Monday, May 28, 2018

Making the Most of Memorial

With unusually warm weather for PNW May, we utilized the long weekend to hit a new playground.  It was awesome to find new attractions we have not seen including a merry-go-round swing, fish to catch, and music to be played.  Added bonus that a tank was nearby for the memorial day weekend.





Other treats from Daddy included the biggest donut he could find...with sprinkles.




Then we finished it right with acknowledging the true meaning of the holiday and extended weekend.  Bright and early we visited Grandma Dale to honor him and all our other fallen soldiers.  There are some traditions that are so worth holding on to that you sacrifice all else to make sure they occur.  This one of them as we make sure Kyle and Jack fully get what it means to serve and sacrifice. 




Sunday, May 20, 2018

What dreams are made of...wedded bliss and flower girls

Kyle and Jack's cousin got married in a picture perfect ceremony.  To her delight, Kyle was asked to be flower girl and took on the task with her normal loving and determined nature. With some help from a dear friend, she looked fantastic with gorgeous curls.  Kyle loved sitting with the big girls in the wedding party, throwing the petals, and smiled all the way.  Jack took his own opportunity to steal the show, essentially becoming the newest frat member.  He loved showing ninja  moves, dancing, and spending time with family.
 
These two have some fantastic role models in their lives and are blessed with family that is beyond words. 









Sunday, May 13, 2018

Super Duper Birthday

Today Jack turns 4.  It seems almost right it's also Mother's Day.  I still remember the Mother's Day four years ago knowing he would be here in only a couple days.  Plus mommy is one of his favorite people...unless she is not letting him do what he wishes.  Happy Birthday, Mr. Man! 


This year, Jack has grown in leaps.  He is a talker and will talk endlessly even when no one is listening.  He loves putting on a show and humor is his key to everyone's heart.  Amazingly this little guy has a knack for it even at this age.  He loves belting out songs but forgot actions or dancing.  He counts like a champ which is perfect for hide-and-seek.  He knows several letters but will never admit it...unless he is at school then he is all business.  Jack prefers action and play to sitting still with crafts but he will build endlessly if given the opportunity.  He enjoys people and friends but also likes to sit quietly and wait for his mom some afternoons.  Books are awesome, so long as they involve firetrucks, cars or sharks.  He has an opinion on his wardrobe that involves many of the same options plus superheroes thrown in.  I love how at this moment his favorite is The Incredible Hunk as he likes yell out.  It's too awesome to correct.


Other favorites includes snacks especially muffins, candy or anything sweet.  Birthday choice was cheesburgers with chocolate cake, lots of cake.  This guy has a sweet tooth.  Pancakes are still the best, along with any food that can be eaten outside.  If you ask him to try new things, he will do with a lot of gagging just to make sure you know his thoughts.  It probably does not hurt it always brings great laughs, even more so because he actually likes the food.  He loves legos and making monster trucks.  He enjoys playing outside and building with his dad. He will partake in just about any activity Kyle comes up with so long as they are playing together.  He lives in boots nearly year round and enjoys a good puddle.  Swings are meant to be pushed, and hills are meant to be climbed or explored.  He always requests Scooby-Doo, batman legos and ninjago.  Star Wars is the best, although only the light saber fights.  He performs ninja moves, loves swimming, and creating massive train tracks.  Whenever the opportunity arises, he will sneak into Kyle's room and play for hours if allowed. 


Jack is loving and will always take a moment to give a hug...sometimes because he needs it just as much.  He is stubborn and a bit manipulative.  This guy is figuring out how to work the system. He has opinions and thoughts and wants to make sure those are heard...and preferably followed.  Pushing it to the limit seems to be his motto, but luckily he grasps when he has hit that point.  He is extremely friendly with a big smile and engaging questions.  He is still always on the go, often not looking in the direction he is going.  Yet another year with a few good bruises, one that even got a comment from a biker. He is adventurous but always wants to make sure his people are in the vicinity.  He is a bit apprehensive with some things but willing to jump in if Kyle is with him.  If given the choice, I suspect Jack would go without bed time. He never seems to tire...but when he crashes, he is done.  Just know he will be back at it very early the next day.  He still loves to climb in bed with mom and dad for morning snuggles.  That will eventually lead to an announcement of "It's morning. Who wants breakfast?" 


Jack is so perfectly Jack.  He seems to totally fit with who he is - funny, timid, loving, engaging, adventurous, stubborn, and a whole package of so many good things.  Although small, he is so big with personality.  It's no surprise he pulls Superman out for his birthday. 


Happy Birthday, Buddy.  Thanks for being you and blessing our lives with all that you bring!





Tuesday, May 8, 2018

Catching monsters...or at least a trout

With a monsoon pouring down, Kyle and Jack got to learn the fun of fishing. For months, Kyle has talked about various fishing shows sharing facts, bait tips, and other tidbits. Seemed only right to give it a try - although no marlin were involved to her disappointment. Kyle was hooked, and Jack was fine so long as a net was involved. First time being on a stocked lake probably did not hurt.








Wednesday, May 2, 2018

Always on the Rush

With the end of the school year and warmer weather, we are rushing into the time of year when life feels busy. There are softball games with unexpected invites to be bat girl. There is swimming, farmer’s markets, and park openings. There is a music program followed by ice cream treats. It is busy with fast-paced dinners and many car trips, but it is also simply perfect fun.