Frolicking

I mentioned in my last post that I don't understand why children get such a kick out of simply running around. I think I need to amend my thinking. Perhaps they are more frolicking than running.That would make more sense, though I can't remember the last time I frolicked. Maybe I'll take it back up again. Julia sure enjoyed doing it, as seen in these pictures.

Julia has only been walking for a month or two, so she isn't that stable. In fact, my brother refers to her 'walk' as 'unassisted steps'. It's true - her gait often more closely resembles that of Frankenstein's hulking monster and not that of a normal human.

It has gotten better with practice, but her new skill was put to the test on the uneven and treacherous surfaces of the sand.


She performed admirably. Whether charging down slope or back to our chairs, she only stumbled a few times. She made it seem as though each tumble to the ground was intentional. More like a break to play in the sand and taste it one more time (see the grit on her lips and cheeks?). Her antics earned her many an ooh and ahh from our fellow beach-goers as they paused to watch her. Few things are as endearing to adults as a toddler toddling.

Alas, not even one of her age and energy level can keep up the pace she was setting. Before too long, well after her normal nap time, she sought the comfort and warmth of mommy for a good snuggle.

Luckily, mommy had come prepared with a coat with room for two. This picture will no doubt end up in one of Annie's scrapbooks.