Step by Step

Matthew took his first steps yesterday, just in time for my mom's visit. We have had a hard time getting a good video of him. He usually only takes a few steps, as in these videos, but occassionally he walks 3 feet or more. Once I get a better video I will post it.

Standing Tall

Aaron and Melissa came over for dinner tonight (and to pick up moving boxes), and it was fun to have the boys together. Matthew was showing off his standing ability for his uncle and aunt. I think his record for standing is about 45 seconds. Then, when I was getting Matthew ready for bed, he surprised Mark and I by suddenly figuring out how to stand up without holding on to anything. Walking here we come.

Ayden

Who doesn't like Eeyore?

Matthew

Matthew showing off his balance.

The Amazing Standing Matthew

Kayscreek Parkway

Today, our new backpack carrier arrived. Since the weather turned nice, I have been really wanting to go hiking. So when Mark got home, we decided to take the carrier out for a test run. Apparently it passed Mark's quality test, and Matthew loved it. In the canyon near our house, there is a 5 mile paved trail through the wetlands. We walked about a mile before turning off one of the side entrances and coming back. It was really nice at first, though by the time we were heading home the wind got a bit cold. But we enjoyed walking through the cattails with F-16s flying overhead. I love living near the Air Force Base.

 Enjoying a hike

F-16

Crashed

Also, on our way back we passed by this house. I think it is one of the neatest houses. I wouldn't want to own it - it's too big. But it would be super fun to rent for a week in the summer; assuming it had a cool setting. Picture it surrounded by woods and maybe with a lake nearby. It would be a pretty awesome spot for a big family reunion.



Down the Stairs

Fun at the Park

Yesterday, Matthew and I went to Aaron's while Mark was at school. Ayden has gotten so big. It's fun to see the difference in the boys. You can still see a big difference in their ages, but not nearly as much as it used to be. They both crawl and stand up, though Ayden is much slower and not as steady (as evidenced by our races in the park). We even had one lady think the boys were twins. All in all, it's fun for Matthew to have a cousin nearby.

Laytona 500

So what do you do with a big empty room? Well, tonight Matthew decided to turn it into a race track. He even made engine noises for his stock car. I think a Target sponsorship is in order. Maybe we can even get free diapers. At this rate, he'll be walking in no time.

Playing Ball with Daddy

What good friends.

Innocent? I think not.

Innocent Baby?

Or Ruthless Carnivore?

Right now, I'm going to have to go with the second opinion. At least until this bite mark goes away.