What We've Been Up To

Here is a sneak peak (pic) at what I hope is some new-found bravery in otherwise scaredy-cat girl. We spent a little time at Atlanta's Fall Festival earlier this month, where Lara had a blast. She was intrigued by all the rides, and asked to go on everything. We were surprised with her bravery!

That same weekend, we went to Dustin's parents house to visit with family, especially Uncle Andy and Lisa, who were up from Florida for a bit. It was so nice to see them again.

The day after that, we went to my family's house to celebrate my brother's 3rd birthday, and my grandma's something-birthday. The entire family was together, which doesn't happen easily.
Claire is up on her feet all the time now (really it was like she just took off), and learning new words. Lara continues to impress her therapist with her growing flexibility (a God-thing, since it naturally should be a digressing flexibility), and is learning new concepts.

This morning, Lara saw me throw away a diaper, and said, "Mom, are you making trash?" I confirmed, so she replied, "Well, I am not going to make trash. I am going to take care of the Earth. God told me I need to take care of the Earth." We recycle, and sometimes we have Earth Day at our house, when we don't use paper products, we don't waste utilities, and we try to remember to walk instead of take the car. I mentioned on FB that perhaps I should get gDiapers, and walk the walk, not just talk the talk. ;)
We have started doing daily devotions with Lara now, thanks to some inspiration from a friend. I found an excellent devotional book for preschoolers that we use every day. Each day is very short, taking a minute to read. This is important to me- that things do not take long at this age. A scripture is included, and while it is written out on the page, I open a Bible and show Lara how to search for the verse. We discuss it a little when we are done. Because it is so simple and short, Lara understands it all very well and looks forward to it every day, since it is like she only gets a little taste of it every day. It is a great book, so I highly recommend it. It is designed for 3-5 year olds (I am pretty sure), and the art is really cute; the artist was the artist for Care Bears.

One day recently, the devotion was about how God created the world in 6 days. Me: God made the world in 6 days; when he was done, it was like he wrapped his arms around the world and said, "This is all great! I love it!" Lara: Well, I will wrap my arms around God and say, "Mmmm, I love you, God!"

Last night, Dustin and Lara attempted to camp-out. We had a fire and made smores-yummy!! We put the tent up. Lara might have been fine sleeping in the tent, but when I went out there to say goodnight, she decided she wanted to stay inside with me. Dustin was already passed out in the tent. I am telling you, s'mores are the greatest food invention. Besides funnel cakes.
Lara earned her nightgown. It took a little longer than expected.

Also, the other day, we made some big bubbles. For any parents, or kids-at-heart, who want to make them, here's the recipe:
12 C water (more on a dry day)
1 C Dawn
1/4 C Glycerin (not necessary)
We use a Bubble Thing, but you can also use wire hangers, or even just your hands!

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