Jeff has always teased me (out of envy, I'm sure) for my ability to get as much out of one baby wipe as possible. When I'm changing a baby's poopy diaper, I am able to use half the number of wipes Jeff does because of my impressive skills with wiping, folding, and wiping again with the same wipe. I've become quite skilled in this area.
Oh, but my Wiping Conservation trick is not limited to baby wipes. Guess what? It can also be done with toilet paper.
Earlier this week, after dramatically announcing, "I need to go poopy!", Jacob dashed to the bathroom. (I hated potty training, but the results sure are nice.)
A few minutes later, I heard the usual "Mommy! I all finished!"
(What age do they start wiping their own butts, anyway?)
After Wipe #1, I folded the toilet paper in preparation for the second wipe. But somehow in my hurry to finish, I had a dirty little mishap. The downside to this wiping conservation: there is a pretty nasty risk involved.
Me: "Oh, yuck."
Jacob: "What is it?"
Me: "I got poopy on my hand."
Jacob was silent for a moment, and after his next question, I realized the reason behind his long pause. In a tone that can only be described as purely baffled, he asked:
"Why are you wipin' with your hand?"
:)
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Friday, January 23, 2009
Young Love
I think I'm raising a couple of charming flirts.
A few weeks ago, Jacob began Speech Therapy for some minor issues he is having with pronunciation. He meets with a Speech Therapist two mornings a week, and there is a little girl in his sessions with him. Let's call the little girl Kelly. She's just a month older than he is and the two of them hit it off right away. Even the therapist commented on what a good pairing they are. As I was helping Jacob get dressed this morning, I told him we would be going to see Ms. Marsha in a little while.
Jacob: "And will Kelly be there?"
Me: "I think she will be."
Jacob: "You promise?"
They really are adorable together. They giggle and grin at each other, occasionally interrupting the session for an impromptu hug. After all, what better time than Speech Therapy to engage in public displays of affection?
Since Alex and I sit in and watch the sessions, I've been fortunate to witness the progression of this relationship. This morning, the little girl leaned over and touched her hand to Jacob's cheek while they gazed lovingly at one another. Meanwhile, my flirtatious little 17 month old is leaning forward in my lap, peering around a file cabinet to grin at the little girl's mom. He likes the older women, I suppose. Every time she smiled back, he considered this encouragement to continue peeking and showing off his famous, adorable, gap-toothed grin with dimples.
At the end of the session, Jacob and his little girlfriend ran together to the door. They embraced, and it was one of those hugs where neither one initiated first. It was completely mutual, both reaching for the other simultaneously. Cue the romantic music. As we all walked outside, they laughed and ran around, until finally, her mother and I literally had to pull them away from each other.
As we were walking away, his hand in mine as I pulled him along, Jacob looks over his shoulder and shouts to her, "I love you!!!"
And, without a moment's hesitation, she yells, "I love you back!!"
Parting is such sweet sorrow.
A few weeks ago, Jacob began Speech Therapy for some minor issues he is having with pronunciation. He meets with a Speech Therapist two mornings a week, and there is a little girl in his sessions with him. Let's call the little girl Kelly. She's just a month older than he is and the two of them hit it off right away. Even the therapist commented on what a good pairing they are. As I was helping Jacob get dressed this morning, I told him we would be going to see Ms. Marsha in a little while.
Jacob: "And will Kelly be there?"
Me: "I think she will be."
Jacob: "You promise?"
They really are adorable together. They giggle and grin at each other, occasionally interrupting the session for an impromptu hug. After all, what better time than Speech Therapy to engage in public displays of affection?
Since Alex and I sit in and watch the sessions, I've been fortunate to witness the progression of this relationship. This morning, the little girl leaned over and touched her hand to Jacob's cheek while they gazed lovingly at one another. Meanwhile, my flirtatious little 17 month old is leaning forward in my lap, peering around a file cabinet to grin at the little girl's mom. He likes the older women, I suppose. Every time she smiled back, he considered this encouragement to continue peeking and showing off his famous, adorable, gap-toothed grin with dimples.
