Construction Activity

We've been busy: In the last few weeks, we've assembled a large backyard playset for the kids and drained our pool for a new liner to be installed.

The playset was purchased at a fundraiser auction last fall. This spring, we disassembled and transported it back to our house with the help of some colleagues. Mike then power-washed and stained it. We prepared the site for it by removing most of the sod and grading it for proper water drainage, then covered everything with heavy-duty landscape fabric. The playset was assembled in one evening with the help of our friend Marcus and Grandpa Bob. All we need now is a truckload of sand, as we had to decide against any other ground fill due to cost. Dominik already loves to swing in his own special way!

The pool was drained over the last few days with sump pumps and the pool company came today to remove the old liner, do some minor patch work and fit the new liner. Now it's filling with water with a filter attached and a vacuum between the liner and the pool walls to prevent wrinkles. It (almost) looks like new again and we're looking forward to many pool parties this summer!

As usual, more photos can be found on Uta's facebook profile: http://www.facebook.com/.

Casanova in Training

One of those times that make it all worth while for me is at night when I go to bed and quickly wake Lukas to put him on the potty. (Not so fun on the other hand: changing pajamas and sheets in the middle of the night.) Especially when I miss bedtime for some reason, so I still get a chance to see my boy and say good night. Most of the time, he remains half-asleep while I carry him to the bathroom and back to bed, and he has this contented smile on his face.

Last night, I missed bedtime because of a hair appointment and when I picked Lukas up and carried him into the bathroom, he asked: "Are you all done with your hair cut, Mami?" - "Yes, Lukas." - "It's beautiful. You look beautiful, Mami."

Now, I hate to say this, but I don't think he even opened his eyes to look, but nevertheless: Ladies, look out!

Where does he get this stuff? Mike and I don't talk that way. He doesn't watch much TV, but he loves music - his favorite song these days is "Jessie's girl". So, I will blame it on pop music for now and look forward to more night-time sweetness.