Christmas: Old Traditions & New Traditions



Santa has arrived!  Luke & Joshua are eagerly awaiting
to see what Santa brought! 

Dearest Joshua and Luke,

Even though you were both sick the week before Christmas, we still managed to have an amazing time.  While you both had a viral infection with off and on fever, and missed your Christmas parties (which mom was in charge of both parties by the way :), you were still able to be  a part of many festivities. 






The Christmas season began with the end of our Thanksgiving break.  We were blessed to spend Thanksgiving with Aunt Amy, Uncle Ray, Isaac, and Levi.  Two weeks prior we spend several days with Uncle Luke, Aunt Lisa, Elsa, and Ethan so we felt doubly blessed for the holidays.  The cousins were able to spend time together, Eric, Aunt Amy, and Uncle Ray found some great Black Friday deals, and we made more memories together.  I know that you will remember the warm feeling of having family around and being with everyone in the Litteken family. 

Joshua & Luke on a break at the Shrine.

In addition, we celebrated the 30th anniversary at our church with old and new friends.  We were able to visit with St. Nicholas a few days before he brought you both some candy and a large punching ball.  We love our church and the inspiration it brings us each week. 

This year we welcomed back Herbie, our Elf on the Shelf.   This is his fifth year with us.  He moved around the house a lot, and kept us guessing each day where he would be.  It is true that Herbie reports to Santa Claus because Santa knew exactly what had been happening with both of you.  Along with many Christmas presents, Santa left a note that you should both work on getting along a little better for the next year.  The letter must have helped because things have been better!!!

Daddy is holding the pages in Joshua's music book
while Joshua plays on! 

For his second year, Joshua entertained the crowds with his beautiful Christmas music at Our Lady of the Snows Shrine.  Joshua played piano through four Christmas song books two different times.  Joshua's playlist included some of my favorite Christmas songs:  Do You Hear What I Hear?  Away In A Manger, Silent Night, and Go Tell It On the Mountain just to name a few.  Luke was cute as a button as well.  Dressed in holiday pajamas and a Santa hat, Luke delivered candy canes to all of the children in the audience throughout Joshua's musical numbers.  It is awesome to see you both bringing happiness and light to others.  There were so many smiles from the young and older alike.  (Not to mention, me, being the proud mommy, getting to tell the people who asked, how old you both were, how long Joshua had been playing piano, etc. )  The fact that you both enjoyed yourselves so much makes it all the better!

A new tradition this year was taking the boys to the Dollar Tree and giving them a list of people to buy for ~ mom, dad, each other, Grammy and Papa.  We also talked about how to pick out a present for each person.  Both boys picked out candy for their dad which was very thoughtful.  Daddy does love candy.  Even funnier is that the boys were not with each other when they picked out the candy.  They know their daddy well.  Joshua picked out a beautiful purple scarf and a gold bell ornament for the Christmas tree for me.  Luke picked out a vase and beautiful roses to go in it.  Luke said, "Mama you will have these forever because you never have to water them.  They will never die."   How thoughtful.  Luke chose a candle and sweet hand soap for Grandma while Joshua thought of a ceramic vase and horse.  Joshua got a night light for Grandpa and Luke bought him a long stick with a grip at the bottom to pick up things.  Wow!  Once again, very thoughtful!  This was an awesome new tradition.  While wrapping the gifts, Joshua said, "This is so much fun.  I can't wait to give these gifts!"  Cha ching!  That is what this was all about! 

Joshua also played Christmas music at the Assisted
Living Center where Grandma Nichols lives!  He also played
for the nursing home.

 

 

On Christmas Eve, Joshua sang proudly in the Children's Choir at church.   He sings every other week at the Sunday morning mass.  Luke attends Children's Church at this time.  This arrangement has worked out well because Luke has learned to go to Children's Church by himself, and Joshua is listening and learning so much from the scriptures and homily.   

Luke is showing Grandma how to farm on
the new Kindle Fire! 

You both were spoiled with so many presents this year ~ almost everything on your Christmas lists!  Joshua's highlights included a new DS with the condition that he gave his old one to Luke, a remote control helicopter, Ninjago Legos, and so much more.  Luke's highlights included a new/old DS from Joshua, a Power Ranger action figure, a stuffed Appa,  an Avatar game, and Legos.  Together they both opened a pirate club house, snow cone maker, cake popmaker, Dream Lite stuffies, and more! 



