tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55495925172994117892024-03-13T06:22:36.524-07:00Turkey PieWays to keep your little turkeys entertained, happy and healthy.Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.comBlogger55125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-89669185538619531882011-06-17T10:42:00.000-07:002011-06-17T10:47:37.738-07:00Hit the road -- err, the driveway!Get out the scooters, bikes, trikes and skates. Good? Now take your bucket of sidewalk chalk (if you don't have one, get one) and make a little mini city on your whole driveway. I'm not sure how well the chalk in these pics will show up, but I think they'll give you the general idea.<br /><br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_3782.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_3782.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Here we are at the corner of Maddie Drive and Bella Lane....<br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_3781.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_3781.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_3784.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_3784.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_3785.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_3785.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Thankfully our friend Erica who lives across the street and sometimes babysits for us, came out to say hello and I offered to help me finish the roads. It's a little hard on your back, but worth the effort. We had just finished our "city" when it started to sprinkle, but thankfully it didn't last long. <br /><br />And for a chuckle, here's a business card I got from a kid while we were outside. love it!<br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_3787.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_3787.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-9537210862021101512011-06-16T18:01:00.000-07:002011-06-16T18:15:51.854-07:00Computer TimeAside from lots and lots of reading, I also have a few other things for the girls to prevent them from experiencing brain drain over the summer. One easy thing we're doing is spending some time on <a href="http://www.starfall.com">www.starfall.com</a><br /><br />B's working on recognizing letters and their sounds.<br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_3771.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_3771.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />And Sydney is loving the reader portions of the site.<br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_3772.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_3772.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />She can read the sentence, clicking on any word she needs help with, and it sounds it out for her.<br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_3773.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_3773.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />She can also click on the parts of the picture above the sentence and enjoy the animation.<br /><br /><br />And I saw today that the ABC portion that B enjoys is now an ipod app. Good to know.<br /><br />The girls also enjoy:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.pbskids.org">pbskids.org<br /></a><br /><a href="http://disney.go.com/disneyjunior">Disney Junior</a><br /><br />and S is obsessed with c<a href="http://www.cornify.com">ornify.com</a>, Just hit the button below:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cornify.com" onclick="cornify_add();return false;"><img src="http://www.cornify.com/assets/cornify.gif" width="61" height="16" border="0" alt="Cornify" /></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.cornify.com/js/cornify.js"></script><br /><br />THAT'S RIGHT -- Keep hitting it! MORE UNICORNS, rainbows and EVERYTHING SPARKLY. You're welcome.<br /><br />Leave your kids' favorite websites in the comments!Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-83963728693117026572011-06-13T07:31:00.000-07:002011-06-13T07:45:19.126-07:00Making BedsIt may be due to OCD issues but Syd is obsessed with making her bed. This too shall pass, so while she's into it, I've been encouraging her and Brenna to make not only their beds, but whatever beds need making. They pull up the sheets and covers.<br /><br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_3766.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_3766.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />And pile on the pillows.<br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_3767.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_3767.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />And nothing is very smooth or picture worthy very often, but the point is, they're doing it. Even super littles can help with beds!<br /><br />While you're at it, you should always do a little jumping as long as it's not an antique or fragile bed. Jumping (one at a time) is pretty safe, in my experience. Sometimes I think we say no too much.<br /><br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_3770.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_3770.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />And apparently next up... haircuts!Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-23362523396610616112011-06-13T06:57:00.001-07:002011-06-13T07:30:42.494-07:00Chapter Books to Read AloudSome of my favorite elementary school memories are of teachers reading aloud from great books. I remember The War with Grandpa (Smith), Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh (O'Brien), The Egypt Game (Snyder), and From the Mixed of Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweier (Konigsburg.) I took a trip to the bookstore during Mommy Time not long ago and stood in the children's section, awash in memories. I could have spent hundreds stocking up on things I couldn't wait to read to my kiddos. <br /><br />We've read aloud every day since Syd was teeny tiny and have bookcases full of picture books. And although I've tried reading aloud from chapter books before now, they may have been a bit young. Probably depends on the child. Anyhoo, Syd turned 6 (!!) yesterday and Brenna is 4 and a half. So now I read a couple of picture books to them and then a chapter each night from whichever book we're working through. And they have really gotten into it. We began with the classic The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary.<br /><br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=ProductDetails.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/ProductDetails.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />I love anything by Beverly Cleary, I really do. I filled my summer reading program library quotas during my childhood with Ramona, Henry and Beezus, Ribsy stories, and even the lesser known Ellen, Otis and Emily stories. Love me some Beverly Cleary. I choose the Mouse and the Motorcycle book because Brenna loves animals of any kind, and because really... who can resist the idea of a mouse riding a toy motorcycle? Not me. And not them. After initially being disappointed in the scarce pictures present in the paperback, they settled into the idea. Syd flopped over the dog on the floor and Brenna next to me. Ralph has his own series, but I wanted to change it up a little.<br /><br />When we finished Ralph, we started on Mrs. Piggle Wiggle by Betty MacDonald<br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=Mrs.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/Mrs.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Mrs. Piggle Wiggle, friend to all the chlidren in the neighborhood, has an arsenal of cures to help parents solve their children's bad habits. Never-want-to-go-to-bedders, the answer-backers, won't share, won't take a bath, tiny bite takers... Mrs. Piggle Wiggle has a "cure" for everything. Mrs. Piggle Wiggle also has a series, but we I am eyeing Mr. Poppers Penguins by Richard and Florence Atwater. A loose adaptation of MPP in movie form, starring Jim Carrey is due out in June.