April 2017

We actually got to attend the Logan Auction this year and it was a ton of fun. This year the theme was "novels" so most people dressed up as characters from a book... but Matt and I were super boring. Next year maybe! Matt loves auctions, clearly because he likes to win things ;) We got tickets to Frozen the Musical (which Aurora doesn't know about yet!), a painting for Aurora's room, some wine, a trip with one of her teachers to the science museum and a week's stay at a chateau in France. Should be interesting!!

I am starting a class called Strong as a Mother that focuses on rebuilding and addressing weaknesses postpartum. The woman that teaches it, Zoe, is a student of Katy Bowman so I'm really excited to work with her!

Easter was especially exciting this year because we got to do our egg hunt at the new house! Aurora and Connor loved the extra challenge that came with a much bigger search area. We did have to keep the kids away from one set up bushes, however, there was a half eaten rabbit that a coyote (we assume) had stashed for a later snack... how festive right?!

Connor got to go to his first friend birthday party, for Sloane. He and Sloane unfortunately crashed into each other in the bouncy castle so we left early with a swollen and bloody face. He was a trooper though!

We have started a new 'behavior motivation' system. As a parent it is very easy to fall into the "expect good behavior and punish bad behavior" trap. It is especially difficult when you can't seem to find very many consequences that are motivating to your kids... So Matt and I have decided to try rewarding good behavior (being especially kind or helpful) with a counting bear. When their jar is full of counting bears they can redeem it for a special date with Mom or Dad. Aurora and I went on a special date to The Brown Palace for high tea.

-- Cooper at 18 months --