Our Little Helper

As days and weeks go by, our little miss continues to stretch her independence. Fortunately we don't have too many breakdowns and tantrums, though she is very good at giving the shy, cold shoulder. If asked to do something she doesn't want to do, she either completely ignores us, or tips her head down, turns her back to us, and stands very still for a short while. I must admit, it is pretty cute to see her react in that way, and we are having to master the art of grinning and chuckling in such a way that she doesn't see.

Along with this new-found independence is the need to help us with whatever we might be doing. When I vacuum, there's Tori holding the cord for me. If I, foolishly, try to sweep the floor when she is near, she helps by trying to pick up the little particles and the broom bristles. Most recently she has taken an interest in the dishwasher and got to help Daddy unload it this weekend by handing him one piece of silverware at a time, and then one small plate at a time. The look of satisfaction on her face was priceless.

Tori also had the opportunity to help us in the yard this past weekend. Even though it was a little chilly, we were itching to get outside in the sunshine so we all bundled up and headed to the back yard. Thrilled at being able to run free, Tori spent quite a lot of time running around the back patio, and mastering the step from the patio to the grass...over and over and over again.

She also discovered that worms are pretty fun to play with...

and that our resident frog statue is pretty fun too. She had quite a lot of fun packing Mr. Frog around and repositioning him along the wall.

And when that wasn't enough, once again there was satisfaction in playing with the rocks and helping Daddy.