Out For A Spin

It looks like someone (or, rather, a pair of someones) avoided inheriting their Dad's motion sensitivity. We joked that these buckets, which both of our kids spun themselves silly in over the weekend, are the equivalent of beer for the toddler set.

A Boy and his Blanche

Tate could not be more enamored with Blanche, the kitty cat that Santa brought for him. They are the best of friends.

A Helping Hand

 West has moments of such sweetness where he helps his little brother figure out tasks, accomplish things, fix broken toys. Of course, we have lots of the other kind of interactions but that is for another blog post. Last weekend West taught Tate how to complete an obstacle course he had put together in our backyard. It was very, very cute - even cuter than these photos, which don't do the interaction justice.

A Tale of Two Birthdays

One with hats, one without. But both tons of fun!

The Backyardigans

 Apparently there is a well-known kids' show called The Backyardigans. While we're not familiar with it (yet ...) we are no strangers to backyard antics. So many sticks, so little time ...

Let It Snow!

In San Francisco, the faux snow at the Academy is as close as we get to the real thing.  Monday was the last day until November so we made sure to get our fill.

Rub A Dub Dub

Park Place

 The weather has been so gorgeous lately that we've been trying to get outside as much as possible before the winter rains arrive. Here are some shots from a recent trip to "the big playground", as West calls it.

Carousel Addict

I'm afraid Tate is developing a serious painted pony (or, in this case, lion) problem. West is a willing and enthusiastic enabler.

Social Climber

Circles

A lovely, peek-a-boo-esque series. Tate started it. :-)

Hat's Off!

Or rather, on. Since Santa brought these hats, the kids have hardly taken them off. West practically slept in his on Sunday. When I told him it was a whale hat, he corrected me, saying "it's actually an orca, mama."

Pile Up

We took a slight detour on our walk to Stow Lake recently to toss leaves. Luckily, I had the camera. ;-)

Harry Potters

The kids had a surprise planned for daddy's birthday - hand-painted ceramics! They had a blast at the studio but the back patio was an even bigger hit.

Ride A Horsey

A visit from Auntie Kate is treat enough on its own but she also took the kids on a carousel ride. They loved it and, as it turns out, Tate is quite the pony poseur.

A Day At The Zoo

Auntie Kate's recent visit was a great excuse to go to the zoo! The kids couldn't wait to show off their conductor hats in public (Tate likes to put his on sideways). While at the zoo, they did absolutely everything except - wait for it - ride the train. There's a metaphor in there somewhere.