Old Camera Pics

Nathaniel and Cristy are done unpacking and "normal" life has resumed! The show must go on. 

Nathaniel was cleaning up some pictures from his phone and found these gems that have previously been unshared! Enjoy!

Hiding...one of Troy's favorite past times

Super Troy!

How much is there to be sad about when you're 2?

But add in a roller coaster, and...walla!

Studying for Nathaniel's CISSP exam was...rough. It took many bags of Cheetos and highlighters to get through that one. 

"Doctor -- I'm ready for my examination."

Examination Conclusion: positive result.

Wrinkly fingers :)

Dr. Masel strikes again :) We are so grateful for our fantastic 2-0 Doc!

Stud.

We need a bigger snuggie!

Nana Sue Visits

The only good thing about all of the construction happening around Northern Virginia is that Troy loves construction equipment, and he gets to see it A LOT. 

Nana Sue came into town to help the family with baby Lucas and visit  with the rest of us as well. She seemed to love her time here!

While in town, she visited the Zoo with Troy, Lucas, and Cristy. 

From the look on her face, she was learning just as much as Troy was!

LOOK BEHIND YOU! TRICERATOPS!

One night Darren cooked for the whole family. We even got to dine in the famous Red Room. 

Contrary to the empirical evidence presented, Nathaniel contributed nothing to this meal. 

Boneless Ribs? Yes please!

On August 5th Lucas had his baby blessing. Sadly, because Nana Sue had just come into town that day and her luggage was delayed, we could not bless him in this fancy Tux (Troy and all the Poteet boys were all blessed in this Tux). 

But doesn't he just look smashing in it nonetheless?

Troy laughs at Lucas' pain. 

"More rice chex please"

Troy has been to Springfield Mall a few times and LOVES the train ride through the mall. 

He likes to get into all the cars. 

This is where Darren works in Washington D.C.
Nathaniel says, "Get a tie on bum!"

102 is the number of people who want Darren to work in their department, even though he doesn't wear a tie. 

Cristy says, "Families are forever honey. Now SMILE before I break your arm."

A Brother, a Birthday, a Blessing, a Blanket, and More!

The Moreira boys have tons of personality!

Troy is only now realizing the sad circumstances that exist in apartment living.

Woof. 

Our brother Scott had a layover in D.C. before heading back from his mission trip in Africa.  Thankfully Cristy, Troy, and Lucas could meet him at the airport while he was in town!

How do you really feel Lucas?

Sibling Power!

Apparently Scott was pretty hungry after his trip, as he purportedly devoured this entire pizza with little effort. 

Yes, this is just another picture where Troy is not looking at the camera. Welcome to raising boys, right?

Our great friends the Scott celebrated the 3rd birthday of their oldest son Ove at the end of July. We have been honored to attend all three of Ove's birthday parties...alas...all good thing come to and end :(

We love the Scotts!

Ove says, "Really Dad? You call that a "big" piece of cake?"

At first, Troy appeared worried about the shape and texture of the ornamental cake...

...but he soon got over it and even got a bite of the cake an inch away from his mouth...before it fell off his spoon and he lost interest. BLAST YOU GRAVITY!

Weird. 

More Moreira boys. And more chaos :)

A HUGE THANKS TO SUE DURTSCHI, WONDERFUL MOTHER, GRANDMOTHER, AND SEAMSTRESS EXTRAORDINAIRE! Sue has spent a year and a half sewing a king-sized blanket for Cristy and Nathaniel, which included our favorite t-shirts from days long ago. It is quite magical, and assuredly a present that will last a lifetime!

Our Vegetable Garden and the Family

From the left, we have squash, basil, cucumber, tomato, and zucchini. 

The fruits of our labor!

Hmmm...is that a really small zucchini or giant tomatoes? You be the judge...

Another fruit of our labor ;)

We love this kid. 

And we love that kid too!