Our house has been sick for weeks. I don’t know if we are passing colds back and forth or just picking up new ones but we can’t seem to shake it. At least the kids are building their immune systems?

On Monday morning, Sammy was still asleep when I went in to get Steven and Amaya so we snuck out of their room and Sammy slept for another half hour. He is not a morning person. Even when he finally woke up he just wanted to be left alone with Princess Cat and his milk.

Rosie tested out our winter gear to be sure we’re all ready for the snow. It’s a win for sure when last year’s stuff still fits.

Look closely. That’s Amaya’s “you’re stupid” face. We’ve been seeing it since she was a baby and I expect I’ll see it for a long time to come.

Silly girl!

On Monday, Rosie took the kids to PT on her own. When they got there, Sammy said, “You did it!” lol. It’s just always nerve wracking for me to let the of kids drive with someone new even if I know they’re safe and taking all the right precautions.

I had a bunch of goofballs on Monday night.

Amaya was a walrus.

Steven and Sammy decided to wear my shirts, fresh out of the dryer. I think Steven looks so grown up here.

Steven wanted to be a walrus, too. I love seeing how they spark each other’s imaginations.

Bobes, sleeping in my shirt. <3 <3 <3

To get to the kids’ classroom they have to go down two flights of stairs. Their teachers joke that they are always at the back of the pack. Besides the fact that gross motor isn’t their strength, apparently they’re also always looking around at everything instead of hustling with the class.

I’m noticing that, when the kids pair off, it’s usually Amaya and one of the boys. I don’t think I often see the boys playing together. I’m going to need to pay more attention to that. I’ll have to ask Jason how the boys interacted when they were home with him this weekend. Brothers can cuddle at this age, right?

Oh, Amaya. Before bed we usually have a snack of apples or bananas. Amaya likes to hold onto her banana peel but I won’t let her put it on the floor or the couch so she just stands and holds it.

When she wanted to sit down I told her that the peel couldn’t touch the couch or I’d throw it away so she sat for a long time just like this. It’s amazing to me how she can be so strong willed but also such a rule follower. I guess it depends on how following the rules suits her needs.

On Wednesday I went to Chicago for an overnight business trip and it was Rosie’s first days 100% on her own. Of course, she rocked it. I thank my lucky stars for great care for the kids.

Steven has two more weeks of PT and then he’s going to be released for 3 months at which point we’ll go back for an evaluation to see how he’s been progressing at home. Meredith’s goal had been for him to be jumping by the time he finished but she thinks that, even though he’s not quite there yet, he’s making enough progress to warrant the break. Jason and I will have to be diligent and make sure he does his at home PT at least twice/week on an ongoing basis. I can’t say we’ve been great at that so far so we’ll need a new game plan to be sure it happens.

I got home Thursday night and had just a little bit of time with everyone on Friday morning before I headed out to work and then to NY with Amaya. It was a school day but everyone’s been sick. Amaya had a fever on Wednesday & Thursday so she was already staying home. Steven woke up and told me he was too sick to go to school so we decided it was a good day to rest. And a good thing, too! The kids napped for almost 3 hours!

After work Rosie, Steven and Sammy came to my office to drop off Amaya for our girls weekend. Before she got out of the car she said, “I love you, Stevie. I love you, Sammy.” So sweet!

I thought this would be my last leg of a flight with a car seat now that I’d have 3 in New York. I forgot that I’d need a car seat in my car to get Amaya home from the airport! Good thing I remembered before I made the trip without a car seat in tow. Yikes! I’d have had to call Rosie to come get Amaya.

“We’re on an escalator!”

I had to buy her this Hello Kitty plush in the airport. Had to. (Because what she really needs are more stuffed animals.)

Off we go!

And here we are! 10pm and we made it to NY! She was a champ!

Stories before bed, even late at night.

On Saturday morning, while Amaya slept in, Daddy had everything covered with the boys. Hi boys!

Amaya slept until almost 10am when a patient Charlie finally woke her up and helped her get dressed.

Back at home, the men of the house did some construction work.

While the boys were building stools, Princess Scientist Amaya found her flair.

We all got to FaceTime. Steven and Sammy were so excited to show us the stool they built! It will be perfect for Amaya when she washes her hands.

Saturday afternoon was a special treat with the Goldstein cousins for a Hanukkah get together. I think it’s the first time just the cousins have gotten together. <3

Amaya and I took these selfies when we were camped out in the bathroom. She was clingy and fussy and said she had to poop but wasn’t comfortable going at Glori’s house. We tried and tried. Interestingly, as soon as I put her in her nighttime diaper and jammies she perked up. Sara said she probably relaxed because she wasn’t afraid of having a poop accident because she knows she can go in her diaper.

On the way home, Amaya said she had to pee. Even though she was in her diaper I’m really trying to support the process and not tell her to just go in the diaper. We pulled into a gas station and I grabbed a plastic bag to put over the potty. Turns out that regular plastic bags don’t actually hold the pee. Sorry Papa!! I cleaned up the car! I promise!

The rest of the ride home was tough because she said she had to poop but wanted to do it at her house, not Nana’s house. She was so sad about it. I was actually relieved to find she’d gone in her diaper on the ride. Potty training takes so much energy from everyone!

What do you do when you’re peeing in the back seat of a car? More Mommy/Amaya selfies!

Sunday morning breakfast with Daddy for the Steven and Sammy. I can’t wait to squeeze these three guys of mine!

We headed to Aunt Sara & Uncle Dave’s house for the early part of the day. Amaya appropriated some sunglasses and wore them all morning.

 ‘

Back in the Land of Cheltenham, Sammy and Steven got busy with scissors. They’re little people! I definitely, definitely don’t have babies anymore.

This evening was a Hanukkah party with my mom’s side of the family. Amaya put on her fancy dress and tights and then I got to work on her hair. I need a full on hair tutorial. It does not come naturally to me. As you can see.

Aunt Sara to the rescue!

Lots of playtime for all of the cousins.

Best way to get a group photo is to require it before presents. (Goldsteins! We need to remember this for next year!) I am in the picture because someone insisted on sitting on my lap.

Give Amaya some play doh and she’s content for hours.

The girls playing together. They all ran off once they saw us taking pictures. 🙂

Back at home, Anna came around 5pm to help out a bit. While Jason was outside dealing with the snow, Anna did a science experiment with the boys!

She texted me, “Pictures from our science experiment! Sammy asked me why snow was wet; I explained that snow was made of water and he looked really confused so we put snow in the cup and watch it melt. They thought it was the coolest thing and we added more snow and later we added ice cubes to see what happened. I love how many questions they ask about things ?”

How cool is this!?!? Jason pointed out that, besides showing them so they could really understand, framing it as a science experiment helps them understand how to go about figuring things out.”

