With the hot summer out of the way, it's time to get outside and get things growing. While still too young to help weed the veggie garden, Oliver is developing his flower smelling skills.

He loves walking around the yard and exploring. I follow pretty close so I can catch him if he trips, but Oliver is proving to be quite steady on his feet

(even with Heysen and Slim Dog weaving around him...).

He especially likes Big Blue Frog who lives under the jasmine.

(Heysen is the chameleon...practically invisible...)

There are currently nine new teeth busting through right now, but Oliver doesn't complain much. I keep a supply of rusks in the cupboard for quick relief, but he much prefers a walk outside to take his attention elsewhere.

Nap time usually requires a few attempts to actually get Oliver horizontal. He likes to fall asleep to music (favourite is Michael Franti) so he won't consider lying down until something is playing.
I made the BIG mistake of playing Mamady Ijalit Keita's "African Drums" this past weekend...it was like a wild sugar hit! Damien has bongo drums that he plays for/with Oliver, and it obviously touched a nerve...this baby boy can DANCE!!!


In the end, its always that winning smile and naughty little monkey grin that gets Nana handing over the cookies.

Smooth, little man...real smooth...