At the end of the session, Jacob and his little girlfriend ran together to the door. They embraced, and it was one of those hugs where neither one initiated first. It was completely mutual, both reaching for the other simultaneously. Cue the romantic music. As we all walked outside, they laughed and ran around, until finally, her mother and I literally had to pull them away from each other.
As we were walking away, his hand in mine as I pulled him along, Jacob looks over his shoulder and shouts to her, "I love you!!!"
And, without a moment's hesitation, she yells, "I love you back!!"
Parting is such sweet sorrow.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Let it Snow
Finally! Jacob got to see a real snowfall! Since he was born 3 1/2 years ago, I believe we've had two light dustings of snow. Nothing like what we woke up to this morning.
This morning, Alex woke up earlier than usual while Jacob slept in. Normally, Jacob wakes up around 7 when Jeff crawls out of bed (after pushing snooze for 45 minutes- but that's another story). I can't complain too much because Jacob will either lie in bed and watch TV or hang out with Jeff in the bathroom as he gets ready for work. He gets very upset when he doesn't get to say goodbye to Jeff as he's leaving for work. And, by sleeping in today, he missed Jeff's departure.
So, when I heard running footsteps upstairs, I knew what was in store for me.
Jacob: "Where's daddy?" He had just come out of the bathroom after searching for Jeff.
Me: "He already left for work, honey. You were asleep."
Tears threaten to spill over.
Me: "It's alright. We'll call him and say hi. But, guess what? I have a surprise for you."
Jacob: "What 'prise?" And, I knew I had him. He was instantly curious & immediately brightened up.
So, I carried him down the stairs, careful to keep him from peeking out windows. And, as soon as I grabbed my camera, I pointed outside the back door. He was ecstatic.
Jacob: "It's snowin'! Mommy, look! Snow! I LOVE snow! Can we go outside and play in it?"
That question was repeated many more times throughout the morning.
Me: "Sure, we'll go outside in a little while. And maybe we can make a snowman!"
This thrilled him in a way words cannot describe.
Alex sensed Jacob's excitement, and he, too, had to come check out the source of all of the commotion.
We spoke with Jeff on the phone a few minutes after that, and I overheard Jacob relaying the following information.
Jacob: "We goin' out in da snow and makin' a snowman! And a Spiderman snowman!"
This was news to me.
Me: "Buddy, I don't think Mommy knows how to make a Spiderman snowman."
Jacob: "Dat's OK. How 'bout a Peter Parker snowman?" (Peter Parker is who Spiderman is under his costume. I'm sure that would be easier to create in snow form.)
Later on, we bundled up, donning layer after layer. I was able to enjoy one of my favorite tasks: putting gloves on small children. Alex thought his mittens were socks, and could not understand why I was putting them on his hands. He kept yanking his hand away and shoving a foot in my face. And, with Jacob, we were finally able to get the job done when I asked him to stop moving his fingers. Next time you have a spare moment, try putting gloves on someone who alternates between wiggling their fingers and making a fist. It's great fun.
I realized yesterday that neither of the boys own snow boots. So, we had to get creative. Or tacky. You decide. Over their socks & sneakers was their very own plastic boot. If you're interested, I found these at Food Lion. I believe they also have them at any local grocery store.
Also, please take note of the enthusiasm on Alex's face. This is his expression whenever we're heading outside to play. You'll observe quite a contrast when scrolling through the pictures of him out in the snow.
We were invited to play with Daniel & Lainey in Uncle Scott's & Aunt Tricia's backyard. Unfortunately, the snow wasn't packing very well, so no snowmen today (and I was so looking forward to posting pictures of my Spiderman & Peter Parker snow sculptures). But, Jacob still had a blast! We used boogie boards to pull the kids around in the snow, which is great fun for them, and good exercise for the adults.
