Books to Read:

Thankfulness

What a perfect time of year to pause and be thankful...

I am thankful for:

• the internet for being able to keep my thoughts (via this blog) in a place I can find them that doesn't clutter up another room in my house
• the computer for storing my photos for me...again, to avoid more clutter in my house, and for ease of access
• my son, for his joy, sense of adventure and wonder, and of course, his affection
• my husband, for his playfulness and the freedom he allows me to do what makes me happy, whole and peaceful
• the fall, for bringing crisp, fresh air back into my days
• the beautiful mountains and lakes of British Columbia which help me to return to the things and people who are important
• my wonderful neighbours, with whom I share laughter, frustration, childcare, canning lessons, and cups of tea.  We couldn't ask for more amazing people next door, and next-next door.
• my camera, for helping me capture the moments that my memory doesn't always store long-term
• family traditions: some may think we gather and celebrate excessively, but can you really do these things too often?
• my Mama's group: we have been through so much together, and although we don't see each other as often as we used to, I am so blessed to have you in my life, and in my son's life
• slippers...oh, how you keep my feet warm and toasty
• art supplies - without you I would be a frustrated, anxiety-ridden wench.  This gratitude includes you too, writing supplies.
• my students - you keep me on my toes and think I'm only 20. Bless you!

There is so much more to be thankful for...

Kai at 3 years 1 month

1. Still wearing his Batman cape tons...including during our whole family photo shoot!

2. Finally becoming less of a picky eater.  He was never a huge picky eater, but now he is eating bread crusts, egg yolks and more vegetables.  Yay!

3. Adjusting to daycare after a month of daily crying and clinging to me when I had to go to work.  It was heartbreaking, but now he is ready to continue playing when I arrive.  What a relief!

4. Getting into the rhythm of a new sleep routine: up between 6:30 and 7 a.m., nap at daycare and then up to bed by 7:30.  We still have to stay up there until he falls asleep, but it is much faster these days.

5. Taking SO long to eat his food.  I would say a 45 minute average at dinner, and as long as I will allow him at breakfast.  Glad he is eating, but it is really working on my patience. :)

6. Has made a best friend at daycare - Michaela, or Kyla as he calls her.  She is there playing with him first thing in the morning and today they wanted to keep playing after pick-up time.  I am so happy he has found what could be another 'Ben.'

7. He has just started soccer practice on Saturday mornings.  He has some skills, but apparently his focus is lacking.  Well, he is only 3.

8.  He is finally wearing underwear!  For some reason, potty training while wearing underwear just did not work for our little one.  I suppose underwear felt like a diaper to him, as he often peed in underwear even when I was pretty sure he knew he had to go pee.  Anyhow, all summer he wore shorts commando, but over the past week he has finally latched on to underwear.  Yay!

9.  Mater...yes, it is all about Mater these days.  McQueen is still in the picture, but when it is time for bed, he wants the Mater diapers.  He always wants to watch Mater Tales.  McQueen and Mater are never far from him.

10.  "Love you too, Mama."  We have arrived at expressing love (and thank you, excuse me), and reverted back to Mama (since he went back to daycare).  No phrase could be better.