Guess who?

J bought A a Mr. Potato Head. I'm glad she didn't try to put on the eyes!

This morning I was in the kitchen, and A was unusually quiet. Quiet usually spells trouble when you're dealing with a 22 month old, but today it spelled creative.
A put two of my shirts on (one on and one over her head), as well as two of J's boxers (look closely near her ankles). I think this is hilarious, and it is a good reminder not to leave the folded laundry on the couch. Apparently it's just too tempting!

Family Vacation

When A neared the ocean, she was initially a little scared (it IS awefully loud). But, after seeing her courageous dada venture out into the deep blue sea (or ankle deep, at least), she had to do it for herself. And, once was NOT enough. Her smile was enormous, and she rapidly signed the words "more" and "please" over and over again until she had her fill.
J, with his mom, sister, neices and daughter, enjoying the late afternoon in the sun.
J and his sister, R, bought body boards on Friday and had a blast! R had a few battle wounds and they were both tired and sore the next day, but that didn't stop them from wanting to go back in for more!
A and her cousins shared their first jaccuzi bath together. They were fairly inseperable during our vacation, and it was fun to see how much they enjoyed eachother.
Auntie R was A's backseat entertainer when we took a short car trip

down to the Newport Aquarium.

Tons of sand to shovel before I sleep, and tons of sand . . .

What a difference one year can make! Last year, A was content to view the beach from her stroller, but this year there was far too much sand with which to play.
When J built A her very own pool of water, A's delight in her new muddy pond was contagious. Soon, all of the girls were standing and sitting in it and having a wonderful time.

There were no masterpieces created during our stay, but A

had a great time moving sand around.

The Dog Days of Summer

We took the plunge today and tried out a fun, free water fountain for kids at Esther Short park. After temperatures that soared the day before, any form of refreshment seemed exciting, and this place didn't disappoint! Here is A all decked out and ready for some water fun!

A's cousin S (above left) and cousin A (below center) joined us in the water.

Good times had by all!

Happy 4th of July

J was off in the woods being wild at heart, so A and I went to the Ridgefield 4th of July parade with our good friends H and R. My mom made this fun patriotic dress for A last year, which she wore, but, as you can see, can still wear it this year. In fact, she received many compliments. Go mom!

This year she seemed much more engaged in the parade and only got upset when the little league baseball teams squirted water all over her. But, hey, it was a bit upsetting to me too! Refreshing on a hot day, though.

We ended the day at S and M's house for their annual 4th of July barbeque. We missed J's contribution to the fireworks, but S did an excellent job. And, what 4th of July party could be complete without our heartfelt, be it sad, rendition of Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the U.S.A"? Thanks for a great party, S and M!