Light

A Complete Family

 He's already right at home!

 Giving each other some loves.

 Showing off his impressive claws while still being very gentle. 

 I think these two will be quite the friends.

Meet Tiger.  Our new and already very loved cat.  I've never been one to go very long without a fur baby so after some convincing (and a little arm twisting), I got Brad to agree with adding a feline family member.  Together we headed down to the local shelter and Brad and I both agreed that we'd pick the cat who didn't run hissing when Sage walked into the room with all of her excessive and well intentioned enthusiasm. Tiger (formerly known as CJ) went straight up to Sage and almost knocked her down with sweet head rubs and cuddles. So you could say he picked us.

So far, he fits into our little family perfectly.  We just feel more balanced as a family of four. He's sweet, patient, playful and all around the perfect pet.  I still miss my dog terribly but I have to admit it's nice having a pet that balances his autonomy and dependence well.  As you can see from the pictures, Sage is absolutely in love.  Welcome to the fam Tiger.  We love you!

FYI-Sage insisted that our cat be named Tiger before we got to the shelter which is why we have a cat that looks like a panther but named Tiger.  As most of you know, you can't argue with a toddler! 

Happy Winter Solstice!

Here are our most treasured times during this holiday season...celebrating the Winter Solstice.  This year Brad made her a light table that she enjoyed for hours on end with pattern blocks from Grandpa and Grandma.  Happy Winter Solstice to all!  We hope your days are filled with warmth, peace and love.


Love the Smiths!

Masking tape, a flashlight and some toilet paper rolls...a toddler's dream!

 A flashlight can keep this kid busy for hours.  I love watching the spontaneous experimenting and problem solving that naturally occurs while playing with something as simple as a flashlight.

 What CAN'T masking tape do?  Here is Sage's road for her cars.

Brad's been trying his hardest to come to terms with my insistence that we hold onto everything, even toilet paper rolls, because every early educator knows that recycled, reused and loose random parts promote the most creativity, imagination and problem solving. 

Winter Is the Warmest Season

I thought I'd share our favorite winter books with everyone. 

 Stay warm this winter.  Happy Holidays!

You Can't Beat Time Spent With Friends

Sage enjoyed a day with one of her best buds, David.  Our little girl really shows her true colors and talks up a storm in smaller group settings, so having David for the day was not only a pleasure for her but also for me since I got to witness first hand an amazing little relationship between friends.  She and David not only enjoyed their own little dance party, but also some collaborative painting, doctor play, outside time and music playing (I have now learned that ONE harmonica is not nearly enough in the toddler world). 

Cousin Love and Toilet Learning

Nothing says "I love you cousin" like holding one's hands and cheering them on so they'll get their pee-pee and poopy out.