Backyard Bambi

I never get tired of taking pictures like this from our backyard.  I seriously love where we're at.  I see these guys so often, I think it's about time I name them.  Any suggestions?  

Backyard Deer

We got home from Austin's game tonight to see a deer hanging out in the backyard.  I didn't have time to get my 1.4x multiplier so the pictures are quite cropped but seeing deer from the new deck I built is the perfect way to end a day :)  

I got her attention

This deer has some serious hops!

Not the most graceful pose I've ever seen

No More Training Wheels

We had another big moment this week as the series of firsts for Austin this Spring continues.  Inspired by his friends in the neighborhood, Austin came home from school and said, "Dad, I'm ready to take off my training wheels!"  I quickly obliged and we went right outside to practice.  Michelle, Austin and I had a blast watching him take off on his own for the first time.  I'm one proud papa :)  

Austin doing his best impression of Zoolander  

He started out really nervous, but excited!  Here's one of his first attempts.  

Helping him get his balance

Showing Austin how it's done

He was always heading for the grass

Riding on his own, "WEEEEEEE!!"

Austin having so much fun with mom and dad

Michelle's work 

They were having a blast...so cute

Cruising... I love our neighborhood!

Ok, maybe he's not quite ready for the Tour de France...

But don't tell him that

Loving every minute of it

Dash was an audience of one

Working on his balance by himself

Michelle loves vignettes

I love going selenium

Yeah, he's rocking it

Austin's 1st Soccer Game

Austin had tons of fun at his very first soccer game last week.  Watching 12 five-year-olds chase the ball everywhere is both hilarious and maybe a little annoying.  It was a great time though and Austin's hoping the weather will cooperate so he can hit the pitch more often.  

Warm up drills

Austin apparently doing a pirouette... right before he fell.
I was kind enough not to include the picture of him on his butt :)

Calm before the storm

Austin leading the way for his team - the "Orange Krush".  As an Illini, I approve!

There's that Michael Jordan thing again

Pandemonium

"Guys, wait up.  I'm trying to fix my socks!"

Back to business.

The following pictures are what can only be described as the celebratory phase of the game.  Austin scored his very first goal and his team dominated.  They don't keep score and there's no goalies, but still.

Goaaaaaaaalllllllllll