Little ears and big ideas!

Molly has been into the "Olivia" books these days. For those of you who don't know Olivia, she's a little girl pig with a sassy and strong willed personality. Overall, I like the books, but I'm realizing how even innocent picture books can influence a three year old. Olivia likes to negotiate with her mom about how many books she'll get to read... 7? no 1. 6? no, 2. 3? okay! I've always tried to give Molly a choice between how much time she wants before we end whatever activity... so tonight at bath... "Do you want 1 or 2 minutes?" "Umm, how about 6?" "No, 1 or 2." "Umm, how about 7?" "I can do 3." "OKAY!"   I think she still has a little ways to go to learn the art of negotiation!

The other cute phrase that popped out of Molly's mouth this week was when were playing grocery store. She decided that she would be the checkout girl and said, "I'll be the one who says, 'Do you need cash back?"... Oh yeah... this girl's been shopping at Aldi, where you only use cash or debit and they always ask if you want cash back!

It's amazing how much those little ears pick up. Just a week ago, Molly heard a pop song on the radio at McDonald's... she could make out the lyrics enough to start singing, "Baby slow down the song!" This is the first time she's heard that song! SCARY! Definitely makes you realize how important even the background noise can be... what a big task to be the parental filter!!!

This week, we had a couple unexpected days without me babysitting Violet. We took advantage of the chance to grab a museum pass and hit up the Chicago Children's Museum. Here Molly is a wearing part of a kitty costume. Dave thinks she looks like she could be in some 60's TV show like the Monkees!

Fire girl to the rescue!

Paddling down Old Man River.

Molly is a CRAZY driver. Watch out!

Two tough builders!

Love that look of concentration.

Face paint day!!! HOORAY! By looking at the end result, you wouldn't realize how intentional each dab of paint was. Quite a masterpiece!

Hanging out in the garden at Navy Pier.

Enjoying those jumping fountains!

Gourd painting!

This week, Molly got a Big Sister book. We've been filling in interview questions and doing sketches and stickers... hopefully this will be a fun way to get excited about Maxi Waxi!

Me with my two kids- one is still hiding under my shirt! Yay for 36 weeks of pregnancy!