Backyardigans

Now that it's getting warmer outside, these kids and their big-kid-papa are spending much of their time outdoors.  We swing in the hammock, hit balls with the baseball bat, create imaginative worlds in the playhouse, jump on the trampoline (Xiana has mastered a front handspring), and read books while enjoying the budding plants all around us. Truly, heaven is here.

The party keeps on and on

A billion museum posts... I know.... but it is amazing because they get to paint on walls, construct numerous creations, learn about their bodies, their history, energy, and architecture all in one place. And the best part is there is NOTHING they aren't allowed to touch. Pretty much a match made in Kolton's heaven. Kolton said his favorite part is building. Clearly, Argenta loves the scale model of the Truckee river the best. Xiana spends most of her time in Picasso's art corner (though the new bodies exhibit is giving old Picasso a run for his money). I'm so grateful to have this children's museum in our community. It is priceless!

Kolton James Andersen

On the day of his birthday, he got donuts for breakfast with a candle.  Then, we went back to the museum, this time with his best friend Jacob. We had our family party that night where he was characteristically spoiled rotten.  It was a wonderful day.  It sure is hard to wrap my mind around the four years that he's been in our family.  He is full force ahead in all he does.  He gives me a run for my money, but I wouldn't have it any other way. He's high energy, passionate, stubborn, and sweet.  He's fueled by a high octane mix of intensity and adventurousness.  He measures himself by how big and strong he is. I am trying to teach him that his value goes so far beyond his physical stature.  I think that's a challenging concept for a young boy, but he's getting it. We recently watched the new Disney movie, "Inside Out." In it, the characters are feelings inside the young girl's brain.  When the character, Joy, was introduced, Kolton leaned over to me and whispered, "hey, I have one of those!" Indeed my sweet joyous boy, you do! Happy 4th birthday to my absolute favorite son on earth.

Kolton's party

For his birthday, Kolton requested a party at the museum.  I would have never thought of doing that, so it's a good thing this boy knows his own mind.  He invited a few friends and then we all went and enjoyed the museum for hours. I let Xiana skip school to join us and was happy to have an extra pair of helping hands. Argenta decided that she quite loves the museum.  We were there all day, and Kolton was still so sad when it was time to leave.  I love his sharp mind and desire to be engaged in something so beneficial to him!