Nate's preschool program

Nate had a small program at Preschool last week. It was just the two afternoon four year old classes up there singing a bunch of songs. They didn't really know all of the words, but they were cute none the less. It lasted all of 10 minutes, and then there was punch and cookies afterwards. Grammy was able to come up to watch.

At the end of the program, Santa showed up. Graham was really excited about Santa, and kept on wanting to go and see him, but then when we went up, he ran right up to him, but then cried when he sat on his lap. Nate however was happy to see Santa again.

All is well

So sometimes we have terrible horrible no good very bad days, when everyone is grumpy, and whiny and in trouble most of the day. But then it gets to be nap time, and then I get to go and rock with Graham, and all of the sudden, all is right in the world. My kids may be crazy, and do naughty things from time to time, and I do sometimes try to sell them on the Facebook black market, and sometimes I think how sad they will be to have to spend Christmas at the orphanage, but at the end of the day, they sure sweet little things, and I'm glad I get to be their mom.

Overload

My poor kids really could use a few more Cars action figures. They are so under-privileged.

Nate the rock star

So in case you are wondering why Nate would ask for a guitar with a strap and strings that wiggle for Christmas, this is why:

He spends a good deal of his day listening to music and pretending to play on this toy guitar that we have. It is not an actual guitar, just a music playing toy that is shaped like a guitar. Graham got it for Christmas last year. Anyway, Nate gets frustrated that there is no strap, so he walks around with rubber bands or strings stretched under his arm that he can hold it in place with. One day when I figure out how to configure my videos I'll upload him playing along with the video. His favorite band you ask? Muse of course.

here comes Santa Claus

So for the first time in his life, Nate willingly sat on Santa's lap. We went to the mall a few weeks ago, and Nate got close to thinking about sitting on Santa's lap, but then he wouldn't.

But a week later we had our ward Christmas party, and when Santa came this time, Nate was one of the first in line. He sat on his lap and enjoyed it. Graham would have nothing to do with Santa, but it was past his bedtime, and he wasn't feeling well. So what did Nate ask for? The same thing he says every time you ask him what he wants Santa to bring him- A guitar with a strap and strings that wiggle. He's going to be a rock star.

Graham's birthday continued

So my baby is 2. Sometimes I play with him or cuddle with him, and I think, how can I have another baby? This one is still my baby! I just don't think it's possible for me to be more in love with this child than I am. He is just such a joy in our lives. Sure, he can throw a tantrum with the best of them, and it can be frustrating when he's trying to communicate something, and it's not working, but there are also so many good times.

Graham worships his big brother. When Nate is not beating him up, or "sharing" his toys, Graham just follows him around, and likes to do whatever Nate is doing. He is my little acrobat, and his favorite pastime is to jump on the couch or bed. He loves to jump, and fall straight back onto his back. If all else fails, he'll jump on the floor, but that's not nearly as fun. Not only is he a physical mimic, but he mimics most things we all say. It took him a while to start talking, but he's really taking off, saying most things that you ask him to. It's getting easier and easier to communicate with him. He loves to be silly, and always makes sure that he has an audience. I get "mommy look" all day long. (Over and over and over....) He knows he's just about the cutest thing around, and he loves it. It is his mission in life to be adored by all.

These days he walks around all day saying "Bolt, George" and if he had his way, our life would be a never ending loop of watching Bolt and Curious George. He can name all of the movies on the shelf (and has been able to do that for quite a while now.) He also loves Handy Manny, Mickey Mouse and Little Einstein ("Rocket").

He's just so smiley and happy most of the time, and my favorite time of day is when I get to rock and cuddle with him at night. I love you little boy, you are the sweetest!

Here's a commentary on how opening his presents went last night. Nate really wanted to "share" opening the presents. Graham didn't really mind that much.

Hmmmmm... what's in here?

Ooooh, Mickey mouse!

I love mickey!

But, wait! What does Nate have? That looks interesting.

Oh yeah, a train, I think I like that too!

Oh, and more train things!

Nate's moving too fast! But what's in here?

Here, let me get out of your way Nate, I'll just watch from back here, no really, I'm just fine, thanks.

I like it!

Happy Birthday Graham!

So where is the birthday boy? Oh, there he is!
OK, this looks like fun!

Wait a minute! Maybe this isn't so fun. Didn't I burn my finger doing something like this at Grandma's house?

Yeah, I think maybe I'd rather not do this.

But maybe with mom here I can think about blowing out the candles.

Yeah, maybe I can do this.... it's not so bad from back here.

Yeah, OK, that wasn't so bad. Maybe even a little fun.

I could get used to this.

Don't worry, I'm good. Cool as a cucumber.

Happy Birthday sweet boy! Don't worry, we won't make you blow out any more candles for another year!