Mr. and Mrs. Smith

This weekend we got to spend time with Ryan and Cathy for the first time since their wedding in May. We always enjoy seeing them so much (Nathan included), and this time was no exception. Nate is significantly more mobile than he was when we last visited their house, so there was much exploring to be done. It is hardly surprising that my bag full of toys and books did little to distract Nathan's attention from Ryan's very nice remote control or the oh-so-tempting oven knobs (ours are on top of the oven, so knobs within reach are a whole new world of fun/anxiety).

Smooch! (Thanks for being such a good sport, Ryan)

Sleepyhead

Nate and I have been taking advantage of the swimming pool for the past few mornings, arriving as soon as the gates open so the water is still nice and cool. Hardly anyone else is there at 10, so we've had the water slides and play area virtually to ourselves. I love that it is constant activity, not scorching afternoon heat, that wears us out. I also have no shame in admitting that one of the greatest things about mornings at the pool are the solid naps that inevitably follow. Usually rearing to go after nap time, Nathan has been a little slower to shake the sleepies after his post-pool naps...

...but it's nothing a little truck time can't fix.

Wednesday Playgroup

This morning our kiddos had a great time playing at Austin's house. You'll see that Nate gave and received some sweet hugs today (I know you're tempted to start composing your comment about what a ladies man he is. They are all just pals, thank you very much!)

from Ashlee:

Just playin'

(sans shorts, naturally)

Puppy Love

Nathan's sweetness toward his "lovies" never gets old for me (spoken like a true marshmallow, right?) Before he was born my most frequent prayer was that he would have a loving heart. It's such a gift to see that answered prayer in action.

Four

Four years ago today Jason and I said "I do." It felt as though my heart could not possibly hold any more love than it did at that moment, but, somehow, I love him even more today than I did then. Amazing.

Little of this, little of that

Nathan has been a busy bee this week, though stuck indoors thanks to several days of (welcomed) rain. He played at Let's Jump on Monday and Wednesday (for free since he's still under 18 months – love it!) and went to Birds class at Little Gym on Tuesday. At home he has made use of every nook and cranny for play, chatting up a storm while doing so. His little personality has really begun to emerge. Curiosity, a tender heart, and a sense of humor are characteristics that stand out most, along with a generous amount of testosterone (he is all boy). Here are a few pictures from today...

Multitasking

Heavy reading

(Note the medal he's wearing around his neck – his doing)

A bear hug in every way possible
AND pictures of our train ride with Leslie last Friday
(Yes, I know, I am a terrible blogger.)