Tricia plopped Alex down on Lainey's boogie board, and was able to drag them a whole foot before Alex started to fuss.
I'm really not sure why Alex didn't enjoy our playtime outdoors today. He loves being outside. Maybe it was too cold. Maybe he didn't like the snowflakes hitting his face. Maybe it's too tough to walk with plastic bags on your feet. Whatever the reason, he remained motionless in the exact same spot in their backyard. The only time he moved was when Scott's & Tricia's dog knocked him over or when he was picked up and carried to another location.
"I will stand and not move for 30 minutes. Don't believe me? Watch, and I will prove it."
Not a snow lover, I suppose. See for yourself.
Scowling at the falling snow.
Mommy trying her best to coax a smile out of him.
Jacob, on the other hand, ran, tackled, and rolled around like a dog in the snow. Boogie boarding down the hill was also a big hit.
After anticipating it all morning, finally getting to play in the snow was not disappointing for a moment.
And, finally, a hint of something on Alex's face...a potential almost grin- maybe. I don't know if my antics caused it or if the kids' activities sparked his interest. But, I adore this picture of him.
After about 45 minutes of enjoying the snowy weather, it was time to come back home for lunch. Hopefully we'll be able to do it at least once more this winter. But for now, I'm just grateful we were able to play in it today. The battle with the gloves was worth it.
This morning, Alex woke up earlier than usual while Jacob slept in. Normally, Jacob wakes up around 7 when Jeff crawls out of bed (after pushing snooze for 45 minutes- but that's another story). I can't complain too much because Jacob will either lie in bed and watch TV or hang out with Jeff in the bathroom as he gets ready for work. He gets very upset when he doesn't get to say goodbye to Jeff as he's leaving for work. And, by sleeping in today, he missed Jeff's departure.
So, when I heard running footsteps upstairs, I knew what was in store for me.
Jacob: "Where's daddy?" He had just come out of the bathroom after searching for Jeff.
Me: "He already left for work, honey. You were asleep."
Tears threaten to spill over.
Me: "It's alright. We'll call him and say hi. But, guess what? I have a surprise for you."
Jacob: "What 'prise?" And, I knew I had him. He was instantly curious & immediately brightened up.
So, I carried him down the stairs, careful to keep him from peeking out windows. And, as soon as I grabbed my camera, I pointed outside the back door. He was ecstatic.
Jacob: "It's snowin'! Mommy, look! Snow! I LOVE snow! Can we go outside and play in it?"
That question was repeated many more times throughout the morning.
Me: "Sure, we'll go outside in a little while. And maybe we can make a snowman!"
This thrilled him in a way words cannot describe.
Alex sensed Jacob's excitement, and he, too, had to come check out the source of all of the commotion.
We spoke with Jeff on the phone a few minutes after that, and I overheard Jacob relaying the following information.
Jacob: "We goin' out in da snow and makin' a snowman! And a Spiderman snowman!"
This was news to me.
Me: "Buddy, I don't think Mommy knows how to make a Spiderman snowman."
Jacob: "Dat's OK. How 'bout a Peter Parker snowman?" (Peter Parker is who Spiderman is under his costume. I'm sure that would be easier to create in snow form.)
Later on, we bundled up, donning layer after layer. I was able to enjoy one of my favorite tasks: putting gloves on small children. Alex thought his mittens were socks, and could not understand why I was putting them on his hands. He kept yanking his hand away and shoving a foot in my face. And, with Jacob, we were finally able to get the job done when I asked him to stop moving his fingers. Next time you have a spare moment, try putting gloves on someone who alternates between wiggling their fingers and making a fist. It's great fun.
I realized yesterday that neither of the boys own snow boots. So, we had to get creative. Or tacky. You decide. Over their socks & sneakers was their very own plastic boot. If you're interested, I found these at Food Lion. I believe they also have them at any local grocery store.
