Yup, you heard me right. Seventeen. When did that sweet little boy grow up?
We had his usual birthday celebration at our house. The little kids were able to gaze in adoration at their favorite big person, and all 7 grandkids spent time in the pool.
Chloe, Emi and Ellie were pracitcing their sychronized swimming routines. They have a bright future in the 2016 olympics.
Or maybe Ellie will become a goggle model.
This boy is headed for GQ . . .
Cousin soup. They were swarming Chauncey in the pool. They can't help themselves- he's like the sun to their little planets.
I try to get a picture of Chaucney diving off of the board every year. Last year he didn't have quite so many muscles.
The birthday boy chose a cookie cake AND mud pie. Smart man.
Hayden was so excited to give Chauncey our present- a Brazil soccer jersey JUST LIKE HIS. Now they really are twins. Its actually hard to tell them apart when they are both wearing them.
Happy Birthday, Chaucney. You are a wonderful young man. Although I really miss your adorable four-year-old self.
For Abi's 3rd birthday, we had a little party at Grandma and Grandpa's house. 
She loved being the center of attention, and was very excited when she asked Grandma who the presents were for and was told, "they are yours!" She then opened each one with "This is MINE!" but then would let whoever wanted to look at it or play with it. She just wanted it on the record.
Very patiently letting Auntie Ewwin take yet another picture. I cannot resist that face- and that body! 
The cousins went swimming, and we had time to play home and eat appetizers and a lovely dinner from Joey's of Chicago.
Auntie Tara got her a fur-real chicky- or maybe a duck- because Abi loves to talk about Lello-chicky, who turned out to really be a turkey, and is now at fat camp waiting to turn into someone's turkey dinner. Poor Lello. Maybe this chicky will be a better fit.
Abi loved the Strawberry Shortcake card from Grandma that actually played a song. She loved it so much . . .
She took a bow when it was over, while wearing her sparkly new shoes that she demanded go on her feet right away and didn't take them off the rest of the night. 
It was a fun birthday party for a fun girl. Happy Birthday Abigirl! We love you and your squeezable-ness and joy!
