The giant slide

This is a photo tribute to Zach's first time on the giant slide... maybe we'll try again next year.

And they're off!

These last couple weeks were full of action. We got to go to the state fair for the second time and Zach got to go down the giant slide. He wasn’t a big fan and screamed the whole way, but apparently he wasn’t too traumatized as he smiled and giggled for pictures after. Maybe he’ll have more fun next year.

On Sunday we headed out to Canterbury Park to see the horses. It was the last weekend of racing and admission was free so we just hung out for a couple hours and caught one race. Most of our time was spent watching (and riding) the mini pygmy horses.

Later this week Auntie Amanda is coming to town and Zach is really looking forward to spending time with her. He’s even looking forward to watching Daddy drum with the Skol Line on Sunday!

Up, down, up, down

 Getting ready to watch Daddy drum in South St. Paul

This has been one crazy week of learning for Zach. About two months ago he learned to climb up the stairs -- now he can come down too.

He's actually been able to go DOWN the stairs for a week or so. What he's officially mastered is the turn at the top of the stairs. Now, he slowly approaches the top of the stairs and looks to me for reassurance. I tell him "Be careful. Turn around." Then he gets a big smile on his face, turns around on all fours and goes down the stairs backwards.

This new skill is actually two in one. Along with going downstairs, he can also get off furniture safely.

In other news, HE'S WALKING! It might be only short distances, and he might prefer to hold your hand, but he's doing it. It's only a matter of time before he takes off on his own.