Lipani Family

The hospital where we are having Maren has a Big Brother/Big Sister class. We took William to the class this weekend. Most of the other children were 3 and 4. There was also a set of 7 year old twins who's mother is expecting baby #5 and an 8 year old little girl named Olga who was adopted from Russia 2 years ago. Her parents are adopting a baby from South America at the end of the year. It was quite interesting to hear about their transition! Anyway, the class was really cute. Each child introduced themself, said their name and age and what kind of baby was going to be coming home. Then they got their very own pretend baby to have for the class. William learned how to hold the baby, change her diaper and make a baby burrito (swaddle). It was definitely interesting to see how the little girls in the class were much more gentle and attentive to their dolls. William did really well and was quite attentive. He also made a "Welcome Home" card for Maren with his picture in it. He got a certificate when the class was over and he was very proud!

Since my husband was so wonderful to let us have hardwood floors installed-- which I've been dying for-- he treated himself to the Nintendo Wii. The Wii has remotes that pick up on all of your actions. We have played bowling, tennis, golf and brain teasers. Even though I advised otherwise, Michael has taught William how to bowl. He has actually caught on pretty well and enjoys playing. I think he drives Michael a little crazy with all the questions about the Wii. Here are some shots of them playing. (I also have pics of Will & Michael's Mii--- the character you create to look like yourself.)

Our backyard is unfenced and has a dry creek bed that is full of trees. This weekend we looked out the window and this is what we saw--awesome!

My wonderful business partner, Karen & best friend, Mel threw a baby shower to help welcome Baby Maren. I have been blessed with making so many wonderful friends since moving to Atlanta. Their generosity and excitement for our new arrival amazes me!

Beth, Mel & Johnny

Look how great my step sister looks!

Her 2 week old baby was at home spending time with Daddy.

Me, Mel & Karen

Of course Papaw let William get him totally drenched!

Happy 4th of July!

The Whole Crew

Mel & Mike's neighborhood has a Soap Box Derby race on the 4th.

The kids were adorable and of course William loved watching the races.

Us & our Oldest!

Who had more fun?

I had to include one of myself so one day my daughter will know that I bit the bullet and wore a bathing suit with my big belly!

Building with Daddy at the Children's Museum

Playing with the Moon Sand-- it doesn't stick to your hands or spill everywhere. Once William got used the way it felt on his fingers he loved it.

Naptime AGAIN!
Michael reluctantly posed for this picture!
I am posting this just so you can see my husband's face (and finger placement). Anyone who knows Michael, knows his aversion to all things sticky. He could hardly sit still and watch William eat his ice cream. It was driving him crazy that he had it all over his hands and face and eventually, the table.

Baking cookies with Grammy

This is the Summer of Babies! We have been blessed with a niece and nephew in the past 2 months. Patrick and Jen (my stepbrother) had a baby girl, Keira in May. Earlier this month Aimee and Brad (my stepsister) had a baby boy, Max. They are both perfectly healthy and beautiful!

Keira Lynn