Weekend Recap

It is absolutely frigid here in Ottawa, Canada, as of late. We've got blue fingers and toes (and nose) and our breath seems to freeze as we step outside. Thus, we had another fairly lazy weekend inside, and - for the most part - no one really minded. It was too cold to ski, to skate, and to go tobogganing so we made our own fun inside the comfort - and delicious warmth - of our little home.

I have started a new tradition with the kids, in which I have a special "date" with each one of them for several hours. This allows me to have one-on-one personal time alone with each Thing, so that I can enjoy their special characteristics and personalities and revel in each feature that makes them unique. This weekend I had my date with Thing 1 and it was absolutely fantastic. We had a blast. We went to the mall (his choice), went out for lunch, did errands, and chatted and laughed. It was so simple and yet so utterly special for both of us. Thing 1 has become such a mature, sensitive, witty, creative little man that I can hardly believe he is only four years old (well, turning five in a few weeks). Spending part of my Saturday alone with my oldest son completely made my whole weekend.

Needless to say, Thing 2 was not overly impressed when I ducked out of the house with his brother for four hours. I explained to him that next weekend would be his special "date" with mommy, and that he would be able to choose whatever activity he wanted.

I don't think he missed me that much because he and daddy got creative with the Playmobil toys while we were out.

Exhibit One. Thing 2's police station and police crew.

(Yes, actually all lined up by him!!)

It still remains increasingly difficult to capture decent shots of all three Things together. We did manage to get these two today . . . Thing 3 wagging her finger at her brother

. . . and all three Things nestled on the little IKEA chair.

Not oozing with syrup-y cuteness or anything, but it's all you're gonna get on this cold winter weekend!!