chincoteague here we come

Nolan and I went on a fantastic fun filled week with my family to Chincoteague. It is my favorite beach, totally natural and beautiful. The ride down is a bit long especially with three kids. Also I am a horrible road tripper. I hate long drives and I hit my limit pretty quickly. After a few WaWa trips, we were revived and we spent the best 20 cents ever on lollipops. These lollipops lasted a long time and Nolan ate the whole thing himself!

you and me kid

Nolan has really been enjoying his time at gymnastics. He runs like a lightning bolt around and tests the different surfaces. He climbs up and down ramps, goes through tunnels and especially loves the balance beam. He is still a little unsure of the parachute, and doesn't even want the teachers to look at him (His stranger anxiety seems to be at an all time high)

obstacle course

We have gotten into the habit of making mini obstacle courses here at the Gerstberger house. It was Kristen's suggestion, and really a brilliant idea to help Nolan get out some of his energy.
Of course I also participate. Even when I try to skip a step, Nolan will push or pull me to the correct spot so I can have all the fun too! Some of the obstacles are quite a challenge for me to fit through. Matt took the pictures. Many were of my rear so I tried to pick the most flattering.
Notice how Nolan gives Matt some kisses for encouragement when it is his turn to squeeze under the ottoman. Amazingly, Nolan now says the words OV (over) and UN (under).

a new pose

This is Nolan's newest pose. When I ask him to hold still for a picture, this is the look I seem to get a lot! He is only still for a millisecond, but he can flash that smile very quickly.

What a look

I am not sure what Nolan is trying to say to me with this look. Whatever he is communicating, I love it. He looks a little mischievous and adorable and wonderful all at the same time.

July 3

We celebrated the 4th on July 3rd at the Porco's annual party. Nolan loved running around the yard, swimming in the pool and checking on the garden. He was a little nervous about the fireworks show, but still watched with amazement. Nolan was such a party animal that he fell asleep in the car. He was so exhausted he didn't wake up when we came home. So like a true party animal he woke up in the same clothes!

doggie doggie ride with me!

Nolan's affection for the dogs is so sweet. He has recently started riding on Winston, and Winston is sweet enough to tolerate it. I think Nolan came up with the idea to ride the dog because I have been giving him horse rides on my back which he loves. Every time I lay on the floor he pushes me to roll over to get a ride. Then he signs "more" every time I end the ride.
Of course Nolan uses his manners and gives Winston a big thank you kiss at the end of the ride.

Blackberries for Nolan

We went on a walk with Grandpop and found wild blackberries. Nolan loved them and kept signing for more. He had them all over his face and hands, and all over my shirt and neck from blowing zubers all over me. He is such a sweet little love bug. He loves to kiss, hug and give zubers.
Nolan can also find some parts of his body now: hair, teeth, tongue, ears, nose, belly (which he identifies by blowing zubers and looking at his belly), feet (which he identifies by doing "crazy feet") and hands. He also has close to 50 signs now and is starting to combine a few signs together.

Mr Clean

Nolan has started carrying spray bottles around the house. He pretends to spray things and even makes sound effects. This has definitely become a preferred activity and he will spend quite some time running and squealing with delight as he cleans our house!

my boys