Christmas Day was spent playing with toys, toys, and more toys. Grandma Nichols, Aunt Tina, and Uncle John came over for a short visit.  It was so good to see them.  Eric also picked up Grandma Bonny and Papa Mort to come over for Christmas dinner and a visit.  I think about our family that has passed every day, but I especially missed them this Christmas.  I am not sure why, but I found myself explaining to the boys what we used to do at Christmas.  We had so many people with us at Christmas Eve mass that we had to go almost an hour early and save a pew and a half for the family.  Then, everyone would go to McDonalds with us, and then to our house to open presents.  I loved every second of it and being surrounded by family.  This year I really missed Grandpa Al and Papa Ed. We all love them and miss them very much!  I also miss seeing Nana and Aunt Lisa on Christmas.  Please keep them and all of our family in your prayers.  We pray for healing and better health for all of them. 


Luke was setting out and modeling his new
pajamas for Grandma!

This year we did not make our traditional sugar cookies for Santa, but we did buy some chocolate chip cookies for him since we heard they were his favorite.  We set out carrots for the reindeer as usual, too.   We knew that Santa understood that we were not able to make homemade cookies this year.  We did make Happy Birthday Jesus cupcakes to enjoy on Christmas Day. 

Yes, our Christmas was very blessed with family, friends, and a focus on Jesus.  We celebrated with old traditions and started new ones!  We are an extremely blessed family.  I love you both so much more today than I did yesterday.





Love,
Mama

First Reconciliation & More

Joshua is growing up!

Dearest Joshua and Luke,

     Joshua's first reconciliation snuck up on us in the last few weeks.  While we knew that second grade was the year, I guess we were thinking that it would not happen until closer to Christmas.  But here it was.  We received a letter from church saying there was a parent meeting coming up.  We scheduled a babysitter so that we could both attend. That is a big deal for us because we rarely get a sitter.  We both want to be a big part of your spiritual life so we both wanted to hear what Father Bill was going to say.  We really did not have any idea how to approach first reconciliation with you, so the meeting was a big help.  It was also nice to be with other parents of second grade children who were interested in the same outcome. 



Ho!  Ho!  Ho!

     Saturday morning, the day for your first reconciliation, came and Joshua was very excited.  We were very lucky that Uncle Luke's family was visiting us so Daddy and I both got to take Joshua and Luke stayed home with Luke.  Everyone in the family was giving Joshua some great last minute advice for hie first reconciliation.  Joshua did not seem nervous a bit.  

Luke is catching up!

     Joshua rushed into church and chose a front row seat.  (He is so much like his parents who like to sit in the front row.)  Father Bill talked to the parents and second graders on a second grade level.  It was a wonderful message about how God was always going to be there for them.  Father Bill used the analogy that when they make  a choice to sin or do something that God does not want them to do,  it is like they are pulling away from God.  But even though people choose to do that, God's hand is always there and ready for them.  It never pulls away from them.  God is always extending his hand inviting them back to him.  No matter what they do.  Since Joshua was in the front row, Father Bill asked him to come forward to help with the demonstration with God's hand.  Father Bill asked Joshua if he ever fought with Luke.  Thankfully, Joshua was honest and answered, "yes." By this time, Joshua looked a little nervous.  I think he was wondering how many other things Father Bill was going to ask him about in front of everyone there! 

     Once the audience was dismissed to do their reconciliation, Joshua ran up, in front of other children, to be first to see Father Bill.  Joshua sat down.  Both hands were in his pockets.  He nodded a lot to Father Bill, and quickly left.  When he came back to us, we got in our own line to do our reconciliation.  Joshua said that "everything went fine."  Father Bill told him to go back to the baptismal font, reflect on his baptism, and make the sign of the cross.  So he did.

Luke cracks himself up!

      Joshua commented several times that he felt so much better after talking to Father Bill, and that he wanted to go to confession every week.  He was a bit disappointed that he only got to tell Father Bill one of the three things that he had thought about ahead of time.  Joshua started thinking about the fact that he wanted to talk to Father Bill again.  I explained to Joshua that he did not have to tell Father Bill all of his sins.  I told him that he could talk to God anytime or while he prayed.  I wanted him to know that he did not have to go to confession every time he sinned.  But.....Joshua being the independent thinker that he is, decided to go back and see Father Bill for a second confession once everyone else had a turn.  Joshua said the second time was as good as the first, and that he did want to go back every week to "confess" to Father Bill.

Luke & Joshua by our high school tree.

     I know that reconciliation is not the most popular sacrament in our church.  I will admit to you that prior to this confession, it had been about five years since I had been.  Daddy and I used to go every year at Easter and Christmas, but since you both had been born, it happened much less frequently.  It was a little difficult to explain to you because I think you were really wondering how we possibly were not doing what we were supposed to do.    :)  But I really liked how Father Bill explained that we are often very hard on ourselves when we think about confession or go to confession.  He said that confession is helpful in the fact that he (Father Bill) can remind us to be gentle to ourselves.  That is very true.  I think we will go to confession this year for Christmas and Easter. :)

    I love you both more today than I did yesterday. 

