Austen continues to enjoy eating fruits. She goes through short periods where she has a preference and at this time, it’s for grapes. Maybe because Grandpa’s always offering her oversized grapes when he visits?
Little Mermaid Tent
Although it’s not usually out because of its size, Austen loves to play with her big tent, which she received recently as a Christmas gift from Auntie Heather. She goes in and out and in and out and in and out and in and out …
Easel
Austen shows off her painting skills using a new easel, which Grandma Mindy gave as a Christmas gift. Austen regularly paints in her weekly art glass at Gymboree so she’s already a pro at handling paintbrushes, smocks and clean up.
Psychedelic Elmo
Austen, Mama and Dada went to a nearby painting place where you pick the precast item and get to paint it. Austen chose Elmo and decided to not follow his conventional red color scheme.
Blankie Thief!
Austen and Mama sometimes get into debates over whose blankie this is.
Fairy
One of the rare occasions that Austen’s wearing any hair accessories. She usually takes off any clips but in the spirit of the fairy, she went all out (for a few minutes, at least).
“That’s my blankie!”
This is what Austen says to Mama when she tries to steal Mama’s blankie, which she’s been using since infancy.
King of the snow hill
Hanging out in Westfield with Dada, Austen wanted to climb on top of a big snow mound. She enjoyed the view but didn’t like not having full control.
The Sound of Music Sing-a-long was a Rousing Success!
The hills were alive with the sound of toddlers. Local friends and MOMS club members came for singing, instrument playing and snacking on strawberries, butterfly crackers, hummus and spinach and feta phyllo triangles. Mama and Austen had the best time, enjoying the lively conversation and all the noise (from running and toys mostly, but some singing.) Even Dada joined the fun … at the very end of the evening.
Christmas Party
Everyone gathered together the day after Christmas to celebrate, participate in some art/craft activities, exchange gifts, enjoy some good food and drink, and start playing with their new toys. As usual, it was a very active day with no shortage of energy for the kids, unlike the adults, who were pooping out towards the end of the day.
Austen even got to try out her new jumpy castle, a gift from Chacha, in Mama and Dada’s bedroom!