Well, we are still without a fully working computer, so this is why it has taken two weeks to write. Our computer flat out died the morning after my last entry, and Francis is taking time to find the right replacement.
Friday before last, we went to the Frozen party at the local skating rink. We watched Elsa and Olaf skate and then Francis and William took a turn at skating themselves. It is only the second time William has been skating, but I couldn't help but note the marked improvement in his skating ability. He must have his daddy's coordination because he didn't get it from me. Before even the first hour was up, William was up and skating on his own. Not fast, but he was holding himself up and moving along. I have seldom seem Francis so proud. The boys got off the ice for a second to take a rest, but William wanted right back on. He loves skating!!
The past two weeks, in addition to our usual Little Gym time and keeping up with the Disney summer play days, we have been doing swimming lessons. William has been doing his first lessons without me (even though he is not yet 3!). His class was him and 3 other girls. His teacher said the William is "fearless" and always willing to do whatever was asked of him. He passed his class and will be able to take Preschool 2 next year! Robert had his first parent-child classes. He loved the water and really enjoyed jumping into the water from the side of the pool. He also liked walking around the pool by himself, and I got him to take several steps in the shallow end of the water without holding onto me because he was distracted during "toy time" at the end of his lesson. Two smart boys!
Robert has his 5th tooth and 3 more are currently working their way through. At this rate he'll have a full mouth in no time! He loves eating table food, so the more teeth, the better!
Francis had to work last Saturday (he will be working Saturdays for a couple of months) so he got off Monday. He got to experience a typical day in our lives. He went with us to Swim lessons, and got to see William swim. This made William's week and he's been talking about it ever since. Francis also got to go to the grocery store, have lunch with us, see typical nap time, and run errands with us. Now he knows why we are so busy! He had a good time and we loved having him around. Now everything we do William says "I wish Daddy was here." or "Now Daddy will be home soon!". I am so glad he loves his daddy! I do too!
There, short and sweet. I hope we get a new computer soon!
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
July 15, 2014
Somedays you just notice your children have changed all at once. Oh, I know in general they change gradually, but it hits you like a wave that they are no longer the image you have in your mind's-eye. They've grown.
William all of a sudden has gone from a toddler to stretching out and looking like a child. His legs and arms seem miles longer than before, and his face is lit up constantly with an imagination that can change the world. His smile makes my heart stop and his laugh is music to this mother's ears. The sun has bleached his hair again, so it is the white blonde that we sometimes imagine angels must have. And oh, he is a delight. He's been singing all the time with me (not just at me), asking wonderful, meaningful questions, and I find myself having real discussions with him about things that matter to both of us. It's awesome. William is developing a more mature sense of humor. He told me he was hungry and I retorted, "hi Hungry, I'm mom!" He laughed quite a bit and finally responded, "That's really funny mommy. You are super silly." He's started quoting movies and shows appropriately. The other day he quoted Frozen. When it was time for bed he told me, "The sun's awake, so I'm awake!" I mentioned his imagination. He ran around yesterday with a dragon-shaped car in a shoe (which he called a rocket ship) chasing mickey mouse who was flying an airplane. The things coming out of his mouth were hysterical! I could tell he was having a great time. William's handwriting has gotten worse, but that is actually a good thing. He is actually writing letters into meaningful words, instead of just copying pictures. His name somehow has more meaning to him now when he writes it. As do all the other words he can spell or write or read. I'm so excited for him as the world of the written word opens to him like a flower. This kid is also fearless. The rings were out at The Little Gym both yesterday and today. William pulled the rings back as far as he could and swung, letting go intentionally at the other end and flying as far as he could across the room. Telling him to stop was no good. He really believed he could fly. When he landed, he would somersault. Talk about a showman!
Robert is almost 1. How did this happen? Francis was holding him last night, and Robert stretched the entire length of his torso and then some. Such a big boy! He still lives up to his nickname, "Mr. Smiley" and his attitude is just as pleasant as his face. He babbles constantly trying to tell me things. I wish I spoke baby! Tooth #4 is finally officially through as of last week (tooth 3 came in while we were in Plano), and he is loving being able to bite off his food. He is able to feed himself pretty independently, and as long as he gets table food, he will eat more than a good portion. I knew he could eat, but wow! That pincher grasp of his is working and working well. He is also drinking more from a cup and occasionally even from a straw. This makes me happier than I can say! He hasn't taken another step (though he acts like he will all the time), but he cruises along furniture and walls like he owns the place. He's getting fast. I have to keep an eye on him at all times, or he will try to go and play in the dog water. Silly boy! I also am finding random objects strewn about the house. Robert has mastered the "carry things in one hand while you crawl" maneuver. He's quite a pro. Robert graduated out of the baby class at the Little Gym yesterday and had his first 'birds' class today. Not wanting to be outdone by William, Robert climbed up on the platform, grabbed the rings and swung out all on his own. He held on the rings several seconds (giving me time to get over my surprise and help him when he released) before dropping to the ground with a triumphant squeal. Future professional gymnast? Maybe. Finally, Robert has mastered the art of manipulating strangers. He can clap, smile, point, wave, and high five with the cuteness that would melt a heart of ice. His blue eyes look at you and it's all over. I have caught Robert flirting with many a stranger by hearing clapping or hearing a soft "hello". Everywhere I look, I see someone waving at me, only to realize Robert is waving at them first. He got a whole table at Chick-fil-a to clap with him yesterday. This kid is not shy!
