Birch Bay 2011 - Lyra, Sara and José

Sara and José are Lyra's cousins from Virginia, and they love Birch Bay just as much as Lyra does. This year was their second time together at Birch Bay, but truth be told, last year's visit was a bit of a blur for Baby Lyra. She was only seven months and had just started getting her crawl on. But this year, things are totally different!

Sensei Sara instructs Lyra and José on proper racquet preparation.

"Baby Lyra, I love you to pieces but I think I just threw my back out. Has Opa put you on his Haagen-Dazs diet? And how can you possibly be six months younger than José?"

Lyra and Sara don't love the camera, but the camera still loves them.

Sara shows Lyra her favorite YouTube clip. Wah, Lady Gaga?

Hairclip styling by Ming Yang

An outside observer might think that Lyra is about to pitch to José, with Sara as rover. But Lyra much prefers a little game called "Chase the Baby." Exit, stage left!

 Nana, Lyra, and Sara scope out the fledgling bald eagles. Lyra seems more interested in the petunias. C'mon, kid! It's our national symbol!

Now Lyra is looking at Sara's binoculars. Getting closer, Baby Lyra!

The object of Sara's attention keeps an eagle eye on the passing traffic.

Thankyouverymuch. I'll be here all week.