And that’s it for the week! Here’s one last selfie of Mommy & Amaya. We’re off to MI tomorrow to squeeze our men!

This age is such a mix of thrilling and exhausting. Steven, Sammy and Amaya are all whining like crazy but they’re also impossibly cute. Their conversations are so much fun to listen to. My mom was able to break through Sammy’s nighttime issues on Wednesday when she had to do bedtime by herself. Now, there’s no crying when I leave the room at night but I knock on their door a few times shortly after so they know I’m there. I actually do sit outside their room for a few minutes and get to hear the cutest conversations.

On Friday:
Steven: “I’m trying to poop. I can’t poop. Can you poop for me everybody?”
Sammy: “I can not.”
Amaya: “I can’t poop for you.”
Sammy: “I have big long farts.”
Steven: “Can you fart for me?”
Amaya: “I farted for you!”

And last night:
Steven: if you don’t come to my [unclear] I will be sad
Sammy: why?
Steven: because I love you
Steven: I will go to the workplace with you
Sammy: why?
Steven: because I love you
Steven: then next I will go by myself
Sammy: why?
Steven: because I am big enough. I am a grown up.
Amaya: I am a mommy
Steven: I am a daddy
Steven: who wants to meet me at my workplace?
Amaya: I do! I am in my car!

They fight a lot – over toys and attention – but they’re also thick as thieves these days and I love to see it in action.

The week started off with Nana holding down the fort.

Amaya had a case of the Mondays and wasn’t ready to start her week!

Amaya rallied, though, and everyone got off to Steven’s PT appointment on time. Cute little faces!

I had the opportunity come home for lunch and ate chicken nuggets with the kids and Ames, who was working from my house for the day. Hi Ames!

Afternoon play time with Nana and Ames

The Mondays caught up with Amaya again!

Monday evening, Ames and I got the playroom ready for Hanukkah!

Tuesday afternoon was nice enough that, once everyone was up from naps, they were able to play outside for a bit!  How amazing is it that the kids can still be outside at this time of year?

Wednesday morning was Rosie’s first full day with us. Our little firefighters gave her a big welcome!

PT time! (And a deranged toddler smile from Amaya.)

I love this little sling swing thing.

One more day to spend some time outside!

Poor Jason has been sick all week and was home from work the last half of the week. It did give him the opportunity for lunch with the kiddos!

3 toddlers in a Daniel Tiger coma.

I thought I’d try Wonder Pets with the kids as a break from Daniel Tiger. Sammy and Amaya weren’t having it at all but Steven was mesmerized.

Friday was Rosie’s first day of school drop off. Check out Mr. Cool with his hands in his pockets.

Help from Nana on Rosie’s first school run!

No one’s tired of play doh or magantiles yet!

Saturday was nuts. Jason was still sick in bed so we all piled in the car at 8:30am to take nana to the airport. (Thanks for helping this week, Nana!) Afterward, we met my friend Julie at a local library for story time and a character meet & greet with Pout Pout Fish.

It’s a great library. There’s a lot of play space including a kids’ room with doors that stay closed. I liked it a lot better than our local Novi library and think it will be a great place to go through the winter.

Steven and Amaya lost their minds when they saw Pout Pout in person but, fortunately, everyone was distracted by a craft that was set up.

Lounging, lol.

By the time we were wrapping up I decided it might be nice to go out for lunch and Steven, Sammy and Amaya were on board so, after a potty break for Amaya, we headed out. Thought “heading out” was an process in and of itself. Between the boys shenanigans in the bathroom and Sammy’s antics outside the library, I was almost ready to call the restaurant quits.

Lunch time! Steven, Sammy and Amaya did great. It’s not exactly relaxing but it’s definitely doable. My biggest concern was Amaya and the potty but we went once when we arrived and once when we left and that did the trick.

These kids were pooped by nap time!

After naps, I made my first solo trip to the grocery store with all 3 kids. They had so much fun picking out food for daddy. It was all for daddy! In fact, when we got home, Steven took every single item over to Jason to show him what we bought for him. It was super sweet.

Steven and Sammy both got out of the cart for a while. Not easy, but it was a good environment for them to learn to explore safely by my side. And, as always, Sammy’s my runner. He thinks he’s hysterical. Which, honestly, he kind of is except for the fact that he could run into dangerous situations. At Meijer, the threat of going back in the cart was enough to get him to settle down.

Try keeping three toddlers in a long grocery line. Good lord. I can’t believe we left the candy display intact.

After the grocery shopping I really didn’t want to prepare dinner so we agreed to wrap up the day at another restaurant. After a potty break for Amaya…

There she is dutifully sitting on the potty in the van.

Dinner! This time we all had to get out of the booth (three times) to take Amaya to the potty. She needed to poop and was struggling so she kept asking to go. I don’t want to say no when she’s so early in potty training so off we all went. Pro tip: Find the biggest stall and take all of the kids into the stall rather than just leaving the door open on a smaller stall. These kids need to be corralled or they’ll be flushing and pulling toilet paper anywhere they can!

Today I was so happy to have Rosie with us in the morning. I needed the break! Since we were on a schedule yesterday we moved playroom pancakes to this morning. I love Playroom Pancake Saturday and it’s just as nice on a Sunday.

Steven, eating vegetable soup.

Hooray for Rosie!!

The big surprise for the day was FaceTime with Megan! The kids were so excited to see May May, Taco and Mikey. Of the three, Amaya was the most interested in Baby Taco. I can’t wait until they can all meet!

We wrapped up the day with craft time in the kitchen. Steven and Sammy are getting really good at using their scissors. It’s kind of shocking to me. I can’t believe they’re old enough to use scissors. And Amaya just sat for an hour and a half gluing and cutting and gluing. It’s messy and requires constant supervision but, wow, these kids love their crafts!

I’ll leave you for the week with my sweet Steven who absolutely sparkles & shines. <3

The week started with Grandma and Nancy holding down the fort during the first part of the day, before Rosie starts her shift at 3:30pm. The timing was perfect because Nancy was already coming from the University of Iowa to stay with Sherry so the kids had two awesome caregivers Monday through Wednesday.

FaceTime with Aunt Ouize, Uncle Todd and Abe

Steven and Sammy are working on a play doh project together.

On Tuesday the kids brought all sorts of fun Thanksgiving crafts home from school!

Rosie, wrangling Bobo

On Wednesday, Nancy stayed home with Sammy and Amaya while Grandma Sunshine took Steven to PT with Meredith.

A slide for 3!

Building a blue bus

Cuddles with Rosie

Sammy, the firefighting ballerina

Happy Thanksgiving from my sweet little turkeys!

