Two rites of passage

When you think about summer in B.C., you realize there are two things that you have to do.

First, find yourself a silly-wood-put-your-head-through-it-thingamabob...

Actually, just kidding! I'm talking of course about the PNE.
The PNE is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and to mark the singular event, the organizational brass decided to do everything exactly the same as they have every other year. Why mess with a good thing I guess; like Hunky Bills Perogies.

Another fine example of good parenting: take the two-year old to the racetrack.

Spend five bucks, win a prize worth 50 cents. Priceless to the Baby M however.
There really was no choice when it came to going on this ride. There was crying, sobbing, endless cries of "please, please, I want to go on the helicopter". The pitiful scene finally ended with acquiescence, when Madeleine volunteered to take Dad on the ride.
The 4 H show.
Try explaining the idea of a llama to a toddler.

The second must-do of the summer is of course camping!

Happy times for the family.

Madeleine being social.Action shot! Big boot!
Life is a beach.
All castles made of sand, fall into the sea, eventually.
Baby M works on her tan.

After the beach, it is time for a tent party.

"Everyone into my tent!"
While Madeleine was obviously miffed at the campfire ban, a good time was had by all. Except for between 2 and 4 am, each night.

Good night everyone.

Another new dress, the fields are alive and a pool party.

Yup that's rights, another day another new dress.

This one is nice!
Dad and Madeleine.
Pretty girl picking pretty flowers.
Madeleine sings a song.
Hmmm, that water looks cold!
Why swim when you can float?
Look out 2022 Olympics!

Recent goings-on.

Recently I've been up to quite a bit: sleeping, lazing, dozing and I've even had a little time for some napping.

Madeleine on the other hand has been up to all sorts of trouble.
Candyish trouble to be exact.

Madeleine gets ready for the big moment.
Actually, she was born ready.

Giddyup!

Looks like everybody is getting in on the napping trend I started. Unfortunately, they are getting into it on top of me. Sheesh, do I look like a pillow?
Oh chocolate McDonald's milkshake! What responsible parenting.
We had a family visit from Toronto. They brought lots of gifts for Madeleine and their visit was over far too soon, although we had a windfall couple of hours extra.
My family.

Bonus video!!

Early August 2010

After a totally miserable June where it rained non-stopped for the entire month, we had a July where it didn't rain at all. Nice for sun-tanning for most folks, but for poor basset hounds, well it was kind of hot!
As you can see, we have some visitors. Madeleine is having some fun, Opa is all business.
Madeleine knows the secret to beating the summer heat. Who needs some cold water?
The alternative means of staying cool! Everybody into the pool.
Madeleine know that in this heat the plants need a sprinkling every day.

Uh oh, what this?!? The invasion of the box-men?

Madeleine saves the day! It's only Daddy.

Is this the beginning of a really bad habit?

Madeleine takes a photo of her Annou.
The summer hasn't been all fun and games. Madeleine has been expanding her cultural horizons by learning about some Native culture.
They've set up this neato exhibit at Stanley Park.
Madeleine seemed to enjoy herself.
Madeleine with her Opa.

Madeleine on top of Opa.

Random caption for neat picture for which I can't think of how to describe but included because I thought it was pretty cute.
Off to the market.

New housecoat!

Happy days.
Sorry for the long gap between posts, as a reward for your loyalty, here's one more picture.