Practice Makes Perfect

We've been talking a lot to Osten in recent months about practice and trying to explain to him that it is the basis for improvement. Tom and I were standing in the driveway a few nights ago, and Osten made a comment to the effect that he was still unable to ride his bike by himself. Although he's been able to balance on two wheels for months, he has had a difficult time getting started without a push from Mommy or Daddy.

Oh, how I love it when those teachable moments fall into your lap! When we asked him about his last attempt, he couldn't even remember it because it was so long ago. With a little coaxing, we convinced him to get back on his bike and try again. Lo and behold, he did it! I'm just sure that my proud squeals of delight and encouragement were heard somewhere in cyberspace.

There are still kinks to be worked out and confidence to be built. But we were back in the driveway with his bike last night, and he didn't need a single push to get started. Way to go, Osten!

Unbelievable

Well, apparently Marci has added a new word to her vocabulary, and it's . . . unbelievable. Literally. It just popped out her mouth, multiple times, this afternoon. And since it was only directed towards me, it gave me a quick, scary glimpse into her adolescence. It wasn't pretty. I mean, in all actuality, it is kind of cute to hear her utter such a big word (and with such dramatic flair) at her young age. But it's also a definite reminder that we are in no hurry to have teenagers. Yes, for now we will continue to cherish these days!

Fun in the Hot, Hot Sun

Because it's just too hot these days to be too far from a pool or body of water these days, we had a picnic in the park near the fountains while the Atlanta cousins were in town for the 4th of July.

A friendly splash in the fountain soon turned into an Uncle John ambush!

Got water?

Even Wrigely got to come along for the fun.

Free Ride

"Come on and take a free ride
Come on and sit here by my side . . . "

Red, White and Blue

Here's a photo of the Sayers kids ~ all four of them getting ready for some fireworks!

Marci was so excited to have Allison at her house!

Air hockey, anyone??!!

The boys and their party dots!

Happy Birthday, America!

We started a new tradition this year and sang "Happy Birthday, America" with the kids because, well, who doesn't like a birthday party with a little dose of history??!!

Here's to you ~ red, white and blue!

Our second annual 4th of July low-country boil. We had such a good time that we've decided to double the fun next year!

The Icing on the Cake

It just occurred to me that I never blogged the pictures from our 4th of July festivities . . . I made a layered cake this year that resulted in an extra layer that the kids helped decorate.

It was a group project!

And, of course, there was lots of sampling.

Delish! And a masterpiece, to boot!