Also, please take note of the enthusiasm on Alex's face. This is his expression whenever we're heading outside to play. You'll observe quite a contrast when scrolling through the pictures of him out in the snow.
We were invited to play with Daniel & Lainey in Uncle Scott's & Aunt Tricia's backyard. Unfortunately, the snow wasn't packing very well, so no snowmen today (and I was so looking forward to posting pictures of my Spiderman & Peter Parker snow sculptures). But, Jacob still had a blast! We used boogie boards to pull the kids around in the snow, which is great fun for them, and good exercise for the adults.
Tricia plopped Alex down on Lainey's boogie board, and was able to drag them a whole foot before Alex started to fuss.
I'm really not sure why Alex didn't enjoy our playtime outdoors today. He loves being outside. Maybe it was too cold. Maybe he didn't like the snowflakes hitting his face. Maybe it's too tough to walk with plastic bags on your feet. Whatever the reason, he remained motionless in the exact same spot in their backyard. The only time he moved was when Scott's & Tricia's dog knocked him over or when he was picked up and carried to another location.
"I will stand and not move for 30 minutes. Don't believe me? Watch, and I will prove it."
Not a snow lover, I suppose. See for yourself.
Scowling at the falling snow.
Mommy trying her best to coax a smile out of him.
Jacob, on the other hand, ran, tackled, and rolled around like a dog in the snow. Boogie boarding down the hill was also a big hit.
After anticipating it all morning, finally getting to play in the snow was not disappointing for a moment.
And, finally, a hint of something on Alex's face...a potential almost grin- maybe. I don't know if my antics caused it or if the kids' activities sparked his interest. But, I adore this picture of him.
After about 45 minutes of enjoying the snowy weather, it was time to come back home for lunch. Hopefully we'll be able to do it at least once more this winter. But for now, I'm just grateful we were able to play in it today. The battle with the gloves was worth it.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Two Minutes
I found this amusing, and really, not at all that surprising.
This morning, I left the boys alone downstairs for two minutes while I ran up to brush my teeth. In that span of time, Alex concocted and carried out a plan. I like to imagine this all happening with the theme music from "Mission: Impossible" playing in the background.
1) Notice Mommy is absent.
2) Remember box of donuts from yesterday's breakfast is on the counter.
3) Realize it's just out of reach of fingertips.
4) Slide chair over from kitchen table.
5) Stand on chair to easily reach box of donuts.
6) Snatch the last chocolate iced donut and eagerly begin gobbling it up.
7) Continue eating even as big brother yells to absent mother, "Mommy! Alex is eatin' a donut!"
8) Remain calm, cool, and collected as mother sprints down the stairs and returns to the kitchen.
9) Take a big bite just to show her what can happen in two minutes.
Two minutes!!
This morning, I left the boys alone downstairs for two minutes while I ran up to brush my teeth. In that span of time, Alex concocted and carried out a plan. I like to imagine this all happening with the theme music from "Mission: Impossible" playing in the background.
1) Notice Mommy is absent.
2) Remember box of donuts from yesterday's breakfast is on the counter.
3) Realize it's just out of reach of fingertips.
4) Slide chair over from kitchen table.
5) Stand on chair to easily reach box of donuts.
6) Snatch the last chocolate iced donut and eagerly begin gobbling it up.
7) Continue eating even as big brother yells to absent mother, "Mommy! Alex is eatin' a donut!"
8) Remain calm, cool, and collected as mother sprints down the stairs and returns to the kitchen.
9) Take a big bite just to show her what can happen in two minutes.
Two minutes!!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
We Miss Uncle Chris
My baby brother moved to Chicago at the beginning of the month. I knew it was coming, but when it actually happened, it was like a punch in the gut for me. During the months and weeks leading up to the move, I was the Queen of Denial & Repression, and what do you know, it worked. That is, it worked until New Year's Eve, the night before he moved, when I could no longer avoid it.
