10.01.2008

The Ever-Evolving Playgroup

When AJ and I started doing a regular playdate with some of our friends whose babies were born at around the same time, we used to put out a blanket at someone's place and chat about our new parenting roles. As long as there were a couple of toys and a few burp cloths, we were set...fast forward to our most recent playdate, where we opted for a park since containing 6 active toddlers happily in our homes is easier said than done!
When  I looked back in my pictures to find this shot of one of the first get-togethers, I noticed how bald our babes were back then, and how sitting up was the big skill. They were so easy to entertain back then, and we didn't even realize it!   
 But even though our little ones are more active and vocal now, they are also so much FUN! AJ  and his friends recognize and interact with each other now, and they can run, climb, talk, and they are working on sharing...that's a toughie! The park was a hit, and the kids ran all over the place, going down slides, hanging out in the swings, playing in the sand, and picnicing on the grass. AJ was very into the sandbox on this outing, and  although he brought a lot of sand-piles with him to the picnic, I think everyone enjoyed themselves.

Here are a few shots from the playgroup in action. AJ and his friend Emilio were busy in the sandbox (both playing with toys belonging to other children, and AJ never wants to leave these borrowed or community trucks behind!).
The next shot is AJ checking out how sand falls out of his hand (and onto his overalls).  He was also very interested in piling on as much sand as possible onto the toy du jour (I think it is a Thomas the Train?). I really have had to work on my compulsion to keep AJ clean this summer as he LOVES to get SANDY.  I am not a fan of the sandbox, but it makes him so happy to play there and I do think he's learning a lot by exploring the properties of the stuff.

Luckily we like a bunch of other nearby parks that DON'T have sandboxes, so we do have choices for when I'm not feeling super-patient.
AJ also spent some time running around under the trees with his friends. Here is a cute picture of him with his friend Aliza. They were imitating each other reaching up and clapping above their heads. It was precious!





As all these kids grow and develop, I'm constantly reminded how lucky we moms are to know each other and have such great children. What a blessing it is that all of them can grow up together, never remembering a time when they were not friends. (cue Hallmark commercial)

1 comment:

Robin Forestal said...

i love the boy!!!!! miss you.