loving the water

Over the course of the summer, we've made several visits to our friends' pool and enjoyed the cool water on hot days. The kids have each taken their own approach to swimming: Morgan reluctant and cautious, but making small strides on her own terms; Andrew eager and independent, insisting on doing most of his pool exploration with little help.

I recently acquired a freebie Puddle Jumper with intentions of Morgan wearing it for more security and confidence in the water. Unfortunately, the strap is just too tight. It is, after all, intended for smaller children.  Instead Andrew was eager to give it a whirl, and once he put it on this afternoon, there was no turning back.

In lieu of the traditional life jacket that he had been wearing, this device let him swim with ease. After a short time, he was paddling solo across the pool between Scott and I, his infamous smile plastered across his face.

As I tucked him into bed tonight, I practiced those six words and said, "I love to watch you swim!" It wasn't long before he closed his sleepy eyes and drifted off to sleep, dreaming - I'm sure - of his next visit to the pool. 

real men vacuum

Aren't these guys great? Sorry, not for hire!

31.5 weeks

Hard to believe I am so far along in this pregnancy. It's been an interesting ride with a couple of minor pregnancy complaints, but nothing that has given me any insight to gender, or differences between this baby and when I carried Morgan and Andrew.

My lunchtime cravings for (easy, pre-washed) Earthbound Organic lettuce topped with feta and Greek dressing have subsided. My nightly desire for stove top popcorn has not. My lower back pain has increased to almost daily, but coincidentally, so have the invitations to a friend's pool. Sweet relief from the nagging pain and sticky heat! And my bout with restless leg syndrome is back. It's so incredibly annoying!

Also restless is this babe who loves to move, sometimes to the point of discomfort. However, Morgan and Andrew get a kick - literally - out of placing their hands on my tummy and feeling the sudden movements. It's been fun to watch them, and to also hear Morgan's name suggestions. Today's idea: Tony. A thought from last week: Ayana. (Don't worry, kiddo, despite our differences of opinion, Mommy and Daddy won't leave your name in the hands of your sister!)

So now the countdown is on. Less than nine weeks to go, or so Dr. J. says. Personally I think this baby will come after the due date. Nonetheless, we are slowly getting prepared. Baby's room is ready to be used - broken in this weekend by Cousin Will! Yay! And as we get into August, we'll adjust the car seat situation in the van, hopefully have some names that have made the cut, and take stock of all the baby gear that has been packed for nearly three years.

Soon, very soon!

bike riding

Since Andrew is now an expert on his trike, he offered a ride to Morgan this evening.

As they pulled into the driveway near my chair, I asked them to smile for the camera.

Then they traded places and offered up super cheesy grins.

Thinking of bookmarking this post for all the times when sibling squabbles seem to be the theme of the day. A good reminder that yes, they really can enjoy each other and have a good time together.