain! I have been on a cleaning, organizing binge and am loving the feeling of being "on top" of things for once. Don't get my wrong, my to-do list like everyone else's leaves much to be desired but I am so happy with the progress I've made.
Poor Chris came down with a "funk" last night. He had a red, itchy rash that was on one side of his belly and down one of his legs. He has been a trooper and hasn't complained but we could tell he was uncomfortable. It was off to the Dr.'s today because with a play date scheduled and our baby Ashley visit tomorrow, we didn't want to take any chances of sharing anything contagious. We got good news.... the Dr. thinks its bacterial and said as far as she is concerned it shouldn't be catchy. Yeah! Two prescription creams to try and we hope they will do the trick... So, while it's been a quiet week so far, we can carry on with the remainder of our plans assuming the "funk" only gets better. Maybe I should think of a more flattering word than "funk?"
Catching up on last week, we visited Auntie Laura in Worcester on Friday for a belated birthday visit and we also met up with Eric and Laura's friend Lori. We had a blast and the boys enjoyed every minute of it, although A & C were quick to turn on "shy guy" when introduced to Laura's co-workers. A visit with Hoagie the dog, ice cream for dinner, playing with a new friend and jumping on Auntie's bed... What could be better? Mike enjoyed a night with the guys at our house on Friday. I think he had a great time judging by when they all went to bed!
Saturday we visited Aunt Patti and Uncle Carl quickly and checked out their new house. What a perfect place to call home! We then headed to visit Grandpa Hopkins. We enjoyed a refreshing, warm swim in the pool and had a delicious meal. Mamie left early Saturday morning for a missions trip to Honduras so we enjoyed keeping him company. Mamie will be gone for a week and we missed her dearly yesterday. The week just isn't the same without her! We attempted to watch the Southwick fireman's parade but the police officer directing traffic had other ideas and wouldn't let us in. So, what better than a second night of ice cream! Yum!
Sunday we went to church and laid low. We had a few chores and errands to do and we cleaned out the garage. Again, a great feeling!
Tonight we are excited to have Grammie and Dziadzu visiting for dinner. A & C have many things on their agenda for their time with these guys and are going to try to convince them to stay... forever! Heck, you won't hear me complain! I am sure we could fit some bunk beds in the guest bedroom.