Time to rake the leaves and clean-up the yard. All of the kids came out to help (some willing and some… not so willing). Charlie had a blast picking up the rocks throughout the flower beds and throwing them into a pile. Madicyn tried escaping the backyard several times to avoid helping. She had to be reminded several times to NICELY put the sand toys into a pile. Tedi was filling garbage cans and leaf bags and then running them out to the curb. The biggest helper was not the one I expected. Elli Lou grabbed a rake and dragged the leaves out into the driveway. She helped move yard toys and rake out the sandbox. Anything we asked, she did without repeated prompting. I love that she was such a big helper, but the best part was that she was proud of herself for how much work she had done. Watching her smile, stand a little taller, and feel super important was a beautiful sight.