St John 2008

Yes, this is a photo that Dave actually took while on a drive with Markus in St John. It is truly an amazingly beautiful place. We really, really, really, really love it there!

And this is Markus swimming in the equally amazing ocean. It is so crystal clear that it's amazing that it's not a pool! He loved the water, but was a little freaked out by how his feet sunk into the sand...

Here's his first dip in the villa pool. You gotta love his suit, right?

Pabbi Dave was pretty incredible with his little man on our vacation. This opinion was seconded by Markus' undying love and adulation of his father during the week he had him all to himself :)

Just A Little Bit of Parenting Advice

Dave, Markus and I had dinner with the Kempers last night, which was really nice. We have decided that it is essential that we actually venture out of the house on week nights on a regular basis. Why? Basically to retain some semblance of normalcy outside of family life. It makes us feel a little bit more like people rather than simply parents. Mind you, there is a lot of running around chasing toddlers and borderline mortifyingly embarassing entertaining (see photos), but it's still good. Our little golden nugget advice for the day is bring a portable DVD player with some of your little one's favorite shows and it might buy you a few more minutes to enjoy your meal...maybe :)

Welcome Baby Luca Van!!

Luca Van Palaitis has been a part of our crazy world for a week now. Amazing!! He's absolutely gorgeous, just like his big brother, Deville (and mamma Karen!).

Ummmm...this one is just really cute :)

I cut his bangs myself - you like?

Wednesday Morning Ritual

Every morning after our weekly Romparoo session, various very hungry members of the CSP crew convene at the Frozen Monkey for some seriously tastey eggs (or paninis or salads, depending on the day). The waitress tends to be eternally patient with the kids (and the mommies!) and normally there aren't many patrons at 10:30. When there have been, they are usually enamoured by the kids...how couldn't you be?

goppiti gop!

i think it is still safe to say that elmo is markus' ultimate favorite, but his little stuffed icelandic horse is quickly gaining in popularity...his afi would be proud!

morning ritual

i know it's probably not "recomended" but markus and i spend some quality time every morning after his shower cuddling in bed watching TV. it is awfully cute. and he so looooooves TV. there is no question about it...