July 4th Weekend Part II: Grandma N's House

I got really lucky in the in-laws department. I hear so many horror stories about controlling mother in laws, hags who criticize, judge and bully. My mother-in-law Marilyn is a lovely person, as sweet and supportive as they come. She's a free-spirited artist who accepts my anal-retentive, Type A personality for what it is. She and her husband, Rich, always make us feel welcome in her home.


I like the whole crew. Mike's dad is a good guy and his sisters and brother are great. I've always liked visiting Pittsburgh because they are all fun to be around. They've accepted me as one of their own from the get-go. You don't always see that nowadays.


We arrived at Grandma N's Friday afternoon and after a short nap for Michael, we headed out to D'Amico's for Taylor's birthday dinner. D'Amico's is a cool little Italian joint that we've gone to several times while in Pittsburgh. I like the ambience of the place and the food is good, too. Afterwards, we had cake and ice cream at Grandma's house and watched fireworks from the deck. It was a great end to a long day.


Taylor cheesing during the drive. The kid had it made - snacks, drinks and a DVD player.


Michael was great, especially considering the fact that he's getting his top two teeth and was forced to stare at the seat the entire drive. I'm looking forward to when we can turn the carseat around!

Ready to blow out her candle.

Taylor with Grandma N and Aunt Linnie.

The yummy cake. Rich's brother's birthday was two days earlier.

My pretty FOUR-YEAR-OLD!

Michael chilling with Grandpa N...

...and Sophia. Check out the flowin' river o' drool!

The flood has been plugged and the slobbery shirt removed.

Michael so wants to be able to walk. He easily takes steps while holding onto people's hands.

Baby blues x 2.

Watching fireworks in our jammies (Mike hadn't changed yet). My kids have some long legs!

Until next time,

Mommy Kel