Little Artists

I walked into the room yesterday to find this:

Doesn't she look angry? When I asked her what was wrong, I braced myself expecting to hear a story all about how one of her siblings mistreated her. But instead I was met with silence. Upon further investigation, I realized that Samara was standing completely still, like a statue, so that Victoria and Austin could draw her. She was being the perfect model. In fact, I tried everything to get her to smile or laugh but nothing worked. She continued to stand perfectly still, not even cracking a smile. I was the only one laughing!

Austin's masterpiece:

Victoria's masterpiece:

Samara's self-portrait:

And then Samara proceeded to draw Austin - superman suit and all:

Chores . . . the lazy way!

Victoria and Austin usually take turns unloading the dishwasher. This is how I found Victoria the other day accomplishing the task when it was her turn. I guess it's one way to get the job done.

The run

Another year, another run. This was my fifth year participating in this particular run and it was by far the coldest! Victoria was feeling bad for me that I had to run in this weather. She said, "poor Mommy, you're gonna be so cold". I explained to her that in fact, out of all of us, I would be the warmest as I was the only one running. I felt bad for them having to stand in the cold wind and even a little rain as they waited for me to cross the finish line. I do love having them there though and hearing their little "go Mommy" cheers as I run. I even got a few high fives as I passed by.

I wish there didn't have to be organizations and runs such as these but since there are and since we continue to fight this dreaded disease, the least I can do is run year after year. Thanks to all those who sponsored me. Your support means a lot and the donations go to a great cause.

I feel blessed

For the last two days I've been completely spoiled. This year, our church was one of the host sites for the above mentioned summit. Mike and I were able to attend and let me tell you - it was AWESOME! We sat and listened to amazing speakers who inspired and challenged us. If you have the opportunity to go next year . . . GO! It was great to get away from the every day routine and listen to some incredible leaders.

On top of that, I got to hang out with my hubby - lunch dates two days in a row. Our kids were in the very capable hands of Grandma Carmody. It wouldn't have been possible without her - thank you Peggy, we appreciate you!

Anyway, I'm feeling very blessed. I'm so thankful that there are wise men and women willing to share their insight, experience and humour (there were a lot of laughs) with the rest of the world. I'm so glad I got to be part of it. I learned a lot.

It's time to run . . .

Sunday is the day. If you're interested in sponsoring me and donating to a great cause, click here or on the link on my sidebar.

I appreciate your support.

Thank you!

Penguins

We just finished reading Mr. Popper's Penguins together and when I saw this craft online, I thought it would be the perfect activity to wrap it up. I forgot to take pictures of the kids actually doing the craft. They used potatoes for the penguins and the tip of a small make-up sponge for the beaks and feet. The background was also done using a sponge. I think they turned out pretty cute and the kids had a lot of fun making them.

(By the way, I have no idea why blogger flipped my first two pictures. I tried multiple times to repost them but I couldn't get them the right way. If anyone knows what to do about it, please let me know. In the meantime, you'll just have to turn your head sideways!)

Denver and Maodo

Denver is definitely going to miss Maodo. He loved having another big brother for nine days and Maodo loved him too. He always made time to tickle Denver or help him with something or give him a piggyback ride. It was so cute. I loved watching the little bond they had.

A sad good bye

Bright and early this morning (notice Denver still has his pj's on), we were off to bring Maodo to the bus. The nine days went by really fast. We enjoyed having him at our place and by the sounds of it, he had a great time too. Hopefully we're able to keep in touch and this won't be our final goodbye!

Biking and Fishing

On Saturday morning, I got Victoria, Austin and Maodo up to go for an early morning bike ride. When we bike the rail trail in the morning or the evening, we always see so many deer. I’ve taken Victoria and Austin before and so I thought it would be a neat experience for Maodo. Well, the deer didn’t let us down . . . . we counted about 15 or so and many of them were quite close. This time I brought my camera (takes coordination to bike and take pictures at the same time!) and got some good shots.

In the afternoon, we headed out to do some fishing again. We didn’t really catch anything worth mentioning (a few small gobies) but we all had fun. I so badly wanted Victoria to catch a fish in her dress – seriously, would that not have been a great picture?? But I have to admit, the pictures of her fishing in her dress are pretty cool too.

Mission accomplished

At Grandma's house on Friday, the kids were able to catch some frogs and there was even a bonus . . . . a snake! (yes, I have shivers going up and down my spine just typing that!) Maodo held the frogs and the snake but made it very clear that he thought they were "nasty"! But at least now he can say he's seen a real live frog (and snake).

We also ventured across the road to feed and pet the horses. The kids always find that so much fun and of course the horses enjoy the attention too.

We ended the day with play time at a new play structure. We were there for a long time and it was hard to get the kids back in the van when it was time to leave. Always a good sign that kids are having fun!