Girls Rule

Here's Wrigley doing a little girl-bonding with Marci this morning.

They're clearly on their way to becoming fast friends. With the count now at 3-2, it's become official that girls rule in this household!

On the Go Again . . .

It was another busy weekend, for sure! Mommy got Osten's activity table out of the attic, and Marci was standing next to it and posing for pictures in no time!

Osten spent quite a bit of time in the driveway on Saturday, and it's never looked better!

Meanwhile, Marci flipped through a Southern Living magazine while Daddy watched TV.

And Osten took a run around the bases at the YMCA on Sunday and discovered a soccer ball on a nearby bench. He made it to second base without even touching a bat!

A Walk on the "Y" Side

We walked the trail at the YMCA on Sunday, and Marci had her first ride in the backpack.

And Osten was thrilled to walk by himself.

Good thing we brought along lots of water!

Marci didn't seem to mind the heat too much . . .

Potty Break!

After a shot-gun start this week, potty-training has become a little, er, hit-or-miss (great pun!) One step forward is usually followed by a step or two backwards. Here's a prime example: After announcing this morning that he wanted to wear his training pants, Osten discovered that they are great for the backyard baby pool!

Marci, albeit clad in a conventional bathing suit, also got in on the pool action . . .

and so did Daddy! Even though it didn't get us any closer to being diaper-free, the potty break was fun for the whole family.

Well, so much for potty-training, at least for now . . . Osten (in his training pants and all) was soaking wet from head to toe for most of the afternoon, and he couldn't have been happier!

Bubbles: One of Life's Best Simple Pleasures

What trip to the beach would be complete without bubbles. They're fun for all ages! And, since they're so easily transportable, they're fun on the porch . . .

and while running on the beach in your diaper!

It takes a little practice to get the hang of it . . .

and they're guaranteed to bring a smile to your face!

Wild Dunes: A Growing Boy's Retrospective

What a difference a year makes! Here is Osten on the playground in 2007 . . .

and here he is, one year later, in 2008!

Osten on the slide in 2007 . . .

and here he is, one year later, in 2008! Cout 'em - four bandaids on his legs alone - what a treat! (Bandaid Count = 4+ even though Boo-Boo Count = 1). And his pirate shirt glows in the dark. He picked it out all by himself in the pro shop. (We'll spare you the pregnant pictures of Mommy at the beach in 2007 and wait until next year to do a retrospective for Marci!)

Little Picassos

Still blogging the beach pictures ... Here's Piper creating a one-of-kind masterpiece.

Osten also designed an original plate keepsake. The MOMA ain't got nothin' on our little Picassos!

Once again, Marci happily watched from afar, but something tells me it won't be long before she starts hitting the markers!

Since Daddy had to leave a night early, Osten called in an update. Yes, he has officially begun collecting bandaids and can usually be seen sporting at least one or two on his elbows or knees. Boo-boos are optional, but bandaids seem to have become a key piece of his wardrobe ... apparently, they have replaced his pants!