Love,
Mama

  

    

Trick or Treat!!!!!

Luke - Avatar, the Last Airbender &
Joshua, a navy seal

Dear Joshua and Luke,

     Happy Halloween!  We had a lot of fun waiting for Halloween and trick-or-treating this year.  Joshua reminded Dad and I several times that we did not put up all of our decorations last year so this year had to be different.  We did our annual Halloween art and craft projects.  We made Halloween sun catchers and mosaic pumpkins.  There are so many fun Halloween art projects.  You two always enjoy making art projects, and I have to admit that the teacher in me loves preparing them and doing them with you.  Also, we decorated the front of our house with large pumpkins, small pumpkins, gourds of all kinds, a scarecrow, a huge yellow mum, and more.  We added some ghosts hanging in the front yard and some spider webs.  And we decorated inside the house, too.  We were definitely ready for Halloween this year!

Grammy with the trick-or-treaters
at Trunk-or-Treat

Joshua decided to be a navy seal this year.  He got the idea because his cousin, Ethan, was planning to be a navy seal.  Luke decided to be Aang, the Last Airbender or the Avatar.  Luke loves Avatar so his choice was not surprising at all.  Joshua's choice was not too surprising either.  I have to admit that I am a proud mama that both of you chose to be "good guys."  I believe that you both try very hard to make choices and there is definitely something I really like about you both being good guys at Halloween.  Our family was very lucky to have Grandma Bonny help us with hemming both of your costumes.  I tried so hard to get the right sizes, but they were still not accurate.  Thank goodness that Grammy could help us out.

   

 



Navy Seal Joshua

You both got to wear your costumes a few different times.  The first time was at the annual Trunk or Treat at church.  this year was even more special because Grammy came to church and trunk-or-treat with us and Joshua sang in the choir. This is not to mention that you were both so spoiled by everyone!  You both brought home so much candy, popcorn, and treats!  Luke even brought home a donut from his trunk-or-treating adventures.  The next day Grandma Nichols came over and you both walked in the annual Halloween parade in town.  It is lots of fun to see so many of your classmates dressed in costume.  Then, there is games, hot dogs, and prizes waiting for you at the Center in town.  It was great having Grandma Nichols with us.  Even though she did not sit at the parade with us, she watched from the van and enjoyed seeing all of the kids.  Our final trick-or-treating adventure for the season came the evening of Halloween.  This is the first year I opted to stay home and give out candy.  It was fun seeing all of the kids coming up for candy.  There were so many of them!  Daddy and I figured we had over 300 trick-or-treaters!  You were both so happy to go with one of our favorite families and friends.  It is always so much fun to do things with them. 

   


Daddy with the trick-or-treaters in the parade

Trick-or-treating was an extra special treat this year.  But then you both make just about anything so much fun!  I love you both more today than I did yesterday. 

Love,
Mama

Dear Joshua and Luke,

The school year has gotten into full swing and we are busy as ever.  But loving every single second of it.  It makes me so happy that you are both getting to do things you like to do.  Here is what a typical week looks like for us.  Although there is not too much typical about any week, but here we go...at least these are the constants and things you enjoy doing. 

Luke feeding hay to the calves.

Monday is usually an evening that we enjoy at home, but it flies by.  Tuesday night brings piano practice for both of you.  We usually eat out after piano.  Often times it is Craft Night at Denny's or pizza.  On Wednesday after school Joshua goes to choir practice at St. Nicholas.  Then, both boys attend the Atrium.  That is a great way to spend time after school.  You are both learning so many things at the Atrium.  I am proud of you both  Thursday evening brings gymnastics for both of you.  Friday night is usually Game Night or Movie Night.  Saturday and Sundays are often filled with so many activities, some organized, some not.  The weekend is often filled with a visit to the park, church, and whatever else is happening.  Currently you are both attending Kids Bible Study after school, too.  I do have to admit that even though I love watching you and participating in your many activities, my most favorite times are spent with you at home when  we are eating dinner together, reading books, making books, completing craft projects, and just playing.

Two big fans at the homecoming game!

Some of the highlights of this week include running out of the tunnel with the high school football players and cheering on our school football team.  This is the second year in a row for this kind of fun.  It was tons of fun cheering on the team as a family.  Saturday brought us a birthday party and watching movies at the Drive In.  Luke was so tired that he only watched about twenty minutes of the movie!  We were up early on Saturday to listen to a speaker at church about Strong Catholic Families.  Mommy and Daddy were wanting to learn more about how to strengthen our faith within our family.  It was a very good speaker and left us with some great ideas. 

