a post without pictures

Well, folks - our computer is having issues. It's always been a little persnickety - now it's just getting worse. Trying to upload summer/vacation pictures locks up the computer. I wish it were as easy as "hey, let's just buy a new computer this week" - but who can afford that?
So, I'm left without sharing pictures of Matthew with G'ma and G'pa H. and E.; his first day of preschool this year; his love of our tire swing and such.

He's getting to be such a big boy - his teacher and our neighbors have noticed - among others. It's fun to see his growing competence in litte things - like getting dressed, going to the bathroom without moral support, taking initiative for little things we require him to do.... Matthew does not sleep at nap time most days - but at least he has some quiet time(and I have some, too). He is becoming more imaginative, too. That is fun to see.

Of course, I should not be surprised that he has a major cold this week - last week was his first week at preschool - but, I am. I am really hoping that this is a better school year - health wise. The last academic year was a rough one for both of us. At least one cold a month is not very fun. Somehow, Mark came out pretty unscathed from all of this - I am grateful for that, considering the fact that he gets by on less sleep than any of us.

Shiner

Matthew got a shiner from falling off a tricycle at a friends house. Doesn't seem to bother him too much.

Rhubarb and our "first" tomato

So, this is my first rhubarb! Now I just have to figure out what to do with it ;o)
Matthew was so kind to harvest our first tomato, as well.

First fireworks

We watched our community fireworks Sunday night. It was a late night for us! Matthew enjoyed them for the most part - they were a little loud and he also got three nasty mosquito bites.

My handy assistant

Matthew was thrilled to help me paint today!

MSU dairy

Michigan State U has it's own dairy with an ice cream shop. Not only do they sell YUMMY ice cream, but they sell cheese and eggs.

How does my garden grow?

Very well right now, thank you! This is my first real garden and I am very excited about it! Can't wait for harvest!