Playing Together

Malynn & Jack are playing with each other in all new ways these days. Their ever developing mobility has them curious about new spaces and places. And, the changes seem to happen extra fast because they learn from watching each other!

Jack taught Malynn about making great big noise with the dog bowls.

Malynn taught Jack about using the "cars" as walkers to move around the kitchen.
The cabinet of dishes they are allowed to play with is a favorite to do together.
Jack is becoming more gentle and Malynn is having more patience when they get in each others' space, exemplified by this situation...
...sometimes when Jack gets close he can't help but give his sister a big squeeze...
...which often results in a "take down," but Malynn is loving the attention...
...and all ends in hugs and smiles!
The gate forms a great little corner, which has become a coveted play spot.
Peek-a-boo!
Reading books together -it warms my heart every time.
More lovin'!

Spring has Sprung

Another beautiful afternoon for outside playtime.

I bring toys out for them, but they are always more interested in all things natural, from every little thing on the ground to the wind rustling old leaves and new buds in the branches above.
Malynn was fixated on the tulip magnolia flowers and loved pulling off petals one by one.

Storytime with Papa

Stairs!

We are official stair climbers now! After climbing the stairs a few times for fun we had to set up some guidelines, because Jack and Malynn (in particular) were getting very upset when they decided they wanted to do the stairs and Mommy and Daddy said no. So we do the stairs every time, but only when, it's time to go upstairs for naps or bedtime. Now if someone wants to do the stairs at another time, we can say, "It's not time to go upstairs yet," and they seem to be okay since they know they'll get to do it later. (I love it when a plan actually works! For now at least.)

This was one of our first stair climbing experiences all the way to the top!

Good thing we always have an adult with us!
Jack loves getting to the top first and looking back down at Malynn.
(Thanks for the help Grand!)
They squeal and laugh about it together!
Looking back down from way up high is a sweet reward.

A Little Snooze

Sometimes holding on to a Dr. Seuss book feels just right.

Getting Outside Again

With warmer afternoons, we're getting outside again. Now we're big enough to roam around and explore the great outdoors!

Jack is more willing to venture beyond the security of Mommy's reach.

He just knew that's what he had to do if he was ever going to get all those twigs, acorns, and leaves in his mouth for a little taste. I didn't make it over to him fast enough to prevent him from popping a plug of clay into his mouth (Daddy had aerated recently), and it resulted in quite the mouthful of mud!
Malynn was more content to stay on our blanket and bask in the dappled sunlight with Mommy.

A First Injury

We've had some minor bumps and bruises along the way, but it was scab-worthy when Malynn had a little tangle with the business end of a computer mouse cord.

But after a little hug and kisses, she didn't let it break her stride. She's a tough cookie!