Well I would go into what we did this week, but I fell what's above is way more interesting so I'll spare you.
That's it for now!
Monday, July 7, 2014
July 7, 2014
I can't even begin to tell you all the wonderful adventures we have had these past two weeks. It has truly been amazing.
We finished off VBS week before last on Friday. William had an amazing time and learned so much! I am so thankful for his wonderful teachers who taught him God's word and made it fun in the process!
Immediately after VBS, we headed to Plano, managing to have dinner with my in-laws, parents, and Danielle before my dad left for Europe the next morning. It was a wonderful time. Francis and I have talked a lot lately about what a wonderful family we have. We are both so blessed to have parents, siblings and their spouses and children who are amazing, live our kids and who are so fun to be around! I think our family may just be the most awesome ever, but I am a bit biased!
Saturday, Francis, the boys and I went to LegoLand with my mom, Danielle, Gershom, Kristi and their two girls. It was so fun. William got to ride a ride "like the Buzz Lightyear ride" and he couldn't get enough. He shot all the bad guys and had a blast. Robert loved the big rubber legos, and all the kids and adults really enjoyed themselves. William swam almost every day this past week and Saturday was no exception. My little fish is a great swimmer and he is very confident in his ability. That's my boy!
Sunday we went to church and spent some time with Brandon and his new bride Bethany before Francis had to leave and head back to Austin for work. The boys (and I) were sad to see him go, but having so much family on hand and so much to do made the time fly by! My grandparents (Jamama and Japapa) arrived late Sunday night and spent Monday and Tuesday hanging out with my family and the boys. I am so glad the boys were able to spend some time with their great grandparents and make some memories! We got some sweet pictures too.
Tuesday night, Angel and Ranger arrived (as Austin is already staying at my in-laws for the summer) and a 5 day play date began for William and Ranger. From more or less dawn until bed time, the two were inseparable. It was adorable. Wednesday we went back to LegoLand with Ranger and Angel. William showed William all the cool stuff to do, and Ranger in turn taught William how to sing all the time (William has previously almost never sung, but not anymore and I love it!). We then had Avenger's training in the Disney Store where the boys learned some cool fighting moves, and after lunch in the food court at Grapevine Mills Mall, we did the Aquarium to round off the afternoon. The boys all three passed out in the car, so we drove around for an hour before heading back, even whispering into the drive thru at Sonic to get some drinks! Hey, mommies need a break too!
Thursday we hung out with my mom and Danielle and went up to Stonebriar Mall. The boys were all troopers, but they finally hit their limit and we had to take them back for naps. William slept for over 3 hours, so when he got up, we had dinner with my mom, Danielle, Kevin (her boyfriend), and my in-laws. It was nice, and helped pass the time before Francis arrived. Francis got in late that night as did Cyndy, Chris and Abby.
Friday was Independence Day! It is my favorite non-religious holiday. We all got up (the 12 people staying at the Phillips' house as well as my mom, Danielle, Kevin, Christian, Chad, and the Cotnoir family) and went to the parade in the morning. The kids got some goodies, and we all witnessed a little slice of Americana. After the parade, all 23 people headed back to the Phillips house for some BBQ and swimming. We played volleyball while the kids swam in the little pool and played in the sand. It was so fun and I haven't laughed that hard in so long. We ALL finished off the day with pizza in the parking lot and a firework display. Robert loved the fireworks and would jump around and laughed when they went off. All in all a pretty perfect day.
Saturday we got ready for Danielle's birthday party by the ladies (Cyndy, Angel and I) going and getting Abby a princess dress and all three boys a shield. The three of us then managed a lunch with only Robert, and had a glorious time chatting without interruption. We got back just in time to put all four kids down for a nap. That left the 8 adults time to play a rousing (and competitive) game of Oh Heck (or Dutch Blitz if you are Canadian). Angel won by 1 point and then Francis came in second, with me one point behind him in third. It was a good game. Well, we got up the kids and headed to Medieval Times for Danielle's birthday. We all met up with my mom, Danielle, Kevin, Chad, Christian, and Danielle's friend Sarah. The place was hopping, and the boys even got swords to go with their shields (except Robert who got a bib), and Abby got a scepter. Our knight (the green knight) won, and the food was delicious. Who could ask for more? Francis, the boys and I went back to my parents' house for cake and presents before calling it a night. Did I mention how much I love our family? Because I really do!!!
Robert gave Danielle the best birthday present. HE TOOK HIS FIRST STEP! Right after we sang and had cake in my mom's kitchen, Robert wanted me and Francis let go of him and he took a step in my direction. My heart nearly flew out of my chest. I was so excited Francis was there to see it! We have a walker!!!! Or at least a stepper. It won't be long before he's running. Watch out world, he's coming!!!
