life with the littles

I can't speak for Matthew and Daniel, but since the two older boys started school, I have been thoroughly enjoying my days with only my two littles at home. We've fallen into a calm and pleasant routine that lasts from 7:40, when Garrett and Caleb head out the door with Blake to go to school, and ends at 2:00 when we pick them up.

Matthew likes to play with his toys and do his puzzles.

And every morning he picks one or two of his favorite shows to watch while I take care of a few daily chores around the house. His current line up includes Sesame Street, Mr. Roger's Neighborhood, Blue's Clues, and Little Bear.

Daniel also likes to play with his toys.

And be generally happy and adorable.

Lately he's been keeping me on my toes by constantly getting up on his hands and knees. Other than rocking back and forth, he really doesn't know what to do once he's up there, but seeing as he does it every chance he gets, it's only a matter of time before he's truly on the go.

Sometimes we run errands, both in the car and on foot. Matthew always makes sure to bring his essentials -- Snoopy, Monkey, and/or his cloth.

But we're always home in time for an early lunch so that Matthew can take a nap before after school pick-up. Every day he requests the same menu: crackers, cheese stick, applesauce, and milk.

Sometimes Cookie Monster joins us.



After lunch Matthew goes "nigh-night," and sometimes, if the stars align, so does Daniel. While they sleep I have a bit of time to myself to read, write a blog post, watch TV, take a nap, or work on my latest scrappy quilt sewing project.

We have a lovely time together, me and these two littles.

But it's nice, too, in its own way, when the other two come home and the after school insanity begins.