Goodies...

I have been very lucky to win several prizes on some websites that I frequent. I heard about a product through my best friend made by a neighbor of hers, who happens to live in Valparaiso. I hadn't heard of her product the ToyWrangler™, but was impressed with her website, (check it out by clicking on the product name). I know that some of the prizes I have won often get some publicity on the sites and hopefully some orders. So I wondered if this mom also knew about this way to market her invention. So I contacted her and just gave her some ideas. She was so kind to send me a sample of her product as a thank you. Well, we tried it out twice and we love it! We used it on the stroller, when we went for a walk, yes a cold one. Our second time was at the grocery where it was perfect to keep Maria content while I shopped. It velcros onto a stroller, high chair, shopping cart...etc., and has three bungees with plastic rings to keep toys, pacifiers, a bottle or cup, or anything else you can think of off of the ground. She also has a Mini Toywrangler™ that we used in church today to keep a few toys close at hand. I actually attached the Mini to my wrist and then Maria couldn't fling things under the pew in front of us. OH, Maria turns 9 mo. today, check out her new picture on the sidebar...she was checking out Mr. Rabbit.
We have plenty to praise God for; a shelter to keep us warm during the very cold days we have had. (-3 when we got up this morning!)

Under The Sea...

We took advantage of the free admission to Shedd Aquarium in Chicago this week and met up with our friends Rachel and Daniel to see some fishies. We think Maria had a good time, since she would get pretty excited when one would come up close to her through the glass. It was a bit crowded with the free admission, but you can't complain when you get in free, right!

We have plenty to praise God for; such variety of beautiful (and some pretty ugly) aquatic life!

Turkey Run

We had a great time away at Turkey Run State Park this past weekend. All of the Indiana State Parks run a two nights for the price of one special during the slower winter season. We have done this a few times in the past and it is great. We were especially lucky since the weather was SO warm, almost 60! We actually got hot while we were hiking. Maria enjoyed the time outside too.

We have plenty to praise God for; beautiful places to enjoy nature.

A master...

Maria has finally mastered the art of crawling in both directions...if you can, watch the short video to see for yourself. This means now that we have to be a bit more watchful of what she can get into...like her books in her room!