Train with happy passengers

This piece was commissioned by Henry, he loves a vehicle.

Nenä

We celebrated the big day by opening presents that Grandma sent with us on our last visit and eating dinner at Mimmu's house. Helena had grapes for her special dessert.
She is a happy little one, flapping her arms and kicking and smiling whenever she is pleased, which is often. She now has six teeth that have proved very useful. She continues to be an eager eater. Her one intelligible word is the Finnish one for nose which she says while pointing to it. Trying to entice her to do this has replaced clapping as our family's favorite pastime. Her army crawl is getting faster, she can get where she is not wanted before you know it. Still no interest in standing.

Fire Station

School today was a tour of a local fire station with some friends. Henry had a great time. Though he is usually shy in public, Henry led the pack of kids and was right behind our fireman guide. We saw their living quarters and huge recliners, the brand-new ladder truck, and the kids sat in the ambulance. Fireman Scott got dressed in full gear to show what a fireman coming to the rescue would look like. Boots and pants all ready to step in to.

Growing up

Nora has started reading a little in our homeschool time, short vowel sounds with a consonant and a few three-letter words. She has also moved into a booster seat in the car since Helena needed the car seat Nora had been in. On Sunday I asked Nora if she could unbuckle the seat belt herself and she did so. When I opened her door for her she exclaimed, "I did what it said! I read it and it said 'push'!" Exciting times.

Early February

Andrea took a few pictures of Helena recently and she captured her so-called "scrunchy face" beautifully. Nora thought this would make a nice Valentine for everyone.
And one of our little sweetheart.
We had an early birthday celebration today with cupcakes inspired by the Martha Stewart Living article.

Looking forward to warmer days

We had a brief park outing yesterday, taking advantage of the slightly warmer temperatures and braving the breeze. Helena is the easiest child to take pictures of currently since the others move too quickly for my camera. She has two teeth on top now, bringing the total to five.

Happy

This morning I was able to go to the library book sale all by myself while my dad watched the kids. I bought 31 books for $9.50.