"Ear-infection Boy" reclines on the couch. "Independent Girl" makes her own PB&J Sandwich. We're all about superheroes and villains around here lately. Last week I was making sandwiches last week and Craig became "Cheese Man," as he swiped the sliced cheese from the cutting board. When I referred to him as that later in the evening, he made it clear that he was now, "Stuff I Like Man," instantly broadening the range of his thievery. He might be a thief, but he's a good secret keeper. Pete was in Phoenix this week and one night when he called he told the kids a "secret," that he was coming back on Friday instead of Saturday--and told them not to tell me, so it could be surprise. Here's a conversation I had with Craig about it:

Craig: I have a secret that Daddy told me.
Me: Don't tell me!
Craig: (Adamantly) I won't, I know how secrets work, you know.
Me: I know, you're a good boy.
Craig: Well...good at keeping secrets, anyway.

When Anna rode her bike around the block today we were working on turning around corners without stopping her pedals, because it is hard for her to get started. Each time I'd cheer for her. The last time she exclaimed, "I'm SO proud of myself." She apparently won't lack in the confidence department.