Happy Birthday to Benjamin!

By the calendar it was Ben's birthday last week. But Steve and I felt like we were the ones getting the gifts. My sister Amanda spent her last week with us before starting work as a nurse at Loyola Hospital in Chicago. She saved the day by watching the kids while Steve and I got away for two luxurious nights of solitude.

We took respite at the Doral Resort and Golf Club in Miami. No Tiger sightings, but we checked in just moments after Scotty Pippen and Michael Jordan checked out. (We may have caught scent of their cigars....) Steve warmed up on the White course before golfing the Blue Monster. I visited the spa and spent a lot of time lounging in pajamas, reading and sleeping in. Ahh, the simple pleasures!

Upon our return, we spent an afternoon boating and walking around the island of Indian Key on Ben's 3rd birthday, March 6.Ben lead the way with Kitty and PB&J in hand.Then we got down to the really good stuff: cake, presents and wishes.

I think he's wishing for another holiday with Fun Auntie Manders. (I know I am!!) Chutes and Ladders is now available in a Diego version, much to Ben's happy surprise.The next day we gathered with friends at the beach for a birthday playdate.

Mmmmm, a Ben sandwich!Tired and chilly from swimming and playing, we soon returned home to open more gifts.

Though on the verge of crawling, Sidney is still happiest when she's just within sight of Ben and whatever he's into.
And so far, he thinks she's alright.
All that activity earned a little chill time...
...before Ben literally dropped into sleep on the livingroom floor.

Thanks to all of you who made it a memorable and funfilled celebration.

Sidney is next, turning 1 in less than 3 months. Time flies!