Sweet and Delicious

Max and I just returned from Minneapolis, Minnesota. We were visiting some of our best friends - Shawn, Joy and kids, Judah [age 3] and Luciana [age 1].

One of my highlights [there were many!] was Max experiencing his first Jamba Juice. I am a lover of the Jamba. We currently do not have this delicious smoothie chain in our city so whenever I am in a location that has a Jamba I seize the day!

Needless to say, Max officially loves his Jamba as much as his mommy does. This particular Jamba Juice is attached to a Whole Foods [I know does it get any better?] so as we strolled through the market Max held his Jamba high in the air and jabbered to anyone that would listen. He was obviously excited to share the good news of his Jamba drink.

You make me so proud, little man.

Lets Go Jackets

Welcome to the 2009-2010 Hockey Season.

Our little fan is growing up.

Bonk!

Max decided to use his creative juices today to make up a new game. After I stopped laughing at/with him, I had the sense to grab my camera and catch some of it on film. I think this one definitely belongs in the "Boys will be Boys" category. But, you be the judge.

New Fashion Trend?

I think so! Our little Max is quite the fashion-forward thinker.

His new routine? Immediately following breakfast every morning [the boy is still in his jammies] he finds his shoes, brings them to me, and insists on putting them on his feet by saying over and over again, "sooz, sooz, sooz..."

He struck a pose for me this morning:

As much as I would like to think my own love of shoes has rubbed off on him, I am almost certain he is putting them on so that at a moment's notice he can run outside. All I have to do is say, "Max, outside?" And he literally sprints to the door so he can go outside and play.

This boy is smart. He is simply being proactive so that when the opportunity arises, he is ready to go.

Hiking

I love to hike. And we have some great Metro Parks in the area that allow you to enjoy nature while walking the trails. So beautiful.

Today Max and I shared a 2.5 mile walk with our friends Monica, Isabel and Caleb. If you want to burn some extra calories while you hike, strap a baby to your back. Whew, let me tell you. It was hard work! But, I am always up for a challenge so Monica and I are going to plan a weekly hike. I can't think of a better way to enjoy the fall weather.

Come and join us!

That would be a 25 pound toddler on my back.

Max and Izzie

Monica and Caleb

Rocking Horse

Max has recently fallen in love with his rocking horse. It has been a permanent staple in his room since the beginning, but he has just hit the age where he can really enjoy a daily gallop or two. 

Note: About halfway through the video Max saying "Help Me, HelpMe, HeeelpMeeee, HeeelpMeee." One of his new favorite expressions! :)

Morning Max

Max is a TREAT in the morning. Seriously, he wakes up happy and excited to start each and every new day. The little man is giving me a new revelation of what it means to wake up with a heart of joy and thanksgiving. 

Lamentations 3:22-23 [The Message]

"God's loyal love couldn't have run out,

his merciful love couldn't have dried up.

They're created new every morning. 

How great your faithfulness!"

Just so you know what I am talking about, here is Max bright and early!