On Sunday we attended a family reunion for Daddy's family.  It was great seeing our extended family members.  It had been several years since Daddy's family had gotten together officially at a reunion.  Daddy has such a large family......something like 50 first cousins, 250 second cousins, and the numbers go on and on.  Overall it is a strong, solid extended family.  We are proud to be a part of it.  Following a fun afternoon at the park and playing with many cousins, we had dinner with some other families from our church.  It is too bad that Luke was so tired, but it was great getting to know these other families. 

As always, I love you both more today than I did yesterday.

Love,
Mama

A Rekindling in the Heart

Aunt Jeannie & the Litteken's

Dearest Joshua and Luke,

     Aunt Jeannie has been on our mind a lot the last several days.  We were so lucky to get to visit with her for the last couple of days.  She is a very special person in our lives.  Aunt Jeannie also has an extraordinary way of knowing just how to say or explain something. 

    Aunt Jeannie explains:  When you see each other every few years or in some cases every several years, you are very much vividly reminded of the  love you have for each other in your hearts.  Even though the love is always in your heart, you are deeply reminded of the love you have for each other and your families.  But when you see each other again, your heart rekindles and remembers the special times and creates even more.  Your heart reminds you of the love!

Aunt Jeannie & the boys inside Litteken cave.

     I remember meeting Aunt Jeannie for the first time at the rehearsal dinner the night before Eric and I got married.  I heard so much about her before we got married and here she was coming all the way from Belgium during the time when she could be there for our wedding.  Your daddy talked so much about what how awesome Aunt Jeannie was. (In fact, he thinks very highly of all of his aunts.  Honestly.)  Aunt Jeannie was such a delight to meet.  She had me at hello when she gave me an official Belgian greeting with a kiss on each cheek.  I knew then what a special lady she was. 

Aunt Jeannie trying a persimmon.

     She visited a time or two in between, then we arranged to visit with Aunt Jeannie and Uncle Leo when we visited Europe for three weeks several years back.  Aunt Jeannie lived close to Aunt Amy and Uncle Ray so we were able to spend some special time visiting with her at her home.  Aunt Jeannie and Uncle Leo were waiting for us at the airport in Brussels when we arrived.  That was unexpected, and  what a treat! 





    We spent three days at Aunt Jeannie's house, and Aunt Jeannie and Uncle Leo visited at Aunt Amy's several times throughout our European vacation. Uncle Leo told us so many memorable stories about Belgium.  They showed us so many things off the beaten path and helped us to really feel what life was like in Belgium.  Each stop along the trip was carefully planned and thought out.  We have so many memories with them. 

Daddy & Aunt Jeannie

     Then, Aunt Jeannie blessed us with another visit when Joshua was baptized.  Joshua was about seven weeks old.  Once again, we were so happy to have Aunt Jeannie be here for such a special time in our lives.  I remember Aunt Jeannie holding Joshua and he would just laugh and smile at her.  I think he knew then what a special lady she was.

   We talked about Aunt Jeannie for several days before visiting with her.  Luke told us that he had butterflies in his stomach when he thought of meeting her for the first time.  We explained that she was Grammy's sister and we thought he would love her a lot like Grandma. It only took Luke about ten  minutes to warm up to Aunt Jeannie.  By the end of the day, he was walking and holding Aunt Jeannie's hand. 

Grandma Bonny & Aunt Jeannie

     One day we took a field trip to Pere Marquette State Park.  We walked around the trails, saw the Piasa Bird, rode Brussels Ferry, ate at the Whitman Hotel, and enjoyed laughing and sharing stories.  It was a great day for all of us.  It was another great day of memories.  Thank you Aunt Jeannie for so richly blessing our lives and sharing this special time with us.  I think Luke summed it up best by saying, "Mom, I really like her!"  But we do not just like her, we love her!




     I love you both more today than yesterday.

Love,
Mama

Goodbye Until We See You Next Time......

The guys making sand art together.

Dear Joshua and Luke,

This has been a difficult last couple of weeks as you have been preparing for your best friends to move.  We have known it was coming for the last few weeks, but today was the day I know that we are all feeling sad, but we have to keep in mind that this is not a goodbye forever, but a goodbye just until we see you again.  And we will see these friends again.  I am sure of that.  We will visit these friends and I am certain they will come here too.   I am sure that you will write letters, Skype, and I am sure that you will be friends for the rest of your lives.  








Best Buddies!

Joshua met his friend, Ashton, in kindergarten.  Ashton moved in a little after the year began.  But they were instantly buddies.  One major thing they had in common was that they were both allergic to peanuts!  So they sat together at lunch every day and played together most of the time during recess.  They have played at each other's houses so many times we have lost count.  It just so happened that Ashton had a little brother, Levi, who was perfect for Luke. All four boys played together most of the time.  My boys always wanted to go to their house or have them over here.  It was fun to do things with their parents, too. We all got along, and it was fun doing things together with them.









