Paul’s homework tonight (perfect for First Grade) was to bring home an “Arthur backpack” that had toys, books, and a cd inside.
He was supposed to play (they played baseball together) with Arthur, who is a character from the author study they just wrapped up. This included propping him up on the table to have him watch him do his homework. One little sister was doing a lot of following around and imitating of her big brother.

Then he writes in a journal that is also in the backpack, of what they did together.

Someone fell in love with “arfur” and didn’t want him to send him back to school.

A little lavender scented bubble bath
 and then some nail polish
 for a Sunday night treat. Everyone needs to be pampered once in awhile.

A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

for my mind: seeing little ones read together. Or mostly listen as Paul reads.
The writing out of tickets to see a baseball game in the bedroom.

At school they have such a healthy balance of learning and fun.

for my heart: a sneak away breakfast at the Starling Diner with homemade scones and butter

with my favorite guy. He is my best friend.
for my soul: a letter from Portland that I needed to read after such a long hard week at work. A friend (even far away) is uplifting and encouraging.

These are the tiny moments making a huge difference in my days.

We went to our first local soccer game (thank you Mimi-for tickets).
Henry playing soccer means there is added interest these days.

 A warm and loud Sunday evening, a total change of scenery and pace. My first time seeing a soccer field that big. 
The field was super close and balls would go flying into the crowd.
Plus, friends make everything more fun.
Chivas won!

I love to see Fiona and Olivine side by side.
They both have bangs and chubby cheeks to frame their smiles.
They are at the age where they can tune everyone else out and gibber gabber away.
Or sit together and read before bed time.

Is how we feel about the newest baby in our lives
Miss Reagan Eleanor.
A newborn is more tiny than I can fully remember.
When I see toddlers gathered around her, I can’t imagine how fast time has flown by.
I am thrilled for Jessica and Mike.This baby is the welcome reminder of joy and family and life. A season to celebrate.

Who knew these kids would be cheering for a team in the playoffs?That means we feasted on veggie dogs and chips and fruitwhile the kids watched and then imitated.
They love the imaginary swinging of a bat with serious faces.
This also means Joe and I are learning the players names and listening to baseball games in the car. It is a new season for sure around here, with all the sports talk.