Aunt Ouize, Uncle Todd and Abe arrived around 11pm on Wednesday night and were ready to play when SSA woke up on Thanksgiving morning.

Aunt Ouize brought crafts that kept the kids occupied for hours. Especially Amaya! She just sat there and glued and glued and glued.

My children watching a performance from Cats. I will admit I teared up a little. Oh! And this year they’re finally old enough to appreciate the parade. Steven, in particular, loved the balloons.

Doesn’t everyone pee with a bike helmet on?

Pilgrim Sammy!

Lunchtime with Aunt Ouize

Selfies!!

Even after naps, the craft table was the place to be.

Steven, modeling his bedazzled pilgrim hat.

Amaya loves the men in her life. She’s cuddled up to Uncle Todd and Abe all weekend.

On Friday morning Steven was oddly lethargic. He actually fell back to sleep in my arms shortly after I got him up.

Little face.

I think his morning milk perked him up because he was fine for the rest of the day.

I had the day off from work so we had a lazy PJ day at home. Amaya was clingy and fussy most of the day but we did have a few fun shenanigans.

Amaya is peeing on the potty like a champ. She hasn’t had an accident in days and it holding it really well. Pooping on the potty is more of a challenge which, I suppose, can be expected. I made the mistake of giving her my iPad to keep her on the potty to keep trying. That was a 2 hour experiment that I won’t repeat. She kept asking to sit on the potty for the sole reason of using my iPad. I had to shut that down pretty quickly.

On the potty trying to poop. I asked her to make her “trying to poop face”, lol.

Steven, Sammy and Amaya love helping me make eggs.

In the afternoon, I went to the movies while Sherry and then Rosie held down the fort.

Steven’s magnatile creation.

Pushing Big Monkey in the stroller.

Bike rides!

And here’s sweet Baby Taco! Over a week old already! She just needs to maintain her temp and pass her car seat test. If all goes well, she’ll be home on Tuesday!

Saturday morning we have Playroom Pancakes for breakfast which always makes for a nice, lazy start to the day. This morning, Steven decided to actually cook his pancakes in his kitchen and Sammy and Amaya came over to help.

When you’re two, packing paper makes for all sorts of adventures.

With the holiday, we’ve had a few days at home so it was time to get out. We decided to check out Tiny Town, the location we picked for SSA’s 3rd birthday party in January.

So much fun! There’s a chalk wall, a salon, a pet hospital, a grocery store and a construction room. The center area has all sorts of fun toys to play with including a ball pit and a trampoline.

Amaya knew that letting go of the grocery cart would mean it was up for grabs so she held on to it while she rode on the car.

Definitely a good pick and somewhere we’ll visit again, even outside of their birthday party.

Aunt Ouize, Uncle Todd and Abe were back to the Land of Cheltenham during lunch and got to help out with hair cuts. After the original hysterics, the boys are doing great!

Sammy, cuddling with Grandma before his haircut.

Sammy’s turn!

When Steven and Sammy were done with their haircuts we started cleaning up but Amaya wasn’t having it. She wanted her haircut, too! Daddy gives the best pretend haircuts.

I love how Amaya is looking at Jason here.

For dinner we had the opportunity to go out for dinner with Todd’s brother and his family. Amaya wanted salad with chicken and the boys wanted cheeseburgers. In the end, Steven picked apart his bun and ate none of his meat but it turns out he loves malt vinegar. Sammy had 2 bites of his burger and grazed everyone else’s food. Amaya skipped the chicken in favor of salad with ranch, ketchup and honey mustard for dressing and then ate 1/2 of my ahi tuna wrap. Total toddlers at mealtime. (Maybe with the exception of the ahi tuna.)

Amaya did great with the potty at the restaurant but she’s giving us a run for our money. She went five times while we were there.

This morning Rosie joined us again to continue training on our daytime routine. Rosie has been a great fit for our family. The kids love her and she manages to walk the line between very caring and firm. She even got Amaya to poop on the potty for the 2nd time. It takes a lot of patience which Rosie has in spades. Thankfully.

Building on Steven 🙂

Sam-urai is back with a pony on top of his head, watching Grandma Sunshine drive away.

All morning the kids took turns combing my hair.

When Amaya wears this shirt, Jason calls her “flashdance”. So cute.

A mommy pile-on

Amaya, doing Sammy’s hair

Playing piano with music man, Daddy

During lunch, Nana and Ames arrived! Nana is helping hold down the fort this week and Ames is in town for business and staying the night with Team Cline.

The kids helping Nana unload groceries.

The kids clamoring for cheese sticks.

It was cold, but a sunny, crisp kind of cold so we went out for a short walk. Steven was afraid of the lawnmowers and of course a guy was out on his ride-on so Steven wanted to be carried the entire time. The kid is getting heavy! And of course Amaya only wanted to hold the hand I was carrying him with. Life with toddlers.

Sammy, Nana and Ames holding hands on the walk.

When we got back, Steven was slow to relinquish Nana’s gloves.

And then the 6 of us went out for dinner. We had bad, slow service but a good time out together. The bonus was that Amaya only used the potty 2 times, not 5!

That’s it for this week! Have a good one!

Baby Taco arrived this week in dramatic fashion! I got a call from Megan on Wednesday afternoon to tell me that her water broke. What!?!? It wasn’t time yet! In fact, Megan was just 33 weeks and 1 day pregnant, a day past the gestation I delivered Steven, Sammy and Amaya. No one saw this coming.

Megan rushed off to the hospital and I started rallying the troops (Grandma Sunshine, Nana and Rosie) to cover care for the kids because this was not the plan.

The hospital confirmed that Megan’s water broke and she settled in for some time on hospital bed rest. Baby Taco had other plans, though, and arrived early in the morning on Thursday, 11/17. Sweet Baby Taco. Everlee as her mommy and daddy call her.

She’s doing well and is a feeder and grower in the NICU for hopefully not too much longer. Megan is a pro at this after caring for SSA when they were still in the NICU and you can see from these photos how well motherhood suits our wonderful, wonderful May May. We are all so thrilled to share this journey with the Wright family.

Today Megan and Mike came by to pick up something at the house. This was all a whirlwind for the kids because Megan left at nap time on Wednesday and obviously didn’t come back to work. I’m so glad they were able to see her. Sammy said, “If Baby Taco isn’t in your belly, are you getting littler.” Good use of opposites, Sammy!

Steven and May May. Look at that love.

Jason and I are very lucky to have an incredible village around us as we cobble together care until Rosie can start full time. Grandma Sunshine and Nana immediately came to the rescue for which we say THANK YOU. <3

Earlier this week we got the kids first school photos! “Here, hold a pumpkin.”

