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We just climbed up that "steep grade" on our bikes!!! Taking a
breather now and drinking tons of water. In Acadia.

Maine: Breakwater Lighthouse

Our first day in Maine I took the kids to Breakwater Lighthouse while Brian got a little r&r.  It was a mile each way down the granite breakwater that was constructed in the late 1800's.  Oliver slept in the ergo on my back and Isabella was as energetic as ever.

While traveling on the breakwater we saw lobster boats pulling up their traps, individuals fishing for mackerel off the breakwater, sailboat races and a whole lot of other people taking the journey.

For a bit of perspective: this is at the beginning of our walk; the lighthouse is in the background.  Can you see it?

Maine: McLaughlin's Lobster Shack

Our first Maine lobster was from McLaughlins Lobster Shack in Lincolnville.  The gal behind the counter taught us all about large vs. small vs. soft shell lobsters.  And she pointed to "Mike's boat" in the small harbor just outside the shack.  Mike is the fisherman who brought in the lobster earlier that day.  That's what I call fresh fish!

Below is a photo of my handsome boys in front of "Mike's boat".

Maine: L.L. Bean

Visiting the huge L.L. Bean flagship store in Freeport, Maine almost convinced us that we could possibly live outdoors for the rest of our lives...almost...

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Atop Cadillac Mountain

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Laundry room jungle gym.

Isabella's Big Race

My little girl has been begging to run a race with me for well over a year; maybe two.  Today was her day.  The Run for Central Park had kids races, so I signed her up.  We talked a lot about it, bought new (much needed) running shoes, and hoped her nerves would not stop her when the moment came.  She did great!

Lining up for the race.

She was adorably nervous!  Very quiet and serious.

Running the race.

I was running with her, trying to photograph her.  She was too fast for me!

The finish line.

She was so happy!  She loved it!

I love the beach!

I love Central Park

Thursday evening Brian got off work early, I packed up a picnic dinner and this is what we did...

Restaurant Week: Le Cirque

Brian called me yesterday afternoon and told me he had just made dinner reservations for us at Le Cirque for restaurant week.  Fortunately, I was able to find a last minute babysitter and we had a fabulous evening out.

 image found here

Brian's Dinner:

Sweet Corn Soup

wood ear mushrooms & basil

Sauteed Beef Medallions

portabello ‘fine tart’, arugula–pecorino salad

Creme Brulee Le Cirque

My Dinner:

Chicken and Ramp Tortelli

hazelnut brodo

Salmon Fillet

tomato and fennel chutney, tomato–horseradish broth

Chocolate Fondant

caramelized banana, salted caramel ice cream

We really enjoyed everything we ate, although there wasn't anything that really stood out to the point we'd say, "You've got to try this!  It is so good!"  The sauteed beef medallions were probably the favorite.  Sweet corn soup was yummy.  The chicken and ramp tortelli was good and had a variety of mellow flavors that kept each bite fun and interesting.  The chutney that accompanied the salmon didn't impress me at first, but I loved it after a few bites.  The desserts were both excellent; we haven't had a good creme brulee in a long time and the salted caramel ice cream was fabulous.

Here's a link I found with their current restaurant week menu.

In Incubation

Sorry my dear friends who are wondering what "lump on my belly" meant.  I thought I had posted that I'm pregnant!!!  Yes, it is true.  And, it's a boy!!!  I'm 19 weeks along and due mid December.  With my longer than average gestation on my previous babes, I'm hoping this little boy comes by Christmas.  And, yes, he and Oliver will only be 18 months apart.  And, yes, this baby is a few months earlier than planned.  But since both Isabella and Oliver were several months later than planned I figure it all evens out.  I'll take my babies sooner rather than later!!!  I'm so grateful he's coming soon!

Crazy 10K

Last Saturday I ran in the Dash & Splash 10K through Central Park.  The great thing about this run is racers get to go for a nice dip in the Lasker Pool before it opens to the public.  With the high humidity on Saturday and running with a big lump on my belly the jump in the pool was heavenly.

My race time was significantly slower and my muscles more sore compared to the race I did just a month ago, but it still felt great.  I felt strong!  And I loved running and chatting with Sunny the whole time!

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Waiting out the pouring rain (it's literally dumping buckets!) in
Barnes & Noble.

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In post-chocolate-ice-cream-bliss. From the Shake Shack, of course.
Thank goodness for stain remover!!!

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Cooling off in the fountains at Columbus Circle.

An iPhone Favorite

I'm really enjoying my new iPhone 4! (Thanks Brian!!!) Especially,
the fantastic photos and HD videos it takes.

Here's a favorite photo from the swan boat ride we took yesterday
while in Boston.

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I'm so grateful for a wonderful husband who plays so well with our
children. Even on long bus rides from Boston, when we are all so
exhausted from a fun weekend.

Here: Isabella is a injured patient; Brian a skilled doctor. Or, maybe
he's just hog-tying her to keep her still for a moment or two.
Either way they both seem to be enjoying themselves.