Over the Summer

This summer we gave the kids a chore schedule in order to keep some sense of normalcy and routine to our days.  In addition to "getting ready for the day", the kids had to make their beds, do 10 minutes of chores, 10 minutes of reading and 10 minutes of homework each day. Although it doesn't sound tough, all said and done, it generally took us about 2 hours for everyone to complete everything on their list.

Although it probably took more commitment on my end than theirs and there was an abundance of complaining, we did have a few shining moments.

   Brady's Bed 

He always made sure his lovies were tucked in properly.

And one day during Abi's 10 minutes of homework, she wrote a story called "Donkey and the Red Crystal" which started with a dedication... 

It honestly melted my heart!

Standing Proud

Nattie just learned how to stand.  Of course, she needs something to hold on to and her little legs are not quite strong enough for her to pull herself up yet but she is so, so proud of herself!

A few other cute pics of my baby girl...

Derby Days 2013

We started our day off a bit earlier than usual because we attended the Pancake Breakfast at the fire station.  After filling up on pancakes, the kids got a chance to spray the fire hose, meets some firefighters and tour a truck. 

Then it was time for the kids parade!

And finally we watched the big parade!

Everyone was having a good time until the Seafair Pirate came over.  At first he appeared friendly, smiling at Brady and Chase.  But soon his smile turned into a very intense stare and after a few seconds, he yelled really loud right into the boys faces (as only a pirate could!)  Poor Brady got scared and shed a few tears as he buried his head into my shoulder . I'm not sure he will ever want to see a Seafair Pirate again! :)

Fourth of July 2013

We spent the morning of 4th of July attending a parade in Carnation. It was the perfect place and activity to celebrate the holiday.  Brady loved seeing the tractors and the old cars. The kids also got a kick out of seeing cows running down the middle of the street as we were driving to the parade (obviously someone forgot to close a gate!)  Living where we do, it's hard to believe that small town livin' is so close by but I appreciate the change of pace it brings and glad we get a chance to enjoy it every once in a while. 

Nattie's serious face

Baby feet are one of the cutest things around!

Unfortunately our night did not end up as well as our morning started.  We headed to a neighborhood park for a scheduled firework show at 10.  Apparently there were some technical difficulties and after an hour of waiting for the big show, we ended up heading home without seeing any fireworks :(

Some of Abi's school friends were also at the park so she ran off to play. Josh and I took the opportunity to hang out with our little man.
(Natalie was sound asleep at Grandma and Grandpa's)

Poor little guy fell fast asleep on the lawn after waiting for about 45 minutes.  Soon after, we packed up and carried a sleeping kiddo to the car for the trek home.  Apparently we'll have to wait til next year to see fireworks!

A Snapshot of my Day

Maneuvering the mega-cart at Target.

 

 

The World According to Brady 3

Word of the Day:

Horn-a-sac (hawrn-a-sak) 

–noun 

1. a street, lane, etc., closed at one end; blind alley; dead-end street.

Used in a sentence:  "Can I ride my bike in the horn-a-sac?" 


Yep, that's right..a horn-a-sac is a cul-de-sac and it cracks me up every time I hear it.

Summer Pics

Our weather has been awesome this summer which has afforded us lots of time outdoors!

My Little Slugger

Our day trip to Whidbey Island