Wordless Wednesday

Andy's first swim meet

Those of you who know our Andy know that he likes to stay busy.  And keep me busy.  All. The. Time.  His latest endeavor is the swim team.  He missed the beginning of swimming season with a broken wrist, but he was so excited to jump right in when the cast came off.  Plus it's a great way for him to get that wrist moving again.

So Friday was his first meet and he was a bit nervous, not knowing what to expect.  And let me tell you, it was loud, and hot and crowded in that pool area.  Once we had his events written on his arm in Sharpie and he made his way to the blocks, he stepped up like it was old hat.

It was getting dark by the time he swam and I didn't get great pictures, but you get the point.

Andy swam a few Freestyle distances and one backstroke.

Well, he didn't win any of his heats, but he came in 2nd or 3rd each time.  I was so proud of him for trying something new and for not being too disappointed.  (Andy can be a bit competitive)  I know it'll be even more fun as he gets to know the other kids and learns more about the sport.  Besides, I don't think you can break anything in the swimming pool.  Guess we'll find out!

awesome-er

So the children (and by children, I mostly mean me) have done a fair amount of complaining about how this summer began.  Three weeks of three children with hand, foot, and mouth disease, one broken wrist, I could go on, and on (just ask my husband).  But at some point, we started having fun.  You know, lots of free time to go swimming or stay in our pjs all morning or play Candyland 6 times.  Summer.  Why yes, we can bake cookies and go to the pool and throw the baseball and get out the paints.  It's summer!

Backyard painting, pants optional.  Totally awesome.

Princess hair.  Awesome.

Be still while you're being awesome.

"Chwacolate' chip cookies.  Even awesome-er. 

The cast is off!

What to do with the first day of freedom after Andy got rid of that hot, sticky, annoying and stinky thing he's been dragging around? (no not his sister, his cast)   First stop, sign up for swim team and hit the pool.  Second stop, find some friends for a little baseball.

Hey, batta' batta' batta'

SWING batta'

Zadie, would you like to try to hit the ball?  Why no, mommy, I'd like to draw in the dirt with a stick.  Yep, that's my girl!

Show us how it's done.

Andy's hero in all things baseball, the coolest 11 year old in town.

Of course those of you with kids know that the success of any outing hinges on snack time.

MMMMMMMM, chocolate chip cookies.   HOMERUN!

Rosie's first birthday

It has been a busy month at the Barkalow home.  So much so, that we considered letting Rosie's first birthday pass without mention.  But that was just too depressing to let happen, so we planned a simple get together in the park across the street from our house.  It was just perfect.  Babies and friends, baseball and bubbles.

Here is Rosie when we presented her with her cake.  She wasn't sure about all those people singing and watching her.

And what were we thinking?  We didn't even give her a fork.  This baby was not about to stick her hands in that beautiful cake.

Don't worry, after a little mommy snuggle and a spoon, all was well.

Zadie getting a little help from Grandpa Big.  Andy still got her out.  What is it about 7-year-olds that makes them so competitive?

Sticky kisses

Rosie's 'boyfriend' Alec.  He is such a doll baby!

Zadie and her sweet friend Valerie

Rosie with Ms. Denise

Birthday girl with GrandmaSheryl and GrandpaMike

I promise to update this post when I gather some pictures that include big brother.  They do exist, just not on my camera.  Thanks to all who joined us.  Our sweet girl is getting so big and is so lucky to have all of you to love and support her through this life.  Happy birthday baby girl!