"Hi!"

The words are beginning to flow more freely these days. We couldn't be more thrilled. Of course, if you don't listen closely to Michael, you might think he's saying the same phrases over and over and over. His new thing is to share his happiness when greeting new visitors. "Hi!" is what he's trying to say. It sounds more like "Aye!" But it is extremely cute. He asks for "wawa" (water) and then, says "eee" (please). He thinks anyone his size or smaller is a "beebee" (baby). Of course, who can't resist pointing to that beebee's "noe" (nose). But, don't confuse that with his vehement "no," which is usually accompanied by a violent head shake.







I love this picture. Jason is reading one of Michael's favorite books to him. It's about a lonely little firefly, and nothing comforts him more than the pages of this book. Well, a popsicle comes a close second.

Bossy Boy

We all know Jason is pretty bossy. Gee, wonder where he gets that from? I can't get over how that tendency to lecture others plays out in real life.

Jason was out riding his bike with three friends in the neighborhood tonight. One boy was on a scooter, the other three, including Jason, were on bikes. And I've noticed, many times, Jason is the only one wearing a helmet. He's fairly safety conscious, though, and he wouldn't have it any other way. He religiously puts on his helmet before rolling one foot into the street. (He may not look both ways, but, you can be sure he'll have his helmet on! He's the same way with seatbelts).

The boys, all riding in a pack, of course, collided with each other. I heard no tears, and didn't panic. One boy, the one on the scooter, fell down. Again, no tears, no problem.

But then Jason, always helpful, told him, "You really should be wearing a helmet."

The Brothers are Bonding

The boys look so cute in their new pajamas, courtesy of Amah and Akong. Thanks so much! In this picture, Jason is showing Michael the proper way to shake hands and greet someone. I love his school! We are really enjoying watching the boys play together these days. We have to enjoy it while it lasts! Michael is trying to do everything his big brother does. They even have conversations together, though Michael's limited vocabulary doesn't add much. New words like "book," "ball," "light," and "water," are important additions to his list of words, but, right now, Jason is not too impressed.

Little Fish

We decided to skip soccer this fall so the kids could take swimming lessons. And look at them. They are loving them, so far. Next lesson: Saturday.

Out of the Mouths of Babes

Jason is thoroughly enjoying school, and I do believe he is learning quite a bit. It's those activities outside of school I have to watch out for. Yesterday, at dinner, Jason spilled some food on the floor. No problem, I tell him. Let's clean it up together, I say. You know his response to me?

"That is not my job."

He said it clearly, at least. And slowly.
I asked him where he heard that phrase. Some Disney Channel show, he tells me. Oh boy.

Of course, now I realize why Jason may be too busy to help clean up.
At Miss Michelle's house, he told one of his little friends there:

"I had a hard day at preschool."

Uh oh. We've got a long 12 years ahead of us.

Don't Look For Them in Pictures!

We had high hopes for Michael's 18-month old doctor check-up today. Jason did, too. He was hoping that Michael would get stuck with a painful shot. And, I know he wanted to dance in front of him, gloating over the fact that he wasn't going to be on the receiving end of one.

Another reason for the anticipation: the doctors had asked if they could take pictures of Michael to be used in one of their brochures. Sure, no problem, we thought. Michael's the happy one. But, today, of all days, the boy is dealing with a nasty diaper rash and some strange sort of icky diarrhea. Not that there is any other kind of diarrhea. Poor Michael. He lost his chance. Good thing Jason was there. The doctor listened to his heartbeat in front of a flashing camera. But, if you'll recall from past posts, Jason and the camera don't always have a good time together. We'll see if the pictures get used! We'll keep you posted.

No wonder this "little" boy sleeps so well. He is growing! Here are the stats: 32 1/2 inches long, 23 pounds 2 ounces.




Swimming lessons start tomorrow, for both boys. More adventures to come!

Friend-ly Visit

We so enjoy having visitors. Grandma and Grandpa just left, and the boys are already telling us they miss them. (Well, Jason is the one doing most of the talking). So, it was real treat to have a brand new person to play with. A dinner date at the house with Miss Tiaira, or Miss Tee-ay-rah, as Jason says, was a big hit. The poor girl even had to read a bedtime story to Michael. He enjoyed it immensely. After all, Miss Tiaira was reading one of his favorites, "That's Not My Teddy!" Talk about an impression. After Jason woke up this morning, Jason asked when she left for home. I told him it was after he went to bed. He looked disappointed and told me he didn't want her to leave. Miss Tiaira might have to start clearing her calendar for us!

Outdoor Adventures

I cannot take credit for these pictures, but I sure can share them (Thanks, Grandpa!!) The boys had a wonderful visit with Grandma and Grandpa, as you can see. They spent one afternoon at the Botanical Gardens, enjoying the sights, and the water. I can't help but smile seeing the joy on these kids' faces. They are growing sooo fast! We'll have to make a point to return soon!