Oh what fun we had this past weekend! The Irish Festival was happening, and we are always giddy to go. I have some pretty fond memories of celebrating St. Patrick’s Day as a kid. A dear childhood friend of mine was a competitive Irish dancer, and I longed to try to keep up with her legs. I made it into one class as a youngin’ … and barely made it out alive. I remember the teacher telling the students that once they perfected a step they could move to the wall. Needless to say, I choked, and was the only one left trying to figure it out. First memory of sheer embarrassment. Still, watching the dancers to this day make me wish I knew more than one step, or at least was brave enough to attend a few more classes!
The last time we went to the Cleveland Irish Festival, Brody was still in diapers. He, even back then, enjoyed the music and atmosphere. Now, fast forward a few years later, and a little brother as a side kick, this year was a blast for them both. The kids area, with bounce houses, slides, popcorn, snow cones, cotton candy … we did it all, ate it all, and the kids are still talking about it.
My boys are absolute animals at home, and practically fearless. When in public, surrounded by kids, they tend to get a little more than cautious about doing things. Stage fright perhaps? Not this weekend though! Brody tore it up on the slide, flip-flopping every way possible on his way down, grinning from ear to ear. And Owen had to be removed multiple times from the bounce house from the worker because he wouldn’t get out. “Owen, it is time, let’s go.” And he, is the sassiest of voices would yell, “NO THANKS!” Oh, Owen.
Can you tell that’s Dan’s Dad? “Papa John” The man who put our house back together, and a Papa the kids adore. The Thome genes run strong, hence Danny being a spitting image of his George Clooney like father.
The kids are whooped, and off schedule all over again. This summer has been packed with fun, and has sucked away every last drop of routine we had going for ourselves. I’m stuck with some sort of stomach bug, as if I was the one who consumed the plethora of fair food. And the boys, are feeling great, jumping off furniture and making mom wish she had a nanny!
Happy Monday everyone!
Your mom just told me about your blog…I really like it and plan to use some of the recipes…I work with mom occasionally and I hear all about your excellent baking & of course those beautiful grandsons…we are organic and I am looking forward to using your blog for more good eating…God bless you as you share your ideas.