dual personalities

Back on the prairie, we are making the most of cooler temps and autumn sun. Katie is back to school, with lots of fun news to report each Tuesday and Thursday morning; Ida is growing adorably in that not-quite-toddler stage, especially during her few hours of solo time with mom each week. Life is good.

Ida’s favorite things include carrying a purse (a vintage mini tote from Colonial Williamsburg), reading Pete the Cat books like her sister, and pushing laundry baskets in a circuit around the first floor. She continues to eat an ungodly amount of beans when given the chance. To quote Captain Raymond Holt, “Why would anyone spill beans? They’re one of nature’s most densely packed protein sources, and they’re unsullied by flavor.”

Katie’s favorite things include working on her impressive writing skills, riding her tricycle, and reading books aloud with her own narration. Yesterday in the car, she “read” from Maybelle The Cable Car, “Are you in the spirit of the operator? No. I’m a bus.” Do you recognize the Sufjan Stevens paraphrase?

Sometimes life with a baby sister involves a lot of cuddling and kissing and cooing, “Oh Ida, you precious baby love of mine.” Sometimes life with an older a sister involves intentionally blowing raspberries in her face because you relish the power of causing a 4-year-old’s menty b on the daily. It’s cool!! We are learning important lessons about interpersonal relationships (and comedic timing — Ida’s got it in spades). There is never a dull moment with these smart girls.