Yesterday we went to church, had lunch and headed home. It was such an enjoyable trip and I hate that it is over. But I am glad to be back in my own house and bed.
Now, back to reality!!!
We finished off VBS week before last on Friday. William had an amazing time and learned so much! I am so thankful for his wonderful teachers who taught him God's word and made it fun in the process!
Immediately after VBS, we headed to Plano, managing to have dinner with my in-laws, parents, and Danielle before my dad left for Europe the next morning. It was a wonderful time. Francis and I have talked a lot lately about what a wonderful family we have. We are both so blessed to have parents, siblings and their spouses and children who are amazing, live our kids and who are so fun to be around! I think our family may just be the most awesome ever, but I am a bit biased!
Saturday, Francis, the boys and I went to LegoLand with my mom, Danielle, Gershom, Kristi and their two girls. It was so fun. William got to ride a ride "like the Buzz Lightyear ride" and he couldn't get enough. He shot all the bad guys and had a blast. Robert loved the big rubber legos, and all the kids and adults really enjoyed themselves. William swam almost every day this past week and Saturday was no exception. My little fish is a great swimmer and he is very confident in his ability. That's my boy!
Sunday we went to church and spent some time with Brandon and his new bride Bethany before Francis had to leave and head back to Austin for work. The boys (and I) were sad to see him go, but having so much family on hand and so much to do made the time fly by! My grandparents (Jamama and Japapa) arrived late Sunday night and spent Monday and Tuesday hanging out with my family and the boys. I am so glad the boys were able to spend some time with their great grandparents and make some memories! We got some sweet pictures too.
Tuesday night, Angel and Ranger arrived (as Austin is already staying at my in-laws for the summer) and a 5 day play date began for William and Ranger. From more or less dawn until bed time, the two were inseparable. It was adorable. Wednesday we went back to LegoLand with Ranger and Angel. William showed William all the cool stuff to do, and Ranger in turn taught William how to sing all the time (William has previously almost never sung, but not anymore and I love it!). We then had Avenger's training in the Disney Store where the boys learned some cool fighting moves, and after lunch in the food court at Grapevine Mills Mall, we did the Aquarium to round off the afternoon. The boys all three passed out in the car, so we drove around for an hour before heading back, even whispering into the drive thru at Sonic to get some drinks! Hey, mommies need a break too!
Thursday we hung out with my mom and Danielle and went up to Stonebriar Mall. The boys were all troopers, but they finally hit their limit and we had to take them back for naps. William slept for over 3 hours, so when he got up, we had dinner with my mom, Danielle, Kevin (her boyfriend), and my in-laws. It was nice, and helped pass the time before Francis arrived. Francis got in late that night as did Cyndy, Chris and Abby.
Friday was Independence Day! It is my favorite non-religious holiday. We all got up (the 12 people staying at the Phillips' house as well as my mom, Danielle, Kevin, Christian, Chad, and the Cotnoir family) and went to the parade in the morning. The kids got some goodies, and we all witnessed a little slice of Americana. After the parade, all 23 people headed back to the Phillips house for some BBQ and swimming. We played volleyball while the kids swam in the little pool and played in the sand. It was so fun and I haven't laughed that hard in so long. We ALL finished off the day with pizza in the parking lot and a firework display. Robert loved the fireworks and would jump around and laughed when they went off. All in all a pretty perfect day.
Saturday we got ready for Danielle's birthday party by the ladies (Cyndy, Angel and I) going and getting Abby a princess dress and all three boys a shield. The three of us then managed a lunch with only Robert, and had a glorious time chatting without interruption. We got back just in time to put all four kids down for a nap. That left the 8 adults time to play a rousing (and competitive) game of Oh Heck (or Dutch Blitz if you are Canadian). Angel won by 1 point and then Francis came in second, with me one point behind him in third. It was a good game. Well, we got up the kids and headed to Medieval Times for Danielle's birthday. We all met up with my mom, Danielle, Kevin, Chad, Christian, and Danielle's friend Sarah. The place was hopping, and the boys even got swords to go with their shields (except Robert who got a bib), and Abby got a scepter. Our knight (the green knight) won, and the food was delicious. Who could ask for more? Francis, the boys and I went back to my parents' house for cake and presents before calling it a night. Did I mention how much I love our family? Because I really do!!!
Robert gave Danielle the best birthday present. HE TOOK HIS FIRST STEP! Right after we sang and had cake in my mom's kitchen, Robert wanted me and Francis let go of him and he took a step in my direction. My heart nearly flew out of my chest. I was so excited Francis was there to see it! We have a walker!!!! Or at least a stepper. It won't be long before he's running. Watch out world, he's coming!!!
Yesterday we went to church, had lunch and headed home. It was such an enjoyable trip and I hate that it is over. But I am glad to be back in my own house and bed.
Now, back to reality!!!
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