It’s hard to believe but Nana was still here last Monday. That feels like a lifetime ago! Megan and Nana took the kids to Funtastic for open play.

Nana helping Amaya wash her hands after using the potty.

Tuesday morning I took Nana to the airport and Steven was a little concerned I was going on an airplane so I sent this photo to Megan to show Steven that I was just working in my office after the airport run. It did the trick!

Play doh continues to be all the rage in our house.

Steven made a band-aid for his hand.

Little miss fashionista decided to try on my low heel boot.

Then she added a backpack.

On Wednesday, Megan took Steven to PT like it was a normal day. NOT A NORMAL DAY! This is the last photo Megan took for us between the birth of her baby and the end of her maternity leave. I know that might not seem like a big deal but Megan and I have been a team since before SSA even came home from the NICU. I’ve never really parented without her! And that is not at all to suggest there’s a lack of confidence on my part. I’m mom and I’ve got this. But Megan, Jason and I are a well oiled machine and it’s a big adjustment.

Wednesday afternoon it was Grandma Sunshine to the rescue! Sherry came from Lansing on Wednesday afternoon to hold down the fort Thursday morning and Friday morning until Rosie arrived.

This is totally random, but I realized that the kids can eat whole apples now. Maybe they could have for a while but this was the first time we didn’t slice the apples for them. Steven needed his peeled a bit. The skin was a little tough for him.

On Thursday, SSA were happy kids at home with Grandma. They didn’t skip a beat!

Thursday was also prematurity awareness day which is always a meaningful time to take stock on how far Steven, Sammy and Amaya have com The timing couldn’t be more perfect as it was also Baby Taco’s birth day. 33 weekers rock!

We had amazing weather at the end of the week and Rosie made a point to get the kids outside to enjoy these last few days of fall temperatures.

Friday morning, Sherry and I woke up early to take Steven for his cardiac echo. Because Sherry had never been to the kids’ school, the easiest plan was for us all to go to the appointment and then all drive to school together.

The typical morning scene is Amaya on the potty with her brothers close by.

Sammy and Amaya were so patient while they waited for Steven. I think they’re getting good at waiting for Steven’s various appointments!

Just like with his ekg, Steven was beside himself at the idea of taking off his shirt. The night before we’d watched a youtube video of a child getting the procedure but he was still very upset. Our compromise was that he wore his zip up hoodie during the test. It was all he needed to get comfortable.

And then, after the test and confirmation that everything is looking good, it was off to school! Grandma practiced walking all 3 kids in on her own. We’re lucky to have such good listeners.

Friday afternoon everyone played outside in 70 degree weather and said a final farewell to fall.  Boooooo.

Toddlers goofing around before dinner.

Saturday was a BIG day for Amaya! We’d decided it was time to move from pull-ups to big girl underwear and this was the day. My little girl is such a big girl. I really can’t believe it.

She did such a great job! On Saturday she had 3 accidents in the morning and then nothing for the rest of the day. Same for today. She had a few early morning accidents and then got into the swing of things. She’s on her way! No turning back!

Saturday morning silliness.

Jason went out to do some yard work and the kids wanted to bundle up to watch.

Amaya didn’t last long. Once it started to precipitate (rain? sleet? snow?) she was inside in a flash.

Saturday evening my former colleague Molly came by to see us before Molly and I went out for dinner.

Today Rosie came to spend the morning to start learning the routine for the early part of the day. The kids love her and she’s great with them. We really lucked out!

Playing “pat clap” with Sammy.

Cuddling my Amaya.

Steven’s turn for the big backpack!

Helping Daddy with laundry.

UGH. So, Sammy’s transition to his own room has not gone well. He’s a hot mess at bedtime and wakes up every night around 11pm and 5am. It’s awful. We thought it might be because he’s not so ready to be on his own so we moved him back in with Steven and Amaya. Either something else is going on or the past 3 weeks have done a number on him because he’s still a wreck at bedtime and still waking up at night. I hope he works through this quickly because it’s affecting the whole house and the poor kid seems pretty miserable. 🙁

Back to three. Though, Amaya has been napping in a travel crib in her own room. I like that arrangement because I think they all nap better with fewer distractions and Amaya is most often the nap time instigator.

Finally, on Monday Jason and I met with Miss Penny for SSA’s first parent-teacher conferences!  The assessment is also for 4 year olds so there are some things the kids aren’t doing yet that aren’t age appropriate but, overall, they’re pretty much right where they should be. Their fine motor skills are very good and, as we all know, their gross motor skills still need some development.

It was interesting to hear about how they act when we’re not there. It wasn’t surprising to hear that Sammy is most likely to look for his brother and sister. Amaya just takes off to play without any concern for where her brothers are and has from day one. Steven is finally adjusting and has adapted to school.

Miss Penny told us how they needed to pair up in music class and Steven went right over to someone. On the other hand, another boy came to Sammy and Sammy burst into tears. My bubba.

It was also fascinating to hear about how quiet Amaya is in school. She’s a total chatterbox at home but is just starting to talk in school. I guess it makes sense. Everything is on Amaya’s terms. 🙂 Oh, and I absolutely love that when asked if she’s a boy or a girl, Amaya said she’s a “lady”.

Have a great week and a wonderful Thanksgiving!

It’s been a busy week. I was in NM for work Tuesday through Thursday and Nana came to visit on Friday. We went to a fire station, celebrated Baby Taco at Megan’s shower and went to a pet show!

Monday was PT where Steven worked on a puzzle while suspended in this net. Megan said he was absolutely exhausted afterward.

Cheering on their brother.

This week, Amaya and Sammy both got to take turns riding cars in the PT gym.

Monday afternoon, the nice weather continued and Rosie got the kids outside.

Tuesday, the kids had school and a quiet afternoon at home. Here’s Miss Fashonista in her classroom.

My brave with Sally is getting braver. I’m so glad she’s feeling more at ease with the kids. Now, if only she’ll let them pet her more regularly.

Playing with the car tower on Wednesday.

SSA were carrying Julia Giraffe “to the doctor”. Steven also likes to give his stuffed friends pretend “pokes”.

Sammy’s been fighting a cold for even longer than I have. He had a particularly bad morning on Thursday but rebounded after some tylenol and a good nap. My poor Bubba.

We’re on such a play doh kick lately! I’m going to need to get more, soon, and I think the kids are about ready for some more advanced play doh accessories. I can’t wait until they’re ready for the barber shop!

He put the roof on.

Apparently Sammy had more interesting things to do than play with play doh.

Bath time! The kids’ first bath in their new bathroom. It doesn’t look a bit different from the photos, does it?

And here I am! Home with my kiddos! There’s nothing like Steven, Sammy and Amaya snuggles after days away.

On Friday, Nana came! Yay!! The first order of business was a trip to the grocery store with Nana and Rosie.

In preparation for Baby Taco’s baby shower, on Saturday morning we all took a trip to Babies R Us. It’s pretty amazing we got out of the store without any stuffed animals.

We’re about a week and a half into Amaya’s potty training and she’s doing great. She’s still in pull-ups but I definitely feel like she’s making progress. While we were out on Saturday we had our first experience using the potty in the car and she did great. She’s also very good about going in public bathrooms and I’m getting used to toting the potty seat wherever we go.

After a recent CPR class Jason left a jacket at the fire station, so we stopped by to pick it up when we were out running our errands. The fire fighter on duty was awesome. He opened up the truck for us, turned on the lights, put down the ladder and gave everyone fire fighting goodies (hats, stickers, coloring books) before we left. What a cool treat for the kids! Novi Fire Station #4 rocks!

Unsurprisingly, Steven was the most interested.

Amaya and Sammy wanted to hold my hand and look from a distance.

On Saturday afternoon, Amaya, Nana and headed to the baby shower for Baby Taco!

Here’s Amaya taking stock.

In the car she told me that Hoppy was going to come to the party and sit on a chair next to her. Mission accomplished! She’s sharing her chip with Hoppy.

She spied the tower of cupcakes right away and was not going to wait to dig in.

That face. <3

We got to visit with Anna at the party!

Amaya was very interested in the presents that Megan and Mike were opening.

While we were at the shower, the boys all went to a ball card store and then the 6 of us met up for dinner out.

My mom got some photos of us all at bedtime.

Steven was showing his ball cards to Amaya.

Today, while Jason was at the office, Nana and I took the kids to the a local pet show.

Watching the birds.

Steven was the only one game for pony rides. He was nervous that the “horse would fall down” but did insist on riding the big horse, not the little pony.

Sammy was not into it today and  Amaya wouldn’t even get close.

While Nana and Sammy stayed at a dog show, Amaya and Steven checked out chinchillas, mice and bunnies.

How cute is this? When Nana and Sammy came back to us, Sammy came running to me and Steven ran into Nana’s arms. I think we’d been separated for 10 minutes.

We had a lazy afternoon at home, full of cuddles, and that’s all she wrote! Have a great week!

Last Monday Megan started off the week with a trip to the mall play space and some Chinese food for lunch at the food court. Simple pleasures for 2 years olds!

They look so big! Megan reported that Amaya polished off her entire meal. She loves egg rolls.

In the afternoon, Rosie started a week long play doh fun-fest with the kids. She made Sammy this bird (which is a lot more creative than I’ve ever gotten)!

(Deranged toddler smile.)

Amaya wanted to make her own bird!! I love it.

(Deranged toddler smile.)

And Steven did, too! I love the creativity.

(Normal smile!)

Is Amaya looking like a big kid or what?

Tuesday afternoon was nice enough to get outside. It’s been like that all week! We’re trying to make the most if it while we can.

Using the diving board to propel their friends into the water table.

Rosie taught the kids to blow bubbles. I had no idea they could do that but they’re getting the hang of it!

Yes, Amaya again. She’s obsessed with this sweatshirt from Charlie (would wear it every day) and I think the top knot that Megan did is so cute. It’s fun to play around with her hairstyles now that she actually has enough hair to do it!

Despite how bored he looks, Sammy and Amaya were as patient and interested as always during Steven’s PT.

To this Steven said, “I love it!!”

Watching Steven, Sammy and Amaya interact is amazing. They’re little people. Little creative people. Here they are together – being a car. Why not, right?

Wednesday night, chilling with my Daniel Tiger zombies.

Sally and the kids are finally, sort of starting to get more comfortable around each other. Sally on the couch with the kids was, I believe, a first for us. She’s a good big sister cat.

A visit from Steffie!

On Thursday Steven and I got up early to go get an EKG. It’s follow-up from the neurology appointment to be sure his heart muscle isn’t weak. I’d be shocked if there’s an issue but of course we’re doing the testing.

“Daddy sat in that green chair yesterday.” We have no idea if Jason actually sat in a green chair when he went to the appointment with Steven but we’re putting our odds on Steven’s memory and saying he’s right.

He didn’t want his shirt off. 🙁 Once all of the leads were on we placed his shirt on his chest and he was fine.

You get an extra friend when you get an EKG. Black bear is the new addition to our growing animal menagerie.

Our friend Bethany needed some get well wishes on Thursday and Steven, Sammy and Amaya were up to the task!!

Oh! On Wednesday we for real started potty training Amaya. We’re using pull-ups for the first few weeks but she’s definitely ready and so proud when she goes on the potty. She’s even, at times, letting us know she needs to go rather than just going on our hourly schedule. There’s no pressure, but she’s on her way!

The boys? Not so much.

Saturday we got outside again. No jackets in November! The gang is blowing bubbles. It still amazes me. I know some working moms feel like they miss out but I get such a kick of Megan, and now Rosie, giving my kids opportunities I hadn’t though of or teaching them things I didn’t think they were ready for. We have a great village and I think our family is better for it.

Sammy is giving Steven a haircut. Love, love, love.

This morning started off with an art class with Professor Daddy.

We had a birthday party for our triplet friends at Funtastic. Good ol’ funtastic! SSA are so much more comfortable there than they were a year ago. It’s pretty easy to go alone with all 3 now, even with Amaya’s potty breaks.

Finally, we rounded out the weekend with more time outside. Can you see those gorgeous fall colors in the background?

It’s hard to see how steep that hill is but they love going “high”.

And that’s our week! Have a good one!

Happy Halloween!! Steven, Sammy and Amaya love Daniel Tiger so it was only appropriate that, this year for Halloween, they celebrated their favorite animated tiger. They were so happy! Ugga Mugga!

Today was our first ever real trick or treating outing! Jason, Rosie and I headed out right at 6pm. The kids were a little unsure at first but caught on very quickly. So much fun! When we got home, there was a litany of “what this?!?!” about every piece of candy in their baskets.

But kicking it back to the beginning of last week, on Monday, Steven and I traveled back to MI together. It’s amazing how that already feels like a lifetime ago.

He loves watching the planes.

Steven’s first ride in the CARES harness. He asked where his car seat was but totally rolled with it when I told him this was his big boy seat belt.

Showing Ah Ah the planes outside.

Steven kept himself well entertained with books, snacks, and his airplane wings.

Next thing we knew, the gang was back together!

Sammy spent some time decorating Baby Taco.

Afternoons we’re double fun this week because Rosie was training with Megan for her 2nd week on the job. Amaya and Sammy were busy with sand while Steven was having an important conversation with Rosie.

