Mother and daughter prepare breakfast in bed for Nicolai as he turns eleven today. The menu included a chocolate croissant (not up to French standards according to Nico), oatmeal, strawberries, hot chocolate, and, by special request, an entire can of whipped cream. Presents adorn each corner of the tray and were carefully wrapped by Maya.

Maya hard at work on a craft project this morning. She is making this as a present for one of her relatives. Jeanine and the kids will be heading out to Indianapolis on Saturday leaving me to hold down the fort for a week until I join them in Indiana for our trek to Geneva, WI. Viewers should anticipate a total lack of motivation once my photographic subjects have departed.

Maya takes on Nicolai and his friend Jeremy, employing superior water power to repel their attack. Please note that our midget warrior princess takes direct aim at her attacker’s head, offering no mercy whatsoever.

Maya, together with her new best friends, dives into the deep end. Although the side was very close, this was her first time in the deep end, and she was very excited about the accomplishment.

Maya descends from the tree house. There is little doubt in my mind that this child is part monkey.

Nicolai has improved his volleyball skills. Today, he successfully jump served and spiked in a game. I have never had so much fun playing with him. He never ceases to amaze me.

We spent the afternoon and evening at Tom & Karen’s Fourth of July gala. Tom was my wrestling partner in high school, and we are very lucky to live so close to him now. The party was fantastic, featuring fine food, swimming, volleyball, tree house climbing, and fireworks.

Tommy kept a watchful eye on Julia,

Julia (Christine’s daughter) and Caroline (Tom’s daughter) negotiate over a bag of chips.

Competition extended to the back lawn, where a very vigorous game of “500” failed to yield a definitive champion.

Nico and cousins deeply engrossed in a battle of wits.

Uncle Bob and Frank comparing arm crossing techniques.

Christine has a good grip on Drew preventing his investigation of all things dangerous.

Cousin Edward was the only adult willing to brave the chilly water. He is competing regularly in triathlons and has the physique to prove it.