First Full Haircut

Nickolas had his first full haircut today at Cartoon Cuts. Previously, he only had his bangs cut two or three times. Each station at Cartoon Cuts has a TV playing your choice of cartoon. For Nickolas's viewing pleasure, we chose "Thomas the Train". Nickolas sat in his very own chair on top a cushion block along with a strap around his belly for safety. He got a kick out of the cape but preferred his hands to be free. Nickolas sat very, very well for the cut although mommy was sad to see his beautiful curls go. With the heat and humidity, it was ultimately the best decision. They'll be back by winter!

Before and after: no more long curls

Afterwards playing in the play area showing of his new 'do'

Nickolas's first trim:

http://weechitlin.blogspot.com/2008/03/first-haircut.html

Lounging Around

This morning, mommy was making my lunch before heading out for the day and she heard me playing and singing as usual in the living room. Once mommy was done, she came over to see what I was up to -- there I was, like the big boy I am, lounging in the recliner paging through daddy's books. I climbed up into the chair ALL BY MYSELF!

Trip Back Home to Wisconsin

Last weekend, we all made our way back home to Wisconsin for Great-Grandma Felicia's funeral. Grandma Julie gave a great eulogy, Aimee saw all of her cousins together, and Nickolas saw all of his second cousins, including Zack, who's 5 months older. They had some interesting interactions - thank you, cousin Danny - but ultimately, Zack did a great job sharing his toys and cars when they had us over for a picnic. We're so glad to have made it home, we wouldn't have missed it for the world.


In the Police Car.

Push me cousin Danny.


So busy at Grandma's taking the turtles for a walk.

In Loving Memory of Great-Grandma Felicia

Nickolas's beloved great-grandma Felicia passed away on July 7, 2008 at the age of 85. She is grandma Julie's mother and was blessed with 5 daughters, 9 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren. Grandma Felicia will be deeply missed. We're so glad and thankful Nickolas had the joy of being held in her arms and getting kisses from her.

Four generations: Great-grandmother Felicia, Grandma Julie, Mom Aimee, and wee Nickolas.

Sleeping peacefully on a warm shoulder.


Celebrating 84 years young in 2007 with all five daughters.


Visiting Great-Grandma in May.

Nickolas's Trip to an American Castle

Over the July 4th weekend, Nickolas had an exciting trip - facing forward in the carseat, finally - to KY and NC where he played with cousins and visted the Biltmore mansion.

Daddy installing the carseat so now I can face foward. About time! I had to gain a few pounds, so it took a little longer.

Playing with blocks with cousins Katrina and Eric and Nana's house.

Bath time at Nana's with cool Russian painting daddy picked up during the fall of communism.

Running around in the Olmsted-designed gardens at Biltmore.

Stroll with daddy.

A Friday Afternoon Concert

Katrina, who attended a violin camp last week in town, ended the week on a crescendo with her first concert in an orchestra. Aunt Aimee was so excited to see it and was particularly fond of the young cello section. Katrina played beautifully (and looked beautiful, too) and had a spot right up front in the violin section. Congratulations on a lovely concert!

Katrina just under the conductor's arm stage right.

Nickolas's Girlfriend

Over the weekend, Nickolas went to his girlfriend Findlay's birthday party. All of his friends from the neighborhood playground were there including Tyger. Nickolas and Findlay have a special bond -- perhaps he likes younger girls like his daddy.

Stewardesses: A Special Part of Our Nation's History

What an honor it was for Aimee to accompany sister Linda and kids to the Air and Space Museum. Linda was a flight attendant for Pan Am a few years ago and told us so much about the business, the layout of the cockpits, and the traditional standards back in the day of flight attendants. It was a trip (no pun intended) - quite fun and educational.

Welcome to Pan Am.


The cockpit layout.


Standards: polished nails, 135 pounds max, height: 5'2" to 5'7", neat hair, ages 21-26; ...

Our Nation's Capitol

Nickolas's cousins Katrina and Eric have been in town for a fun-filled week. They saw the Capitol, White House (East AND West Wing), Air and Space Museum, Natural History Museum, Holocaust Museum, Spy Museum, the National Cathedral, Arlington Cemetery, Supreme Court, National Zoo, and all of the monuments. They also rode the subway (Metro) which was quite fun. Nickolas had a great time playing with his big cousins and hopes they can come again soon.

On the subway.

At the Supreme Court.

At the Capitol.

At the Grotto on the Senate Side.

At the West Wing of the White House (thank you Mark!).

White House Press Room.

At the National Cathedral.

The National Zoo

Nickolas went to the National Zoo with his cousin Katrina at a special evening event with BBQ, sundaes, and pink lemonade. Nickolas was so excited to see the pandas, he threw the lid of his sippy cup towards their little home. The pandas were fat and happy feasting on their bamboo dinner. We were quite lucky to see both Mei Xian and Tian Tian. http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/GiantPandas/



Eating icecream sundaes with Katrina.


Riding a wee bear statue.


Nickolas with the giant panda on his left.


Nickolas, Katrina, and Aimee by the panda.