Daddy's Birthday

Apologies in advance as this obsessed photographer who loves capturing as many moments as possible did a pretty terrible job with Daddy's birthday. We had the buffet of Daddy's favorite foods, desserts, and fun. Since he'd be working on his actual birthday, we loaded a weekend full of fun beforehand, and here is what we have to show for it. It's better than nothing. Happiest of 37th birthdays, Jonathan!

Every year, we try very hard to think of something the kids can make for Daddy that he will actually make use of. Past birthday gifts have included hand decorated shirts, lunchbox, computer bag, and hat. This year, we decided to make water bottle holders to entertain him and let him know we're always thinking about him when he's at work.


On August 31, we only had a few brief moments with Daddy, and we were grateful to show him the fruits of our loving labor.




After we got rid of the kiddos to school, Mommy and Daddy snuck out to a birthday brunch before Daddy had to go to work, ending the meal with fresh hot pumpkin spice donuts!

August 2021

When August first started, we had 2 boys at home and 1 girl child still at sleepaway camp. After Ethan was away for 10 days, the 2 boys were very excited to be reunited!

"Red, White, & Cute" pajamas from Grandma

matching brothers from head to toe

After just a bit of August, we were ready to bring Gabi back home!

Dewey was missing his cuddle buddy.

counting down with chain links

With just a few days left of summer break, we had to get busy soaking it in, literally.

hanging out with some friends at Bull Creek

We went to Lake Pflugerville.



On August 24, Big Spenceman turned 4.5, and he knew just how he wanted to celebrate!

Thanks to Gigi's generous gift giving, Jon, Debbie, and Ethan pooled our upcoming birthday money together to get our brand new "ninja line" for the backyard!

And for a few moments, all was back to "normal."

New Year, Same Weird Normal

When the pandemic started, Gabi was in 1st grade and Ethan was in preschool. Their school years didn't finish "normally." Last year, we had a "new normal" of virtual school for 80% of the school year. This year, 2 grades later, we began with masks and uniforms on, walking with our head high into the school building.

Here we go!

Daddy got to drop these two very eager and excited scholars off on the first day.

Gabi and Ethan were very excited that mascot Stormy the Thunderbird was there to greet them on their way inside.

We are so proud of these kiddos' resilience during some pretty strange times. They keep swimming and keep learning and keep smiling.

At the end of the first day, all (including Joey!) were treated to Dairy Queen blizzrds in celebration of making it through on the other side!

Next, it was big Spenceman's turn for his new class! He remained at the same school and moved up to the official PRE-K Woodpeckers class. His teacher Ms. Monica is the first teacher to ever have all three crazy Cohens, and she still likes us! Spencer made his very own crown for the big occasion.


To celebrate Pre-K both ending and beginning, Joey and Spencer were treated to even MORE Dairy Queen! (There seems to be a predictable pattern in this family...)

Twas the night before Kinder, and we wanted a treat - to wish luck to Joey with more sugar to eat!

Have a great school year, everybody!