We ran into some firemen at the grocery store and the boys wanted to say hello, so off we went, trying to chase them down (in a somewhat dignifying manner!) When we found them, they were extremely nice, inviting us to go out to see the firetruck when we finished our shopping. They also told us to drop by the firehouse anytime for a tour. We missed seeing the truck, so after naps we went to take them up on their offer. We had a great time! We got to sit up in the trucks, tour the whole house, meet all the crew, and stay for donuts and milk! They told us all about what really goes on in the firehouse, including some crazy eating contests and double dares! Anyone ever tried to eat a tablespoon of cinnamon all at once? Emerson wouldn't sit in the firetruck, but he loved the snacks! We were invited to come back anytime- and I'm sure we will!

a summer day in March

It was a gorgeous day at the zoo- not too warm and not too crowded! We saw elephants, giraffes, lions and all kinds of exotic animals. But our favorite place was the children's zoo where we waded in the "creek" until we were soaked!

Where there's a will, there's a way

We had a slight dusting of snow overnight, and the boys were begging me to go outside and make a snowman. So here's what a little determination can do. . .

We got to spend lots of time with Grandma Mary last week! She spent two days with us while she was here. The boys really enjoyed playing with her and I was glad for the company and the bonus babysitting! Thanks Grandma! I wish Mimi could see her great-great grandson playing the piano, but I'm very thankful that she can't see the gouges in the piano from the coaster Emerson used as a drum one day. Whew!!!

Cadence's New Look

Cadence got his new glasses last week. He is doing a great job of taking care of them- he loves to clean them by himself and put them in a special place every time he takes them off! He is very proud of himself! And awfully cute, I think!

Merry Christmas!

We had a really beautiful Christmas day! Although we missed being with our families, it was really wonderful to wake up in our own beds and start some tradition of our own! Cadence was so excited about everything- the stockings, his new train set, and the "telescote" from dad! I loved seeing Christmas morning through the eyes of my children! Emerson didn't stray far from the train all day! J and I put together the play tent from Grandma and Grandpa Kirby, and the boys spent a lot of time in that! Train to tent and back and forth! What a fun day! We'll bring pictures with us, but here are a few teasers. . .

Happy Birthday, Emerson

Emerson yelled, "Surprise!" every time he saw his train cake! He was enthralled with the cake before it was time to eat, then he got so overwhelmed with the attention everyone was giving him that he froze with his fork in mid-air while we ate! It wasn't until after the party that he went back to the table and dug in!

He warmed up when he got his presents- a new basketball goal, a bathtub basketball goal, and a talking caterpillar that sings the ABC's!