Backyardigans Live

Saturday I took Annika and her friend, Aiden, to see the Backyardigans Live.  For those who don't know what it is -- it's a Nickelodeon cartoon with these friends who go on make-believe adventures together and sing and dance.  It's very cute.  Anyway, we were fortunate to get the tickets from a friend.  Thanks, Jen!  The kids had a great time sitting front row.  They were mesmerized by it all -- eyes wide and mouth open.  By the end Annika was getting into it and clapping, yelling, and dancing.  Aiden was still mesmerized, eyes glued to the stage.  Of course Annika's favorite character was the pink one (her favorite color) and Aiden's was the Moose (loves animals).  Afterward, they couldn't stop smiling and waving their magical wands around -- casting spells and making the elevator doors close and open.  Too cute!  I love this age.

New Milestones for Gavin

Our Little Buddy, Annika's nickname for Gavin, is now 6 months old (and one week).  I can't believe how quickly time has gone.  The past two weeks he has gotten two teeth, and yesterday he sat up on his own.  I have to thank his buds, Brennen and Camden for showing him how to sit.  They were over yesterday playing together.  A few hours after they left, Gavin sat by himself.  It's good to have friends to show you the ropes. 

Other things he has learned --  how to irritate his sister, eat puffs, and make zerberts.  I especially love the zerberts on the cheek.  yuck!  

Our Little Merrill Boy

I was going through photos and came across pictures of my nephew, Christian.  I was surprised how similar Gavin looks like Christian.  Everyone says Gavin looks a lot like a Merrill.  Can you guess who is who?  Christian or Gavin?

More Fun with friends

Friday we went to a Pumpkin Patch with friends.  When we arrived, a pig race was was about to begin.  Annika and I picked David Letterham for the winner, the odds were in our favor.  Right at the last second he pulled through and placed first in his heat.  Yahoo!

We then headed for the corn maze, which took us on many turns.  During the entire walk Annika complained she was either hungry, or wanting to get out, or go home.  By the end, I was done too.  We rushed right out, which was a good thing because Annika had to go potty.  I am glad she didn't complain about that while in the maze.  Parents potty training a kid understand my relief.   
After the corn maze and lunch, we set off to the children's "courtyard" -- a large play area.  Annika was a little hesitant to get on the cow train, but after watching it the first time, she couldn't wait her turn.  Annika chose Elsie to ride.  It was cute watching the faces of the kids on the train.  Sure delight!  



There was a huge corn pit for the kids to run around in and find rubber ducks.  At first, Annika and her friend were unsure walking around in the corn, but it didn't take long for them to relax and start jumping and falling into the corn.
I have to explain the picture below.  In the car, I sat between Annika and her friend, Aiden.  We read books, one being about elephants.  When trying to console babies in front of me (see picture below), Annika placed her thermos on her head and said, "Look!  I am an elephant!" 
I couldn't resist taking this picture.  My friend has twin boys who are 6 weeks older than Gavin. At the YMCA, the three are known as the triplets (we go regularly together).  Camden on the left began crying and it didn't take long for the other two to chime in.  Do I detect a little competition?  I am not sure who won.  They all have pretty good vocals. ha ha  And a side note, Brennen, in the middle, can beat anyone in a staring contest. I was amazed how long he could hold a gaze.  

Pumpkin Patch Fun

We had a great time as a family Saturday going to the local Pumpkin Patch.  A tradition we started is to go out to breakfast first.  We enjoyed pumpkin pancakes and eggs at IHOP.  Yum!  It's nice not having to cook, especially when we all woke up at 5:30 a.m. due to Gavin screaming.  
The day was beautiful and sunny -- perfect to be outdoors with the kids.  Annika has been looking forward to the tractor ride at the pumpkin patch so we rode twice.  She loves the bumps and jolts.  As we circled around in the tractor, we searched for the right pumpkins to take home.  Instead of trying to find the biggest pumpkins, Annika was on a hunt for the smallest.  We allowed her to pick hers and Gavin's.  Then Mom and Dad chose a bit bigger.  I don't think Annika was too happy with our choices.  We were pretty muddy and tired afterward, so we all took naps when we got home.  I think that was my favorite part of the day.  These days sleep is a rare treat for me!

I guess IHOP wasn't enough for Gavin. 

Dedicated to Aunt Lisa

Andy and I have fun discussing what traits or looks of our kids are Bjorn or Merrill.  I have to say, Annika's eyebrows remind me of her Aunt Lisa.  Her eyebrows say it all.  A famous look is the left eyebrow raised and the right lowered (see below).  So, these pictures are dedicated to you, Lisa.  Can't wait to see you at Christmas!

Andy's New Chocolate Addiction

Andy just left for a church meeting and guess what he had in hand?  Altoids, his new chocolate fix. Altoids makes a chocolate dipped mint now and you can't just stop at one.  In fact, you can't stop at all.  Luckily, if you do eat the whole tin it's very little calories (compared to a chocolate bar), and your breath is minty fresh. mmmm... just talking about these makes my mouth salivate.   

Who can resist those cheeks?!

I had to post these pictures of Gavin.  Aren't they adorable?!  I can't believe he is almost 6 months old.  He already knows how to get what he wants with those round, blue eyes and cute smile.

Rainy Day Play

Annika's best friend, Aiden, came over the other day.  Here are some pictures of them playing in the garage.  They crashed bikes, drew with chalk, learned hopscotch, and played catch. Gavin and I just watched and laughed at the two of them.  Oh, to be three and the only worry is trying to make it to the potty on time.