Happy 2nd Birthday

My Dear Ari,

It is so hard to believe you are already two. As I think back to your birth I laugh at the things we noticed that are still present. You came out very bruised from labor. To this day you bruise so easily and for a while had a constant bruise on your forehead. You also came out screaming a very high pitched scream. You still have that high pitched scream (some days it never stops). You also were the best snuggler as a baby. You still are a great snuggler. . I will be sad when you stop needing those special snuggles.

I can't believe how much you are talking and learning. This past year has been so fun watching you grow and learn. Your fierce love of trains and cars is fun to watch. Your determination to not be left behind when your brother and sister do something is fun to watch. Your smile is infectious. You also love to joke around and make everybody laugh. You are our special little boy!  Happy 2nd Birthday Sweet Boy! I love you!

Love, 

Mom

Firsts

The past couple of weeks have been weeks of firsts. Eli received his bike for his birthday at 3. We decided to do Lilliana's bike for her on her birthday too. When her birthday came we just didn't want to spend the money at the time as it was still freezing outside and a ton of snow. Between sessions and getting the garden in we just have not had a chance to get one for her. She didn't know that is what we were going to do. Finally at a garage sale we found a perfectly good bike for $10. It saved us a lot of money and she and Anthony went and picked it up. We didn't tell her that is where she was going, but she was sooo excited when she got back. It isn't a bike. It is her motorcycle! She always asks to ride her motorcycle. The night we got her bike we took her down to the school to ride. She loved it. 

This is the last time Eli had is training wheels on. We took them off this past weekend. He had a fit about it and really isn't thrilled about learning. We are not giving him much choice. Everything Eli ever tries or has to do comes very easy for him. He is smart and just overall very talented in so many areas. When he has to actually work he has a bit of a fit. that is what happened with the bike. We decided to put it away and will try again this week. He really loves his training wheels. We also need to get him a bigger bike.

Ari hung out in the wagon. He loves to go fast.....

Also, Eli has had a loose tooth for a couple weeks. Finally last night he lost the tooth. He received a $1.00 for it. He was so thrilled. He looks like such a  boy now. 

With all the freckles appearing, all I see is his Dad in him.

These kids are getting way too big! Enjoying these firsts is a bit bittersweet. 

All things Summer

Last week we had beautiful weather. It was hot so I let the kids play in the hose. They haven't forgotten and I have been asked every day since if they could do it again. 

I think the best part about them playing in the hose is for some reason Ari monopolized it and had the best time spraying his sister and brother. On the other hand he had the biggest meltdown when his turn was over. I am not really surprised by that. 

I was outside at one point last week and heard, "Hey mom! Look at me! I am on top of the garage." I think I had a mini heart attack. Eli and I had to have a talk about him not climbing up there. I suspect it wasn't the first time. It was close to the last time. I let him do it once more with me around and then we decided it was not going to happen again.

Races have been a big thing down the slide...

Memorial Day Weekend Anthony and I spent almost the entire weekend putting in the garden. We tore out all the sod and filled the raised beds with dirt (Anthony did most of the moving of the dirt). When it was all said and done I was going to push the kids around in the wheelbarrow because we all know that is the best part. Anthony beat me too it. They loved it well except Ari.......Surprised? I am not. 

I will tittle this photo, "Watch out Jack!"

So far Spring/Summer has not disappointed. We are headed out to play and water the garden. Have a wonderful weekend!