My parents, brother, sister, and brother-in-law all came over to our house for dinner to spend some time together as a family before Chris's big move (and before my parents departed on their cruise the following day). Kerri took some pictures, and even though I was NOT dressed or made up for photo ops, I made a special exception since it was Chris's last night in NC. Emotions were kept in check until Chris was saying goodbye to the boys. I listened to him explain to Jacob that he was going to be living far away, but that Jacob could come visit. Jacob just stared at him, and finally asked him, in all seriousness, "Can I come with you?" I lost it. I think that probably broke Chris's heart a little bit too.
My head knows this move is what Chris wants. My head knows he'll be happy there (and my heart is happy for him). But, I can't help feel sad about the lengths of time that are sure to pass between visits...and how quickly the boys will have grown during those times.
Chris has always been the best little brother to me and Kerri, so it hasn't come as any surprise to watch him be such an amazing uncle to the boys. They both love him, but Jacob is pretty darn crazy about him. Probably because Chris has always made time to play and really interact with him. And maybe because he passed down to Jacob his old collection of Spiderman and Power Ranger action figures. :)
Naturally, I had to reminisce by going through some old photos of Chris. I thought I'd share.
Having fun wrestling with Chris
Helping to foster Jacob's interest in music at a young age
Helping build sand castles
With both of his nephews
Chris hadn't seen Alex in a while, and during this visit, was surprised to find how animated & responsive he was. You can tell by Alex's expression just how much he was enjoying Chris's conversation.
Chris with his girlfriend, Sarah, at prom in May 2008. Jacob had to keep jumping in the picture to be with his uncle, of course. Where is this enthusiasm during my photo shoots?
Chris's birthday this past October
Surprisingly, Jacob was the most cooperative during this picture taken in December. The two adults gave me the most difficulty with their blinking and sudden hand movements. :)
Classic Chris
Hanging out with the men
Looking handsome before prom in May '08
His last night in NC (thanks for the pictures, Kerri!)
The Guys (Uncle Matt, Dad, Uncle Chris, & Jeff)
With Mom & Dad
Chris & Mom, who somehow managed to hold back the tears
Chris & Kerri
Chris & Jeff
Chris and me, just minutes before my Emotional Breakdown #1
Jacob and his buddy, Uncle Chris
I know you'll love Chicago, Chris. And I'm so glad you're happy. That's all we want. But, we're still allowed to miss you. :)
I love you lots, Margaret Sue.
My parents, brother, sister, and brother-in-law all came over to our house for dinner to spend some time together as a family before Chris's big move (and before my parents departed on their cruise the following day). Kerri took some pictures, and even though I was NOT dressed or made up for photo ops, I made a special exception since it was Chris's last night in NC. Emotions were kept in check until Chris was saying goodbye to the boys. I listened to him explain to Jacob that he was going to be living far away, but that Jacob could come visit. Jacob just stared at him, and finally asked him, in all seriousness, "Can I come with you?" I lost it. I think that probably broke Chris's heart a little bit too.
My head knows this move is what Chris wants. My head knows he'll be happy there (and my heart is happy for him). But, I can't help feel sad about the lengths of time that are sure to pass between visits...and how quickly the boys will have grown during those times.
Chris has always been the best little brother to me and Kerri, so it hasn't come as any surprise to watch him be such an amazing uncle to the boys. They both love him, but Jacob is pretty darn crazy about him. Probably because Chris has always made time to play and really interact with him. And maybe because he passed down to Jacob his old collection of Spiderman and Power Ranger action figures. :)
Naturally, I had to reminisce by going through some old photos of Chris. I thought I'd share.
Having fun wrestling with Chris
Helping to foster Jacob's interest in music at a young age
Helping build sand castles
With both of his nephews
Chris hadn't seen Alex in a while, and during this visit, was surprised to find how animated & responsive he was. You can tell by Alex's expression just how much he was enjoying Chris's conversation.
