Summertime

Vivian and Phoebe love summer, outside, kitties, pools, Popsicles, grass, 4wheelers/6wheelers, and anything and everything else you could possibly get into in the outdoors. I really do not know how we will survive winter when the kids cannot be outside as much - but we will not worry about that just yet.

Vivian had a blast at Z's pool. Since Vivian is pretty fearless with water, I went with the jacket, so we would know she would be okay even if she got away from us. It did not take long until she mastered balancing herself and paddling around in the pool. She had a blast. Phoebe liked getting in the water too, but was much more content to take a nap on the beach towel in the nude.

Vivian also enjoyed the after-swimming picnic. She looks so cute in her little swim suit.

Camping with the girls was very enjoyable. We were not sure how well it would work, but the kids cooperated great. We took them up on North Mountain to a little spot my parents have. We were a long ways from anywhere and we could see for miles - it was so peaceful and quiet. We did see a momma bear and two cubs pass through about 75 yards from our camp - she kept on moving, but did slow down a while to check us out (not long enough to grab the camera though:(

Vivian and Phoebe were most fascinated with the big blue tent and the air mattresses. They would crawl over the air mattresses and roll around on the tent floor. It really amused them. Vivian also enjoyed checking out all the camping gear and tipping over her canvas chairs in our outdoor kitchen.

Vivian took lots of rides on the 4 wheeler.

During one ride, Vivian fell asleep and Rick had to cradle her in his arms as he drove back to camp. One thing about all this fresh air - it makes a girl sleepy.

Vivian also took a 6 wheeler when Grandma, Pop, Uncle Ashby, & Sassy came by for a visit.

Phoebe passed on the 6 wheeler ride - but not on kisses from Grandma.

When Vivian was not riding the 4 wheeler, she was sitting on it - she was definitely the Queen of the Mountain.

On the last evening, Vivian and Phoebe were inside the tent laughing hysterically at each other while we got to listen outside at the campfire - it was a wonderful sound to hear.

We also have 5 baby kitties (free to a good home) at our house which make for an excellent evening distraction. So far, the baby kitties have gotten to swing (in Phoebe's little tikes swing with Vivian pushing them), go down the slide (both with and without Vivian), and ride around the yard (and down the preacher's driveway) in Vivian's wagon. They are really having a good time.

Phoebe got to ride in the wagon too, she loves being wherever Vivian is and really enjoys the kitties.

Phoebe means business!!!

They look pretty guilty of something in this picture. I don't know what, but something.

I really like this picture of the girls. It is so sweet. I had asked Vivian to hold her sister and she complied. Actually, she took me very seriously, hence this picture.

Everything worked out fine and the girls kept on playing, with one hitch...

Phoebe darling - "We Don't Gnaw on Our Kitty" - important advice from Dr. Evil & your Momma.