Levi and Luke watrching a movie together.


Tonight after they left, Luke said, "I wish we never would have met them.". In his mind, I am sure that seemed like a better option than to feel the pain of a friend moving away, but I explained to him.....if we had never met them, our life the last two years would have been really different.  Joshua was especially sad at school this week.  Eating lunch at the peanut-free table was not quite the same.   But each day is getting a little better, and we are hoping to Skype really soon!  Luke is having a little more difficult time.  He says he is going to walk to their new house, which is hundreds of miles away!  He misses them so  much, too.  I continue to explain them that I understand.  Their mommy, my friend, moved away, too. 
So yet another lesson in life.  Friends do come in and out of your life.  And you have different friends at different stages of your life.  But some friends are keepers!  And I hope that these are friends that we will have for the rest of our lives, whether they are near or far away.  With Facebook, Skype, road trips, email, and phones - I think we will have lifelong friendships here.  And I do think we will be able to visit them from time to time.




One of their favorite things - making crafts!

I do wish that I could take away your sadness right now.  But I also know that you will get through this, and you will be OK.  In fact, I think our life has been blessed by knowing them, and getting the opportunity to live near them, and getting to know them as long as we did.

I love you both way more today than I did yesterday.

Love,
Mama

Life Lesson #459 ~ Find A Charity and/or Volunteer

Luke, after a long morning of fishing, with his new
Spiderman fishing pole!

Dear Joshua and Luke,

     This weekend you both participated in your first fishing derby.  It was a beautiful sunny and crisp morning, and you were both ready for the fun of the fishing derby.  Daddy arrived early to set up as an official at this event.  You both were so good at casting and reeling in the line.  It was a blast!  While you both often catch fish at these two lakes, the fish were not very hungry this morning!  You still had tons of fun, and came home with two new fishing poles and lots of fishing thingies.

Joshua shooting his Red Ryder BB Gun.  He was closest
to the target than anyone else all day!

Daddy had so much fun helping to organize this event.  Daddy has become very involved with this club for your benefit as much s the fun he has belonging to it.  You both asked why daddy could not help you during the derby...even though I was there, ready and willing to do almost anything, but put bait on the hook.  Thank goodness there were lots of daddies and grandpas there to help you.

We had seats in the VIP tent at the Air Show.  We were
closest to the flight line!  What a wonderful, LOUD, experience!

Mommy and Daddy both feel like it is very important to volunteer and help organizations that you believe in.  For example, I used to volunteer as a candy striper at the hospital when I was in high school.  I was a Big Sister in the Big Brother/Big Sister program, volunteered as a PSR teacher, lector at church at several different churches, and on and on.  I have not done near the volunteering as I wish I could have/would have since you two have been born.  But now that you are getting a little older, I think is time to start volunteering as a family.  I believe that it is very important to volunteer your time to help others.  So more on that soon!

The boys after their ride in a hot air
balloon!  What fun!

I love you both more today than I did yesterday!

Love,
Mama

From Summer to Starting School

Ready for a day at Valley Fair!

Dear Joshua and  Luke,

This has been such a busy last few weeks for us.  From an Amtrak trip north to the start of a new school year, a brand new school  year, first year in real school year, for Luke!

At the end of our Branson vacation Daddy and the boys started talking about how much they missed Minnesota, and the boys really wanted to see their cousins before school started, so after some careful thought and planning - and Daddy's very generous and hospitable families agreement, Daddy planned a trip to Minnesota to visit his brother's family.  The boys were so excited to be taking a train!  It was their second time on a train, but it proved to be a very exciting way to travel.  During their stay in Minnesota they spent time boating at Lake Minnetonka, including Daddy water skiing, spent the day at Valley Fair (much like Six Flags), played at the park and so much more!  What a fantastic visit and one very generous family!

You probably pictured me at home, attending and hosting all kinds of parties, but he truth is that it was the busiest week I have had at work.  Maybe busier than I ever remember!  I worked a lot.  I missed you terribly, but it was comforting to know how much fun you were having while I was able to get a lot of work done.

The boys and their cousins on Lake Minnetonka.

As you returned from this fun adventure, school was about to begin.  As I completed your registration at school a few weeks ago, I had a realization that both of you would be in school now. That realization gave some interesting and conflicting thoughts in my head...... Wow! Two kids, both kids in school.  Joshua was entering second grade.  I had gotten used to him being at school with me.  But Luke?  Luke has been my baby, my youngest, and I really wasn't sure that I wanted him to go to school yet.  If he was not sure, how could I be?  In fact, there were some days that he was not sure about kindergarten either.  One day he would say, "I can't wait for kindergarten.  I will get to see you at lunch.  I can go to school with you.  But other times he would say, "Mom, I want to do preschool again.  I don't want to go (to school) yet.". When I asked him why he would tell me that he wanted more time to play. Bless his heart.  I can't say that I blame him?  He knows that kindergarten is work, and he would rather play.  Sounds reasonable. 