Over the weekend, Jason and I decided it was time to move Sammy to his own room. He gets very worked up with the other kids are crying and, honestly, their room gets pretty loud at times. At first we thought we’d make the long term switch of moving Amaya to her own room but reconsidered after talking it through a bit more. Sammy is the one who’s expressing a new for quiet so we decided he’d be the one with his own room for now and we’d make the change this weekend.

To get the kids prepared, I started talking about it in advance. Every time I mentioned it, Sammy expressed an interest in making it happen right away. Tuesday night after we put the kids in their cribs Sammy told me, “I want you to move my crib this night. They talk and talk.”

So Jason came back up and moved Sammy’s crib into a guest room where he’s been happily and quietly sleeping for the past few days.

The kids, out of the cribs, watching Daddy take Sammy’s crib apart.

Mr. Sock Hand, watching the action.

Sleeping Bubba

Wednesday was PT for Steven. Sammy and Amaya continue to impress me with their patience during his appointments.

Steven is bending over and you can kind of see that he’s putting his weight on one leg by leaning on it with his hand. Meredith prefers that he squats to activate his core so she gave him toys to hold in both hands.

Much better!

The next big event of the week were bikes!! Meredith wanted us to get a balance bike for Steven which really meant we needed them for all 3. Aunt Sara, Uncle David, Nana and Papa got these cool bikes and helmets for SSA as early Hannukah/Birthday presents. Perfect! They’re loving them and should be able to uses them for a couple of years before they graduate to regular two-wheelers.

The new routine is that we get Sammy out of his crib and then bring him into Steven and Amaya’s room for diaper changes. Megan got these pictures of Amaya and Sammy after naps on Thursday. So sweet. <3

Thursday afternoon my company hosted our first every trick or treating event for employees’ kids. Megan and Rosie brought my three little Daniel Tigers to the office for the event.

You can see they’re a little nervous walking in.

All smiles by the time they got to my office!

They loved the balloons hanging from the ceiling.

Meeting my boss, who used to be Jason’s boss at Borders.

Ready for the trick or treat parade!

Following Mommy!

When they got home, everyone got to pick out one treat to eat. It was chaotic and overstimulating but still so great to have Steven, Sammy and Amaya come to my office. (That night, Steven asked why Daddy wasn’t at my workplace. Until then I didn’t realize that the kids might think there’s just one workplace.

The kids also had a special treat all the way from one of our centers in Texas. Daniel Tiger with a special hello to Steven, Sammy and Amaya!! Ugga Mugga, Daniel!

Friday was picture day at school. I’m tapped out and we don’t have a ton of coordinating clothing so this was the best I could do. The kids’ colors work together for their sibling photo but it’s not ideal for the fall themed background. And the world will keep spinning.

Amaya, wearing her boots and my shoes.

Steven, at the workplace.

Sammy, shredding a dried leaf that would end up everywhere. Not as bad as glitter, though. Not by a long shot.

Amaya, joining Steven at the workplace.

Steven is so imaginative. He got right in this box and said it was race car.

Next thing you know, everyone’s in the race car.

Amaya squeezed into this little box.

Then she turned it into a spaceship. I love what they’re coming up with. Their imaginations are in overdrive.

Friday was Megan’s last night shift! So weird. Rosie’s ready for 3:30pm- 6:30pm and Megan gets some extra time to plan for Baby Taco before her maternity leave starts in mid-December. Here, Amaya wanted a pillow on Megan’s lap so she could lie on Baby Taco.

Saturday was our second annual 2014 Michigan Triplet Families Halloween Party. Next year, t-shirts!! This year was so much easier than last year. The moms actually got to sit down and talk to each other and we had Jason graciously manning the kitchen to prep lunch for all 19 kids and the adults – 18 two year old triplets + 1 older brother. Crazy!! The only real fighting seemed to be between siblings.

The afternoon was what I think was probably the last nice day of the fall. We took advantage of the weather and got outside for a bit. At one point, the kids and I went for a walk through the yards and came to a pine tree in a neighbor’s back yard. For a while, Steven and Sammy stood there together talking about whether or not it was ok to touch the tree. (Sammy, yes/Steven, no.) It was so cute to listen to their conversation.

In time out for not listening when I asked her to stop putting things down the neighbor’s drain.

“Mommy, you need to be quiet. I’m sleeping.”

Sunday was a much needed lazy day at home. Bikes are a hit for sure!

Amaya and Steven were talking about parking Steven’s bike in Amaya’s garage.

Steven spent a while detailing his bike.

Amaya has learned to make “noodles” out of her play doh. It’s a big step forward and means less work for the adults supervising her play.

Steven is on an airplane going to Nana’s house.

Amaya, chilling out reading her book. As you do.

The bikes are such a hit that I’m not sure we’ll ever get the helmets off the boys!

Our lazy day at home was because Jason spent the day completing the nursery transition. With Sammy moving to his own room, it was time to also move Steven and Amaya. Jason cleared out our guest rooms that are separated by a Jack & Jill bathroom and move the kids in. The nursery became a new guest room.

It’s the end of an era! I was pregnant when we moved into our house and I still remember sitting in the nursery that first day knowing this is where my babies would sleep. I always figured they’d stay together until they were 4 or 5 but these kids constant remind me that I’m not the one in charge. (Not you either, honey!)

Steven and Amaya have adapted really well. Sammy is having a harder time. I believe he wants to be on his own but it’s a very, very hard adjustment for him. My Bubba.

That’s all she wrote! Happy Halloween!

The big highlight of this week was Steven’s trip to NY with Nana! Monday, Nana was still with us in MI and had a great day with Steven, Sammy and Amaya.

Riding the bus together…

Reading stories…

When Megan took Steven to PT, Nana took Sammy and Amaya out for a walk.

As always, everyone loved helping Nana cook dinner.

It was a great end to the visit and it was capped off on Tuesday when Daddy came home from Vegas!

Tuesday afternoon was adventure time! Steven left with Nana and, together, they flew to NY! Nana and Steven are both traveling champs but it still felt like a BIG deal to send Steven off to NY without his mommy or daddy. Fortunately, he didn’t skip a beat.

New York! Made it!!

I will admit I spent their entire flight refreshing Delta’s flight tracker.

Wednesday morning Steven got some time with his big cousins when they came to Nana’s house before school.

Watching them drive away with Papa.

Like I said, he didn’t skip a beat. He’s been to Nana & Papa’s house often enough that breakfast was just another fun part of his daily routine. I loved getting this picture and knowing he was doing so well.

It was cooler than expected but the crew (Nana, Papa and Savta) took Steven to walk on the boardwalk in Long Beach and to a playground.

Look who we bumped into on the boardwalk! Auntie!

