1.  The kids are playing happily in the basement!  This is a big deal because the basement has been off-limits for the duration of the kitchen project.  We finally took care of the last details that needed to happen down there to make it safe and I was able to shampoo the carpet this morning.  Now they’re enjoying all the toys that they haven’t seen in the last month and I’m upstairs enjoying some peace and quiet.  Beautiful. 

2.  Henry started preschool last week and is loving it.  Yesterday he came home covered in fingerpaint (I’m hoping it’s washable) and he loves telling us all about what he does during the day. 

3.  While Henry is at school, I’m enjoying some nice time alone with Lucy.  We’re doing a toddler gym class on Tuesdays and just hanging out the rest of the time.  Running errands, cleaning, cooking… things are so much more peaceful with just her!  It’s also nice to have this time with her before baby brother comes.  She does miss her brother, though.  She’ll look around the house for him and call his name while we’re in the car. 

4.  I’m not sure which family member gave this to Henry for Christmas, but it has been a constant favorite around here.  Even Lucy loves it.  We read from it just about every day (still).  Anyone with a train-loving child should have this book. 

Full Steam Ahead! Little Red Train by Benedict Blathwayt

5.  See this cutie?  I’m so excited to meet him a few months.  I think he looks like Henry…