<br /><br />Other readalouds I have on my possibilities list:<br /><br />Betsy Tacy series by Maud Hart Lovelace<br />Boxcar Children by Gertrude Warner<br />Ronald Dahl books<br />B is for Betsy and ALL the books by Carolyn Haywood<br />All of a Kind Family by Sydney Taylor<br />Bobbsey Twins by Laura Lee Hope<br />Shel Silverstein poetry<br />Little House on the Prairie series by Laura Ingalls Wilder<br /><br />I love all these books from so long ago. Just a simpler time. But of course there are lots of new series out worth looking at too. A trip to the library and/or bookstore to see what interests your slightly older kids is recommended. <br /><br />Happy Reading, everyone! If I've left off one of your favorites, leave a comment so we can all benefit.Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-82625387723164467772011-05-31T12:26:00.001-07:002011-05-31T12:26:27.751-07:00And We're Back!<embed width="600" height="361" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullscreen="true" allowNetworking="all" wmode="transparent" src="http://static.photobucket.com/player.swf" flashvars="file=http%3A%2F%2Fvid877.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fab332%2Fjilli_bucket_3%2Fturkeypie%252011%2FMVI_6247.mp4">Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-91745540925139271982011-05-31T12:20:00.000-07:002011-05-31T12:24:52.457-07:00Stickers and HabitatsWe're starting off on the not-so-creative side of things, folks. I've got to work up to the good stuff. <br /><br />The girls and I found this big book of animal stickers at our favorite store (Target.)<br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie%2011/?action=view&current=IMG_6235.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie%2011/IMG_6235.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie%2011/?action=view&current=IMG_6231.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie%2011/IMG_6231.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />The girls love animals and all kinds of creatures. They spent quite a while drawing habitats and putting the appropriate stickers on.<br />"The African Sabannah"<br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie%2011/?action=view&current=IMG_6233.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie%2011/IMG_6233.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />I must not have taken a picture of the ocean scene. Here's the one Brenna and I did together. She told me what to draw and I obliged, and then she did the stickers.<br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie%2011/?action=view&current=IMG_6232.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie%2011/IMG_6232.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-70850520137791137712011-05-31T12:16:00.000-07:002011-05-31T12:18:31.324-07:00Let Your Flag Fly!Here's a project my friend Margie put together for our Pre-K Sunday School class this last Sunday (Memorial Day.) She pre-cut all the strips of paper and the blue rectangle. If your kids are older, they could cut out the stripes themself. If they're a lot older, this could be a measuring exercise. No matter how you do it, they sure are cute!<br /><br /><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie%2011/?action=view&current=IMG_6230.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie%2011/IMG_6230.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-34185633868608964592011-05-31T11:56:00.002-07:002011-05-31T12:12:21.953-07:00Well Hello There, Friends!Turkey Pie is back for a 2nd summer of fun! As usual, we can't promise original ideas, but we can promise inspiration. We hope the fun things we do this summer help you figure out fun things to do with your little turkeys.<div>
<br /></div><div>Sydney and Brenna are so pumped for summer this year. Not only because we've got trips, learning adventures, beach extravaganzas... and even a trip to Europe planned, but because...... drumroll.... Daddy's coming home from deployment in the middle of July!</div><div>
<br /></div><div>First up for the girlies, is a fun "camp" at our local museum. We happen to be members, so we get a newsletter each month. In one of these I happened to notice they were offering kids classes. We decided on <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: tahoma; font-size: 13px; "><strong>The Littlest Naturalists Meet Creatures of Confusion, </strong><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">where they are learning about moths vs. butterflies/ spiders vs. insects/whales & other mammals, etc. It meets daily for a week, from 1:30 to 4p.m. And because we're members, we got a nice discounted rate.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: tahoma; font-size: 13px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">
<br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: tahoma; font-size: 13px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Here they are on the first day:</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie%2011/?action=view&current=IMG_6237.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie%2011/IMG_6237.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">
<br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">We live in a great area for classes/camps. Check out your local art studios, gymnastics places, art, science, children's or learning museums and see what fun things they have planned. And do it fast, those spaces fill up quickly! If you haven't already gone in search of Kid's Day Out programs at your local churches, that's a thought too. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">
<br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">We are continuing our gymnastics classes through June, and we have 2 soccer games left, so we are plenty busy already. And that's how we like to stay.</span></span></div><meta charset="utf-8"><div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; "><b>
<br /></b></span></span></div></div></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-31909788520978366762010-08-08T20:34:00.000-07:002010-08-08T21:29:14.869-07:00Some outdoor, some indoor<div style="text-align: center;">Hello, my name is Theresa, and I am guest-writing a post for Jill. I know that I might not be blowing anyone out of the water with what I'm doing with my 3-year-old daughter, Gabrielle. But, I thought I would show you some of the activities that have kept us busy this summer.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF9_-GVb7wI/AAAAAAAAA-c/dzn2DeIWhyA/s1600/DSC01332.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF9_-GVb7wI/AAAAAAAAA-c/dzn2DeIWhyA/s320/DSC01332.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503257974499176194" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Before I started showing you cute pictures of my daughter, I thought I would show you my adorable son, Benjamin (who just turned 4 months old). Sorry for the Jayhawk bib, Jill...this picture was just too cute to leave out of my post.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Some outdoor activities:</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF99sFOCjGI/AAAAAAAAA-U/WHRhPU1OsBQ/s1600/DSC01370.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF99sFOCjGI/AAAAAAAAA-U/WHRhPU1OsBQ/s320/DSC01370.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503255465938816098" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Backyard swimming pool</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF99rZbm4OI/AAAAAAAAA-M/jtnsRIoKocg/s1600/DSC00846.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF99rZbm4OI/AAAAAAAAA-M/jtnsRIoKocg/s320/DSC00846.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503255454184562914" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Splash park with friends</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF99q0xn7bI/AAAAAAAAA-E/-x-uW7A6ME8/s1600/DSC00555.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF99q0xn7bI/AAAAAAAAA-E/-x-uW7A6ME8/s320/DSC00555.