01-27-11 Breathe!

Every day, twice a day, in fact, Ben has a breathing treatment.
He sits and watches a video or we read books.
He's a pro at it, and as much as we hate that it must be part of his routine, we're hopeful that it will prevent a repeat visit to the hospital. 

01-26-11 Neighbors

Last Spring, our neighborhood was  privileged to host a family of nesting hawks.  Nearly every day, we'd walk over to our neighbor's deck to check on them.  It's always a thrill to discover one of the hawks in our back yard, and we're hopeful they'll nest here again this Spring.  We're happy to let them use our yard as their hunting grounds; they can have all of the snakes and rodents they want!

01-25-11 Crafty

While we were in the hospital, Inga (my Mom) came to stay with Anna Kate. After teaching school for 30+ years, Inga is an expert snowflake cutter.  Anna Kate was thrilled to discover Inga's hidden talent, and to work they went.  These French doors into the playroom were the perfect place to display them, Anna Kate said.  I hope we're allowed to take them down when Winter is over...

01-24-11 Queen

Anna Kate received Usborne's I Can Draw People book for Christmas from Grandmama and Grandpa.
So far, she's drawn the giant, the pirate, and this queen.
So far, this one's my favorite.
I think there's an artist in the house!

01-23-11 Couch Potato

Watching his favorite video, "All About Firetrucks".

01-22-11 Snowmaker

A week ago, I happened to mention that I was considering a snow themed birthday party next February.  The idea inspired me to wonder aloud whether or not anyone in the area rented snow making machinery.  One thing lead to another, and before I knew it, Ben had ordered a kit from http://www.snowathome.com/. 
The package came today, and after 2 trips to Lowe's for parts, he's in business.
Almost.
It works, in theory, but we're waiting for the temperature/humidity ratio to be just right.
I'm thinking the neighbors hope he gets it right or gives up soon!

01-21-11 Flowergirl

Today, we took a trip to David's Bridal so Anna Kate could try on the dress she'll wear in Cousin Andrea's wedding in May.
(Sidenote:  the size FOUR fit her perfectly. Who sizes these things?)
When I told her why we were going to this store, she replied, "Will I get to open the door and show lots of people how I look?" 
I guess I watch too much "What Not to Wear".
Indeed, she did come out to show us how she looked.
I suppose you could say that her inner princesss was channelled. 
She danced.
She pranced.
She twirled, curtsied, and grinned.
She sat down and was surrounded by crinolines. What a thrill!
I told her she looked like a cupcake.
"Yeah!", she replied.  "A cupcake princess".