Chris with his girlfriend, Sarah, at prom in May 2008. Jacob had to keep jumping in the picture to be with his uncle, of course. Where is this enthusiasm during my photo shoots?
Chris's birthday this past October
Surprisingly, Jacob was the most cooperative during this picture taken in December. The two adults gave me the most difficulty with their blinking and sudden hand movements. :)
Classic Chris
Hanging out with the men
Looking handsome before prom in May '08
His last night in NC (thanks for the pictures, Kerri!)
The Guys (Uncle Matt, Dad, Uncle Chris, & Jeff)
With Mom & Dad
Chris & Mom, who somehow managed to hold back the tears
Chris & Kerri
Chris & Jeff
Chris and me, just minutes before my Emotional Breakdown #1
Jacob and his buddy, Uncle Chris
I know you'll love Chicago, Chris. And I'm so glad you're happy. That's all we want. But, we're still allowed to miss you. :)
I love you lots, Margaret Sue.
A Merry Christmas
Well, here it is. My first official post in 2009. Happy New Year! I can't believe I haven't blogged in almost a month. Of course with all of the shopping, buying, preparation, procrastination, and family get-togethers that accompany Christmas (and I did mention procrastination, right?), we've just been busy. If it's any consolation, I've been kicking myself for not updating sooner, but have been finding it difficult to get back in the swing of things. Finally, some drive and determination kicked in as I decided I wouldn't let an entire month pass without a post. I'm squeezing one in just in the nick of time. Our Christmas was great. Very merry. Due to budgetary constraints, it was somewhat smaller than I am accustomed to (last year, Santa probably went a little over the top buying gifts), but naturally, the boys didn't notice any difference. And, they loved the gifts they received. Jeff & I kept Christmas very small between ourselves, because, after all, we DID buy each other a house & furniture this year. Here are a few photo highlights from our December and Christmas.
Naturally, we paid a visit to Santa Claus. This very same Santa has been at the mall for as long as I've taken Jacob, so it's neat to have a familiar face in these photos. I wondered how Alex would do sitting in the lap of a bearded stranger, and at first, it seemed I was right to be concerned. But, after noticing that Jacob was content to sit there, he of course had to follow suit. Even though neither of them are looking at the camera (they're both looking at their mommy who was working her butt off in order to wipe the bewildered expressions off their faces), I love that they're smiling.
Of course I also had to attempt my annual Christmas card photo shoot. For years, I've sent out Christmas cards to friends and family, but never a photo card until Jacob was born. Every year has presented with some sort of difficulty. (You can see previous years' Christmas cards in my Then & Now post.) In the first couple of years, our dog actually proved to be the most uncooperative. But that was nothing compared to what I have to go through now. Ignoring my slight feeling of guilt, I didn't even bother trying to force our dog to pose for the picture (although she has been included every year before). I knew it would be hard enough work to get 2 boys to look at the camera & smile. And I was right. In spite of choosing the worst possible time to attempt a photo shoot (Alex wasn't feeling well, had just woken up from a nap, and needed a snack), I think the pictures came out pretty well. The shot of them gazing at one another was a candid, and I loved it so much, I had to include that one on the Christmas card as well.
Jacob had a Christmas sing-a-long program at his preschool. They practiced songs during classes, and for 2 weeks before the concert, he'd burst into adorable renditions of "Twinkle, Twinkle Christmas Star" and "Jingle Bells." I'm not sure it's possible for him to look more handsome than he did that day. After Jeff styled his hair and we added the tie as a finishing touch, I actually became teary-eyed because he looked so grown up. Where'd my little toddler go?
Jacob was content to play with his tie (that he was thrilled to wear "just like Daddy") and look around at his fellow preschoolers during some songs, but during others, he was quite the enthusiastic performer. He sung along to every word, sometimes including a solo on an air guitar, and even showed his appreciation for the audience with a seated bow. He loved every second of it.