Luke's first day in kindergarten.

I am happy to report that two weeks into school, Luke is loving it!  When we ask him how his day was, he will usually reply, "really good.". Those words are music to my ears.  Luke has made friends, and each time I see him at school, he gives me a huge smile.   The few times I have seen him on the playground, he is usually playing with at least one friend, and again, he is always happy.  At home he usually likes doing his homework while Joshua is doing his.  Luke loves reading  his books from school to us.  He is very proud of himself.  He is sounding out words to write, and has been writing books about ninjas and his family.  He has become quite an author.  We were getting ready to watch a movie, and Luke picked up a keyboard that goes with one of the TV games, and he names the letters and numbers on the keyboard.  His interest in school is amazing!

Joshua's first day in second grade! 

Then, there is Joshua in second grade.  He loves everything about school.  I am surprised by Joshua having homework each night.  It only takes him about five minutes to complete, but we had to get used to the routine.  Joshua is enjoying old friends and new friends this year.  So far he thinks that everything is easy for him.And it is!  Joshua is reading like crazy, as usual.  It is difficult to keep up with books for him! 





So whether I was ready or not, both boys are in school.  I am getting used to the idea.  Of course I knew that everything would be OK with them.  I think I just might be OK too.

The boys first day of school for the school year.

I know that I love you way more than I did yesterday.

Love,
Mama

Goodbye, Jake! Hello, Daisy Lou!

Dear Joshua and Luke,
 

Saying goodbye to Jake the turtle

A few weeks ago we said goodbye to Jake the turtle.  Jake was brought into our home a few months ago, and warmly embraced by all of the boys in the family.  Daddy and Luke built a deluxe two story home for Jake, complete with a white picket fence, trees, stones, a swimming pool, and a ramp.  This was one fancy vacation home!   Jake lived on daily feasts of crickets, meal worms, and various vegetables.  Recently Jake had been escaping from his home, so we knew it was time to return him to his family at the park.  We wold wake up in the morning and find Jake in the living room, next to Onyx, or in the kitchen.  Jake and Onyx shared a special bond.  The goodbye was only a little sad.  We all knew that Jake wanted to find his parents and siblings in the park again.  We do have a turtle vacation home for rent now.  Keep that in mind.

Happy family!

A significant part of the easy transition for Jake was that Daisy Lou came into our lives.  Daisy Lou is a beautiful blue Beta fish.  I also happen to think that Daisy Lou is the best pet the boys have ever had.  daisy eats six small pieces of food every day, has a small tank that needs cleaned every six months, and she is happy as can be swimming all over the tank.  She is happy with the glow-in-the-dark moon rock in her tank and the small clumps of green grass sprouting up in the tank.  We are very happy to have Daisy Lou in our house. 

Luke the Ninja

Luke loves playing dress up.  He loves to dress up.  Here is Luke the Ninja.  I often tell Luke that he is so cute that he would look great in a paper bag.  He can also wear his underwear on his head and look quite adorable, but I would not dare tell him that because he might try to do it at school or somewhere else (See the previous blog entry.).  Speaking of school, my sweet young son is starting kindergarten later this week.  Wow!  Where has the time gone?  More on that later.

I love you both more today than I did yesterday.

Love,
Mama

Branson or Bust!

Swimming fun!

Dear Joshua and Luke,

For some, a Branson vacation may conjure up thoughts of hill billies, Bald Knobbers, or possibly a vacation long ago when you were a child.  For both of you, Branson brings up your short term memories of swimming pools, hot tubs, go carts, Dixie Stampede, time with family, rainbow trout fish, and even the vomit-free Branson potatoes!  That is why we usually visit Branson about two times a year!




First of all, Branson is a short 4  1/2 hour drive for us.  We can get there in one morning or afternoon.  The road there and back is usually filled with counting road signs, a short nap for all (except the driver!), "I Spy with My Little Eye games," and now time with the DS.The pool and hot tub draw us back each and every time.  While Joshua is considered the Hot Tub Connoisseur, we all enjoy time spent in the hot tub, even when it is freezing outside!  We have been to Branson on New Years Eve when it was 75 degrees and when it was 2 degrees.  The hot tub is always a hit!  Both of you love to swim, too.  Luckily, there are lots of pool opportunities regardless of the season!

