goggles and panties

swimming lessons started a new obsession for dolly.... goggles.  an extension of her already burgeoning love for sunglasses, she coveted her siblings' swim attire.  so when asked what treat she'd like on a recent store trip with grandma, no lollaloopsy girl or chocolate package was able to override the pink pair of fishy goggles she'd snagged.  as a result, she can often be seen poolside like this:

as for swim lessons, kindin really excels.  she has a gorgeous, effortless stroke.  she certainly has worked hard but it seems an inherent talent.  this year, she enjoyed learning the breaststroke, how to dive, and how to tread water.  and her expertise has earned her the coveted yellow bracelet that allows for adult-free access at the gym's swimming pool!

jack was quite hesitant this summer about swimming.   unwilling to be prodded by either parent, he had regressed quite a bit with his skill.  he did cooperate with the teacher and, by the end, his abilities seemed up to par and confidence was regained.  he has now been entrusted with the waterslides and the deep end sans floaties!

panties.... I do not know what started her desire for wearing 'undawears' and going potty but we weren't ready for it.  we've simply appeased 4-5 requests for her potty seat but she continues with insistence.  yesterday, she asked to sit on the potty so I got her set up on the toilet.  when I couldn't wait with her any longer because of my own need to go (sorry dave, leaving to 'stir something' just wouldn't be historically accurate!), i walked away with a promise to be back.  when I returned, she had actually pooped in the potty!  I was shocked at her independence and self-initiative!  not an ounce of incentive has been applied- just the chance to parade around in pretty pink hand me downs periodically.