I love this picture. Pure toddler joy. If I’m ever having a bad day, a picture like this will turn it all around.

Back at home, Amaya and Sammy seemed to enjoy the calm that comes with one fewer sibling to share toys with. This was also a big week for the family because Rosie joined us! Megan currently works 11 hour days but, when Baby Taco comes, she’s cutting back to an 8 hour day. That means we’ll need someone to cover a shift from 3:30pm – 6:30pm. Enter Rosie! She’s starting now so we know we have coverage before Megan goes out on maternity leave on 12/19. It also frees up some mental energy to find a maternity leave nanny. So far, the kids seem to like Rosie and I think she likes us, too!

That’s Rosie drawing with Amaya and Sammy.

Wednesday afternoon was still a gorgeous day so Steven had some time to play outside at Aunt Sara and Uncle Dave’s house.

He colored while Charlie did homework.

Ate a great dinner!

He even cooked for Uncle Dave, Chase and Charlie. 🙂

These pictures are just about the best thing ever. Throw in Sammy and Amaya and the would top the list.

Back in Michigan, on Thursday morning Sammy woke up and said he wanted to play with sand. Amaya wanted to play with blue play doh. They weren’t kidding. After breakfast Megan reported that they sat and played for an hour and a half. That’s pretty much unheard of.

Steven had a quiet Thursday morning with Nana and Papa before heading out.

At the car wash.

Cooking at the library.

Taking a train to Aunt Sara’s house.

His first library book!

Visiting with Auntie.

Thursday afternoon in MI, Sammy and Amaya went to school for a Sukkot party. It was raining so it was held inside but, by all accounts, they had a lot of fun and it was good for Rosie to get out with the kids. (Learn about Sukkot.)

It was too late in the day to take Sammy and Amaya home for dinner so Megan and Rosie took them out to eat instead.

Friday, Steven started his day with Chase & Charlie before they went to school and then a review of all of the family photos on Nana and Papa’s fridge.

Then it was off to the grocery store where he got to use the “zapper”.

Back in Michigan, I came home at lunch to see Sammy and Amaya before my own trip to NY. I got to see these awesome Sukkot crafts the kids did in school. Lulavs and etrog!

Friday was a milestone for the Cline Family. Amaya went to spend the night at Grandma Sunshine’s house which meant that all 3 kids were on their own for one on one time. First time ever! How cool is that?

Off goes Amaya!

Dinner out with Grandma and Aunt Annette.

Back at home, BatSam got all the toys to himself.

Playing with Rosie!

Before I arrived, Steven enjoyed another fun afternoon with the Goldbergs.

And here he was when I got to my mom’s house! Safe and sound in NY. My Bobo. <3

Amaya had a great time at Grandma’s on Saturday before coming home to Daddy and Sammy.

Sammy had his own great time with Daddy!

Playroom pancakes!

BatSam and the grocery store.

Lunch out!

A local bookstore. Sammy and Daddy had a morning chock full of jam. I love it.

Saturday morning at Nana’s house was controlled chaos.

In the afternoon we went to B&N to buy some books. That train set is always a winner. Jason and I know what SSA need for Hanukkah this year!

Before dinner, we made a stop at Savta’s house. It was so special for me to have one of my kids in this home where I spent so much of my childhood. Around every corner is something new to explore and Steven saw it all.

His favorite part of the visit was using the spray bottle to spray water in the bathroom.

Finally it was Sunday! I got good morning greetings from Sammy and Amaya. I can’t wait to squeeze them tomorrow.

Nana and I spent the early part of the morning at the Goldberg’s house.

Building!

And look who was building in the Land of Cheltenham!

(Quick interlude to show of Sammy’s eyelashes. Amaya will be very jealous some day. This kid’s eyes are insane.)

Crafts.

Making pizza.

We wrapped up the morning with brunch at the diner. Grandma Sunshine’s photo of Amaya from Friday night made me realize that the kids can use booster seats in restaurants now instead of high chairs! I can’t believe I didn’t think of that!

Our final afternoon in NY. <3

Looking for pancakes under the couch.

Finally, Daniel Tiger before bed. It’s a school night but Chase and Charlie have a special treat and are sleeping here so they had a little bit of extra time with Steven.

I’m so proud of my Bobsies for being such a good traveler and, honestly, I’m proud that Jason and I were willing to let him go. These kids are growing up so fast.

Have a great week!

Last Sunday we rounded out the weekend with a family pizza night. Pizza from scratch! The kids did great putting their pizzas together!

The finished products!

Amaya, sharing with Steven. 🙂

Early Monday morning I headed to FL for a quick business trip. The first order of business for the kids was a trip to PT for Steven.

That little face.

Once again, Amaya and Sammy were amazingly patient during the appointment.

Tuesday morning, everyone was all smiles in photos for Mommy.

Almost…

There we go.

On Tuesday there were no tears! Hooray! In the car on the ride to school Amaya told Steven she didn’t wan’t him to be sad and he said, “ok.” Progress!

Next thing the kids knew it was Wednesday and Mommy was back home to them! <3

So happy to be home with my little loves.

We had a relaxing day at home for Yom Kippur and a very lazy morning.

I was able to take Steven to his PT appointment. We definitely need to do more directed work with him at home especially now that I’m seeing so many activities we can replicate in the house with him.

For lunch we made french toast and, as always, I had three eager souz chefs.

Wednesday afternoon, Sammy had a fun adventure when he set off for a sleepover at Grandma Sunshine’s house. He was so excited. When Steven and I got home from PT he was literally skipping around the house, eager to go.

Made it!

After naps, Megan and I took Steven and Amaya to a new-to-me playground that’s near our house.

Amaya and Steven could swing and swing and swing.

Riding a train

Big kids on the tire swing!

Bedtime routine for Sammy was pretty close to normal with Daniel Tiger only, at Grandma Sunshine’s, he gets to watch in a Cozy Coup.

Apparently it’s a favorite spot!

Thursday was a school trip to a local apple orchard. Megan went with Steven and Amaya and reported back that it was probably a good thing that Sammy was off on his own adventure because it would have been hard to manage all 3. There was a hay ride involved and everyone always wants a lap for hay rides.

After picking apples Steven was sad and pissy because he wanted his donut now.

Sad.

Pissy.

While everyone was napping, Sammy came home to us and into the arms of his daddy (who had a day off from work).

Hanging with Daddy after naps.

Out of nowhere, Steven had a fever on Thursday afternoon. It was gone by morning but the 24 hr rule meant he couldn’t go to school on Friday. Instead, he got to go to an OB appointment with May May and Mikey. He was thrilled!

Afterwards, he got some solo playground time on school grounds.

Steven wants to be sure you know “it’s not a balance beam, it’s wood”.

