Austen & Gage

Today, Austen went to see her first movie with Mama. They saw Pixar’s Ratatouille during an early afternoon showing. Although the theatre was fairly crowded with plenty of older kids, Austen happily sat on Mama’s lap for over an hour, enjoying the new experience, the huge screen and of course, Remy the rat (or “mouse” as Austen calls him).

After about an hour, Austen started to tickle Mama and giggle and talk, tipping Mama off that Austen probably had enough. Then, as Austen was carried up the aisle to leave the theatre, she repeatedly exclaimed “Bye-bye mouse. See you later. Bye-bye. See ya, mouse.” while waving to the screen. Mama tried to explain to Austen to speak softly but couldn’t help giggling herself and no one seemed to be bothered by it, although they all stared

Overall, it was a great trip to the movies (even if Mama paid full price for Austen’s ticket and later confirmed kids under two get in for free) and Austen seems to be a budding fan of the big screen.

Mama also enjoyed the movie and was able to see the ending a few days later when she went to see another movie with Dada and Chacha.

While dining at one of Austen and Mama’s favorite restaurants (Tinga), the entertaining balloon artist made this fancy peacock for Austen.

Austen went to see her first fireworks this year. We went to North Branch Park in Bridgewater, where they had setup plenty of activities including bouncy castles, inflatable slides, food stands and a live band.

We arrived around 6pm with fireworks scheduled to start at 9:30pm, well past Austen’s 8pm bed time. We explored around a little bit and then went straight for the jumpy castle, one of Austen’s favorite street fair games. When her time was up, she didn’t want to leave so Dada had to climb in to help Austen out.

Afterwards, we got some treats at the food stand and went to listen to the band. There were a few sessions of rain and we all cuddled together under a small umbrella, although Austen was the only one who managed to stay dry.

Around 8pm, Austen wandered through the crowd and came across some older kids playing soccer. Of course, she had to go kick the ball and the older boys were happy to play with her. Then, some more younger kids joined in and it became a bee-hive of baby soccer players, all swarming around the ball trying to make contact.
After getting her fill of the soccer activities, Austen ran around with some other kids, chasing them and also being chased. This lasted about thirty minutes and tired Dada out.

Then, around 9pm, an announcement was made saying the fireworks would start a little early to avoid some additional rain that was headed our way. So, Mama and Dada took a very tired and hyper Austen back to their chair where she settled in and drank her water. Within two minutes, Austen feel asleep and two minute later, the fireworks started.

Despite the loud noises, bright flashes of colorful light, and regular attempts to wake her, Austen refused to look and kept her arm over her eyes so she could sleep. It started raining again and before the grand finale, we decided to head to the car. On the way back, Austen woke up and enjoyed the last few minutes of her first fireworks show, although she was a little surprised to see all the activity up there in the sky.

Scout! Kitty! We love you!

Austen’s reaction to her summer reading package was pronounced. No exaggerating, when she saw the tee with the cat on it, she said “Oooooh.” When Mama blew up the plastic globe (with tons of mistakes on it) she was in awe and soon tried the same with Mama’s blow-up bath pillow. Thanks, Auntie Janet

Several of Austen’s friends combined their birthday parties into one big playdate. She loves playing with all the ‘new’ toys and enjoys cuddling with stuffed animals.

After playing indoors, everyone went out to play. Austen decided to go as far as she possibly could.

She also found an older boy, who was really focussed on his gaming system and didn’t care to hang out too much with the toddlers…

…but eventually, Austen wore him down!

Austen watches Aaron stuffing himself inside the tube.

Imagine Mama’s surprise when it arrived in the mail.

Austen enjoyed playing and hanging out with friends at Dean’s 2nd birthday party, which was held at a different Music Together location. Although the teacher was different, Austen and Mama sang along to the familiar songs.

Today Austen spent a while sitting on the couch watching a video Dada took of her watching herself on video. Her favorite TV show is now videos of herself. All the baby books say toddlers are narcissistic!

Austen’s favorite stuffed animal is her doggie, which she received through Auntie Janet’s help. Austen carries it around with her everywhere including car trips and especially during sleepy time in her crib.