BEACH TRIP, ZOO, AND BUZZ CUTS

Our meeting with our social worker for our three month report (really, it's a two month report) was today and it put me in the updating mood.  Since school's starting up soon (football starts today!), we needed to get out of town for a day.  We borrowed my mom and dad's motorhome, drove a little over an hour to the coast, found a place to call home, woke up, and then enjoyed a great day at the beach.  When we woke up, it was cool, foggy, and cozy...just the way I like it!

 Then, by the time we ate and got dressed for the beach, the sun was out in full force (the way other people like it!).  So, like I've mentioned before, Derbe LOVES water and for some reason, we weren't even thinking about the moment that he would first see the Pacific Ocean...it was priceless.  We turned the corner to walk down and he was amazed to say the least.  We fumbled around and finally got the flip out to record part of his excitement, but basically, this was Derbe for the first 20 minutes relishing in this new discovery that I so often, have taken for granted.

Chernet, who is not AS excited about water, enjoyed dodging all the "Wussychews" (dogs) while playing in the largest sandbox ever.

 That is, until he biffed it.

Can I just say that we live in the most beautiful place ever?! 

Also, earlier in the month, we buzzed Derbe's hair.  He wanted daddy's hair and we wanted to keep an eye on his scalp.  Love this expression...

We went to to zoo...really, our first time out and about in public for an extended amount of time.  The boys did wonderfully and completely enjoyed seeing all the animals.

And just for kicks, here's a picture of the boys having a weird lunch day...didn't want anything but oranges.  I know that this many oranges has to be bad, but, it is funny.

SOAKING UP THE SUMMER!

I'm a little anti-pic so other people have to sneak photos most of the time.  Here's an impromptu family photo.  I think it's the closest we really have to a "home" family photo.  Don't worry, Aaron's not scary...it really WAS an impromptu photo taken by my paparazzi best bud (love you - I really am grateful (later) that you force the pics).

Derbe loves water and he loves being outside, so he loves going to grandma and grandpa's house just a couple minutes down the road.  On Saturday, we took a little boat ride and grandpa dropped us off on the island across the way... Derbe and Whit FULLY enjoyed our little adventure. Derbe's nonstop shrieking is a dead giveaway!  If you haven't seen/heard his shrieking, I'll have to post a video later.  It's a picture into this boy's ability to completely let loose and relish in the things that bring him joy. 

Anyway, the island is awesome because the water is super shallow right now.  We really are standing a good distance into the Columbia River in that picture above.  It's a relief not needing to stress out about the water so much - especially when you have a fish for a kid!

Even though Chernet doesn't share the same enthusiasm for the water, he does still enjoy a good cuddle and smooch -- especially if you have food.  He totally works his "cute" face...and we don't see that stopping anytime soon!  There's a little piece of artichoke on that happy smile below.  I'm assuming another new experience. :)