August 23, 2008

We had a great time at a picnic with some of Dad's coworkers today but it just did not seem appropriate to take pictures. Suki loved playing with a dachshund and ran all over the picnic grounds. Grace was so social, carrying on conversations with brand new adults in a way that made us so proud, even trying to learn to play Frisbee from one of the men there. And Kate was such a joy, passed around during the meal and bestowing smiles on everyone. It was a lovely time and we enjoyed meeting some new friends. Pictures today start after nap time.

Dad, Kate and Suki get the sand and water table ready while Grace runs upstairs to get her ducks.

I love the way Kate slumps over David's shoulder.

A happy pair.

Suki points out one of the "dirty apples" in our yard.

So pleased with herself.

A little picnic on the deck.

Kate could only look on through her netting.

These girls surely do love the swing.

Baby on the picnic blanket.

One of the highlights for Grace was being able to eat the "brown bread and honey," just like in her book. Definitely an outdoor dish.

These pictures absolutely do not do justice to the delight she had over her honeyed bites.

I love how relaxed Grace looks.

Oh, how proud we were of Grace! She has been practicing going up and down these three steps with very different heights that lead to the deck. Tonight for the first time she was able to go up and down them all by herself! No parents even nearby. She loves to talk about how important it is to keep trying and trying again (thank you again, Elmo). The benefits of physical therapy are showing up all the time lately, with her increased confidence in jumping off of things, climbing without hands, practicing her adventurous gymnastics -- it's just so wonderful to see her so proud of herself.

Sook tells Dad a joke.

Trying to get Kate to smile...

...to no avail.

Keeping an eye on her sisters.

More fun with the hose.

Look who can balance on Dad's hand now!