Construction, construction, construction

It is obviously not enough that we are in the process of building a most complex tree house in our back yard, we need some more construction chaos.
The boys spent an entire morning building a fort out of their bunk beds, complete with every pillow, blanket and comforter they could get their hands on.
It was a great place to curl up and read, and I did not see nor hear from them for hours!!!!
Maybe construction does not always equal chaos?

Music Maestro

Lukas and Noah are taking music lessons this year. Lukas continued with piano and we are so grateful to have found a wonderful and very talented teacher for his weekly lesson. Noah did not want to follow in his brother's foot steps but rather take the violin. He is studying under the tutelage of Monterey Symphony's former First Violinist, who also make a great teacher.
Last week, Lukas and Noah performed for Noah's violin teacher. They had both learned the same piece of music - Ode to Joy - which was played at their parents' wedding back in the last century. I remember how nice it sounded in Bethany Collegiate Church, but it did sound almost as well when our two boys performed - but maybe I am a bit biased?

How do we treat the principal?

The principal of SILL Academy offered to step in and teach history one morning.. Lukas and Noah kept tickling Bob and the entire lesson turned into a huge giggling session. Is there anything sweeter to a Mamma's ear than the joyful noise of her family?

Friday afternoon at the wharf

For Barb and Tom's last night in town we headed to the wharf for some fresh caught fish to cook up at home for dinner. The animals in the bay offered plenty of entertainment, it was hard to tear away...

Science Friday

Science Friday offered the opportunity to make incredible obnoxious noise makers of various types. Needless to say it was a huge hit with the boys.. and Mamma was wishing for Excedrin....Who knew science could be this noisy?

Grammy and Pappy in town

Barb and Tom visited us for a week this month, and time flew by so fast. Bob handled most of the touring around, guiding and driving to make sure they 'saw it all.' Although Monterey is beautiful and offers a plethora of things to do, Barb and Tom opted to spend their time with us - what a treat! Grammy and Pappy had a chance to help with various parts of school, reading and quizzing; Barb cooked delicious meals and spruced up our garden; and Tom offered help and encouragement while the boys built the cabinets for the new room. We were all sad to see them go, the yard longs for TLC, we miss our fabulous meals artfully displayed on a pretty dinner table, and our cocktail hour is not the same without Tom.
What a fun filled and enjoyable time we had!

Family Reunion

We think with fond memories of the many fun family reunions we have been able to attend over the years. This year, it just did not seem possible to get everyone together. Yet, for a few hours there were quite a few Severinghaus' gathered in one spot worthy of a photo opp.