I'm a Big Girl Now

Lyssa has really grown a lot these last couple of months.  She gave up her nuk, is fully potty trained (day and night- yeah) and loves to talk-- even to herself.  Potty training went relatively smoothly.  She was supposed to be trained before starting daycare this fall (since it is a preschool program) and she made it by 1 week!  We incorporated the same method as with Shay- just did it.  One day, no diaper and after a few days with just 2 accidents- and not going anywhere :), she started wearing underwear.   Unlike Shay, Lyssa wasn't too excited about it and didn't really seem to care that she doesn't have to wear diapers anymore.  She does love, however, the M&M treat after using the "potty".  She could have cared less about a sticker chart, but the chocolate candy worked wonders!

Shay Helping Out

Goodbye (Great) Grandma Louise

Brett's grandma, Jean's mom, died peacefully on September 8, she had battled dementia for years.   She was a remarkable woman with a strong personality, who stood up for what she believed and helped so many people throughout her life.  Louise will be missed.  Her family and friends came together the last weekend in September to celebrate her life.

Wonderfully written Obit

Hanging out at the Erickson's the night before

At Great Grandma's Celebration of Life

Gathering at Jean's house after

Louise's Great Grandchildren

It was great to see Julie (and Seth) for a couple of days.

Olive wasn't a fan of them heading back to Seattle.

Enjoying the Changing Season

One of the reasons I enjoy living in MN (besides being close to family) is the changing seasons.  It seems just about the time we have enjoyed (hopefully fully) of what one season has to offer, the temperature begins to change.  Winter can be long, but the spring, summer and fall in MN can't be beat!  Both girls have been pretty interested seeing the leaves change color, and we have had more conversations about evergreens, what we can/can't wear once it starts to get cold, as well as the holidays that happen.  Above are some pics taken on their nature walk with Ms. Caryline and friends.

Happy 33rd Birthday Brett!

In honor of Brett's birthday I asked Shay some question about her dad, her answers are in bold.  Happy Birthday to a great husband and dad!

My dad is 22 years old

My dad is really strong, he could lift a box

My dad’s favorite color is green, since he wears it a lot

My dad’s favorite food is spaghetti

My dad always says “crazy things”

My dad’s job is to coach kids

My dad is the best at cheering me when I race

My dad laughs when I tickle him

My dad and I like to play together, go to the park together and put up the Christmas tree

My dad really loves to not eat dessert

I LOVE my dad because he is my daddy

Trip to the Apple Orchard

Shay and Lyssa both headed to the apple orchard last weekend with their daycare friends.  They both came home with apples to eat and mini pumpkins.  The day was perfect- a bit crisp and sunny.  It may have been a little early for pumpkins, which Shay only associates with Halloween.  We have already answered the questions, "Is it Halloween, YET?", "When can I wear my costume?" or "When does Lyssa get to wear her costume?" a few times.

I love my apple!

Still not sure about cats, even though there are 2 at Ms. Caryline's

Good pick Shay!