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503255444344794546" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Watering the lawn turns into playtime.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF99qqGOgXI/AAAAAAAAA98/qLhdb2nuJmk/s1600/DSC01014.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF99qqGOgXI/AAAAAAAAA98/qLhdb2nuJmk/s320/DSC01014.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503255441478418802" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Bubbles...even with our princess clothes on, wings, and a stocking hat. And yes, it was HOT outside!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:large;">Some indoor activities:</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF97VEklsGI/AAAAAAAAA90/VTFIZkjadhY/s1600/DSC01326.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF97VEklsGI/AAAAAAAAA90/VTFIZkjadhY/s320/DSC01326.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503252871604711522" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Lots of fun with Playdoh.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF97Uxtl6AI/AAAAAAAAA9s/oOTKu2HW09E/s1600/DSC01291.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF97Uxtl6AI/AAAAAAAAA9s/oOTKu2HW09E/s320/DSC01291.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503252866542200834" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Lowe's has free "make and take" activities twice a month on Saturday mornings. So far, we've made a monster truck and a spaceship. Gabrielle even got an apron this last time so I can attach her badges that she gets each time she completes a project.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF97UTdqJyI/AAAAAAAAA9k/ooYE7WjNDtI/s1600/DSC01346.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF97UTdqJyI/AAAAAAAAA9k/ooYE7WjNDtI/s320/DSC01346.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503252858422306594" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Bounce Zone</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF97T143WAI/AAAAAAAAA9c/Xmrj9zAzedg/s1600/DSC01349.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF97T143WAI/AAAAAAAAA9c/Xmrj9zAzedg/s320/DSC01349.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503252850483353602" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Making a Red Velvet Cake</div><div style="text-align: center;">Gabrielle LOVES to help out in the kitchen!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF95b8v5kDI/AAAAAAAAA9U/47VQe5SE9fY/s1600/DSC01355.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF95b8v5kDI/AAAAAAAAA9U/47VQe5SE9fY/s320/DSC01355.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503250790740496434" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Our first attempt at finger painting.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF95bpwUJ2I/AAAAAAAAA9M/fvAyCFjjvVg/s1600/DSC01356.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF95bpwUJ2I/AAAAAAAAA9M/fvAyCFjjvVg/s320/DSC01356.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503250785641965410" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Second page of finger painting...not bad!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF95bHDmPpI/AAAAAAAAA9E/5XKdsXwl7P4/s1600/DSC01357.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF95bHDmPpI/AAAAAAAAA9E/5XKdsXwl7P4/s320/DSC01357.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503250776327601810" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Gabrielle wrote my name (mostly) by herself one morning. I helped her with some of the "curvy" parts of the letters, but she did all the straight parts of the letters by herself!!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF95am_FbAI/AAAAAAAAA88/hZZwnoNNxu0/s1600/DSC01361.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TF95am_FbAI/AAAAAAAAA88/hZZwnoNNxu0/s320/DSC01361.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503250767718738946" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">And then she wanted to write her name (and a few others while we were at it too). I'm one proud teacher for sure!</div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-41684415231951280712010-07-30T06:03:00.000-07:002010-07-30T06:06:52.206-07:00Breakin' the Law<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Yes, that's right. We're riding our tricycles inside. You got a problem with that?</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4817.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4817.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4816.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4816.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4818.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4818.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4819.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4819.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><br /></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-91292080200453996572010-07-28T11:58:00.000-07:002010-07-28T12:08:02.049-07:00Balloon Fun<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Picked up a 4-pack of these big punching balloons for Alex the wonderbabysitter to use to entertain the troops. Although Alex reported B gave her what-for about blowing them up so big, they enjoyed themselves. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4820.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4820.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Since then, the balloons have been "big pollens" for the bee family and various other things. This afternoon, we just had a little heading practice for my future soccer stars.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4823.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4823.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Uncle Kelly would be proud.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4824.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4824.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Turns out, heading balloons is not easy to catch pics of. Should have used the other camera. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4825.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4825.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4829.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4829.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4830.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4830.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4831.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4831.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">All was lovely until...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4832.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4832.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4835.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4835.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Good thing it was a 4-pack.</span></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-13042749299094982512010-07-26T06:46:00.000-07:002010-07-26T07:01:50.689-07:00More stuff we're loving<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">A few recommendations for things we've been loving...</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Uncle-Milton-Rainbow-My-Room/dp/B000TK8440"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Rainbow In My Room</span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4812.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4812.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This was the bribe I paid for the girls to try hard and finish swimming lessons. It just projects a rainbow onto the ceiling or wall, but for some reason (probably because we love Rainbows and everything girly, sparkle-y, or unicorn-y (and yes, that's a word in my world) around here.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">It has been appearing in many a play scenario. Pretty cute.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/LeapFrog-Math-Circus-Leapfrog/dp/B00361XWCI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1280152487&sr=8-1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Leapfrog's Math Circus DVD</span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4810.