We Love Dancing - This Week!

 So... I know everyone was wondering after last time... how did she do at dance class this last week?

It was a little bit of a rocky start leading up to just getting there.

"Time to get ready, it's almost time for dance class!" I said, after talking it up all week.

"OK!" she chirped.

Despite her seemingly agreeable response, the fairly typical battle about getting ready ensues. No, she doesn't want to use the potty first. No, she doesn't want to get her clothes on. Fifteen minutes later, OK, she is pottied and clothes are on, now she needs to lay on top of the dog instead of putting shoes on. Why can't she wants wear her dress-up crown? No! She will only sit in her brother's car seat. OK, OK...

Tiny (Non)Dancer

I just don't get it.  Kids are ever-confusing!

My daughter is 3 1/2.  Her preschool did a school "play" earlier this year, and since dancing on the stage there, it's something she's spoken of enthusiastically for the past several months.

So 2 weeks ago was my daughter's first dance class - we had visited a couple schools, picked one out together, and decided to let her pursue more excuses for "dancing on stage" that she's requested.

Big excitement abound. Beforehand, we went and picked out the dance clothes, she was soooo excited: leotards with skirts, tights, ballet shoes, tap shoes... yay!

Baby Gear Overload: After Two Babies, the Stuff I Didn't Use

Oh new parents!
We are bombarded with so many "get this, you need that" messages when we find out we're expecting.  If you're fortunate enough to be able to get a bit more than the bare essentials, then you are prime target for Baby Gear Overload Syndrome.
Below are the items that I wish I had my money back, or despite a gift from a well-meaning family member, just never found itself used or enjoyed.  Save yourself some disappointment.

Our Family's 5 Favorite Toys: Infant to 3 years

I have made it a point to not buy our kids tons of toys throughout the year; so far, we make Christmas season and birthdays (both winter) our main targets, and something small during the summer.  I always buy a mixture of things they're able to use right now, and in the months ahead, and this does mean that some Christmas gifts will not get used right away.  However we have a small home, and I want to see each purchase go the distance: they teach something, have durability, will work for boys/girls alike, and most importantly, are fun!
Here are our biggest hits so far: