More Easter moments

The Easter bunny came Sunday and, of course, things haven't been the same since.



It started with a basket full of marshmallows, paint, play dough and books. The candy dominated the scene.



Falling in a close second was a model garbage truck. Claire celebrates each Friday with a ritual that involves running to the front window every time the garbage, recycling and yard waste trucks squeak to a stop in front of our house. She knows their sound as if they were her mother's heartbeat.

Now she can create her own dumpster chronicles on the living room floor. The dumpster even slips off the front of the truck. Where were these toys when we were kids?



Toys gave way to a nap which was quickly bookended with a better-late-than-never egg-coloring session.



Initially, Claire thought the color tablets were "vitamins" and was impressed with their rapid disintegration and color explosion in vinegar.



We logged some quality dad and daughter outdoor time with her new wiffle ball and bat. Note: Dad had absolutely nothing to do with this purchase but will enjoy hitting the ball out of our "park." Claire already shows good coordination skills and a propensity for clapping after home runs.



The night ended with a fantastic baked Cook's-brand honey ham --maybe the best homemade ham we've ever had -- and a accompanying chard tart. Sarah, 8.5 months pregnant, also made some rhubarb muffins. It marked the last time she'll prepare a meal for three for at least 18 years, and man, was it a great way to go out.

Easter fun

Sophie!!!

We got a nice visit this morning from new big sis Sophie and her father, the Fonz (not pictured, for various reasons).

Sophie got cooking in the kitchen and showed Claire her newfound sistering skills. Claire showed off her potty methods and, for the most part, shared her toys.




Don't these two look like great big sisters?!?!

Farewell to the Trib

Some final scenes from the place we met years ago. Few like it.