All These Overalls Finally Fit!

We've have upwards of 10 pairs of overalls hanging in Gretel's closet for quite some time now, all size 2T or thereabouts. So kindly handed down from various relatives and friends, these overalls have always seemed to be infinitely too large for our little lass. But Gretel's last growth spurt has made it possible for her to start wearing them, and she is just as cute as a button

in any and every pair of overalls! Needless to say, they have quickly become one of her staple items of clothing.

We particularly like this pair, dating back to 1975 or so, that Gretel's Papa used to sport. Perfect for storing cars in the pocket too!

Potty Time!

Gretel has had a major breakthrough with using her potty this past week. Although she's used it a handful of times before, it's as if something has just clicked in her head and now she really gets it. She's used it every day for the past 4 days, and will clearly tell us that she needs to go (and whether it's big potty or little potty) before sitting down and going. It's quite amazing to watch, from a parent's perspective. One day she's disinterested and unable to know when her body needs to go, and the next day she's very aware and very eager to sit on the toilet. We have been throwing little "potty parties" (complete with lots of loud clapping, cheering, and dog barking) to celebrate these awesome occasions. Go Gretel!

Chores

It's Gretel's job to get the eggs after school each day. The chickens began laying again in February and now we're back to 5 or 6 big beautiful eggs a day! Gretel carries them inside in the basket and carefully places them into a carton while Alistair waits patiently for any casualties to hit the floor.

Happy chickens scratching in the garden!

Sour Cream

Gretel recently took the liberty of exploring a carton of sour cream. I think the pictures speak for themselves . . .

Gretel's Party Trick!

Gretel can put her coat on all by herself! I tried to catch this fantastic trick on video. Here are some outtakes for your enjoyment.