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4810.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">Surprisingly, they enjoyed this more than I thought they would. We also like the Letter Factory DVD by Leapfrog.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_1_13?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=elephant+and+piggie&sprefix=elephant+and+&ih=12_0_1_0_0_0_0_0_0_1.67_238&fsc=10"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Elephant and Piggie Books by Mo Willem</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">s</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4814.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4814.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This is such a cute series. Simple and funny. We enjoy them so much that I purchased the Elephant (who also goes by Gerald) and Piggie stuffed animals and much acting out of the stories has commenced.</span></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-15651563988637685822010-07-23T07:30:00.000-07:002010-07-23T07:38:53.727-07:00Painting<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I know painting seems kind of messy. It definitely has to be supervised. Keep a box of wipes handy. But there's just nothing like it. It's very therapeutic.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4805.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4805.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">You know what's also therapeutic? Barrettes.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4801.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4801.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I've not yet run across a kid who doesn't love painting.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4802.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4802.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Here is E's road:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4806.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4806.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I don't know what happened up there in the right hand corner. But it doesn't look good! ;-)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I recommend</span><a href="http://www.etoys.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2396157&siteID=q5QZHUbCIj8-NqfX2u1_gonPHxyc_kS06w"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> this paint</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">. You can find it at Wal-Mart and Target, for cheaper than that link.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We put it on a sturdy paper plate that has a lip.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4804.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4804.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">S likes to do her own thing, so first she colored, and then when everyone else was about done, she dove into the painting.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_4803.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_4803.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I rarely use smocks, but you could. I find that if I'm sitting right there with a baby wipe in my hand, the mess never gets too out of control. I just don't know that I will EVER stop buying baby wipes. Even though we are technically past that stage now.</span></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-5502345410275138072010-07-23T07:18:00.000-07:002010-07-23T07:29:54.688-07:00Girly Playdate!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We had new friends over -- and by new, I mean we had never met them before. That's the Air Force life, folks! -- for a fun playdate yesterday.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We had lunch and played with ponies for a while (a given) before heading out to the backyard for some wading pool time. Afterwards we did a little art work, which I will feature tomorrow. And then we decided to dig out the play clothes and ham it up!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Fashion show (set to the tune of Candy Cane Jane by the </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rocketship-Run-Laurie-Berkner/dp/B001A62ZII/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279894928&sr=8-3"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Laurie Berkner Band</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">) :</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_2629.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_2629.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_2627.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_2627.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_2632.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_2632.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_2633.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_2633.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">After one costume change:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_2641.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_2641.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Then we moved on to play dance class:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We stood in a circle and pointed our toes (tap, tap, tap)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We practiced our pirouettes, our spins, our bows and our curtsies. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We did them together and then took turns showing off our skills.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Then we put the music back on, and put the CD on random, so whatever came up, that's what we danced to. Taking turns:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_2642.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_2642.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_2643.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_2643.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_2644.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_2644.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_2645.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_2645.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_2646.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_2646.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And then some duets:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_2648.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_2648.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/?action=view&current=IMG_2649.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/turkeypie2/IMG_2649.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I wish I had some pictures of the dance class before the performances, but I was busy supervising.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">They just loved this. We had a grand ole time.</span></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-90466901691753560592010-07-20T13:39:00.000-07:002010-07-21T11:19:56.462-07:00Pet Store<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" border-collapse: collapse; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4771.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4771.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"> Visiting the local pet store is one of our top 5 things to do now that we live in civilization again. It's air conditioned, there are all kinds of pets and it's free, people. Unless you MUST get a new chew toy for your spoiled dog while you're in there. We seriously go to the pet store every 2 weeks or so.<br /><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">What's not to like? Super cute animals everywhere.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4774.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4774.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4775.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4775.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4776.