Ethan and Owen played here today because Miss Gayle's daycare was closed so she and her son could have a day together before school starts. The sun room was sunny and comfortable this morning, with light that was just right for photographs, although I have no skill at figuring out how to use the light to an advantage. I took quite a few pics of E and O, but they were so engrossed in playing with toys and cooking in the kids' kitchen that it was rare to get a glimpse of their sweet faces. These are my favorites. They look wistful and subdued, but looks can be deceiving! :o )
While Hannah and Vivi were frolicking on the beach, swimming, and eating sand, here's what was going on, in part, with the MN cousins:
E and O helped Gpappy water plants this morning. A bucket of water and measuring cups are perfect gardening tools for these two-year olds. They learned the fine art of watering from their mommy, at their Richfield house.
The little guys are quite reflective about their work.
Here they are on this lovely Sunday morning, watering hostas.
You might enjoy a video that highlights their technique. I think I'll share it with my friend LaVonne, who is a master gardener.
Later in the morning we traveled to Otown to go with Miles and Westy to near-by Oxbow Park, where we saw many wild animals native to Minnesota. Here's one of the fluffier wild critters we encountered. When in captivity, this particular species is known for its piercing shriek that causes neighbors to fear for their safety. Hard to believe that an innocent-looking creature like this one could emit such powerful noises, but I've heard it myself, folks, and I'm not exaggerating!
Fortunately, the little critter has an understanding mommy who lets him roam freely from time to time.
Not to mention a watchful big brother who keeps the wild one safe, more or less.
In addition to animals to talk to and observe, the park has other interesting attractions, including this old home. The park is green, lush, and well maintained. If the road into the area weren't blindingly dusty, it would be absolutely perfect! Close enough, however.
Annie has better pictures from this afternoon's adventure, so check in with her soon (hint, hint) for more animals to enjoy.
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P.S. The last time Gpappy and I went to Oxbow Park was three summers ago. Check out this blog entry from Sunday, August 31, 2008, to see Miles at age 9 months. Grandpa Charlie was there with us, too.
The elite runners gathered early, mingling with old friends from last year's race
Race organizers prepared registration materials for top-notch efficiency
to accommodate this year's increased numbers.
The sign-in process required meticulous signatures.
This young runner signed in for herself and her sister,
whose pencil grip is just developing.
And this runner thought he was signing up for 18 holes of golf.
A local mother-son pair was pleased with the design of this year's tee-shirt.
This dynamic duo traveled from North Carolina to be involved in the event. It was the first appearance by the younger participant, who ran in utero last year. She plans to run on her own two feet in 2012.
And this blue-eyed blonde flirted with the photographer while waiting to sign in.
The event drew 15 runners, up by 2 from 2010. Will there be more next year?
For some reason, there are quite a few photos from The Weekend of the Big Move, a.k.a. Marathon 2 Weekend, taken from behind the intended subjects. I love these photos:
Two grandpas, walking
Two babies, playing
Three young marathoners, registering
Three little guys, waiting for runners
The same three little guys, reading on the steps
Four proud cousins, receiving marathon medals from Uncle/Daddy Charlie
Fourteen marathon hopefuls, moving into starting position
On Sunday, four enthusiastic cousins proved running isn't the only way to participate in a marathon. They took their portion of the 2nd Annual St. Peter Marathon to the church yard to scurry around bases, fly, skip, hop, and do aerobics to add mileage to the hoped-for 26.2 mile total. Nice work, kiddos!
A self-appointed aerobics instructor stepped up the pace...
Miles and Hannah discuss the merits of big wheels.
Ethan, wearing his cap at a jaunty angle, starts up the engine on the Bobcat.
"Oh, oh! I see trouble ahead!"
Hannah takes a turn on the 'cat.
Viv is ready to roll.
Westy missed the Nicollet County Fair, but he got his turn at the Steele County Fair on Tuesday night. He's a confident driver, don't you think? Annie sent me this photo of her computer screen by text message. Don't ask why--it involves viruses, etc.
And heeeeeere they are! No kidding, this may be the best of the couch shots ... not everyone was happy, and two boys had hangnails to bite off. Cute kids, no matter what their moods or poses!