This year's vacation to Branson was much like the previous ones, but this time you both felt like it was one big play date for the week because our friends came with us.  It was a blast!

Yes, that is underwear on his head!

We started with shopping at the outlets (for moms and dads) and Silver Dollar City.  We went last year and had a fabulous time.  While Luke and I were not quite as excited about going back this year, Joshua and Daddy went with the other family!  They had a blast!  It is always fun to experience it again with friends!  Luke's comment was, "Why do they want to go out in the heat anyway?"  So Luke and I planned a visit to the Titanic Museum, extra swim time, and time with just us.  This worked out well for me because unfortunately my knee is not fully healed from a previous injury.  The thought of walking around Silver Dollar City with my knee healing and the heat did not sound ideal to me (although it would have been fun to experience it all again with our friends), so it worked out well for Luke and me. 

Who's having more fun?

 Luke and Joshua have both been fascinated with the Titanic.  While I did not expect to take Luke to the Titanic Museum for a few more years, it was a great way to spend the afternoon, and he had really been wanting to go!  It was interesting to say the least.  Luke loved listening to the audio tour with his own device.  The interactive parts were most meaningful to Luke - feeling the 28 degree water, walking up the ship deck at almost a 90 degree angle, sitting in a life boat, and touching a "real" iceberg.  Luke was also fascinated with the map of the Titanic's route.  When he got home, we made a map of the route ourselves and a short book with Titanic facts in it to share with the others. 

The race begins......

In addition, we spent time at the go carts and fish hatchery with both families!  Neither of you ever tire from watching the 12 minute film on raising rainbow trout fish, feeding the fish, and seeing the multitude of taxidermied animals and live animals found throughout Missouri.  The go carts was fun as usual.  I never know who has more fun, Daddy or you two.  I always have fun taking pictures!  And it would not be a true Branson vacation on the go carts if I was not embarrassed at least half a dozen times by Daddy's aggressive and competitive behavior on the go carts! While driving the bumper boats was new this year, I am pleased to report that Daddy did not fire the water gun one time, but instead taught Luke how to be relentless with it!



  
We spent one day Riding the Ducks on a tour to Lake Taneycomo.  This was the first time for the ride into Lake Taneycomo.  You both love driving the duck in the water!  Daddy did an outstanding job as usual preparing grilled dinners for us almost every night.  Luke complains about eating potatoes by claiming that they "make him vomit", but we have always gotten him to eat "Branson vomit-free potatoes" in the past.  (We peel and cut potatoes into small pieces, BUTTER them, and microwave them - very yummy, but something we usually do just in Branson.)  Somehow I think Luke has started to figure out that the Branson potatoes are not too much different than our regular potatoes.  That the potatoes in Branson do not really come "vomit-free."

Joshua had a great strategy on the bumper boats!

Another highlight of the trip is crafts and activities at the Resort Club House.  We made tie-dyed t-shirts.  You both felt like specialists after making them last year!  You also made sand art sculptures with beautiful, amazing colors!  Wii Sports was a hit, too!  You both love crafts!  And I really enjoy doing them with you!

Love family time!

Something might be wrong with me if I did not mention Daddy's Big Branson adventure skycoasting!  While we were all surprised that Daddy was even interested in skycoasting, he had so much fun and is very proud to show off his two minute video adventure ~ another Branson treasure!

Thanks for a super fun vacation once again this year.  I love you both more today than I did yesterday!

Love,
Mama

When You Were Babies



Joshua & Luke outside Dairy King.



Dearest Joshua and Luke,

I am not sure if it is due to the birthdays this week or exactly why this has been conversation, but you have both been asking a lot of questions about when you were babies.  I wish I could tell you it was about the little sister you have both always wanted, but that is not the case either.  So......this week we were telling you stories about when you were babies.  I remember when we first brought Joshua home, we were surprised at how little we actually knew about taking care of a baby.   I had been a teacher for ten years. We had taken care of your niece and nephews while their parents were on vacation.  We took "How To Take Care of a Baby" classes, but none of that actually prepared us for bringing you home.

Luke is right in the middle, thinking about the next move.

 One of our biggest challenges, as it was with most parents, was getting you both on a schedule. I nursed you both for almost fifteen months each, and we believed in feeding you on demand, not on a schedule set up by us.  So that made the task of figuring out some sort of schedule even more challenging.  We found our way, but it was a lot of trial and error.  You both learned to fall asleep while nursing so that made the bedtime routine very easy (as long as you were nursing).  Nurse you.  Fall asleep.  Nurse you.  Fall asleep.

VBS performance starring Joshua!

