Raking

If Tommy's latest infatuation with rakes lasts until fall, we will have a perfect, leaf-free yard! As soon as we get outside, he rakes constantly...
Showing his big brother the rake...
...who thought it made a great chew toy.
Conveniently the dog brush also resembles a rake- Gus enjoyed the extra pampering.
This one frustrates him because for some reason his instinct is to push it, which is really hard to do.
In other news, a family of cardinals recently moved in just outside our kitchen window. We thought for sure they'd ditch the nest after they realized what annoying neighbors we are, but they don't seem to mind us!?
I'm sure you've been holding your breath waiting for an update on the herb garden...looks like we'll have plenty of basil and oregano, but clearly there's a lack of progress with the rest. "Finicky" plants are not welcome in my garden anyway.
It's convenient that the halfway point between home and Pat's office is one of the shopping meccas of Chicagoland- Oakbrook Centre. So what better place to meet up for lunch and treat Margot to her first shopping trip? She slept through the entire experience, which either means she knows not to protest mom's retail therapy, or she's completely disinterested.
Happy weekend, everyone! We're headed to Michigan next week to ring in the summer and celebrate our SIXTH anniversary at Crystal Mountain-- lots of pics to come!