Friday afternoon we had some sleepy toddlers resting up for a visit from Nana!

Everyone wanted to make cards for Nana.

Yay!! She’s here!

Saturday morning was quiet and about as calm as could be expected. SSA really like seeing their baby pictures on my phone so we spent some time looking at their first year photos from the year 1 blog book. Amaya is shockingly good at recognizing who’s who, even at a very early age.

Late morning, Steven, Sammy and Amaya had their flu shots. (Mommy, too!) The kids did great. I was so proud of them, especially Sammy and Steven who went after they saw Amaya’s reaction. Afterwards, we all went out for lunch.

Saturday afternoon was a birthday party for our friends Parker (3) and Emerson (1) at The Little Gym in Plymouth.

I was so excited to see Sammy up on the little bounce house thing. None of the kids seem to like bounce houses but Sammy was willing to try with Nana and he loved it. Go Sammy!

So pleased with himself. <3

Steven and Amaya, on the other hand, had near meltdowns when they inflated it. They only came over to sit on the end because I was with Sammy and they wanted to be near me. Steven, in particular, was very out of sorts.

When we went into the party room for pizza, Steven started crying that he wanted to go home. He was so sad. Eventually I took him outside and we walked up and down the sidewalk for a while. He never really settled so I handed him off to Nana so I could help Sammy and Amaya finish up. No sooner did I hand him off did he puke all over. Poor Steven and poor Nana.

Cuddling back at home.

As quickly as it came on, it seemed to pass. I don’t know if it was a reaction to his flu shot or something else but, by bedtime, you’d never have known he was sick. Here Steven and Nana are modeling the shirts they got at The Little Gym to replace the ones they were wearing.

Showing Nana his “puke bucket”.

We got awesome party favors at the party. Dinosaur tails!! Sammy picked out one for Steven while he and Nana were cleaning up. The kids are obsessed with the tails and I don’t blame them!

We’re almost ready to start potty training but, in the meantime, we let Amaya sit on the potty when she asks. Today she sat there for a while and ended up pooping. Go Amaya! Steven, Sammy and Amaya were all very fascinated by Amaya’s poop in the toilet.

It’s a gross, rainy day so the big adventure was a trip to the grocery store.

Sammy handing off potatoes to Amaya who put them in the bag.

Sammy picked up everything he saw to ask if I needed it. Fortunately, he was also very good about putting it back in its place when I said no.

It’s been a great week and an awesome weekend with Nana. The fun continues when Nana and Steven fly to NY together on Tuesday!

I’ll leave you with one photo of Amaya modeling her fall jacket.

Have a great week!

After my weekend away in Nashville I had the good fortune of being home from work on Monday for Rosh Hashanah. Already a week later I’ve forgotten why we all ventured outside early in the morning but, just this short time later, it’s way too cold to be outside in short sleeves. Sadness.

Since I was home, I took Steven to PT and Sammy and Amaya stayed home with Megan. Steven will tell you all about his “appointments”. While he was still nervous, he was definitely a lot more comfortable with Meredith at this 2nd appointment and he was willing to participate in activities with her.

Steven brought our mail with him to PT. (Which makes me think the kids were probably outside helping me get the mail.)

Still a little nervous. Fidget hands!

Using a yellow block to knock down bowling pins.

A truck race!

Walking the balance beam.

Amaya set the table with a table cloth like they do at school. She and Steven played a fun game rolling balls back and forth to each other. I’m a little obsessed with their cooperative play. It’s so, so cute.

After naps, Steven and Amaya played a tickling game.

Play doh! Baby Taco is getting bigger and bigger in May May’s belly.

Steven is always going on adventures in the house. He decided we should all go to the farm and see the animals. And we should carry our friends with us at the farm.

You can see he’s explaining things to me.

Touring the farm!

Megan got these pictures of the kids on Tuesday morning waiting for me to come out of my bedroom. No one was going downstairs without Mommy!

But once they were all downstairs, everyone went to the grocery store together.

Sammy and Amaya were champs at Steven’s PT appointment. I’m so proud of how patiently they sat and played while he worked with Miss Meredith.

Steven did a great job, too!

He’d been very nervous about sitting on the exercise ball so we brought ours up from the basement to get him comfortable with it and it’s working! So proud of this kid.

After PT I met up with Megan and SSA for lunch! Such a treat!

Amaya ordered a side salad with her pizza and ate the whole thing!

Sammy told me, “Mommy! Your hair is straight. I love it.”

(I need to stop writing about the week to say that I’m sitting here typing this while Steven, Sammy and Amaya play independently. It’s pretty amazing to be at this point.)

We’re trying to make the most of the nicer weather while we can. At their school, the kids will go outside even when it’s pretty cold so I’ll try to do that on weekends, as well, but I’m not sure how excited I am about it.

The kids are saying the cutest stuff these days. I wish we had continuous audio recording in the house. If you ask Steven to do something, he might answer, “Sure, I can!” These are two recent moments we captured at home.

Processing through play. Amazing.

Thursday morning we had fun with hats and then Steven, Sammy and Amaya had a play date with Ben and Sam.

Amaya told me she was going to ride the horse at Ben & Sam’s house.

Naps and bedtime are really weird lately. It seems SSA rarely nap when I’m home at nap time. They’re napping for Megan but sometimes don’t fall asleep until half way into their nap period. Other times they’re out hard for the full 2.5 hours. The kids take too long to fall asleep at bedtime, though, so we’ve been slowly cutting back nap time (more sadness) and are about ready to cut another 30 minutes off their nap.

I don’t know what spurred it on but all three kiddos wanted their toes painted again last week. They were exceptionally patient waiting for their nails to dry.

You can see that little Miss Sally is getting more adventurous around the kids. For some reason, Amaya is suddenly worried Sally will bite her but Sammy is really interested in petting his sister cat.

Megan got these photos of the kids settling into school on Friday. You can see that Steven is still sad but, shortly after this, he told Megan, “You can go now.” And when Miss Penny asked if he wanted her to play with him he said, “Not right now.” So we’re making progress!

Our preschool is at a huge Jewish Community Center and they have a fantastic program. A bonus is that they do a Shabbat service with the kids every Friday morning. Friday night SSA wanted to call Nana to say “Shabbat Shalom!” so Nana also took a few minutes to light Shabbat candles with the kids. They were mesmerized.

Saturday we took a family trip to Three Cedars Farm in Northville for some pumpkin picking.

Hay ride!

Here are some year after year pumpkin comparisons.

Today we took a trip to Barnes & Noble to get birthday presents for our friends Parker & Emerson. Jason and I think a nice train set is destined for the Hannukah gift list.

And that’s all she wrote! Have a great week!