But first, a lunch introducing Aurelia to Senor Fish. As the kiddos waited for Aurelia, as patiently as 2 under 3 can, Jess sat and thought how very grownup they seemed.
As always, the Fish was a huge hit - particularly once the kids found a hole in the cement filled with water.
Then it was over to John and Erin's, since Steve is in Costa Rica on a job.
The game and the kids were watched intently.
It has been a long time since the kiddos went to the park by their house together. And how things have changed.
Aurelia joined them and there was a lot more climbing then before. Maddie even scaled the climbing wall - not pictured, but a first.
They also rode the chipmunk together, without any adult needed to prop them up. So big.
Made by Tio Greg the night before, and eaten by Uncle Wills, the morning that the fam headed back to Jersey.
After Maddie headed out for her second day of school, Kathleen and Diane came over for some lunch and portfolio work. Max stayed busy and Jess was distracted enough to not miss Maddie the entire time.
With some Uncle Wills spinning.
Some Tio Greg spinning.
Some other thing that Tio Greg did that Max thought was awesome and could not stop applauding.
And an ice cream birthday cake.
And just in case there wasn't enough sugar, Tio Greg made cupcakes with Maddie.
Who took the entire thing very seriously, and remembered it enough to tell Mom, "Happy Birthday" the next 2 mornings. (Happy Birthday beating out her normal morning greetings of "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Halloween.")
That's some good spoiling.
Look closely - that's the top of Max's noggin in front of Tio Greg. It was DoeZee's intention to take him on, but then he was snatched up by Tio Greg at the last minute. This left motion-sick DoeZee to ride alone, wondering, "Why?!?"
The third time around on the Buzz Lightyear ride. The lines were amazingly short.
Possibly her second favorite ride.
The Jungle Boat ride - a Kender family favorite.
And the perfect sundae ending to the day (followed up by just one more train ride).
The morning began with burrito sharing with Uncle Wills.
While Maddie and Jess got ready for Maddie's first day of preschool. Who looks more nervous?
The first half hour was spent playing outside. Maddie went back and forth between dancing with the older girls and sitting with Jess.
Her first cubby.
After circle time, the kids headed back out for snack and play time. Miss Marty gently suggested to Jess that while she was welcome to stay all day, Maddie would probably interact more with the other kids if she headed out. She did, and Maddie did.
Upon arriving home, Jess found Uncle Wills, aka the sitter, and Max cuddling on the couch for some Sesame Street viewing.
And then Max had a first. His first time, without Maddie, at the park.
So much attention. So much freedom.
