family get together

On Saturday, the entire Mulandi clan got together for the first time since Kyalo was born, seven months ago.  I'd say it was high time for a reunion, of sorts.  In addition to just seeing each other and catching up, there was lots to celebrate!  Dexter's acceptance into school, Robert's birthday on the 8th, my birthday on the 9th, Kyalo turning seven months, and Andrew being almost 9 months.  And so much more, really!  We met at a restaurant for lunch...and lingered there for several hours. It was a beautiful day, the place wasn't crowded, we were outside, etc. It was hard to leave, so we relocated Robert and Helen's for chai and cake (which was a surprise for Robert).

 Kyalo & Auntie Helen in serious talks

eating banana is messy business

 Dexter's dad

Dexter, enjoy quality family time

Dexter's mom

Jackie & Andrew {almost} 9 months

Robert was a little surprised to discover that the cake and the singing was for him.  I made a carrot cake and those chocolate-coconut cupcakes I'd made for Dexter a little while ago. Everything was a hit!  And we all had a great time.

There's just one problem with going to Robert & Helen's place. . . 

{Aidan & Mufasa}

Do NOT let the smile and the calm pose fool you...this guy is a beast.  At one point, he was barking and jumping around and I was sure he was going to tear the chain right out of the tree. Plus, he was definitely eying me hungrily.  I'm not really a fan of dogs, and this one puts me on total edge. But, as you can see, 12-year-old Aidan loves him.  Ack.

And there we all are! I was thinking to myself, "I hope it isn't another seven months before we're all together again," and then I realized...that in seven months a) Kyalo will already be a year and b) we'll be living in the United States!!! {Cry}. I'm really thrilled that Dexter has this opportunity to go to school, but leaving Kenya (again) is hard to do. Kenya truly feels like home...but more on that in a later post.  Fortunately, Christmas is next month, so we're likely to be all together again - doing what we do best: eating! :)  I love this family and feel blessed to be a part of it.