handmade toy bus

More rainy day toddler activities. The other day Artie was bin diving, as he often is. It is not an activity we encourage, nor suggest, however our bin loving boy will often creep into a bin regardless. The point though is that he came out with the empty egg carton and was quite taken with it. So we gathered our supplies: some tape, two yellow milk bottle tops for lights, scissors, a couple of toilet rolls for wheels and our egg carton.

The end result a wonderful recycled bus. Artie loves putting little toys in and out of each 'seat'.

I think we are going to have to start a handy box soon. I think I have the most fun making things! 

Flood

Our hearts are heavy today. We are very thankful to be safe and still with electricity and food. Most importantly we are thankful that our friends and family are also safe. We went for a walk down to the creek near our home this morning. The creek which is normally a trickle of water is now a flowing river. The power of Mother Nature is an awesome thing.

The sun is shining but the Queensland foods continue to rise and consume many homes. The clean up and rebuilding will be huge for Brisbane, Ipswich and surrounds. Our thoughts and prayers are with all families affected by the tragedy. 

A celebration

Just a catch up on a special night for a special man. Adam's birthday was on the 4th. Happy Birthday Adam. A great husband and a wonderful father, we hope this year brings you much sunshine and success. We love you!

Rainy day activity

Lots and lots (and lots) of rain in Queensland means lots of indoor activities. I have discovered that fort building in the afternoon, once all other activities have been exhausted, works a treat! By the time we had built in it, played in it, read books in it and run in and out many times, Dad had arrived home from work.  I think I will always keep a supply of pegs, sheets and scarves in a handy place. Because it does feel like a pretty magical way to spend an afternoon. 

And after all that rain cleared in the evening, the sky seemed pretty magical too.

The Toddler Chef

I am a firm believer in free, creative play. I have read so many great books about play and how

important it is for children. It is their work. Through imitation young ones work out how the world works. So it is important for me to have play areas that are inviting and encourage imaginative play. 

Play kitchens can be so expensive but I really wanted to have one, because eating and cooking is such a big part of our lives it only makes sense that children would want to have a go at it too! Luckily Grumps is very handy and built us this wonderful play stove/oven using all second hand bits and bobs. You can see how he did it here. 

It is a hit! for the last couple of weeks 17 month old Artie has been bossily instructing me to sit and watch while he cooks. His Teddy bears have been feeling sick from all the food they have had to eat! We may have to set up a doctor area next to treat stomach aches. But every morning the teddies are eagerly awaiting their next feast. Artie must have some good cooking skills!

They also get a nice cup of tea with every meal. 

And when all the eating is done they sit patiently and await their wipe down. Teddies are terribly messy eaters, didn't you know?

Merry Christmas

We had a lovely christmas. It was filled with all the things that make christmas great. We loved being with both our families and had so much great food, we were not hungry for a few days after. We are so thankful for the wonderful and blessed year that was 2010 and hope that 2011 brings us as much joy. Much love to all our family and friends.