All the hard work pays off as Nico stands atop the summit. 

This climb includes a lot of rock scrambling. Nico spent 30 minutes of our two and a half hour ascent on hands and knee working his way up the rocks. This was the most exhausting part for him. He was able to conserve much more energy when he could make use of his crutches. 

Today, Nicolai and I climbed Mount Monadnock which rises to 3165 feet above southern New Hampshire. Here we take a rest once we have cleared the tree line. Nico is so able I sometimes forget how hard he has to work to do what is easy for others. We ascended a total of 1800 feet (2 miles up, 2 miles down) in about 4.5 hours. With 50 feet of ascent remaining, Nico hit the proverbial wall. We rested and had some food after which he decided to make a final push for the summit.  

Today was largely spent gardening. I noticed this dragonfly and was lucky enough to snap a quick shot before he flew away. 

Nicolai choose to take some of his fiends to Six Flags for an early birthday celebration before they leave for the summer. Along for the fun was Kyle and his friends supervised by Jeanine and another mom. 

While the boys appeared a bit awkward in their suits, Kyle’s female friends appeared totally at ease in their outfits. 

This evening, Kyle attended a formal end of the year dance and I took advantage of the opportunity to get a photo of the guys he hangs out with. 

I believe Kyle took this photograph capturing his sister’s true spirit. 

Happy Birthday Maya!!! 

Jeanine delivered another signature ice cream cake for the celebration. 

I was at work and missed the Tea Party, but good friend Kate was kind enough to capture the moments for us. 

In a normal home this would be a bunch of potted plants. Chez Jeanine, these are actually edible treats to be served at Maya’s Birthday Tea Party. I am told they were so realistic, that some children could not be convinced to dig into the “dirt”. 

Today little Miss Maya turned 8 years old. She starts the day caring for her new baby. I remember when she was as small as Nala and I was holding her in my arms. 

The grass on our field is now taller than Maya in some places. Here she finds refuge from her pursuer who questions the logic of entering what must look to her like a dense forest.