Just a little off the top

My husband was a gem and picked up the kids from school (daycare) this evening so I could go straight home after the Chiropractor. We have a schedule where he normally drops off in the morning and I pick up in the evening. I think I have the better end of the deal since they are so excited to see whomever is picking them up. Not to say that they don't love daycare (they do!) they would just prefer to stay home with Mommy & Daddy if they had a choice. I also love being able to check their cubbies for their crafts and learn about their day. Then, there is the awesome ride home where we get to talk about their day - what did they learn, did they have any time outs, if so, what for, etc. Nate's become quite the conversationalist. At any rate, I missed out hearing first hand today from Miss Julie about Nate and his buddy E. Evidently, Nate had his friend sit down on a chair, had E wrap a blanket around himself, picked up a toy spatula and asked E if he wanted a little off the top. Miss Julie ran to get the camera, but N8 saw her coming and ran off - so no picture...ah well!

Cactus Project

I was informed by both my mom & Nate's teacher that the cactus project went over well the other day. The kids all loved it. I wish I could have been there. But, it was fun listening to Nate tell me all about it. He was very proud. We are looking forward to the holiday weekend - lots of unfinished projects to work on.

Pattycake Pattycake My Little Bakers Man - Cactus Cookies

Nate is very interested in cacti. Whenever we're in the Southwest, he points them out. He loves looking at pictures and trying to say their names. Surprisingly, he actually knows the names of some and can recognize them. His favorite is "squirrel" cactus, or saguaro. It looks like sah-gore-oh but is pronounced more like swore-oh. Nate gets squirrel from the former. So, we just call it squirrel cactus now - it's easier to say and I think it's growing on me. This is the common cactus that looks like a person with arms. My brother, Uncle Mike, made him a cactus book with pictures and coloring pages to share with his friends at daycare. He also bought him his own real cactus plant to care for. My mom, Grandma Sue, bought a cactus cookie cutter and borrowed our battery operated dancing cactus. (On a side note, I hope the dancing cactus takes some time finding its way home as I'm a little tired of the, "I am a cactus. I am a catus. I like dancing very much. I am a cactus. I am a catus. Be careful where you touch.") She let Nate help her make several dozen cactus-shaped cookies today. He had a blast since he loves helping in the kitchen. Plus, he looks so cute in his apron and chef hat. His hat says Li'l Danish Chef. She is taking the book, dancing cactus, real cactus plant and cookies to daycare tomorrow so Nate can do a little hands-on show and share. She is bringing icing and sprinkles and Nate & his little friends will be able to decorate their cookies. Should be a good time for all. Thankfully, Nate's teacher, Miss Julie, is always up for a challenge and loves to share the joy and thrill the kids get from these fun experiences. I'm attaching pics from the cactus cookie baking extravaganza. Nate seems to think Grandma's glasses help him read the recipe. I think you all will get the POINT of this entry. :)