Caleb was given this fabulous hat by his grandparents. Looks handsome, doesn’t he?

I’m not sure where the Traveler was heading….but he politely tipped his hat on his way.

Sam snags the hat every now and then….wants to be like his big brother.

Adorable, yes?

Not a Box is a simple book with pencil drawings of a rabbit and a box. Well, a rabbit and his Not a Box. These little books really capture the essence of a child’s imagination that can turn a box into a mountain, a pirate ship or a burning building. In just a reading or two, the children will be shouting, “It’s not a box!” as you read.

What child can resist an empty box?

And sadly, some of us must admit we are just too big to get in the Not a Box.

Little boy in denim overalls...be still my heart....

We began our Saturday with a lovely to do list and everyone was working diligently on their assigned tasks. The littles ones helped when they were able and made messes the rest of the time. I had just sat down to take a “chocolate break” when Sam joined me.

Hello, Mr. Cuteness

He very politely and gently tapped me on my arm while calling my name in his sweet little voice, “Mommy, mommy.” I look down to see he had found a wooden spoon. He showed it to me and then pointed to another one lying close by. Hmmm, whatever could he be trying to tell me?

Sam gave a little grunt as he backed away. Ahhhhhh, I knew what that meant. I asked him, “Do you want to fight? ” He quickly threw on a smile and prepared for battle….

My name is Mr. Cuteness... prepare to give me my every wish...

I fought the good fight, but in the end the victory was Sam’s. While always the gentleman, he is a challenging adversary.  Consider yourself warned…if Sam ever taps you on the arm he may want a cuddle or he may want to fight.

You have now been alerted. When such cuteness approaches you, be very cautious. It will suck you in and your heart will be mush.

I found them. Together, of coursed. Thankfully they did not have Sharpies, scissors, water or other means of mass destruction. They only had a book.

Precious, aren’t they? I love watching them grow and play together.

I look over and see Mr. Cuteness rubbing his belly, too. When he realized I was watching him, he started laughing. Maybe he was feeling a sympathy kick?

Can’t wait to see Mr. Cuteness in the role of Big Brother. I have no doubt that he will handle it fabulously.

I’m sure your job may have its stressful moments. There are times where you long to take a vacation day. However, Mr. Cuteness bears the burden of protecting 5 fair maidens.

There are days when this mighty warrior encounters battle after battle. He never wavers in his determination.  He never doubts that he will be victorious. But he wasn’t prepared for the surprise attack…….

He fought the good fight….but the peanut butter and jelly sandwich would not be defeated. That sandwich filled the belly of this mighty warrior and he could withstand it no longer. The jelly glob wound pushed him over the edge.  And he slept.

And of course, Mr. Cuteness decided he needed to climb up the triple bunk. Thankfully he stopped in the middle. And thankfully his sister kept him safe until I could grab him.

He was very proud of himself and was quite upset when I wouldn’t let him stay. Tough cookies, Mr. Cuteness.

Need a break from the heat? Grab a popsicle and cool off.

If you are not a pro at popsicles, I’m sure an older sister will be happy to give advice.

So eat quickly, or she might decide to help you finish it!

And I’m still trying to understand why my older daughters gave the youngest one a red popsicle.

I think this is his warrior face. Scared you, didn’t he?

Aw, there’s Mr. Cuteness. Please excuse his lack of clothing. He had a bath before dinner so I decided to cut back on my laundry. Sarah was not pleased. She did not want Sam running around “nekkid”.

My little warrior is growing up fast!!