A day in the country

Melbourne Cup Day is a great excuse to get together with friends so we headed off to Hurstbridge (not really in the country but close...) to visit Kai, Maya, Jeff and Yuki.

With G's birthday only a few days away I made a tart and when the candles were lit Luke was in the thick of it and blew them out in 2 big breaths. What a changc from the one year old that had no idea about candles. I think I've worked out his secret - the kids at childcare always get a birthday cake so I suspect they relight the candles until everyone has had a turn blowing them out.

With the cake finished it was time to explore the backyard and Kai was especially keen for Luke to check out the cubby house. Luke was thrilled at the opportunity to climb up and down the ladder - something he's been perfecting in the park playground. He doesn't look like a little boy when he's tackling a big ladder! And be warned he doesn't won't any big people standing too close to him because that means they don't think he's capable. This is just one of the many aspects of Luke asserting his new found skills and desire to demonstrate his independence.


The next photo shows what a large cubby house this is, G and Luke are peeking out the windows.






Luke was on a roll with birthday cakes so when Oma, JJ and Amy came around for lunch he woke up just in time for the cheese course (French cheeses are Luke's preference not plain cheddar like most kids!) and dessert.

I think G thought they might blow the candles out together but Luke true to form took over and did a great job. It's good practice for Luke's upcoming birthday. We'll be celebrating Luke's birthday early on 2 December. That way I've got the energy to put on a party (any tips on what 2 year olds want and I don't mean jumping castles and pony rides...) and Remi's arrival shouldn't disrupt plans.

Remi is going well and I've got a few more weeks of work left. The Ob is happy with my health and attitude to the birth, it's definitely more relaxing the second time around. With about 6 weeks until the due date G thinks I should at least pack the hospital bag. I'd better put it on my 'to do list'....