On the walk to school, Des, Ella and mom saw… a crane truck carrying a beam, a cicada shell and a pink flower. And picked up acorns- a great way to start a Monday.

A summer rainstorm breaking out in the evening means only one thing- “rain races.” While a sudden burst of inspiration led to dad branding a new event, Des and Ella were just excited to dash about in their raincoats.

Little dinosaur, take two.

Desmond getting some real air with the puddle jumps

Warm and cozy inside, it’s time for some light lego catalog perusal

It also happened to be National Root Beer Float Day. Mom graciously supplied an ad-hoc special treat, a first for both Desmond and Eleanor

It was a hit.

Look closely, but Des is clutching (dad’s) Braveheart in one arm while sleeping