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4776.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4777.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4777.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br />No mice were running on the wheels today, but we have been known to watch (and squeal) at mice on spinning wheels for a good 15 minutes at a time.<br />This gerbil was SO cute.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4778.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4778.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br /><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">I miss having a cat. I really do. It kills me to visit the kitties here, but they are regularly rotated and supervised by very sweet ladies from a nearby no-kill shelter. This is Custard. I think he wants to live at my house.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4772.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4772.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br />Distraction! I need one...Look! It's Nemo. We don't watch that movie because it's full of scary chasing scenes, but everyone knows who Nemo is.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4781.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4781.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4779.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4779.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4780.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4780.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4787.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4787.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">I don't know if all Petco pet stores have such a great pet selection, but this one certainly does...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4782.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4782.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4783.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4783.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4784.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4784.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4786.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4786.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br /><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">As previously mentioned, sometimes we browse for Boomer.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4789.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4789.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">A $20 Sydney sized green spider? Um... no.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4790.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4790.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">Likewise, no thank you on 5 ft. of stuffing spread out over my living room carpet.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4791.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4791.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;">The only sad thing today was that they didn't have any chinchillas in stock. Those things are super cool.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br />After that, we tried out the fountains at the nearby shopping area. This was really fun. They have a tent set up for shade, and a lady with a cart of towels... brilliant! It is conveniently located across the street from Gymboree, Build a Bear, some other children's boutique and a huge Barnes and Noble with toys in the windows. Um hmmm.<br /></span><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4792.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4792.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4795.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4795.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4799.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4799.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" border-collapse: collapse; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"><br />Oh, and we had ice cream cones from Chick Fil A. It was a nice day. The end.<br /></span><br /></span></div></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-58653661136992176972010-07-19T07:03:00.000-07:002010-07-19T07:14:31.132-07:00All Aboard!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">You're going to need some chairs and preferably a hallway.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4656.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4656.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">We used index cards to put numbers on the seats.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4658.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4658.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">With matching cards for tickets.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4657.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4657.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">B sold the tickets.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4660.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4660.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4662.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4662.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Then... "All aboard!" Those boarding with small passengers (or those who ARE small passengers) can board first. ;-)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4664.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4664.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4665.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4665.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Then the conductor picks up the tickets</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4666.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4666.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4667.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4667.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Plenty of storage for the "luggage" under the seats</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4671.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4671.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4672.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4672.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">"Everybody keep your feets inside the train so you don't get owies."</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4673.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4673.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Sir, could you please take your seat?</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4674.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4674.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Oh dear. Seating mix-up.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4675.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4675.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">No worries.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4680.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4680.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">One of those cheapo echoing microphones really added some oomph to this. I could not for the life of me find our train whistle at the time. Of course, we improvised.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4681.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4681.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">S, why are you doing that with your arm? "Because I love myself."</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4683.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4683.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">We made it to our destination... sliding Mountain!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4684.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4684.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4685.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4685.