7 August Pics and a Story

This is our evening routine:

• put on pjs
• brush teeth
• clean up living room

We usually remember to put on pjs, often remember to brush, and occasionally try to sometimes remember to clean up. When it's late, cleaning is the first thing to go, and it's always a task that requires a little creative motivation--esp as the hour grows late. That's why it was so surprising this evening when, after I finished brushing his teeth, Rolland walked out to the living room and started cleaning up. By himself. No suggestions from us, no nagging, no "motivating." And it wasn't a token act to win points with us. He really went for it: carrying loads to his room, looking for the next thing, putting books on the shelf. He even put a pillow in the toy drawer just so it would be off the floor. (I asked him move it to its spot on the rocking chair when the drawer wouldn't close.) Dave and I spent most of the time staring at him with open mouths. He's asleep now, and we're still not sure what prompted it. I guess he finally understands how to clean. Parenting Mission #1 accomplished. Whew, glad that's over and we'll never have to deal with it again!


And now for some August photos.

Opal's first non-milk food. She grabbed the popsicle and got it in her mouth before I could stop her. Then she laughed.


Opal's first cereal (oatmeal).


She's also becoming a proficient sitter. This photo doesn't do her justice. She's been sitting up Boppy-free for a few weeks now.


Oh, Mr. Doug. You and your motorcycle. What have you done?


Rolland loves to "hold" Opal. I feel like I can see a difference in Opal between this early-August pic...

...and this late-August one.


Mmmm...blueberry season. Specifically, blueberry-syrup-on-pancakes season.