April 12th

One of my friends suggested splitting toys into different boxes then trading the boxes periodically.  The idea is that when the toys get old you switch for a different box.  The kids get a fun new set of toys every time a new box comes out.  It's a great concept.  But I was struggling with where to put the boxes.
 

Solution!  We brought these two cheap Home Depot cabinets up from the basement.  Doug screwed them to the wall so that they won't fall over.  I put the vinyl decals on.  Isn't it cheerful?


The big reveal!  Look at those beautiful boxes!  You can see the space on the left for the toys that are out in the family room. 


While Rachel and I were putting away toys, swapping boxes and taking pictures, Joe was busy taking in the sights from his tiny roadster.


His glee turned sour when he realized that Rachel and I had left the room.
 

The kids played with toys and watched far too much TV while I ignored the dishes and the housework.


I was finishing my projects for a busy bag exchange with our neighbors.  (I'll post more on that later.)  These are sound matching eggs.  Each kid gets 6 pairs of eggs.  You mix them up then let the child try to match the eggs that sound the same.  What's in the eggs?  A marble, 3 little jingle bells, a teaspoon of rice, 6 beads, 2 tin foil balls, and 3 pennies.


Lunch consisted of macaroni and cheese with ground beef. 


Rachel's was sans beef.
 

Just look at that sweet face!


Doug valiantly fought the rain to take the garbage out.


Joe watched from inside. 


Then Doug made quesadillas.  Hurray!


"Just a few more minutes?" begs Rachel and the pig.


"No darling.  It's bedtime.  Nighty-night."