Early Morning Hnaging Out

I am very proud (and surprised) to announce that both kids have become fantastic sleepers. We have made the choice all along to help guide them to sleep. We have slept with them for years (which we both loved doing), we have always laid with them to help them fall asleep, and have never let them cry in the middle of the night upon waking. Sure we didn't get 10 hours of uninterrupted sleep, but we never expected that. When we moved to our new house we finally got bunk beds and it truly has been an easy transition having the kids sleep in the same room, fall asleep alone and peacefully, and stay asleep (mostly) all. night. long. And I am so proud. They have such a healthy view of sleep, the cuddle up in their cozy beds and welcome sleep.
Just two nights ago I heard Kate talking (she sings, talks, and even cries in her sleep) and I raced in there. Apparently she was asleep and woke up when I came in and said, "Mommy go back to your own bed." and then the same night at 6:06 am she woke up and called me. It was still dark in their room (thanks Pam for the curtains) and she said in a super cute sleepy voice, "Mommy my toe itch." So I had to find the right toe and inch away until she was content. Then she said, "Night night" and fell back asleep until 7.
Most nights the kids are sleeping a solid 11 hours, and about 3 days a week Kate takes a good hour long nap in the car. They have been sleeping until about 7, which I consider sleeping in! But on days like today when they both are finished sleeping by 6:30, I am called upon to entertain immediately.
Some mornings we have read books, played memory, and built our marble run and it isn't even 7:30. I have found that we have the smoothest mornings when I pay full attention to them first thing in the morning.
Here are some pics of early morning play:

Charlie dreams to be a workerman when he grows up and can often be found sporting this outfit...at 6:30 am....

His assistant, Kate is just as cute but not quite as serious about the profession

I think they make a cute team....albeit a little bit silly, but adorable

Both kids love reading, but Kate is a complete bookworm. She reads all day long.

By 9 they have usually had a snack and two breakfasts, have played everything possible inside and have gotten dressed and started to adventure outside. Have I mentioned how much I LOVE having a front and backyard with a gate and deck.