With Thanksgiving

in view of God's mercies

...that you may participate in divine nature

And the peace of God...

His Goodness....a refuge in times of trouble...

How Big is She?!

Yesterday, Anna-Kate said to me, "Well, I'd rather..." as well as, "Benjamin requested..."  These grown up phrases were just another reminder, Anna-Kate is undeniably big.  I both love it and want to cry a little.  She is no longer just learning; she is putting things together.  Seeing her world in a whole new way. 

This picture is from about 3 weeks ago, during her preschool's class fall unit.  This was the first time she put her name on her work and you could tell she did it.  

I helped with the 4 year old's fall festival.  This is all the girls in her class making their silly faces.  It is always so fun to get a closer look into her school world!

I remember being the kid sitting at the table watching the adults play cards.  It was such a nostalgic moment watching Anna-Kate become the kid at the table.  

Giving her baby a bath; her mimic of real life is becoming spot on!  Well, minus the sitting on the counter part.

 

 "Mom, will you put on music for dancing.  I am going to go get my high heels."  

This one is my favorite!  I don't make Anna-Kate take a quiet time everyday anymore.  She can stay downstairs with me (still doing quiet activities).  This particular day, I wanted to catch up on a little Pioneer Woman.  I told her she could stay up as long as mommy got to pick her show.  Anna-Kate loved the pictures of the ranch, but also enjoyed the cooking.  "Look Mom, she is going to put in butter!"  "Mom, can you pause it so I don't miss it."  "Oooh, chocolate."  I loved this girl-time with my favorite girl!

Anna-Kate is getting big.  But, I'll take it.  Love my growing, smart, engaging, funny girl!

Allowance

We started giving Anna-Kate an allowance as the school year started.  We have given her two official chores, soon to grow into four.  She gets a little for her wallet, a little for her piggy bank, and a little to put in the offering at church.  I wanted her to have one chance to spend money before the holidays hit.  Would she understand that she could only afford one thing?  one small thing?  Would we have tears?  

She did wonderful!!  She carried her purse, grabbed Benjamin's hand, and started telling him about needing to look for what she might want.

When I asked if she wanted to look at toys, books, or accessories, her answer was quick, "Toys!"  She pointed to things she liked and I pointed to the first number.  She was quick to say ok if the number was too big for her wallet.  I was really so proud.  

She decided what she wanted and their was no looking back!  She was so excited to buy her first thing!

With the shopping trip over, "Mom, can I have an icee?"  Well, because you can't always say no...

Sure!  We will end this fun, momentous shopping trip with an icee and an applesauce!

Go Jump

A little over two years ago now, these 3 kids were waiting for their gym time to start.  Anna-Kate and Mary-Knowles always called it "tumbling time."  

Since these two were born, Ashley and I have been plotting to take them when they got old enough.

Welll, they love it!

In the car, Benjamin will say, "Jump!  Eyie!!"

Benjamin's favorite might be "stuck."  

Both Evie and Benjamin are pretty fearless and will jump right in!

I have to laugh in those moments when Benjamin gets attached to some of the toys they have in the big open space.  Come on, buddy, let's do the trampoline or something!  

The slide is visited several times per visit.  Again, guys, we go to parks.  But for now, the slide is more appealing than the trampolines.  I wonder if next spring his favorites will change.

The smiling monkey showing off!

After "jump" it is time for lunch at Oma's house!  A little playing, a little eating

 These two love their Wednesdays!

Buddies

Anna-Kate, Natalie, and Benjamin, three great buddies!

Right now, their favorite game is "Run away and hide; Benjamin is coming!"  Anna-Kate will actually say that entire title every time she wants Natalie to play that way with her.  They all think it is fun and funny!

The last week or so, they have also added playing doctor to their favorites list.

One day at the end of nap time, instead of getting Natalie out of her pack 'n play, I put Benjamin in it...

They thought it was funny 

Library time is our normal activity on Thursday when AK is in preschool, a favorite for years now!

Lunch Time

Have you ever  wondered what a lunch time conversation around here sounds like?

They enjoyed their little video