Here are some photos that were on a different camera. More water photos! A couple of weekends ago, we went to the Botanical Gardens for a visit to see the art exhibit there (Henry Moore sculptures) and to introduce Mercer to the children's garden. 
There are things that kids can run through and explore, but the highlight of the garden -- for kids at least -- is the fountain.
He was nervous at first... wanting me to hold his hand... but once we both put our hands in the water and splashed around a bit, he was ok. From that point on -- he wanted to splash around all by himself; he didn't need me/us anymore!
It's interesting how he's apprehensive at first and wants one of us to lead him to the activity, then how independent he becomes.... and so quickly. (We've noticed this at other times as well.)
Mercer got to do something else new this past week. Some of the neighbors / neighborhood kids went to a play-place. It is a place where kids can go do gymnastics (it looks like it's geared towards competition, as there were a lot of trophies around). During the week - for 2 hours in the morning and 2 hours in the afternoon - they have a thing called open play. 
They have bouncy houses blown up, bring out objects for younger kids to play on, and 
allow kids to use some of the gymnastics equipment -- mainly a series of built-in trampolines. 
Unfortunately, I'm just now discovering this place as I'll be going back to work M-F... but Mercer was probably too young to play / explore / enjoy it 'til recently. He was - again - nervous at first at this endeavor (I can imagine that this place was overwhelming... 30 or more kids running around, screaming, playing, music streaming, and lots and lots of activity). Of course, he warmed up and had a good time in the end. (It's too bad that I didn't take our "good" camera. The camera I took isn't good on action shots / a lot of stuff ended up blurry. But - you get the gist of what the place is like and that he did enjoy himself over all.)There was something that we learned earlier this week. One of the little girls up the street - August - told her parents that Mercer was her best friend. It's been awhile since they've hung out (so it came out of the blue) but it is evident that the two of them do enjoy hanging out. Her parents told us previously that both of their daughters (who are generally shy) really come out of their shell for Mercer... that we will will have to watch him around the girls when he's older! We've ended up at their house many a time on a weekend night. One time we found him and the girls rolling around together, giggling. It's all good now, but in 10 - 15 years from now... not so good. : - ) Also, the feeling is mutual. When we drive by or walk by their house, Mercer waves -- even if they're not outside playing. He recognizes the house.
The last blog ended with a climbing story. So shall this one about Mercer climbing onto a chair. He just started that a week or more ago and has become extremely proficient at it. So much so that he wants to stand in the dining room chair... and climb ever-higher. To the dining room table! YIKES....
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