Playing and Learning

Kathryn is becoming quite a character -- her vocabulary is increasing (she repeats EVERYTHING but she can't always produce words on her own), she is growing like a weed, and she loves shoes. Here she is playing with Mom's new "wooden" shoe slippers.

Andrew is very excited about his "Hooked on Phonics" pre-k lessons from Nene. I was so proud of what he could do already. It reminds me that I need to do more of this with him.

Another week, another big event! After Christmas, New Year's, after New Year's, Anika's birthday. This year we tackled another cake together. This one was a purse cake with a change purse for the birthday girl. She did a wonderful job decorating, didn't she!?!

Zoo-la-la

Wow! On New Year's Eve, we had the most wonderful trip to the Sacramento Zoo. We are members there and so we promised ourselves we would go there over the break. We are so glad we did! I highly recommend going to a zoo on a cool, overcast weekday. All the animals were awake/out, most were active; there were no crowds to fight and no fear of sunburn. What a great day! (Note: this post is picture heavy of all the animals we saw so close up!!)

All Good Things. . .

Our VERY dry Christmas tree made a quick exit this morning. It was hard to say good-bye to the "perfect" tree. Andrew pays his last respects: The inside lights are wrapped, decorations put away, stockings stowed for another year. A busy morning (inside and out) but kind of nice to have it done. On to the new year. . .

A Merry Christmas cont'd

The gift giving and playing continues. . . personalized nightgowns and robe, bouncing ball, stilts, card making kit, fun fusion "beads", legos, Lincoln logs and more. . . (and that is just the stuff the kids got. Ask Mom about her KINDLE!!!! :-))

Merry Christmas to All!

As I was uploading this post, Lloyd's parents arrived (with a car load of gifts) so more pictures to come as we continue to enjoy the blessings of the season!

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Best Christmas Present. . .

This weekend we received a surprise phone call from our dear friend, Dana, from Sunnyside. In trying to get home to Penn. her flight had been cancelled and she was stranded in San Fran overnight. She had a hotel near the airport for an early departure but she mangaged to sneak away for dinner. It was such a blessing to see her. Anika was ecstatic!