A New {playground} Adventure

The weather sure didn't feel like May 5th as we made our way down to Lake Michigan. The whipping wind tossed our hair into our faces and pushed us backwards. This couldn't stop us from tossing stones into the crashing waves. We were on a mission; searching for a little playground adventure.

I didn't know there was a new, totally cool playground set built in the state park. It is almost the same set up as the one we visited at the Charles Mears State Park in Pentwater. I like these set ups with the climbing rocks (even if it is plastic), twisting steps and bright colors. E sure likes them too.

 Attempting the spiral stairs. She did pretty good with a little help from Dad.

I was not kidding about the wind. Our hair was whipping all over the place. Well, except for Dad's of course.

The bright yellow slide reminds of the one on the jungle gym that Dad built me and my siblings. I slid down that slide over and over and over. Oh the memories. 

Maybe the wind just tired her right out. This has got to be my favorite photo from our Grand Haven State Park Playground Adventure. I like that the play set has the anchor and life preserver on it. In my mind that is a perfect representation for Grand Haven. 

I hope you enjoyed seeing photos from our playground adventure at the Grand Haven State Park.

Until next time...

Eating marshmallows.

I will always be surprised by my daughter(s). There hasn't been a single day that has passed where these smart, energetic, wonderful little people do something silly, outlandish are just darn cute that makes me think: Wow! My girls are pretty awesome girls. (Second thought: R and I are so lucky.)

I have to be honest, not every moment is a shining, perfect moment. Reminder: E is less than 3 months away from being a 2 year old. My hair is slowly turning gray as she pushes buttons I didn't know I had. For instance, today, we spent the afternoon downtown Grand Haven with R's Mom and her husband. They are in town for a week from Texas. We are all thrilled to spend some quality time with them. Even M said, "I am SO glad Grandma is here!"

The afternoon was relaxing, food was great and dessert was delicious. We really just enjoyed the simplicity of being downtown. We spent time at Mackinaw Kite Company where every single one of us found a toy to play with. Such a treat to hangout together. E didn't even fuss when it was time to go. But, try to get her into her carseat and one might think a stranger was trying to drive her home. (I think I saw strangers looking. EEK!) Scream, kick, punch, flail and 2 minutes later E and I are both in tears. It just breaks my heart when she cries because she can't do whatever she has her mind set on. I wonder if she just doesn't understand. It was a little too much for me. Plus, I'm a sap.

Sometimes I struggle to reprimand her and other days I don't have a problem tucking her under my arm with her legs just a kicking. I am still learning to pick the battles with her. Some just aren't worth listening to the tantrums. Another example: 1. Eating marshmallows. One isn't going to hurt because we all need a little sweet in our life. 2. Brushing teeth? It's a must. Especially after a marshmallow. ;)

We are still trying to find the right path to take on how we will discipline E. With her current 2 year old tantrums and stubborn ways I want to set rules now. But, I know she is still so small. Or maybe I'm just telling myself that. I guess we will just figure it out as we go.

This tired, frazzled mama is ready to take on a new day of surprises from our growing girls.

Any terrible two stories or advice? I am happy to hear it.

Enjoy your weekend.