The Cozy Corner

After finishing The Apple and the Arrow (and by "finishing" I mean "laboring through") I was excited to see a lighter, more kindergarten-friendly book on the list, My Father's Dragon.

This book is told from the perspective of a young boy, retelling his father's adventure on Wild Island, as he works to free the captive dragon that is a slave to all the island's animal inhabitants. The dragon is chained and forced to fly across a river to transport the lazy animals from one side of the island to another.

Now don't be fooled - this is not a "tug on your heart" kind of book. It is hilarious! The boy encounters tigers who are distracted by chewing gum, a rhinoceros too busy worrying about his dirty horn to guard the island, a vain lion, and a whole host of animals who are ready to do him harm, but are easily averted by simple means. Each chapter leads you through another adventure, told simply and with great humor. Both the kids loved it (even the 3 year old!).

The book is 87 pages long, with pencil sketches on about every other page, and the author is Ruth Stiles Gannett. Apparently this is a series, but since we have only read this one book, it is all I can comment on . . .

But my verdict is: buy it and read it and giggle with your kids!

Family Photo Shoot

Dan surprised me on Valentine's Day by suggesting a family photo shoot, with Dan as the main photographer! With the help of a remote, I think he did a fine job! Here are my favorites:

Don't his hands look rugged here? Pretty impressive for an insurance salesman!
Somewhere in the middle of the shoot I realized my lipstick was totally gone. And I realized why my mom always reminds me to put it on - I do look like death warmed over without it. Can we photoshop in some dark red lips here?

Is it too early to say this will be our Christmas picture next year?

Subtle Differences in the Sexes

Context: Elijah had a friend over to spend the night last night, and while they were furiously running around the house shooting at random villains, I overheard this conversation . . .

Alli: Ija, remember that you are the soldier and I am the princess that you rescue.

Elijah: Alli, we aren't playing that game. You can be part of our killing team!

Happy Birthday, Erik

I worked furiously to finish the binding before Mom and Dad left to go home and bring your birthday gift to you.

And here it is, the finished project. I was apprehensive about a quilt in all neutrals, but I love the way it turned out. Hope it keeps you feeling warm and loved.

And Kevin, don't be jealous. You have not because you ask not! ;)