Grandmom buys the kids matching Christmas pj's every year, so we do our best to get a picture with all of them. As you can see, sometimes we need to resort to an action shot.
Alex showing off his new pj's and telling us bye. He loves waving "hi" and "bye", two words which sound identical when he says them. But if he walks away from you after saying it, you figure he meant "bye".
A picture of me and Jeff? How often does this happen? Rarely. Jeff & I were able to enjoy a fun evening out at his company's Christmas party while Nan watched the boys for us.
There was one gift both Jeff & I were excited for Jacob to receive. Nan found a cooler version of the gift than I had already bought, and was kind enough to let the gift come from Santa. It was such a cool gift, it had Jeff excited. He even asked two days before Christmas if we could go ahead and give it to Jacob. I compromised and let Jacob open it on Christmas Eve. Jacob has become quite the musician as of late, picking up a plastic Elmo guitar he received as a birthday gift when he turned 1, and "strumming" on strings that make no noise. He's a jack of all trades these days...guitarist, singer, keyboardist, and drummer. He was thrilled when he saw his new guitar, and has played it at least once every day since Christmas.
Without further ado, Christmas morning!
I mentioned in the Jacob's Christmas List post that he asked for a popcorn machine after seeing a picture of one online. Well, apparently that request was a genuine one. He continued to mention it almost every day, and during his visit with Santa Claus, it was the only thing he said he wanted. Mean old mommy (with a tight budget) was going to wrap up an old air popper Jeff received a few years back, and give that to Jacob. The main appeal for him is actually seeing the popcorn pop, so I figured that would suffice. But, Grandmom came to the rescue and helped Santa Claus. Jacob was thrilled to find the popcorn machine waiting with his gifts on Christmas morning.
Step 1: Pour the kernels in...
Step 2: Grin at mommy while waiting to hear popping noises. And, show off the messy countertops in the background.
Step 3: After the first popping noise is heard, stand by in eager anticipation.
Step 4: Proudly display your first bowl of popcorn made by your very own "popcorn uh-sheen."
Step 5: Eat popcorn for breakfast, of course! After all, it IS Christmas morning.
More serenading with his guitar on Christmas day...
Both Jacob and his cousin, Daniel, have ride-on John Deere tractors, so Grandmom & Granddad decided it was time for Alex & his cousin, Lainey, to have their own smaller versions. Alex LOVED his, in case you can't tell by the look of pure excitement on his face.
Alex enjoying his gift from his Aunt Tricia & Uncle Scott. Conveniently, he also enjoys cleaning up the balls that spill over the edge (or get thrown).
A lovely ending to Christmas Day...cupcakes at Grandmom's & Granddad's house.
Thank you to our families and friends for the wonderful gifts, the time we spent together, and the beautiful Christmas cards. We hope everyone's Christmas was as merry as ours!
Naturally, we paid a visit to Santa Claus. This very same Santa has been at the mall for as long as I've taken Jacob, so it's neat to have a familiar face in these photos. I wondered how Alex would do sitting in the lap of a bearded stranger, and at first, it seemed I was right to be concerned. But, after noticing that Jacob was content to sit there, he of course had to follow suit. Even though neither of them are looking at the camera (they're both looking at their mommy who was working her butt off in order to wipe the bewildered expressions off their faces), I love that they're smiling.
Of course I also had to attempt my annual Christmas card photo shoot. For years, I've sent out Christmas cards to friends and family, but never a photo card until Jacob was born. Every year has presented with some sort of difficulty. (You can see previous years' Christmas cards in my Then & Now post.) In the first couple of years, our dog actually proved to be the most uncooperative. But that was nothing compared to what I have to go through now. Ignoring my slight feeling of guilt, I didn't even bother trying to force our dog to pose for the picture (although she has been included every year before). I knew it would be hard enough work to get 2 boys to look at the camera & smile. And I was right. In spite of choosing the worst possible time to attempt a photo shoot (Alex wasn't feeling well, had just woken up from a nap, and needed a snack), I think the pictures came out pretty well. The shot of them gazing at one another was a candid, and I loved it so much, I had to include that one on the Christmas card as well.
