The Cabin and Cousins

Happy Birthday Ella: Our American Girl.

For Ella's birthday, I gave her a choice:  She could have a party with her friends or I would take her on a Girls trip to the American Girl store in LA.  We had a fantastic time.  Ella's eyes sparkled the whole time and she had a great time picking out her birthday presents.  She says her favorite part was getting her dolls' hair done and their ears pierced.  I love you Ella-burrito!  Happy Birthday my big 9 year old!

Self Portraits by Max

Still playing catch up: Max's Birthday a la Chuckie Cheese style

To big for kisses.  

We are pretty serious about our candles.  No pressure though.  :)

Happy 4th Max.  You may wonder if I was at your party.  I was.  Someone has to plan the parties, buy the cakes, invite the friends and take the pictures.  That was me.  I did it because I love you my 4 year old big boy!   You have brought indescribable joy to me these last four years.  I am so grateful for you.  Thank you for being my little buddy.

Conversations with Max

Max:  When I grow up I'm going to marry you.

Me:  What about Dad?

Max: I'll get Dad a ring and go to work with him.

Me: What do Dad's do exactly?

Max:  They go to work.  Haven't you noticed?


He also wants to change his name to Robert because that's the name Dad's have.

Jackson's homework: The second grade Rorschach test.

Insight into Jackson's thought process:


His homework page tonight with instructions to solve the "riddles"  with words from the box:

Word choices:  flame, take, mistake, same, snake, make, name, brake, games, became.

1. People play them.  They are _____. (games)

2. Someone gives you something.  You______ (Jackson's answer: brake) it.

3.  This stops the wheels of a car or bike.  It is a______.


Question #3 had Jackson really frustrated so he called me over to help him.  He couldn't figure out what word it could be!  We had a talk about the difference between "break" and "brake" as soon as I could control my giggles.  It was the best thing that happened all day.

Playing catch up: Kate & Ella's piano recital