Our day began when Heather, Andy, and the kids came over for Jim’s
pancake breakfast. Although it hasn’t really been that long since we’ve seen them, Alexander has grown so tall and knowledgeable. It was a hoot to hear him discuss issues always prefacing everything with, “Daddy said” or “Mommy said.” Little Miss Abby is walking all over the place and has the sweetest disposition.We really thought that the kids might cry when Heather and Andy left to do some chores, but they didn’t. After cleaning the kitchen, we began the process of donning bathing gear in preparation for some time at the pool. Just as we were leaving, the lady in the rig next to us said they had left some kids toys down at the pool so to feel free to use what we wanted. We were delighted to find
that one of the toys was a little inner tube contraption that Abby fell in love with and gave her independence of sorts. I decided to try to get a group shot, but wasn’t very successful on the first try since the little inner tube blocked out Abby’s face.
However, when I tried the second time, we
weren’t very successful either; but decided that that would have to do! Obviously, the camera, sitting on the side of the pool wasn’t very level either…but we had a good time trying to get the perfect shot!After the water adventure, it was time for Batman DVD and
snacks! We really thought after all the energy exerted by both kids that they would take a nap. At least we knew the grandparents were definitely ready for one! The snacks seem to work in reverse on the kids…Abby readily fell asleep with me in the bedroom…while Alexander resisted all means of persuasion from Gramps! “Nap, no!” was his mantra! And, he kept his word.Once Abby and I awoke, we all prepared for a trip to the mall where we found
a wonderful play area for the kids. They each were willing to explore the entire area though Abby had the most fun lying down to examine the huge flowers on the soft carpet and playing in a less active area.Alexander in the meantime had found some other kids his size to
roam and run around with. He was everywhere and it was much more difficult to capture his movements as he was never in one place long enough to shoot him! Luckily, I captured these two shots before he started playing with h
is new-found friends.Eventually, we bundled them up and headed for some “cool” rides further down the mall area.
Abby immediately decided that she wanted to ride Garfield, but Alexander wanted no part of that! He ran from ride to ride trying to decide which one was the best for him. Thankfully, his
search lasted long enough for Abby to get her ride in on Garfield. In the background of the picture of Abby and Garfield, you can see Alexander searching…did he want the boat, the bull, no…maybe
the car…don’t know…that pick-up looks mighty enticing. Finally his choice was made! The pick-up won his heart…better watch out, Heather and Andy, before you know it, he’ll want a real one!We were terribly impressed that Alexander immediately told Abby that she could ride in the pick-up with him…it didn’t bother him at all that she had already ridden one ride. He’s a really considerate and loving big brother! Only one problem…this ride was much more active than the cat; so I had to hold on to Abby to keep her from landing on the floor!
Next was a short shopping spree to Penney’s where we found 2 little outfits for Abby on sale. She already at this early age picked out the two she liked…one had bees on it…the other flowers.
Alexander was determined that a Spiderman outfit was what he should have and there were none his size there…his solution…go to another store! So…while I purchased Abby’s clothes, Jim and the kids headed for Sears. However, along the way, they ran into Heather and Andy who just happened to be wandering the mall.
After successfully finding a shirt and shorts for Alexander that met his qualifications in Sears, we all went to El Chico’s there in the mall for supper. Jim and I were really looking forward to this as we love the one in Lubbock that we go to with Jimmy and Cathey. However, though the company was great, the food was definitely lacking!
Once back home Jim and I found that we were too exhausted to even watch TV or work on the computer! It was time to hit the sack!
Jim & Barbara
“The simplest toy, one which even the youngest child can operate, is called a grandparent.”…Sam Levenson
