Halloween Preview

Taran's came in the mail today

and Tovi's came two days ago. Both kids are deeeelighted.

Potty Trained! Will Win Prizes!

Food awards weren't quite the trick so I bought a really cool motivational prize for Taran and it sure worked.

It even fits in the bathtub.

Kitchen-aid mishap

Okay not really a "mishap". The cookie dough chef went a couple speeds beyond stir and left a dusting of powdered sugar and flour on everything.

First Day of School.

Taran painting with Mr. Phillips, Jennifer and Spencer.

Trying out the stomper stilts.

Playing blocks with teacher Camille and Shayla.

Today was Taran's first day of preschool. The first hour was free-play where he played with blocks, did art projects and tried out the stilts. He then had circle time followed by music class. After music class was snack time followed by outside play. The day ended with story time.

Taran had fun and grew increasingly more comfortable with the surroundings as the day progressed. Mommy stayed in the shadows (a chair back against the wall). Taran was glad I was there but was content to interact mostly with the other kids and the teachers when he realized I wasn't leaving. Most of the kids are a bit older and were at the school last year so they are setting a good model for Taran. Connor and I are very happy with the program and optimistic that it will be an excellent experience for Taran.

Wonder Woman!

What a surprise. I missed two phone calls because Tovi didn't want to let go and wanted to stay standing so she could watch her brother lining up his tractors. No cruising yet but lots of bouncing up and down.

A natural!

I've been playing PBS computer games with Taran for months now and never thought to have him work the touch-pad himself. Within minutes of playing with dad, however, Taran now uses the computer like a pro. Some of his favorite games include "Clifford Kisses", Sesame Street "The Count", Arthur's "music box" and "Play with Caillou".

Always a good morning.

This little lady always wakes up happy. There is no wrong side of the bed (crib) for her. Sometimes we don't even know she's awake except that she turns on her crib toys and we hear the music.

Who is that?

That can't be Taran eating a grilled cheese sandwich. It must be some other kid. My son will eat toast, butter and cheese but together as a sandwich? There is a first for everything!

Congratulations to Connor who won an award (cash as well as Kent Clark glasses and hat) for his Flynn Field Notes blog. Taran especially enjoys the hat and glasses.

Grapes from the Neighbors

Our generous neighbors gave us some grapes from their yard yesterday and Taran sure enjoyed them. We planted our own vines this summer and hopefully next year they will be producing bunches like this.

Mommy, Rice Cereal, Sweet Potatos, and Corn?

Tovi's been trying new foods and isn't willing to wait another 4 months for teeth.

Inside the box

A "Time In" for Taran (and library books)

We use a little bench in Taran's room for his "time-outs". Lately there have been significantly fewer and we've enjoyed it so much that we created "time-ins" where he gets some extra special attention for doing good things. These especially include running to kiss Tovi or give her a toy when she cries or fusses. Next to the bench are library books checked out on Taran's very own library card!