After last year’s demoralizing virus jumbled our words and de-linked our photos, we fell off the update wagon. However, in preparation for babe #2 and in tribute to our beloved first nanny Marina (who just moved out of visiting range), we’re re-committing to regular, colorful glimpses of our rich life together.
Niko is a daily joy and adventure. His language is exploding. He can count from two to ten (somehow missing 1), can recognize about half of the letters in the alphabet, and is in early stages of stringing together multiple words (e.g., “help me” - the first of these was the gratifying “hot Mama,” followed soon after by “hot Daddy”). He loves “WHEEL!”s and clamors to sit in the driver’s seat on every trip – and he loves to “RUN!” especially if it concludes in a Ring-Around-the-Rosy flying collapse. Still loves books, though greater independence means he’s just as likely to choose to sit on his own stool as cuddle up on a lap. He maintains his positive, inquisitive nature and considerate sleep schedule. We hope #2 is taking notes.
In mid-August, the Turell family gathered at Cousin’s Point, their vacation home on Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia.
In order to bring Tula, we packed everyone in the Subaru Outback and hit the road for 11 hours on day one + 5 hours on day two! Niko did remarkably well.
Once at the Lake, he reveled in the attentions of Grandma, Carley, Kristin, and the whole Turell and Meade family. Papa Turell boated Niko + parents to watch a carp feeding frenzy, which may turn into one of Niko’s first indelible memories, given how frequently he says “Papa! Boat! Wheel!” and pretends to devour his hand.
Yusi and Niko also spent three days in White Plains at Gramma & Grandpa Dugan’s house. Niko and Gramma spent delightful hours carting water in and out of an inflatable wading pool. Everyone boarded a 45-min ferry to Annapolis for lunch, where Niko sampled caviar but preferred muffins. He’s simultaneously fascinated by and terrified of Grandpa’s trombone. Wonderful to catch up.
This weekend is our 3rd wedding anniversary! Much love and gratitude to those who celebrated with us at the Round House.
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If it's been a while, and you're looking for some highlights, here you go:
PICTURES:
Cape Cod Reunion (July 2009)
Turell Family Gathering (May 2009)
Wang Family Gathering (May 2009)
Spain & Italy: part 2 (April 2009)
Spain & Italy: part 1 (April 2009)
Maine Winter Getaway (March 2008)
VIDEOS:
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