Story Time

Bangkok 8- My current book club read. I have yet to start it but I am looking forward to reading this mystery/thriller. A first in this genre for our book club. Good choice Misa.

Buddhism for Mothers- My latest parenting book that I LOVE. It doesn't tell me how to parent and what to do but helps me be more calm, patient, and relaxed so that my kids (and husband too, I imagine) benefit as well. Very interesting to read about Buddhism and how its 7 principles can help us in all areas of life- focuses on meditation and living in the moment. Cool!

Why Gender Matters- Another must-have for parents and teachers that examines the emerging science of sex differences. Tells how boys and girls see the world differently and how these differences have implications for best teaching practices as well as effective parenting. This helps me to understand why Logan loves Superheroes and Leah loves her dolls!

Look Closely

My wonderful husband cleaned up the toys while I was putting the kids to bed one night. I come back down stairs and everything is put away, organized, and we're ready to relax. A little while later, I looked at Leah's doll house and noticed the dolls enjoying themselves! I especially liked the creative positioning. Too funny!! Crazy Anthony!

Little Chef's

New Kitchen and Fridge- cooking and yummy food for all.... although I am told that the L Kids like to hide IN the stove area and pop up out through the sink. Of course they would!?! What was I thinking? I have yet to see it but Gramma and Papa reported that the kids play "pop goes the weasel" and laugh hysterical... at least they have fun!

Leah Enjoys Dessert and Logan Enjoys His Cake!!

Adult Time

Last night, Anthony and I went out to dinner at Cafe Juanita in Kirkland with some friends. We had a peaceful, quiet, and relaxing time. It was great to get out and converse with other adults about adult topics! Yes, the kids did come up a few times but for the most part, we stuck to other subjects. And the food was exquisite. Anthony had to translate the menu items for me but we settled with fancy beef in a cream cheese sauce for appetizer, pear and pine nut salad, and I had a pasta dish while Anthony had the lamb. We all had cocktails and 2 bottles of wine to accompany the dinner! And then came dessert... a fine cheese tray (which was too rich for me), cheesecake for Anthony, and fancy hot chocolate with homemade marshmallows for me! Yum, yum, yum! Thanks Anthony, for a lovely, special dinner and the feeling that yes, I still am an adult and really enjoy restaurants that DO NOT have a kids menu accompanied with crayons!

On to the next...

Christmas was great... now I am thinking of Logan's B-Day! Aaahhhhh! Just finished wrapping all his presents.

Best Things about Christmas

1- Being with family and friends
2- Excitement of Logan and Leah (and their perfect behavior during all the excitement!)
3- Christmas Eve- bowling, party, Uncle sleeping over, putting toys together late night, and anticipation of Christmas morning!
4- Joy and surprise on Logan and Leah's faces when they saw all their gifts and presents under the tree
5- Christmas Brunch- Maple Logs, biscuits and gravy, scrambled egg casserole
6- Presents, Presents, and more Presents!
7- All day party at Gramma and Papa's
8- Christmas Dinner! Yummy!
9- Again, fun times with family and friends
10-Christmas Lights!

Thank you family and friends for making our Christmas so special, memorable, and unforgettable! And for ALL the thoughtful, perfect gifts.

Logan Turns 4!!!!

TEN (out of a ton) BEST THINGS ABOUT LOGAN
1. Curly hair and sweet smile
2. Sweetness, empathy, and compassion for others
3. Sense of humor and funny personality
4. He knows how to have FUN!
5. His love for Leah.
6. He is such a good helper!
7. The art work he makes at school
8. His hugs and snuggles!
9. Imagination and smartness
10. EVERYTHING about Logan is the best!


LOGAN'S FAVORITES
1. Trucks
2. Playing in the sandbox
3. Basketball
4. Uncle!
5. Cars and Motorcycles
6. Friends- especially Abby and Leslie
7. Super Heroes
8. Treats!
9. Taggie Blankie
10. Bedtime Stories
11. Singing and Dancing
12. Painting
13. Camp Fires
14. Cooking with Mom, Dad, Uncle, Gramma!
15. Little Feats Preschool
16. Going to CAMP- jetski!
17. Music

Can't believe my little guy is turning 4. Yes, it DOES go by so fast. He has grown so much in the past year and continues to amaze us everyday! He is such a special little guy. Happy 4th Birthday Logan! You ROCK!