Treat box

Bugs are out f season so mack turned her bug box into a treat box for Duncan. The box contains a cup of food Mack swiped from the cat dish and, though Duncan has free access to his food any time he desires, he and Mack both seem to think food is more appetizing when it comes from a special box.The pair has made a habit of meeting each morning to give Duncan his daily treat. 

Skyped Christmas

I love technology! It allowed us to share a bit of Christmas with Grammy via Skype!

Grammy sent lots if goodies our way including fabric books she made for Mason, Madeline books , movie and very special doll for Mack . Mike made good use if one of his presents - a pancake making kit! Thank you ,Grammy! We loved sharing a but if Christmas with you !

Gingerbread house fun

Fun with Mommy

Merriment

" You got it, Mom!"

Mackenzie has been singing the songs for the preschool Christmas program to herself for weeks. It's so sweet to hear her usually loud voice quiet in song. As a doting mom, I was beyond excited to see Mackenzie and the other preschoolers putting on their very first Christmas program. As someone who was in choir from JR High through my early 20's, performing in countless choir concernts, I know that one day she won't have the same glint in her eye and excitement to sing Christmas carols . You can only sing Jingle Bells so many times before you're all jingled out. For now, though, we are all soaking up the excitement of yet another first!

Sweet Mackenzie Claire

The video below is of the last two songs. This program was for the afternoon preschoolers only. There were about 40 at the program though there are a total of about 50 PM preschoolers. The little boy just below Mack with dark red hair in the green sweeter is Mackenzie best friend, James.


The teacher to the left is Ms. Mandy. I cannot tell you , especially after recent events, how much joy and relief it brings to my heart to know that Mackenzie is in the care of teachers who are invested in her academically but also as a person. It was so touching for me when I read the note Mackenzie wrote in the Christmas card she made to go with her teacher gifts "Mis Mande. Mere Crismas. I luv yoo." And she surely does love Ms. Mandy.

Allowance

Mack has recently started receiving an allowance of five dollars a month. She isn't paid for her chores, she does those as an active participant if the household just like Mike and I do,but the allowance is hers to use as she wants and to learn how to manage her money.

This is what she bought with her first allowance- cat toys for Duncan!

Vested

Mike successfully passed his critical care certification and is a CCRN! His resume looks better all the time as he continues to reach for his goals. When a nurse passes the CCRN , they get more paid education days, are a step closer to "leveling up"  and are set apart by their hard earned vest.