Far Too Long

Once again, it has been far too long since I've posted anything. We've been home one week over the last 3 and those days have been plum full. We spent a week with Grammy and Pa learning to work in the garden. Grammy bought Tori her first wheelbarrow and we got to break it in. She had fun pushing it around the property, however, I think she had more fun helping Pa fill and push the real thing.

Tori's fascination with smelling the flowers continued throughout the week. Each time we went outside she would make the rounds to the different flower beds, enjoying each and every flower.

Probably my favorite event of the last few weeks was our first trip to the Oregon Zoo. We went with a group from our church and had a blast. I was really curious to see what Tori would think and how interested she would be. She loved everything and was very alert and attentive. We got to see polar bears, cougars, bats, birds, elephants, and she'll tell you very animatedly what we saw when you ask her. Her response is excited when talking about the cougars and the polar bears; a bit hesitant with the "Big Elephant" -- Packy was inside the elephant building and she was a little unsure as he walked toward the glass -- ; and animated when telling of the birds (Lorikeets) drinking.

And of course, what is a trip to the zoo on a warm day without an ice cream cone?

And lastly, a big first for our little girl this past weekend. She had her first sleep-over with our best friends, the Mattos Family. We had a busy weekend, with a couple adult only meetings; one Saturday evening and another Sunday afternoon. Mandy graciously allowed us to leave Tori in her care from mid-afternoon Saturday until late Sunday afternoon. And Tori did great (as did mom and dad). This freed us up to paint Tori's bedroom, which we've wanted to do in time for her birthday. We were able to get the painting finished Sunday night, and we are well on our way to converting Tori's bedroom from 'nursery' to 'big-girl' room. Here's a preview of her new big girl room...