The Scowl

This is Natalie's scowl. It is on her face quite a bit lately. Mostly it is given to strangers who try and say hi to her when we're out on errands, but it also comes out when we try and take pictures of her. Isn't it lovely?





We're off to Utah for a week!

Book Exchange

My college roommates and I are doing a book exchange. We're sending each other some of our favorite children's books to add to our libraries. I received these two in the mail on Friday, what a pleasant surprise! Natalie loves books, and it's great to get suggestions for good ones. I thought these two were particularly fitting for Natalie, they're very cute stories, thanks Audra!

Lily

This is Lily, Natalie's cousin that is ten months older than her. Natalie and Lily have a very funny relationship. They are always really happy to see each other and can sometimes even play together, but usually within, oh, about 10 seconds, they are screaming and fighting over the same toy. This will go on for the remainder of the time they are together, unless separated by parental units. When people ask me and Carrie if Natalie and Lily are friends, we look at each other and say, "Well...yes and no." Two strong willed little girls.

Fall Shopping

I now have to buy most of Natalie's clothes, which is fun, but can get expensive. The other day I splurged and bought Natalie these shoes...not on sale.



And if I wanted to splurge again, I would buy her this coat. For all those chilly California days.

Homemade Pancakes

Natalie and I made pancakes this morning...from scratch! I have been doing this lately and now am wondering why I ever bought pancake mix, it's so easy and really good. Natalie poured the ingredients in the bowl after I made the measurements, I think she really liked it.



I wanted to share this recipe, because it's the best one I've found, whip up a batch!

Favorite Pancakes

1 1/4 cups flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Makes about 10 pancakes. Another thing I've been doing is freezing the pancakes, which makes for a really easy breakfast later in the week, just pop them in the microwave and they're ready to go! I freeze them on a baking sheet and them transfer them to a plastic bag.

Next I'll have to try the wholewheat pancakes.

Happy 2nd Birthday!

Today is Natalie's 2nd birthday!! I can't even believe it, my little baby is not a baby...but she is a wonderful little toddler who makes her dad and I smile every day. It is so exciting to see Natalie grow and learn new things every day. She is such a joy, we love our little girl.



We had a small party for Nat on Saturday, just a few friends at my mom and dad's house. As you can see, Natalie has lots of boyfriends.



Opening her presents, I enjoyed her gasp every time the paper was opened.



We got Natalie a new scooter which came with all the gear, she loves to ride it and put on her helmet and pads.



Natalie's Grandpa and Grandma in Utah sent her this, perfect for Nat, our little Minnie Mouse.

Me as a Simpson

Here is what I would look like if I were on the Simpsons...not a very close likeness in my opinion. Anyway, just thought I'd share. I know it's kind of a goofy photo of me, but apparently I don't have many close-up photos of myself.




If you want to try it, go here.