Night-Night Blankets

Doug gets full credit for teaching Mati this one. Mati likes to wake Doug up on the mornings we let him sleep in. Well, Doug started pulling Mati onto the bed to jump into the covers in a game called "Night-Night Blankets." During this game they dive into pillows, hide under the covers, and snore. I think a 21-month-old trying to snore is hilarious, so here is a video (with audio) of "Night-Night Blankets."

The Gardens

We went to the MSU 4H Children's Garden this morning for the monthly story time. Today's book was called "A Frog Thing" about a frog who wished he could fly. It is a really cute story, I think we'll have to check it out at the library. We then checked out the gardens which are now blooming beautifully. Mati loves running the paths, riding the cement sheep, and watching the ponds bubble. Today was extra special because of an unusual plant blooming in the indoor garden.

The story teller:


Mati listening with her "this is boring, when do I get to run?" face:


The butterfly bench outside the gardens:


Checking out the plants up close:


The Corpse plant. The center yellowish thing was upright yesterday but its finishing its bloom so it fell.

Gymnastics - Good News and Bad News

We tried out the class for 2-3 year olds knowing that Mati is only 2 1/2 months away from turning 2 but she's still a little too young. The good news is Mati loved gymnastics. The bad news is that she's too young for the class and could not do most of the skills... or wait her turn... or sit and listen...

We decided open gym where she can run and jump anywhere she wants is more her speed for now. Mati did have a super time. At one point we were waiting for a turn and she grabbed my face and just started kissing me over and over; she was so excited!

Here she is trying the mini-trampoline:


An aerial view of Mati on the balance beam:


Through the tunnel like a champ:


Running down the runway trampoline:


Falling into the foam pit, her favorite part!

Congratulations Darrel & Karen

Last week we had the good fortune to attend the wedding ceremony of Doug's brother Darrel and new sister-in-law Karen. It was a beautiful ceremony for a wonderful couple.

Here they are exchanging their vows surrounded by their children and parents.

Mati's First Race

Mati entered her first race today; one I hope becomes the first of many. Judging from how excited she got at the end of the race when everyone was cheering for her, I think she liked it! It was just too sweet... many older kids stayed behind after their race to high-five the littlest kids as they crossed the finish, it was precious.

Before the race, in the stands. The waiting is the hardest part.


At the start... she's over there with Doug somewhere.


At the finish, hurray for Mati!


Getting her medal.


Walking back with dad after the race.


Our family... Mati wouldn't look, she wanted to watch the other kids.


The video of her crossing the finish line: