a new skill

The boys have been busy practicing and making things with their new skills of whittling. Another Christmas gift, a book with ideas and a new knife. Makes for a perfect afternoon activity when the temps are below freezing.  I am really pretty proud of them as one of the things they made ( a gift) took them a lot of time and required patience. But I suppose when it is something you desire and want to do you will work hard at it until it is done to your liking.

little bits of harkin

 Loving smoothies. He sees the blender and gets SO excited. Starts jumping around and shouting "yeah".

 Being at the table with his brothers doing his "work". Just like them.

Going to the library with his very own book bag. He gets 5 new books each time and loves to carry them all by himself.

duct tape swords

Landon received this book for Christmas and has been busy making many of the weapons. This past weekend Eric helped all the boys make the swords after they had gotten all the materials. Harkin is thrilled to be just like his big brothers and they all have fun together battling. I would never have given a 23 month old a sword years ago, but as this is number 3 and he has older brothers to watch, things change.

the working man

While the boys and I spend some time together working in the mornings, Harkin has discovered what he likes to do best. Moving trucks, cars, blocks or anything else from the living room to the office. He is a very busy guy with lots to do.

around the house

Just some little bits of our days.

Playing, helping with chores, relaxing by the fire with a snack and puzzles, and painting-- a favorite activity these days.

I have been looking back on pictures and the blog and love when I post about the daily little things. Helps me to remember how much these days mean to me. I have hardly taken any pictures this month so I am trying to do better and to post about the normal everyday things. I want to capture the everyday moments and cherish them. These are the ones that matter and make up family life.

a reading spot

The stairs seem to have become a favorite reading spot these days. I suppose because it is close to the fire and if people are using the chairs at the counter, one person needs a place to sit.  We only have two.  I wouldn't call it the most cozy place but it is central to everything and you are close to everyone. 

a finished project

I had started these so long ago and then the last little part of putting faces on had me stop for a bit. I am new to needle felting so they came out OK. They are a gift for our niece. 

Harkin was dying to play with them so I suppose something should be on order for him soon. Right now I am trying to finish a sweater up for the baby.

William posed them and took the picture. He said the reason one is up higher is to make the photo interesting:)