Summertime Fun!

We are soaking up the perfect July weather in Santa Monica and our time together.

Here's some of what Kate has been up to:

1.) Going to the "gym"

We just tried it out and Kate seems to really like this activity mat that my friend Courtney got her. If she is in the right mood she will work hard at tummy time on it!

2.) Visiting the jungle via her Rain Forrest Bouncer

This thing is still a bit overwhelming with all of its bright lights and music, but she likes it in small doses.

3.) Enjoying more visits with special friends and family

On Friday, my longtime friend, Kristy (we have been friends since 4th grade), and her handsome boys, Dylan and Gavin, drove from Alta Loma (where I grew up) for lunch and some fun in the pool.

Us with our babies!

On Saturday, Kate met my cousin Aimee and her Great Aunt Diane for the first time.

While grandma and their mom got to know Kate, Kevin and Emily had fun posing for pictures in Steve's "portrait studio" and spending time with Otter.

Proofing their shots!

Aimee, it looks like they are ready for a dog to me!

So much love! 

4.) Learning about sleep

Last week Kate and I attempted our first outing together without Steve. He dropped us off at the Pump Station, a baby store here in Santa Monica, for a class on developing healthy sleep habits for babies ages 0-3 months. I learned a lot and Kate, well, she mostly slept through the class!

Practicing what we learned in class.

Note: Kate at 5 1/2 weeks old, has slept for a 5 hour stretch of time three nights in a row. We sure hope this sleep habit continues.

 5.) Admiring her new clothes and jewelry

Summer outfits from Kristy and her family.

So many cute options from Brad, Kelly, Adam & Annie Hartwick

A very special gift from the McGowan family and Great Uncle Skip and Aunt Diane that tender-hearted Kevin picked out.

And, while Kate has been busy with all of this, we still spend a lot of time watching in amusement as she sleeps and wakes up.

Oh, this girl!