Giddyup

C.J., Chance and Avery have been doing a lot of creative play lately. They love to use their imaginations and go to the pool, fly in a hot air balloon, be a racecar driver (C.J.), a princess (Avery) and a soccer player (Chance). They have also been using their good manners with each other and enjoy engaging in good conversations. They are becoming too smart for their own good and make my heart smile. You can tell they come from loving families by watching the way they take care of each other, as well as, watching them "pester and bother" each other, but forget about it 5 seconds later.

They have been missing their friend Cailyn and keep asking when she is coming back. Especially Miss Avery who is longing for a girl to play with. Her and Nevaeh were becoming good princess pals, but now that school is out, Nevaeh gets to stay home with her sisters. Don't worry Avery, you'll have your girlfriends soon!

I've been attempting to keep a list of the silly, clever, and interesting things they do throughout the day, so stay tuned!

I have also been trying to put video on the blog, but no luck so far. I'll keep trying.

Yes, Nolan is growing up each and everyday and I'm not sure if I love it or want him to slow down. He's been rolling over for many weeks now, sits in his saucer, jumper and bumpo and is close to sitting on his own (he falls forward, but keeps pretty good balance). I like to think he says Mom too, but that's probably just wishful thinking. It's usually when he is crying, so maybe he really is?! He loves laughing at himself in the mirror. He's also close to holding his own bottle. We're going to work on potty training starting next week....just kidding (:
Chance keeps such a special place in his heart for Evan and Nolan...and soon he'll make room for Baby Girl Skiles! He can be a little stinker at times, but when it comes to the little ones, he is so sweet and gentle. They love him too. Especially Evan. He just lights up when Chance plays with him.

Why does C.J. always find the most odd places to sleep...and silly positions too! He'll be in the middle of playing with his friends, and all of a sudden he's out. I recently experienced my most funny moment at Ritter's Critters. I told C.J. to lay on the couch and take a nap. He climbs on the couch and lays on his belly with his feet toward the backrest and his head on the floor (kind of like doing a handstand or push ups angled downward from the couch). He draped his blanket over his head, so I thought he was just playing around. I went up stairs to put Evan down, and when I came back down, C.J. was in the same position. I became a little worried because who falls asleep like that?! Turns out he was just fine. Apparently very sleepy (which is why I suggested the nap in the first place!) Had I not been concerned I would have grabbed the camera and taken a picture, but as I tell the kids, "safety first".

Precious

C.J. had a piece of salami cut up and made a sailboat out of it. How clever.
Although it looks like Evan isn't happy with Chance right now, he was actually having a ball and laughing.

Nolan loves being on his tummy.

The Critters love books. Avery brought over two new books she got from her birthday. Betsy was sweet enough to read one before she left for work this morning. I forgot how fun it is to have someone read a story to you!

Avery and Nolan

The Little Boys having a picnic.