This is Mara's life

Our baby is 3. Our baby who loves whoopie cushions, the "jump-o-leen", dancing, talking on the phone, dress-up and now says "all right?!" after every sentence. Our baby who swims, rides her bike, dresses herself and goes to 'school'.

Kai: Mara, you're growing up too fast! Stop! I want you to stay little.

Mara: I can't stop Kai...(sigh)...this is my life!

3 guesses what she has worn for the last 5 days



New clothes from Grandpa D & Grandma N!


Backpack for school!


Even more new clothes!

The perfect pair

We enjoyed such an adventurous summer this year we were a little sad to put the camping gear away. Yes, it's general chaos and it's messy, loud and lots of work. But the kids explored various campgrounds with different sets of friends, they swam and they caught fish. Drew even got the chance to go ocean fishing and he caught 7 fish that we ate for dinner. We played in the tent while it rained (only once, thankfully) and we got stomach aches from late-night marshmallow feasts. There will quickly come a time when sleeping 5 in a tent will no longer be possible, or fun, and the kids will roll their eyes at the thought of it. Until then, Grant & I will hold out hope these kind of summers keep on coming.

The first week of school was a success with our seasoned pros in Grade 2 & 4. Mara has also switched daycares and is now at a centre which is much like preschool. Drew is trying hockey this year and both Kai & Mara had their first Highland classes this week - they even 'practiced' together at home tonight.

He wanted to look tough & intense.

The line-up of stuffies gives him away.

Now this is intense.