Markus is having a blast at Oma and Opa's. Since it's been pretty chilly in the morning (for Houston standards), he's been enjoying his new little Thomas the Train bathrobe.






Markus loves learning new words now. I've lost count of how many he's learned the last few weeks. And yes, they're all in German. One of his favorite things is to have Opa sit next to him, so he'll tap the seat next to him and tell Opa "Setz Dich!" Too precious! If Opa's not around, Oma or Mama will do too.

He loves helping to empty the dishwasher. And he's still a big fan of his vacuum cleaner. I wonder how long his willingness to help will last. :)

Here are some more recent pics of the little guy:



Azlan (his lion) is about the only one Markus gives kisses.


He was a big help with the dishes.

Do Feed the Bear

Apparently, Teddy was hungry...

... and after a yummy graham cracker, he needed some water as well.

Daddy's shoes...

...look great on me, right?

Our little monkey:

Brushing teeth...

...is way better on my own!

Lots of fun at Christmas...

Markus had a great Christmas! Here are just a few pictures.

Can we open presents yet???


Cleaning up after the grown ups with his new vacuum cleaner:



Bravo!!!


Eating Nutella on pancake Christmas morning:



Having fun at the playground by Grandma and Granddad's house:



Eating Cheerios like like a big boy and pretending to be an Indian:

Early Christmas Present

Markus got an early Christmas present Monday night. Oma and Opa brought over the table and chair set they'd gotten him. Mama put the table and a stool together that night (the chairs will have to wait a few more days for assembly). Markus was so excited when he saw the stool and table Tuesday morning! He loves to sit at the table like a big boy and play or draw. Carrying the stool around the house is lots of fun too. :)

St. Nikolaus

Last Saturday, we attended a St. Nikolaus party organized by our German playgroup.

In this picture, Markus is getting his present from St. Nikolaus.

And in this one, he's showing off the present for the camera.

After all that excitement, Markus needed to rest a little on Oma and Opa's bed.