Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Class: Tykes Yoga


LOVE.

We (LG and Mama) are so in love with this class. I swear I often feel as though it is as if LG created the curriculum herself. It is the perfect speed for her (read: it is fairly quiet and slow). She loves the fact that everyone has their own mat (she is the rare breed of two year old that respects personal space) and that it is a small group of children.

Dare I say that she enjoys this class more than gymnastics? I have to say that I do. The main reason? I don't have to say "no" as in "no don't go over there; no don't touch that." There isn't any equipment to worry about it is just an open room. I find this class to be so relaxing for me because I can just enjoy my time with LG.

The teacher, Kim Blackmon, is wonderful. She just has a way of engaging the children. You can absolutely tell that each child is special to her and what is really important is that the children can tell too. She watches what they do and she builds on it. She incorporates each request (benefit of a small group) and praises each child. In short, Miss Kim respects the children.

I cannot offer enough praise for this class. It is offered at the Virginia Hospital Center and new the early summer session is available for sign up now. If you are not in Arlington, check out the Itsy Bitsy Yoga website to find your local instructor.

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Flying a kite at the Iwo Jima Memorial

~A post from Daddy

This past Sunday, LG and I needed an outdoor activity to burn off some of her Easter chocolate energy. Given the sunny and breezy afternoon, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to head down to the USMC War Memorial and Netherlands Carillon to go fly a kite.

We had a great time and got the kite up pretty high when the winds were up. LG had plenty of space to run and got quite a workout. Even if you don't have a kite, it's a neat place to let a little one run free. There are scattered old, big trees and lots of grass with a great view down the hill to the Lincoln and Washington monuments and DC (it's a very popular spot to watch the fireworks on the Fourth of July!). There are also a pair of bronze lions by the Carillon that LG really enjoyed "riding".

Parking isn't too much of a problem, you can look for a spot on N Meade St, or find a space down in the circle around the Iwo Jima Memorial. It's also a quick walk from the Rosslyn Metro.


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Sunday, April 5, 2009

Outside Activity: Mini Golf

Wahoo! Spring has sprung! It is officially time for Mini Golf at Upton Hill Regional Park. The pool doesn't open until Memorial Day but the batting cages and mini golf course currently have limited hours (see website).

We took LG out for some mini golf today. She had her own method of playing but she had a great time.We love this course because it is somewhat challenging but not frustrating. There are definitely a couple of possibilities for a hole in one.

Price: $6.00 for adults; $5.00 for children (although they let LG 'play' for free)

There are also picnic tables available so we let LG enjoy her lunch outside, which was a great treat on this beautiful day!

Map of Parks