Jacob had a Christmas sing-a-long program at his preschool. They practiced songs during classes, and for 2 weeks before the concert, he'd burst into adorable renditions of "Twinkle, Twinkle Christmas Star" and "Jingle Bells." I'm not sure it's possible for him to look more handsome than he did that day. After Jeff styled his hair and we added the tie as a finishing touch, I actually became teary-eyed because he looked so grown up. Where'd my little toddler go?
Jacob was content to play with his tie (that he was thrilled to wear "just like Daddy") and look around at his fellow preschoolers during some songs, but during others, he was quite the enthusiastic performer. He sung along to every word, sometimes including a solo on an air guitar, and even showed his appreciation for the audience with a seated bow. He loved every second of it.
Grandmom buys the kids matching Christmas pj's every year, so we do our best to get a picture with all of them. As you can see, sometimes we need to resort to an action shot.
Alex showing off his new pj's and telling us bye. He loves waving "hi" and "bye", two words which sound identical when he says them. But if he walks away from you after saying it, you figure he meant "bye".
A picture of me and Jeff? How often does this happen? Rarely. Jeff & I were able to enjoy a fun evening out at his company's Christmas party while Nan watched the boys for us.
There was one gift both Jeff & I were excited for Jacob to receive. Nan found a cooler version of the gift than I had already bought, and was kind enough to let the gift come from Santa. It was such a cool gift, it had Jeff excited. He even asked two days before Christmas if we could go ahead and give it to Jacob. I compromised and let Jacob open it on Christmas Eve. Jacob has become quite the musician as of late, picking up a plastic Elmo guitar he received as a birthday gift when he turned 1, and "strumming" on strings that make no noise. He's a jack of all trades these days...guitarist, singer, keyboardist, and drummer. He was thrilled when he saw his new guitar, and has played it at least once every day since Christmas.
Without further ado, Christmas morning!
I mentioned in the Jacob's Christmas List post that he asked for a popcorn machine after seeing a picture of one online. Well, apparently that request was a genuine one. He continued to mention it almost every day, and during his visit with Santa Claus, it was the only thing he said he wanted. Mean old mommy (with a tight budget) was going to wrap up an old air popper Jeff received a few years back, and give that to Jacob. The main appeal for him is actually seeing the popcorn pop, so I figured that would suffice. But, Grandmom came to the rescue and helped Santa Claus. Jacob was thrilled to find the popcorn machine waiting with his gifts on Christmas morning.
Step 1: Pour the kernels in...
Step 2: Grin at mommy while waiting to hear popping noises. And, show off the messy countertops in the background.
Step 3: After the first popping noise is heard, stand by in eager anticipation.
Step 4: Proudly display your first bowl of popcorn made by your very own "popcorn uh-sheen."
Step 5: Eat popcorn for breakfast, of course! After all, it IS Christmas morning.
More serenading with his guitar on Christmas day...
Both Jacob and his cousin, Daniel, have ride-on John Deere tractors, so Grandmom & Granddad decided it was time for Alex & his cousin, Lainey, to have their own smaller versions. Alex LOVED his, in case you can't tell by the look of pure excitement on his face.
Alex enjoying his gift from his Aunt Tricia & Uncle Scott. Conveniently, he also enjoys cleaning up the balls that spill over the edge (or get thrown).
A lovely ending to Christmas Day...cupcakes at Grandmom's & Granddad's house.
Thank you to our families and friends for the wonderful gifts, the time we spent together, and the beautiful Christmas cards. We hope everyone's Christmas was as merry as ours!
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