Annual Aunt Sandi to Austin Pre-CYJ Pickup

Every year around this time, as Aunt Sandi's kiddos are finishing a great three weeks at CYJ, she visits Austin for a weekend on her way to pick them up. This year was no exception. Together, with the Gildens, we had a weekend of family fun.

toddler pillow fight!

The exception came when camp called to say that Jacob was sick. So we got an extra cousin surprise on our weekend already full of cousin goodness.


The Gilden family decided it was time to officially consecrate their new house as a Jewish home with a Mezuzah Hanging Party! Which meant Monster Muffins were involved. Which meant we sang 'Happy Birthday' to the house.

Ethan and Joey led a prayer to express gratitude for hanging a mezuzah.

Then, Gildens - with some pushy Cohen help - got mezuzot hung on all appropriate door frames. We also hung up the great craft mezuzot that Aunt Syssa helped us make the day before.

After the housewarming, uncles and dads took kids between 3-9 years old to the Round Rock Express baseball game.

Jon gave Ethan and Gabi the choice of a food treat or a turn on the bungee trampoline. This wasn't a challenging choice for them apparently.



Good, sweaty times had by all!

Ethan reached Spike for a high-5.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, the mommas and aunts stayed home with los toddlers. Hooray for baby playdate!