the first day of fall

riley and i welcomed the first day of fall last week by starting a parenting education class at bellingham technical college. many many friends have taken the parenting classes and have had nothing but good things to say. we meet every tuesday at the college for 2 1/2 hours. you walk into the portable and just gasp, as it is truly toddler heaven! they have everything: a fish tank, books, dress up clothes, kitchen, wooden blocks, arts & crafts, babies and an entire fenced in backyard with all the outdoor toys imaginable. riley was a bit tentative as we walked in, but as soon as she saw a baby, she ran w/delight and carried the baby with her for the next 2 hours. the time is pretty structured, but lots of the time is set for free play. the best part is the parents split in the end and half the group watches the kids and the other half meet with the instructor and get to chat about our parenting needs/questions/concerns. we look forward to taking this class through the fall, as it will be a great cold/rainy day option!


riley pausing to read her book before we head to class


sponge painting



painting a leaf (and the best part is the parents don't have to do the clean up!)



riley signing her name...everything these days is, "no mommy, my do it"



once we were home and done with lunch & nap we whipped up a big batch of pumpkin cookies for some friends. riley has taken on quite the little mommy's helper role in the kitchen. she loves to cook & bake with me...so this is her helping drop the cookies on the sheet



i also want to pause and remember my friend janice from college. she passed away from sarcoma cancer on tuesday. our hearts are heavy for her husband, family & friends. she was a true light to everyone she came in contact with. we will miss you janice.