Rita’s birthday was two days after Thanksgiving, so we got a babysitter for the kids, and the adults took the birthday girl out for dinner at Cafe Maude, a cute little bistro in Minneapolis.

Fred and Rita

Catherine and John

Annie and Patrick

Matthew and me

John wears his tshirt with Matthew’s design with brotherly pride.

Rita received cards and a lovely gift from her kids.

It was way past Rowan’s bedtime. He was letting us know.

(His mommy and daddy took him home a few minutes later.)

Last Christmas, we sent Esmee a stuffed dachshund from Muji. It’s just like the family pooch, Flash, only less colorful.

Esmee is such a sweet little girl. She likes to read. She likes Lenin. She’s cuddly. And she shares a bed with Flash, the family dachshund.

Reading in the playroom

Cuddling with Auntie Annie

Snacking on Lenin

Carrying the dog bed (and showing off her impressive belly!)

Ready for sleep (in Flash’s bed)

Esmee and Rowan had to learn about jealousy during the Thanksgiving festivities. First there was the doll stroller. Then there was the booster seat. In the end everyone made nice.

The ultimate crying duel… over who gets to sit in the booster seat!

And later in the evening, a peace offering of cereal.