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Of course, we saw some unicorns there. We see unicorns everywhere.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4686.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4686.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4687.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4687.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">All Aboard! (again! and again! and again!)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4688.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4688.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-29068544189945471432010-07-16T13:54:00.000-07:002010-07-16T14:01:00.025-07:00Bubbles<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I almost didn't post this because it's so cliche. However, the girls have had so much fun with this bubble set...</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4537.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4537.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">(We had to buy the big gallon sized miracle bubbles. That little bottle that comes with it wasn't going to last 20 minutes.) I really like that brand, by the way. The super cheapo stuff is so frustrating sometimes. We paid $5 bucks for the bucket of blowers and $5 for the huge bottle of bubbles (on sale) and I know you can make bubble solution cheaper, but I knew I wouldn't. So there you go.<br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">For the last couple of weeks they've regularly asked to go in the backyard and blow bubbles on the patio.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4652.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4652.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4653.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4653.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And of course, you also have to chase the bubbles across the yard. Simple pleasures.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4654.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4654.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-34614588620173682532010-07-15T07:45:00.000-07:002010-07-15T07:57:58.940-07:00Swimming Lessons (and donuts)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4745-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4745-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4741-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4741-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Swimming lessons are a childhood necessity, in my opinion. Have I mentioned this already? Whether through the YMCA -- now apparently just the "Y"-- or a community center, neighborhood or base pool, the ability to be safe in and around the water is not something you want to mess with. Ours are 4 times per week for 2 weeks. The real trick is getting them into the pool in the afternoons without their floaties to practice what they've been learning. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And today after swimming lessons, we stopped at Krispy Kreme to get a donut and wound up standing on chairs and watching through glass as more donuts were being made. It was really fun to watch... and cheap entertainment! But Happy Donuts in Altus, OK, we still miss you!</span></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-64966611039782307042010-07-13T19:55:00.000-07:002010-07-13T20:05:20.791-07:00Pen Pals<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">We're got some super cute pen-pals in Minnesota. Who doesn't love mail? Especially mail that contains stickers, adorable pictures and dictated thoughts from a preschooler's mind?</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Depending on the ages of the children involved, actual letters or key words can be written, making a great writing activity. Our kids like asking each other questions and slapping a few stickers on a page and calling it good.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Here are S & B working on their latest package for Z and J, my friend Megan's kids.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4642.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4642.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4643.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4643.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4644.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4644.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This time we included a little activity the girls have enjoyed before... a package of wooden stars to color, with instructions for a little hide & seek game. We hope they like it!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4641.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4641.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-21001744647268228282010-07-12T07:13:00.000-07:002010-07-12T07:29:16.823-07:00Campfire with Daddy and other weekend fun<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Found the little turkeys and their dad playing in the playroom this weekend and was pretty impressed by the creativity going on in there!</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">A campfire! (those are blocks around the outside.)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4645.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4645.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4646.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4646.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Roasting marshmallows (those tinkertoys really come in handy for lots of stuff.)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4647.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4647.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Graham crackers (wooden dominoes).</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4648.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4648.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I guess we're really getting our money's worth from these safety cones found in the Target Dollar Spot in the Spring.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I had to run out for a while. When I came back from my errand, they were playing birdies in the nest. This birdy was perfectly content.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4651.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4651.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This one was upset because her nest didn't have enough pillows. And she hadn't had a nap.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4649.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4649.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;">Another thing they like to do with Daddy, is watch him play Mario games on the Wii. We get them from the library. He reads them the storyline as it pops up, and they get to help him decide which direction to go and which stars to try and catch, and so on. I neglected to get a picture of this, but they do love it.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;">And lastly, one of our favorite activities when Daddy is home... swinging in blankets and getting thrown onto the bed!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4735.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4735.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4736.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4736.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;">I will admit, that my forearms kinda hurt this morning. Swinging and tossing 40 lbs is nothing to sneeze at!<br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-32462352792168464842010-07-09T10:20:00.000-07:002010-07-09T10:33:58.725-07:00Restaurant<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Right this way, madame.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4597.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4597.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Let me pull out your chair for you.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4598.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4598.