Birthdays, Beach and Grandma A.

We have been very busy since our last posting. We had Alyssa and Lauren's birthday party, Grandma A. from Toronto, a one night trip to Long Beach, Washington, a volunteer appreciation luncheon at Alyssa's school and also a class field trip to see the new movie "Earth".

When we were at Long Beach, Harry bought some freshly made Kettle Korn--and it was so good! I did a little googling and found a simple recipe that you can make at home, plus it was also delicious! For those who want to try it, here is what you do: first, get out the popcorn kernals, oil, sugar, salt, a heavy, large sauce pan and a wood spoon.

1. Heat oil (1/4 cup) in a large, heavy saucepan. (I had stove at medium)
2. Pour in the popcorn (1/2 cup), sprinkle sugar (1-1/2 to 3 Tabl.) on top and cover.
3. Once popcorn starts popping, shake continuously until the popcorn is popped.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl and salt (to taste) lightly.
Yield 8-10 cups. Enjoy!

Alyssa and Harry at the pool in Long Beach. I took this from our room and the angle made the pool look huge!

The Astoria-Megler bridge-almost two miles long!

Enjoying hand scooped ice cream at a very fun spot- Scoopers.

Alyssa and Grandma A. taking a break from browsing the shops of downtown Long Beach.

Alyssa trying out her birthday rollerblades. Long Beach has paved trails in the sea grass perfect for scooters, skates, bikes and walkers.

Lauren on her birthday scooter.

The wooden boardwalk at Long Beach.

We made a deal with the girls: sit still for some nice pictures and you can get the biggest lollipop you have ever seen. It sort of worked-Lauren still ran out of patience and she still got her lollipop after our family portrait session.

Enjoying the soft, warm sand, the sound of the waves, the cool breeze and the sticky and sweet treat.

Three days later the lollipops almost look like new. It will take lots of licks to get through them. (Although I am sure they will hit the garbage any day now!)

One of my favorite pictures of the girls. It was difficult getting a great picture with the bright sunshine and lack of open shade on the beach. I am still happy with the results.

Sunset Sunday evening. Harry contemplated driving onto the sand but I was sure we would get stuck. We saw large pick-ups spinning in the sand so I was sure Subie would bottom out.

Birthday girl turns 7!! We had one small family party for both girls this year, since their birthdays are only two days apart. I am sure we won't always get away with one party, especially when they both want their school chums. Alyssa wanted this chocolate cream dessert that is her favorite when we have a potluck at meeting.

Birthday girl turns 3!!! Lauren had a homemade angel food cake with lots of whipped cream and strawberries! Yum!

Part of the crew, Alyssa, Amy, Grandma A and Harold.

Papa and Grandma M. also joined us. Guess Lauren didn't make into either picture :(

Birthday sisters! Both girls really enjoyed the princess theme that Harold and Grandma A. picked out. They had lots of balloons, streamers and a banner to create a party atmosphere.

Lauren is helping Alyssa with her homework on the back deck. We had some great weather about a week ago and were able to get the kiddie pool out as well as all the deck furniture.

Soaking in the last few rays of the sun.

Watch out Alyssa!

Taking a spin on the 360 degree teeter totter. Lauren is enjoying it much more this year, but their balance is off a bit.

Dinner out on the deck. Can't wait to do this on a regular basis--love it! The girl in the middle is the neighbor next door.

We had a wonderful week with Grandma A with us. Alyssa and Grandma A read almost every evening at bedtime, which I am sure gave Alyssa a boost with her reading skills. Grandma A brought some simple yet interesting and educational books for Alyssa to practice with. Lauren really enjoyed going for walks with grandma, playing with cars and blocks and showing off her scootering skills. We were thankful to have the full week with Grandma A, and we miss her very much. We also missed Grandpa D who needed to stay home this trip.

Alyssa and Lauren send thank you's to all who sent cards, gifts and birthday wishes. Handwritten thank you cards will come, at least from Alyssa, scribbles will come from Lauren.