Zoo Day

 We made it to the zoo today.  I got a little extra sleep last night and I think it was just enough (along with the sunshine) to get the idea in my head...and L's!  Being right after lunch, we had the zoo nearly to ourselves.  

Isn't this giraffe beautiful?  We couldn't remember seeing one sitting before.  We didn't see zebras today, but this bongo was in the viewing area.  They must take turns.  

Funny to us that the camels are out, but it's too cold for the penguins.  About the time we got our zoo pass the penguins were finishing up their outdoor time.  The kids have enjoyed watching them out of doors, but I haven't had the pleasure.  Looking forward to that this spring.  (BUT just so you all know!  It's only February.  Not Spring.  Snow will most likely return and be just wonderful.)

Six Months!

Can you believe it!?  This boy child is 6 months already!  Oh, we love him!  He's sleeping like a newborn, but rolling, laughing, eating, loving and loved!

A billboard I drove past had a picture of a cat next to the note:  "The best 10 lbs. I ever gained."  I had to do my own version.  This is "The best 16 lbs. I ever gained." ...I mean, along with the siblings of course!  

We've started foods a little differently with each child.  This time around, he's getting egg yokes, chicken heart, salmon, sweet potatoes, avocado, banana and basically what we're eating.  If it's simple enough, we'll let him test it.  He won't be having our store-bought chicken tortilla soup for a while...we don't consider that simple foods.

 He didn't get a whole lot off of this sweet potato wedge, but he was able to practice grabbing, chewing, and it kept him contentedly occupied so we could all eat together!  

Laughter

 Sometimes you just need to laugh together, so this mama with long hair and her sweet boy child had a few laughs while the others were getting ready for bed!!

Art

Art for us comes in spurts.  This week was a strong spurt in the drawing and painting department.  

Posies -- I found this art video on Pinterest...we used the abbreviated version and worked off and on for a few days.  Letting layers dry before going on to the next part.  

 One point perspective -- After a private lesson on drawing faces by Cousin EH for L, Uncle Z came online and to show L (and eventually Kj and Mn too) how to draw a Zen garden using one point perspective.  Thank you to family for sharing your talents!!