Stan the Doughnut Man

Connor went on his first field trip. It was to Stan the Doughnut Man, a local doughnut shop. This guy was really cool. He invites an entire preschool class into his kitchen so they can see how doughnuts are made. The get to see the machinery, the dough, the decorations, how they make the different types of doughnuts... actually, pretty interesting! Afterwards, the kids got to choose any doughnut they wanted from the cabinet. Connor, of course wanted "Swinkles," but they didn't have any, so he chose one with coconut... Delish!

My Little Valentines

Kevin is in Cuba and will be gone for yet another week. My husband is so desperate to get out of his Valentine's Day obligations that he is willing to leave the country! Luckily I still had two people here who were more than willing to help me celebrate! Valentine's Day was spread out a little. Connor did not have preschool Friday, so he had his party on Wednesday. On Saturday, we had Red Day - we wore red (except for Kenall who opted for an animal print... Grrrr), made red art, ate pizza, and had red Jello for dessert.

The rest of the weekend was just full of silliness as you can see. Just trying to make it through this two weeks and make it as fun for all of us as possible!

Fun in the Snow

Kendall tries to see what snow tastes like...

We were supposed to get a "dusting" to add to the snowfall from the storm last week. Well, four inches later... I couldn't resist. It was really coming down, and I wanted to see the kids have some fun outside. We've had some really bad weather lately, but it is above 25* today, so out we went. Fun in the Snow was followed by our traditional hot chocolate with marshmallows.

Mornings

Morning wrestling practice.

Mornings are precious around here. Since Dad doesn't get home until after 9 most nights, we have to make the most of our mornings... and we do.

As the day moves on, and Dad has gone, we often have lots to do. We read, play blocks, dolls/action figures, kitchen, run around like crazy... but some days it is nice to get out and visit with friends.

School was cancelled on Friday, I think because of the cold, because there really wasn't much snow. So four of us Moms (I know that is bad English, but I'm not teaching right now) got together and had a play date. We all brought a little something that we already had lying around. We do not believe in spending any more than we have to these days! I baked some brownies and brought an open bag of Goldfish crackers. Both were a big hit by the way! Anyway, we managed to feed 4 adults and 10 kids!!! with little to no effort. Everyone had a great time - no fights and no injuries. This had to be one of the most successful play dates of all time.

This was Kendall's first playdate where she participated. She had a blast. I took pictures. I got a few of Kendall, but Connor - who was in Heaven - was not still long enough to get a shot!

OK

Kendall's 1st birthday 12-13-08

A little outside fun

Kendall and Curious George Donna bought for her during a recent visit to Chatt. She loves it! Thanks, Donna!

I have been shamed to writing a few lines. Sorry that I haven't written in so long. Kevin has been out of town, and before that, sick kids and sick me, and before that, Christmas. So, I am taking advantage of Kendall napping and Spongebob Squarepants being on to write a little about what's happening around here. Like I said, Kevin has been out of town. He has gone to Colorado Springs. So, I have the two kids all to myself for a week. It feels like it has already been a week - time is passing very slowly. I can't believe that I have four more days to go. Luckily, the kids have been great. I am really blessed. Kendall is the most content little girl, and Connor, although very... um... bouncy, is just as happy as can be, and both are very loving. We've actually had a very good time.

For example, Connor got in his head that he wanted to have a party on Thursday. I was like, "Whaaaat?" He explained that it would be fun to "have snacks, dance, play games, stuff like that." So, I got out some emergency cake mix, and he helped me make cupcakes. He also helped decorate. Later, he, Kendall, and I danced to random music and theme songs on TV. We ate the cupcakes, and when Kendall went down for her nap, we played UNO. I don't know if that was what he had in mind, but we had a really good time. Good idea Connor!

Plans

The Brackens will be headed up to Chicago for the Thanksgiving holiday. We are all really excited to see everyone up there. It should be a great time with lots of family and really good food. Kevin's aunt will be hosting the dinner, which usually means about 30 to 40 people! Whew, brave woman! Connor is really excited to be headed back. He is looking forward to seeing his grandma and his grandpa as well as his Uncle Billy, Aunt Kerrie, and Steve, aka Husband (Connor's nickname for him - cute story, but don't have time.) In fact, we knew he would be really excited to make the trip, so we didn't even tell him when we were going until this afternoon. That way he wouldn't drive us crazy asking if it was time to go yet!

We enjoyed a nice weekend at home. I worked on some craft project, Kevin got caught up on work around here, and Connor played dress-up all day Saturday. Here are the outfits he played in. Oh, and did he get his imagination going. Too cute!!!!

Grandma and Grandpa

We had a visit from Grandma and Grandpa this past weekend. First of all, Connor was so excited when he heard they were coming. At preschool on Friday, he told anyone within earshot the his Grandma and Grandpa were coming that day. According to his teacher, he mentioned it a few times in class as well! On Saturday, Kevin had his grand opening of the gym where he works. There was a great turn-out, and it was a great success. Later that day, Connor's preschool had a special event for dads and the kids. Because Kevin had to be at the opening, Grandpa stepped up to the plate. He was happy to do it, but I think a little concerned to hear that crafts and singing would be involved. Although not his "cup of tea," Grandpa made the best of it, and Connor had an amazing time. I am so glad that Connor had that opportunity, and thanks to Grandpa, did not have to miss it!