Plumtastic

I believe I just made up that word, but I found it especially fitting for this post. As you can see from my silly boy's face, he loves plums. He devoured the plum skin and all. I had to pull the pit out of his mouth. I've made a mental note to cover him with a trash bag next time he eats a red plum! :) It makes for the cutest pictures, but does a number on his clothes and the highchair. Ahh, the joys of motherhood.

Splish, Splash

Going for swims in the pool has definitely been one of the highlights of our summer. John Parker has become quite the little fish. This past Friday, we went to Grandma and Grandpa's pool with Jaillene and James. JP couldn't get enough of it. He kept trying to drop out of my arms and submerge himself with water. I had to take a deep breathe and remind myself that he was just having fun not trying to drown himself. Toddlers are so adventurous and willing to do and try anything. I'm glad that I can be his voice of reason. I loved how he would splash and try to roll over on his back. I'm telling you it was a sight to see; it made me smile. I think this boy is ready for swimming lessons.

(Disclaimer--all of these photos were taken before the real fun began! :))

Nothing but swimmers







Are you seriously going to drink that?

Our Florida Getaway

Last week, we headed down to Sarasota to spend some time with the Garrisons and Ritsemas. I was quite apprehensive about the trip since we'd never taken JP on such a long road trip (8+ hours). He did incredibly well; I was shocked. He hasn't been the biggest fan of his rear facing seat lately. We turned him around so that he was forward facing for the 1st time. He loved being a big boy and being able to see all the action. I think he takes after his mom in that he loves to stare out the window on long road trips. We had so much fun singing songs about rain as we passed through many Florida showers:)

We really enjoyed our time with the Garrisons and Ritsemas. We were able to head to Siesta Beach for an afternoon and visit the Mote Aquarium near St. Arman's Circle. I was flooded with memories of college spring break trips in that very same area. I love how life can come full circle. John Parker loves his cousins; he couldn't get enough of Stephen. His face would light up whenever he entered the room. He only wished he was old enough to challenge him in Wii soccer. I welcomed the many hands that were there to love on JP while I took an afternoon snooze or just had some quiet space. We feel very grateful to have had the opportunity to head to the beach with both families this summer.







Exploring the fish at Mote Aquarium







My buddy Stephen



Playing on the Beach







Enjoying an afternoon treat on Long Boat Key





"Yeah, I'm a big boy now!"

Those Eyes

There is something about JP's eyes that get me every time. He has so many looks nowadays. This morning, he was particularly interested in reaching out for the camera and wanting to help mommy take pictures. I love that at this age, he wants to do everything that we do. Lately, he has gotten a kick out of coughing when we cough, drinking out of a big people glass, and trying to imitate what we say. I love my little sponge; he's learning and growing more interesting with each day.