Miss Independence

Independent Girl: Ains pulled out her KNex and the manual showing different building combinations all by herself. Sat down like a little person, reading her manual. :) This, moments after independently opening the pantry, getting the "green chips" (snapea crisps), getting a plastic plate, pouring a few, then.... wait for it... putting back the green chips and closing the pantry door. Love it.

Apparently doing dishes is more fun when you can drink the water.
Shoes on - all by myself! Thanks, Auntie Lisa, these are my favorite pair ever!

Vids: Praying Mantis in front yard & bummin' around the kitchen/backyard

weekend with momma - and my first ballet!

Momma took me to the ballet!

At first, I wasn't so sure about this.... I don't see any dancing or hear any boogie music.

But once they started - I was in HEAVEN. I sat perfectly still with big eyes, my mouth hanging open, practically holding my breath, for a FULL HOUR. I even met the dancers (several of her kindergarten kids) after the show! I kept wanting "mow mow" [more]

On Sunday, we went to the coffee shop!

Then we went to baby Mollie's house for brunch! Look at these cuties! Mollie and Anna.

I couldn't resist - playing 'baby' myself...

back home for...

Finger painting time!

vids: doing baby's diaper (listen for the 'almost done!') and paint

DIARY FOR DADDY: Day 7

So, we discovered that Daddy cannot view the blog from China due to their new blocks on the internet. That is why you haven't seen a blog post in awhile.


Auntie Lisa took off today, and I cannot begin to describe what a Godsend she has been. With Lisa here, Ains and I were able to get through the entire week with enjoyment, not holding our breath (as usual) till daddy comes home. She took care of dinner. every. single. night.

pause for effect.

That's amazing. Not having to think - even THINK - about dinner? (or lunch for that matter) was heaven on earth. On top of which she cleaned our house 3 times over, took Jake for hour-plus walks every single day and put Ains to bed twice while I grabbed a couple of dance/yoga classes. She and Ains were glued at the hip - Ains was ready to hop on a plane tonight to go to HER house. :) Our house was warm, happy, and full of vitality this week - the last thing I expected with Jasper being away.

Auntie Lisa- thanks!

Getting ready in the morning... a daycare day.





A nanny-at-home morning...
(yes, those shoes are on backwards... and put on by the young lady herself.)


vids: mostly Jake-Pup, goofy dog!