Happy 1st Birthday to my sweet little monkey!

It’s amazing what kids can do when they have a little independence to explore. At just under a year old, this little adventurer has learned how to get her self up and down this entire play structure by herself. She climbs up the stairs one by one - sometimes on hands and knees and sometimes holding the hand rail. Then she flies on her belly, feet first, down the slide. 

With a big smile at the end, I can tell she feels very proud and confident in her own abilities. It feels so good that she did it several more times before moving on to something new.

Mean while, mommy here tries to stand just the right distance while holding her breath. Balancing being just close enough to spot her, but just far enough to let her know that she can do it herself.

Our new (to us atleast) backpack. After a lot of research I chose the Kelty Junction 2.0 because its not as large (tall) and doesn't stand out as much as some of the other hiking backpacks, but its more sustantial than the Ergo (even though I do love my Ergo). It still might be a little much for the mall for most people. 
I think she really liked it..