During the first few weeks of having Joshua at home, we had to drive around town to get you to fall asleep.  And that worked for a few weeks until you figured out what Daddy was doing.  Or until we pulled into the driveway and tried to get your carrier out of the car.  I remember many times that Daddy would drive you around.  Luke fell asleep easier, and I do not remember having to drive him around near as much as we did with Joshua.  Other tricks we used were singing lullabies or other soft songs.....Jesus Loves Me,  Rock A Bye Baby, Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, Hush Little Baby Don't Say A Word.........over and over and over again.

Luke carrying a baby on his back in the Discovery Room.

We would walk around the upstairs singing and pacing.  Singing and pacing.  While at the moment, it seemed challenging, I would not trade any of those moments for anything.  And once in a while, you will still ask me to sing a lullaby to you, and I love doing it.  I have added a few to my repertoire - a favorite being.....La La Lu, La La Lu, La La Lu Little Lukie.....(from Lady and the Tramp). 

Joshua & Luke placed dinosaur bones in the right order!

Joshua celebrated his 7th birthday this week.  Wow!  That is hard to believe!  Seven years old seems like a kid, not a little boy anymore.  Joshua got a day to do whatever he wanted.  So we started the day at the Science Center.  We watched the IMAX movie, Space Junk, and Daddy and Joshua visited the Nanoworlds exhibit.  Joshua also asked for white cupcakes with sprinkle frosting.  For dinner, we ate at Dairy King, a new favorite place of Joshua's.  I think he really likes the root beer floats there, but that was his choice.  It was a great day!  Joshua got some games to play on the Wii. And Joshua and Luke got a Wii!  He also got lots of phone calls and messages to wish him well throughout the day. 

Later this month, he will have a birthday party at the bowling alley with lots of school friends.

I love you both more today than I did yesterday.

Love,
Mama

Random Run Ons..........

Dearest Joshua & Luke,

Father's Day 2012 - you both made very special Father's Day cards for Daddy. We also gave him some new clothes, things he never buys for himself. We took daddy out for breakfast, then Dad spent the rest of the day getting the camper in working order. More on the camper later. While that may not sound like a fabulous Father's Day for some, Dad said he spent it just the way he wanted to - with his family. You both tell Dad all the time that he is the best dad in the world for many reasons.

The winning red team!

Close of the Baseball Season - The last couple of weeks brought Joshua's baseball season to a close.  It was a great season this year mostly because of the team.  Joshua had some great coaches to work with, and some awesome teammates.  They all worked well together, and there were only two rain outs so all of the games were played this season.  The whole team grew so much in their baseball skills.  Joshua is so fast when he runs the bases, and he can hit a ball very far.  His biggest trick of the season was bunting.  He tricked the other team several times with this move.  He was so proud of himself!

Playing DS's in the camper.  Now that is roughing it!

First Campout - Daddy finally got the camper ready for camping action.  You were both thrilled to say the least!  You both stayed in the camper with daddy.  You both slept on the pull out bed, and Daddy slept on the kitchen table pull out.  You roasted marshmallows and fell fast asleep.   Daddy cooked pork steaks and some veggies on the grill for dinner.  Luke decided to sleep at the house with me.  My best guess is that he missed the TV and seeing a show.  The ironic part is that he fell asleep on the couch about twenty minutes into the show, so he did not get to watch it all anyway.  The third night was the most exciting because two friends stayed with you both in the camper.  After making smores and trying to get everyone in their pajamas, I headed home to stay with Onyx and Jake.  You were all giggling and joking non-stop when I left.  Daddy said the last person fell asleep about 11:30 pm.  Luke and a friend were up at 5 am, so Daddy took them fishing.  A couple friends caught a fish.  It was lots of fun, and a sleep over that you will remember for a long time.

Peasant #1 a.k.a.. Joshua

Georgina & The Dragon - Starring Joshua!  Yes, Joshua played Peasant #1 in Georgina and the Dragon.  Joshua attended a two week drama camp that culminated in a performance for all of the families.  Joshua had a great time attending the camp.  He met new friends from all grades, and had his second acting role.  (In case you forgot, Joshua's debut was a surfer in the Underwater Adventure in Mrs. H's kindergarten class.) Joshua was so lucky to have two friends come and see him in the show.   You were so lucky to have your friends to come and support you!

Luke's first bean crop!

Luke the Farmer, Luke the Last Airbender  - Things have been equally exciting for Luke!  Luke grew a bean from seed that he planted in preschool.  His bean plant is healthy and growing each day.  We harvested the first crop, two beans.  Daddy steamed them and we all shared a piece of the bean!  It was so yummy.  Also, Luke got a haircut this week, and talked Daddy into painting a blue arrow on his head to look like Aang, the last Airbender.

Luke - the Last Airbender

So much more has been happening.....More to come soon.   I do love you both  more today than I did yesterday.

Love, Mama