When Alexis Grows Up

I've just spent the bulk of the last three weeks doing the solo-parent-gig. Things were pretty busy. It's always a great reminder and refresher for me to realize how much I appreciate having Mike around to do the things he does - wear the kids out at the end of the day, be my floor and counter top cleaner, help with kid #3 (aka Kermit), help with bedtime, and listen to me talk (usually about nothing) after the kids are in bed, as I'm just excited for adult conversation, the list goes on. Most important, it's nice to have my teammate back. ;)

And, I never seemed to find time to update this good ol' blog. A conversation today reminded me that I've failed to mention that my parents came up last month to check out the Minnesota Fall.
We had a great time, did A LOT, and enjoyed the company! (photos below!)

Highlight for the kids? My dad made these wooden toys (Max - battleship, Alexis - puzzles). He brought them up so the kids could help paint them and finish them off. Max has a small collection of wooden toys already - a few airplanes and a rocket - and was very excited to add the battleship. It's so fun for them to play with something made from grandpa's workshop!

This afternoon we were playing with the homemade puzzles. Alexis has definitely chosen the cat to be her absolute favorite one. That, coupled with her constant need to give Kermit endless hugs and kisses led Max to the below conclusion:

Max: "I think Alexis should be a groomer when she grows up."

Me: "Oh, really?"

Max: "Yeah. She likes dogs and cats so much, I think she'd really like cutting their hair, and combing them to look really nice."

Me: "Good idea, buddy."

Thanks Papa for the cool toys.




Taking our first trip to the Minnesota Zoo. There was a cool "talk to a scuba diver" class where the kids listened to the scuba diver talk about the fish in the tank, followed by a q & a. The kids loved it!

My mom LOVED the bear exhibit. It was pretty cool - they were super active that day, and right up against the glass. Crazy how big they are!!!

On our way back from WI and the cross race. Some random art place in the middle of nowhere.


The painting!

Headed to church.

Alexis showing off her moves.