Trekking to School

There are more than enough things that I don't like about living in Northern Virginia.  So, when I find something I do like, I cherish the heck out of it with a grateful heart.  Walking my kids to and from school is one of those things.  Our rides allow for time for quality conversation, fresh air, exercise, songs, prayer, and a snack on the go with my loveys.  For me, it doesn't get much better than this.

Bud couldn't stay awake for the ride home.

Dentist

This was Eleanor's second trip to the dentist, and she had definitely matured since our last visit.  She was so compliant and opened her mouth wide each time the hygienist asked.  Eleanor selected bubblegum flavored toothpaste for her cleaning and a purple brush to go.  She was awarded a special trip to the toy room (where she selected a mermaid doll) to celebrate her giving up the pacifier.  She also learned how to floss on the alligator stuffed animal.  We'll see how well Mom and Dad follow through with keeping up the new flossing routine.  So far, I'm more than satisfied when she gets two brushings a day in without resistance!

Tumbling

Eleanor started her fall tumbling class on Saturday mornings.  She learns bridges (back bends), wheelbarrow, stretching, bear crawls, rolling, frog hops, and baby cartwheels as Kyle or I assist!  She has certainly lived up to the typical toddler reputation with her distractions and fickle attitude.  Despite this, we are NOT throwing in the towel with this tiny gymnast! 

Miniature Adventurers

Feeling the Turtle Shell

We enrolled Eleanor in a nature class through the city of Alexandria called "Little Adventures."  It meets once a month on Fridays, and two of our friends (Alexis and Ella) from New Moms Group also attend.  They met for the first time in September, and it was an absolute hit!  Eleanor got to get up close and personal with (and even touch) a snake, turtle, and millipede.  Afterward, the teacher led us on a nature walk beside the water, and we discussed different plants and insects we spotted along the way.  Our time together concluded with a craft of decorating dragonfly magnets.  We're already looking forward to next month's adventures!

Eyeing the Baby Snapper

No Fear!

Jumping Along the Trail

These two are a hoot.

How?

How can you not smile when you see this buddy's grin?

Bud's Very Last Bassinet Shot

Not sure how I stopped kissing him long enough so that he could actually fall asleep.

Reporting for Duty

Hello Daddy Sir, 

it's your son, Caleb, here.  I'm ready to fulfill my duties as VP of Napping Operations.  You'll never meet a soul more qualified for this position or more dedicated to you.  I'll undoubtedly be the best righthand man you'll ever have.  

Love you even more than my super fly tie,

Mr. Bud Boo

Just let me know if you need me to open up a can of you-know-what on anyone or anything.

Friend Reunion

It warms my heart to see these little people together.

We planned a weekend afternoon with the A Family so that we could meet Baby Luca and they could meet Baby Caleb.  It's crazy to think that we and the A Family were both kid-free when we first met and became friends seven years ago.  My, things sure have changed now that we have four children altogether!  What fun it is to watch our little people play together and grow up knowing each other.

Me and Sam with our Mini-Me Men

Later that same day, Eleanor attended a birthday party and took some silly pictures with Mommy.

Bye Bye Bassinet

I didn't know it at the time, but these pictures captured some of Caleb's final nights in his bassinet.  His growing body was literally getting too large for this bed, as the plastic structure barely fit him.  It was the perfect sleeping refuge for him since it was inclined for reflux and hugged him tightly like a swaddle.  Not to mention, it was soft as could be and fit right beside Mommy between my bed and nightstand.  Now we have Big Baby Boy Caleb in the play yard in our room.  He's still adjusting to the new freedom to roll, but digging his sleep sack and the ability to sleep on his side and belly.

Sweet, Sweet Buddy

It's Bright

The flash on my phone's camera kept catching this boy by surprise.  Even still, I couldn't resist shooting more pictures of him.

Napping

With Arms Straight Up

Moving Forward

Eleanor finished out the school year strong this summer.  During the last 10 months, lots of learning took place with numbers, letters, songs, friends, and art!  Eleanor said farewell to not only the 2-year-old class, but also her beloved teacher, Ms. Felecia.  Endless thanks to Ms. Felecia for her vibrant and loving spirit!  She sincerely adored Eleanor and encouraged her to be kind, to have fun, and to be a strong leader and helper.  What an amazing year it was!

New Moms Group (Round 2)

Bud made his debut at Tuesday's New Moms Group at the hospital.  It was such a treat visiting with Nurse Suzie and seeing all the new babies and mommas.  It brought back lots of (happy and stressful) memories of the many visits here with wee Eleanor.  

This time around, I still learned new things about mommying and shared how unique and special it is to experience the love and adoration that Eleanor has for Caleb.  Not sure I'll be back to group again with Caleb, but I'm very thankful for this trip.

Hooray for fall y'all!

Caleb is already delighting in the colorful foliage and cool weather!