Cossatot Camping

We headed south this weekend for Harrison's first camping trip. He did wonderful on the long drive to the Cossatot River, which is nationally known for its whitewater experience.

The visitor's center is very impressive (clean and educational). H was running around trying to "pet" all the animals. Pretty exciting to see a raccoon (actually a fox) up close.

Interactive buttons to learn about the way rain affects the landscape.

Ryan, on the other hand, was thrilled with the playground equipment. I told him we could get this giant swing in our backyard.

Small Town

You never know when that perfect photo opportunity will happen. I reached in my purse and grabbed my camera right before these guys drove flew by. Is this guy a little nervous about putting the bike on the ground? Those are some big training wheels.

Yard Phase Two

Now that the left side of the yard is almost complete, we're starting to concentrate on this side. As you can see, the nandina bushes have got to go. The tree will be trim to open the canopy for more light. I still hate the gray paint but am not crazy about the new color. Now I'm thinking a muted green for some contrast. It's always something . . .

Animal Personalities

Harrison is really into imagination play lately. He wakes us with a cockadoodle doo, chugs back and forth in the hallway, hangs and swings on door knobs, meows for more food, practices his donkey kicks on the bed, chomps on bread in the bathtub (pretend, no food in the tub) and flaps his wings as a blue jay (instead of jay bird) after his bath. Never a dull moment.

Painting 101

The boys broke out the watercolors this morning. Cousin Dan is showing Harrison the perfect technique for getting paint all over your body.

The boys needed a little assistance from me with the paint lids.

Now how do I get this off my hands?!

A group of masterpieces (including the deck).

More Gardens

I'm starting to become obsessed with gardens and gardening. Maybe because we never had a yard before last October but I can't go anywhere without looking at one. Here's a picture of my inlaw's veggie beds. The tomatoes are almost getting out of control.

Here's their neighbor's yard. I love the timeless quality of this photo.

Design Sponge

Design Sponge is part of my favorite blogs bookmark. Every Thursday, they post BEFORE and AFTER of projects ranging from a simple desk to an entire room. Check it out, the images are great.