Grandchildren

The Blackwells were here for a visit this past week. We had a lot of fun. I got chalk paws for William to tramp around in, but the girls liked them better.

One day we went to the Aquarium and Botanic Gardens. The sting rays were a big hit and so was the giant ant in the "Underground Garden". Walking in the ever hotter day got to be a bit tiring for little legs, though.

Afterward, we went to Tingley Beach for a picnic --which the ducks and geese benefited from, because everyone thought it was great fun to toss them bread (and a couple of potato chips, too).

On another day we went to the Aquatic Center for a swim. I had never been. It's very nicely laid out for children and families, with both an indoor and outdoor area with fountains and slides. There's also an Olympic pool, but we didn't venture into that area.

Of course we had to go shopping for school clothes. I didn't recall how strenuous that can be--getting everyone in and out of the car, finding just the right size and so forth. Still, we found some bargains.

We also took time to do some crafts. Each child made a card for Mom the night she went to Ruth's for bunco. They also made paper dolls and William decorated his own 3" racing motorcycles.

On Saturday we set up the little pool so everyone could splash around. That turned out to be fun, although the water didn't warm up as much as we expected in the sun. The girls lips were turning a bit blue before they decided to hop out and warm up.

After the swim, all 3 Blackwells helped Grandpa, Aunt Ruth and Logan 'wash' Ruth's Vue. The front bumper got a good washing from 3 sets of little hands. William took on the job of washing the rear of the vehicle.

Overall, a fun and busy time for everyone.