Mad as Hatters

First things first, it was a day to futterwacken - it's 10/6!  That's the sign on the Mad Hatter's hat, and that's the date for us to have a bit of a Mad Tea Party, with pictures, unbirthday presents, and a viewing of "Alice in Wonderland."  As you can see above, the tea party went remarkably well - Mommy had a new tea for us, a cinnamon apple tea that was just perfect for this season.  There were pastries and so forth, and we actually found an "Alice in Wonderland" stencil set just yesterday at the dollar store, so why not?  Madison has actually been using a few stencils lately, so it was a perfect gift at the perfect time, and at the perfect price.

Afterwards, we watched the Tim Burton movie once again - although next year we may revert to one of the many other versions we have.  Of course there was popcorn and so forth, and it was a nice evening overall.

Just before bedtime, there was reading from the Bible - we were talking about building the Temple, and moving the Ark of the Covenant there.  And after that reading, Madison was anxious to see what happens next with those time travelers and Paul Revere.  It's been a book that Madison has been quite into - this third one might be the best so far, actually.  We prayed together, and soon after it was time for bed - at least for Madison.  Mommy and Daddy went to the guest room to watch some Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

The rest of the day was work for Daddy, and school for Madison, and various chores for Mommy.  She picked up several items for the small group night tomorrow night at KidPak.  Madison was coincidentally learning about Paul Revere today, which may have fueled her desire to hear the continuing adventure tonight.

Afterwards, on Tuesday there is always piano.  And Daddy is amazed at what she is starting to be able to do.  It's very impressive finger work on the piano, and some of it is nearly instinctive, rather than laboring to search for keys.  She's getting better and better, and we're pretty proud of her.  Next week, she'll choose her recital piece.  Which is the piece of music that we'll have stuck in our head for weeks...

Speaking of which, each morning Madison wants to hear the "Descendants" soundtrack.  It's always requested, and Daddy is happy to oblige.  Although we do talk a little bit too, about the upcoming day, about plans, about movies, about books, about just about anything really.  Madison is wanting to be Mal for Halloween.  Mal is a character from the "Descendants" movie, but her costume is sold out everywhere, although you can get it for a mere $500 on certain websites.  Obviously, people aren't pleased with this.  Neither is Daddy, come to think of it.  I'd like to get that costume, but we'll see how it goes.  Daddy would have better luck sewing it himself, versus paying $500 plus shipping.  Anyone who does that... well, quite frankly, they're mad as hatters!