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">our menu... cupcakes and ice cream.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4599.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4599.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Here is your water, served in a sippy for convenience.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4600.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4600.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">And a plate...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4603.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4603.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Party of one? May I seat you at our group dining table?</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4605.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4605.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Napkins on your lap</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4607.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4607.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">That's what I'm talking about!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4606.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4606.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">What? Are you some kind of food critic? A camera in my restaurant?</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4618.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4618.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Well, at least make sure you get my best side.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4614.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4614.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Oh dear. The inspector seems to have found some sort of insect problem. Read: FLY alert!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4619.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4619.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4621.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4621.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Yes, there is a fly.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4622.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4622.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4625.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4625.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I'll just wait here and keep an eye on this until someone gets here to take care of it.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4626.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4626.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Unprompted (seriously) they spread out these cones around the inspector and his catch.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4630.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4630.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Okay, now we're completely distracted from the restaurant play...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4631.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4631.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">But the inspector is so cute, he's worth showing again...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4632.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4632.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4636.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4636.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4638.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4638.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I hope restaurant lasts longer for you than it did for us. We have played it several times since. Don't forget to set up a "kitchen" in the room next door. It's more fun if they have to run back and forth.</span></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-72781436474228663672010-07-08T06:02:00.001-07:002010-07-08T06:19:52.519-07:00Get Out!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I hope you're taking advantage of all that your area offers in the way of childhood entertainment. Depending on where you live, this may mean different things. We moved from Podunk, OK a few months ago, where visiting the lobster tank at McDonalds was one of the top-10 attractions, so believe me... I feel your pain if there's not much to do. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4519.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4519.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Even then, a few hours in the car --even if that sounds like the last thing you want to do -- may be worth it for adventure's sake.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We recently took a trip to a local museum and had a grand old time. Here's a little of what we saw...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4522.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4522.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4527.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4527.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4506.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4506.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4525.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4525.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4524.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4524.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4531.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4531.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4517.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4517.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4513.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4513.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;">We also took a harbor tour while the grandparents were here, and while it was geared to the older crowd, the girls enjoyed the boat ride, esp. the on-board snackbar, and the chance to take some pictures on their own. Photographer in the making? Maybe.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4544.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4544.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4540.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4540.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4541.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4541.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4547.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4547.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4542.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4542.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4563.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4563.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4565.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4565.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4562.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4562.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;">I was especially impressed with this one:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><a href="http://s877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/?action=view&current=IMG_4566.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab332/jilli_bucket_3/IMG_4566.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We also went to see a battleship and a nautical museum, and I was shocked at how much the girls liked the museum. They really enjoyed seeing everything and asking lots of questions. S was upset when we left and headed to lunch -- she wanted to go back afterwards! And I thought we'd be lucky to make it through a few exhibits with them. Kids can surprise you sometimes!</span></div></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-30159035674175015732010-07-08T05:52:00.000-07:002010-07-08T06:00:12.289-07:00I'm Baaa-aaack! And a call for pics!