THREE!

Rudy was three this past week. We can't quite believe it. Our toddler is now known as a 'preschooler' here in the states. What? He's going to school soon? How can this be? John took Friday off so we could hang out as a family on the actual day, on Saturday we had a party, and on Sunday we rented a car and drove out the suburbs to see "The Great Midwestern Train Show", which is a model train expo. It was a busy busy three days, and Rudy had a blast.

Birthday morning: Opening presents while still half asleep!

Rudy asked for a Robot birthday cake before Christmas! Here was my shot at it. The kids didn't have any qualms about taking it to pieces after the candles had been blown out!

Rudy was so excited to go to the Train show. Here he is all set to head out, and watching the Lego demo set. There were quite a few 'diesel shivers'.

When peace like a river...

There has been a complete transformation in the way Rudy regards Margot. He has not shoved, hit, bitten, pinched, or screamed at her in two weeks! Instead he roars with laughter at her attempts to "chase" him doing an army crawl, and he wants to dance and sing for her at every opportunity. I think he's caught on that he has a very happy and encouraging audience who adooooooores him! This morning I walked into the living room and he told me to go away because he wanted to play with just Margot. It made my heart sing.

I have to say it has coincided with Rudy potty training. I don't know if a big "challenge" redirected all his energy in a positive way, but it has truly made our house a happier place to be.