Swimming at Sauvie Island

Keeping cool at one of the Columbia River beaches (no, not the clothing-optional one) on Sauvie Island.

Kate treks for a treat

It finally got above 90 degrees here in Portland today. To cool off, we went to the preschool swim at Grant Pool, where Audrey showed off her new swimming skills she's been learning in lessons and both girls took plenty of trips down the water slide. This evening, we headed out for a treat at a frozen yogurt shop in our neighborhood. Audrey rode her bike, and Kate insisted on walking instead of riding in the stroller. She actually walked all the way from our house to the shop, which, when we later checked the distance, turned out to be a half-mile! As far as we know, it was the farthest she has ever walked. She did spend some time in the stroller on the return trip, but got out again to walk the last few blocks.

Out for a stroll

Taking Bobbie (left) and Purple Pink for a walk around the block.

Tub time

The girls don't have to travel far for aquatic recreation: we sometimes turn our hot tub down to 98 degrees or so and let them splash around in it.

Snuggle time

Kate and Audrey enjoying--for the moment--each other's company. Like any young siblings, they cycle between competition with and compassion for each other. Audrey watches with an eagle eye to make sure that Kate does not get a larger food or drink portion than her--they argue about who's drink is "deeper," i.e., whose glass is more full. Audrey will get frustrated with Kate if they are playing something together and Kate doesn't precisely follow the script Audrey has in her mind for how the activity should proceed. When riding together in the bike trailer, Kate will scratch Audrey and pull her hair, seemingly knowing that she can get away with it for a few moments until Mama or Dada can pull over and make her stop.

On the other hand, they do take an interest in each other and seem to miss each other when they are apart (although maybe it's more out of a concern that the other is getting to do something more fun). They also show small kindnesses towards each other that can be quite touching. Kate will, unprompted, share her food and objects she's playing with with Audrey. Audrey will often make two of whatever art project she's working on at preschool so that she can give one to Kate. They also conspire with each other, giggling and egging each other on to make mischief. They can also keep themselves entertained for short periods, giving Mama and Dada a few moments of rest, although with ears perked in case things get out of hand.

The training wheels are off!

Well, they were for about 20 minutes, anyway, before they went back on. But Audrey got a small taste of two-wheelerdom.

Cafe au play

Audrey and Kate like to play "coffee shop" in the flower beds of a neighbor at the end of the block. They specialize in making what they call "coffee lattes."