Isabella, the fish!

 Isabella took swimming lessons the entire month of June.  We signed her up at a day care, just down the street from our house.  During the summer, this day care provides Red Cross Certified swimming instructors to teach kids, starting at age 3.  The child does not have to go to that day care full time, to take the lessons. 
Her lessons were everyday, Monday thru Friday for 30 minutes.  Even though it became a nuisance to go everyday, the outcome was amazing!  Parents were not allowed into the lesson, except twice.  The last day is when most of the pictures were taken.  She was so proud when she finished everything the instructor had her do, she just looked at Gianna and I and smiled.  Then she would shout out a little scream of excitment!
 Isabella did not swim at all before the class started.  Now, she can swim well, pick up rings under water and float on her back all by herself.  It has really helped her confidence in the water.  Plus, this year, she is finally tall enough to stand in the 3ft part of the pool! 
She just beams when she talks about how she can swim now!

 

July 4th 2012

It is a neighborhood tradition to go to the 4th of July bike parade.  Once again, we decorated the wagon and this year, Isabella's scooter and helmet.  It is always a fun time, even though it only lasts a couple of minutes.  The kids all enjoy it.  This year, it was very hot, and we spent most of the day at the pool with family.  What a great time!

Riding to the starting line.

She is excited to have her scooter decorated.

Gianna just along for the ride.

Happy 4th of July from the Martini's!

Fun in the Summer

 This post is just random pictures from the start of our 2012 summer.  It has started out a busy one.

Isabella ready for a friends princess birthday party.

Ready for Memorial Day parade at Laurel's house.  They had a good time together.

Where is the parade?

Peoria Zoo

More zoo.

Fun at the zoo with Owen and Lola!

Pool time in Peoria

Playing at the Mall

The balloon man was at the farmers market!

Sooo excited about their new swingset!  Thanks Daddy!

Gianna is a bit confused about what a water table is all about.

Future Dancer

Today was the last day Isabella will be at dance class before summer break.  The girls have learned a dance for a recital, called "Babyface".  Unfortunately, we are going to be out of town, so Isabella won't be in it this year.  She doesn't mind and loves doing it!

A Disney visit.....well not quite

At the Orlando airport, there is a Disney Store.  Outside of the store was Snow White.  Yep, that is closest Isabella got to Disney World.  She was in heaven.  Just think if she got to go see the real thing!  She even made Anthony take a picture of Puppy and Polly sitting on her lap.  :)

Easter 2012

We enjoyed a yummy Easter brunch with Gammy & Gampy on Easter Sunday.  We had just gotten back from Florida the day before, so it was a small group.  We hope you all had a very Blessed Easter!

1st Family Trip to the Ocean

 We took our first family trip to Florida to spend time with Grandpa Martini and all of that side of the family.  We all stayed in the same hotel, right on the beach, so it was great!!  It was the first time Isabella and Gianna saw the ocean and played in the sand.  Isabella didn't like the ocean, but Gianna loved it!  Isabella would have loved to spend the whole time in the pool.  The weather was fantastic and getting to spend time with everyone was great too!

The first day with Gammy & Gampy

 

Enjoying the beautiful day!

Playing in the sand.

Gianna's first ocean experience.

She enjoyed the waves.

Isabella...our sunshine.

Gianna being shy for the camera.

Isabella finding shells.

Isabella with Great Grandpa Martini....priceless.

 On Good Friday, we went to Anthony's cousins house, Mike and Krissy, for an early Easter celebration with all of the family.  We had a great day there, with yummy food and fun times! 

Isabella took this one herself.

At Krissy & Mike's pool.  The girls loved it!