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Thanks to my girls for guest posting. That was probably not the easiest week to have an extra thing thrown onto your plates, so I really appreciate it. In case you are wondering out there in bloggerland... yes, those boys are just as adorable as they appear. Maybe even more so, if that is possible.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">While I've got you here, I wanted to ask... Do any of you have pictures of your kids doing Turkey Pie activities this summer? If so, we would like to post some! Please send your pics to turkeypie10@yahoo.com and we will include them in an upcoming post. Thanks!</span></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-45149939161758626902010-07-05T15:50:00.000-07:002010-07-05T16:32:05.579-07:00Book Play<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Guten Tag Turkey Pie Peeps.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="text-align: center; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; ">I am one of Jill's BFFs and a honored guest blogger. </div><div style="text-align: center; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; ">And man, do my boys and I LOVE to play. </div><div style="text-align: center; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; ">I've got Bookie who's 4 and 3/4ths and Smudge who's 1 and 1/2. </div><div style="text-align: center; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; ">And one of our favorite things to do it to pick a good book for inspiration and build play scenarios around it. </div><div style="text-align: center; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; ">Here's one of our most recent along with what activities it inspired:</div><div style="text-align: center; "><br /></div></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Curious George</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">The Boat Race</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Activity 1. Make paper boats of course! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">This was an easy starting activity seeing as the Curious George readers always have an idea or two in the back already thought out for you. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">And folding is a great small motor skills activity for pre through grade schoolers.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDJlnet-11I/AAAAAAAAA8M/4y5d8JDCaAs/s320/IMG_7818.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490562624653285202" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Activity 2. Use what you already have that goes along with the theme.</div><div style="text-align: center;">You've got a treasure chest at home... use it! </div><div style="text-align: center;">We made lots of Lego boats... you can use anything really.</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDJlojYGh7I/AAAAAAAAA8U/Vis6t9k4oj4/s1600/IMG_7821.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDJlojYGh7I/AAAAAAAAA8U/Vis6t9k4oj4/s320/IMG_7821.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490562643083560882" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Activity 3. Pretend play fun! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Find a boat (we have a rockin' park here) or make your own and set sail. </div><div style="text-align: center;">We were on the run from pirates of course.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDJlle-GOfI/AAAAAAAAA78/KP_vAh8Latc/s320/CIMG8291.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490562590361139698" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Our captain :)</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDJlmRW9QSI/AAAAAAAAA8E/uqTDeqDTag0/s1600/CIMG8294.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDJlmRW9QSI/AAAAAAAAA8E/uqTDeqDTag0/s320/CIMG8294.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490562603887182114" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Activity 4. Sail some boats of your own with some water table play. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Don't have a water table... fill up any old thing. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDJoWnvJIEI/AAAAAAAAA8s/tGD8SICxhk0/s320/IMG_7944.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490565633551179842" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Activity 5. And let it lead you into all sorts of fun water play... </div><div style="text-align: center;">try to figure out why boats float and rocks sink, </div><div style="text-align: center;">try to find ways to make a homemade boat self propelled </div><div style="text-align: center;">or, if you're 1 and 1/2, just throw the water around :)</div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDJoW4J0duI/AAAAAAAAA80/FRDkTvLFu5c/s1600/IMG_7890.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDJoW4J0duI/AAAAAAAAA80/FRDkTvLFu5c/s320/IMG_7890.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490565637958039266" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div>Activity 6. Pre-bed boat races.</div><div>Take turns being the boat and the motor.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDJoWBPXuDI/AAAAAAAAA8k/8Rs0bW-ftk4/s1600/CIMG1318.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDJoWBPXuDI/AAAAAAAAA8k/8Rs0bW-ftk4/s320/CIMG1318.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490565623217371186" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;">(Um yeah, it's like light until 11pm here :))</div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDJoVTiifjI/AAAAAAAAA8c/-5k_Y0FgejI/s1600/CIMG1316.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDJoVTiifjI/AAAAAAAAA8c/-5k_Y0FgejI/s320/CIMG1316.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490565610949738034" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 209px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div>Now have at it... and viel Spass!</div></div>Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5549592517299411789.post-91140657475218903612010-07-03T17:51:00.000-07:002010-07-04T15:07:33.702-07:00Car WashHello! I'm guest blogging for Jill today. I'm Tanya and have two busy boys - Andrew just turned 5 and Jonathan is 2. Also, I'm pregnant and tired. So, finding activities that require minimal work on my part are a main goal of mine! The other day I was trying to water a brown spot in the yard while the boys played. They immediately noticed the unattended hose and started watering every thing in the yard, mostly our cement slab that didn't need water. So, I directed them back to the brown spot and a car wash was born! They also found their paint brushes and painted, with water of course, until it was time to go in for rest time.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDEC6xmSwqI/AAAAAAAAA70/4xD_e-VYwhU/s1600/car+wash1.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490172629510963874" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDEC6xmSwqI/AAAAAAAAA70/4xD_e-VYwhU/s320/car+wash1.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDEC6WpNA1I/AAAAAAAAA7s/CS4DDemP9LQ/s1600/car+wash2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490172622275412818" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDEC6WpNA1I/AAAAAAAAA7s/CS4DDemP9LQ/s320/car+wash2.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDEC6Cr65iI/AAAAAAAAA7k/PdqmeiM8vys/s1600/car+wash3.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490172616918099490" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDEC6Cr65iI/AAAAAAAAA7k/PdqmeiM8vys/s320/car+wash3.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDEC5gurNcI/AAAAAAAAA7c/MULqGjH8uAM/s1600/car+wash4.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490172607802848706" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yCCfzVxTUNo/TDEC5gurNcI/AAAAAAAAA7c/MULqGjH8uAM/s320/car+wash4.JPG" /></a> The down sides of this activity: a slightly higher water bill and more laundry. Jonathan was soaked from head to toe and required a new outfit. That was partly due to Andrew's wild spraying mostly directed at his brother rather the cars. Now if I could just teach them to wash our real cars...Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14194747460796502400noreply@blogger.com2