10 months with Eloise & counting the days to Hugo's birthday.

This month has gone by so quickly and I didn't even take the time to take photos of Eloise with the good camera. I took some on my phone when we were at Blackbutt reserve, an amazing little place we have been spending more time at recently to look at all the native animals they have there and use the great playground that was recently installed.

I have just accepted a third day for Hugo at preschool. It took us a few days to make a decision but I think it is the right one for all of us. Hugo is always so excited to go and I know that he is well taken care of, stimulated and learning some great skills. He has already changed so much since starting and it's obvious that he is benefitting from it all.

Also, Eloise is starting to develop her own rhythm which is quite different to Hugo's. Trying to coordinate them is exhausting, leaving absolutely nothing for me. Removing some pressure to be Hugo's sole carer and entertainer is making the time we have together much more enjoyable. I am more inclined to try and do something a little bit special like going to the pool or baking something at home. I just have a bit more energy for it all which can only be a good thing.

Hugo - 35 months, Eloise - 9 1/2 months & a watermelon.

When it gets tough, I often decide to pull out the good camera and try and take a few good pics of the kids. Today was one of those days, or maybe even this week. Trying to take a few nice portraits helps me to focus on capturing their beauty and allows me to let go a little bit of the frustration that floods my body on a daily basis. 

With only one month until Hugo's birthday, our baby is turning into a little boy before our eyes. We are watching him transform since he has started going to pre-school. His confidence is growing there, he is becoming more talkative, he is making little friends, he is engaging in all the activities, and enjoying following the routines and rules in place. His adaptation has been wonderful and he really is finding his feet there. 

At home, it feels like he is playing a little more independently and whining a little less. He speaks more and better and our conversations are becoming more interesting with every passing day. He is able to remember particular events or people, as well as remembering plans for the future. We actually have to be a little careful now not to disappoint by changing plans since he remembers everything and reminds us generously. 

I am excited to celebrate his birthday in one month and say good-bye to the year gone by. It has been a challenging year with him and with the birth of Eloise obviously. Let's see what the Three-nager year has in store for us...

That poor watermelon didn't stand a chance with Eloise! She loves it! Our little cherub is turning into quite the jolly little thing. This morning, Hugo and her were playing a game of laughing at each other for about 10 minutes, and then Hugo spoon-fed her some applesauce which they also both found hysterical. She is really close to walking with strong little legs which she can hover on for a few seconds already. She is into everything and needs some much supervision now. She also makes it totally impossible to play any game or read books with Hugo which can get a little frustrating for him. Can you spot her brand new little teeth?