Sunshine and happiness

We had our first "non-family" babysitter tonight (for Sierra, as Ethan was already in bed). A big thing for this overly-protective mother, but it was time, especially as my sister-in-law who normally watched the kids has moved to Ethiopia for two years. Sierra was thrilled with Miss Caitlin and we were able to enjoy lingering over pie and coffee at a local restaurant. We are, however, disappointed at the lack of options in New Richmond for things to do. We'll have to get creative I guess! We loved being out together and came home to a quiet house!

The weather has been warm enough the last couple days that I've let the kids play in the hose and fill buckets and dump rocks on containers--another favorite activity of Ethan's. They play so well together, and I've been thankful that they are buddies and hope and pray it continues throughout their lives. Sierra almost always refers to him as her "little fella" and wants him to join her in most of her play. She has no idea how fun it will be once he starts walking and running after her! :)

We went to a llama farm "open house" this morning (they are funny looking creatures!) and picked up some tiny pumpkins/squash (for decoration only, we have enough of our own big ones!) and looked at chickens and free kittens (which Andre tried to talk me into getting, but I firmly declined. :) ). Then to a garage sale and a flee market, home for lunch and naps, and outside to enjoy the beautiful afternoon!

Sandbox time requires baths...but they have so much fun! They love filling buckets and making "castles" only to immediately squash them. And Ethan loves to put handfuls of sand into the grass.