Who are these two little boys?

Each year, we struggle to get through the holiday season.  So much to do, and no free time! 
This year, we have even more to do now that our family is double the size.  But before we get carried away with the hussle and bustle of shopping, decorating, and traveling, I want to share a snipet of life with our boys.

Last night, all four of us were sitting on the living room floor playing after dinner.  We didn't have any toys...we were just crawling around, giggling, tickling, talking, and enjoying the moment.  One of the boys started to crawl out to the kitchen, and I called to him....Jackson (sing song).  And in the blink of an eye, he turned around and looked at me.  Next, I said something about Lincoln, and then his little head spun around to see what I wanted.
They recognize their names, and they are starting to respond to them!  This is fun!

We continued playing, and a few minutes later, one of the boys perched into a sitting position, and started clapping.  The other one followed suit.  We've been playing "patty cake" for the past few weeks, and they have now figured out how to clap!  They get so excited - big smiles across their faces as they sit and clap their hands.  It's truly amazing how much these little guys learn!
Patty cake has been a wonderful blessing in our house.  We now use it to assist in cleaning them up after meals - I ask for patty cake number 1, and they give me one hand.  After wiping that off, I ask for patty cake number 2, and they hold out the other hand.  It's so much easier than fighting with them to get them cleaned up!  They still don't like having their faces washed, but we are working on that!

We are also finding creative ways teach the boys what they should and shouldn't get into.  Don't get me wrong, we still have a LONG way to go, so if anyone has suggestions, we are open to them! 
The one thing that has been working for the past week is making a beeping sound whenever we get ready to close something that they are getting into (the refrigerator, pantry, dishwasher, etc.).  Brian started it...BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP (imagine the sound a big truck makes when it is backing up), and we tell them to back up as the door is closing.  Amazingly, they are starting to learn that when mommy or daddy make that noise, they need to back up before the door closes.  Smart little boys!
 
Each day is more fun than the last right now.  I see what they are learning, new skills they are developing, and cherish each time they react or interact with us.  It is a little sad to think that my babies are growing up, but it is also exciting to think about what the future holds for ALL of us!

Milestones

• Jackson
• officially "graduated" out of his helmet on Monday.  We had his final measurement appointment, and he's continuing to grow, and his head is growing symetrically, so NO MORE HELMET!!!!  (Can you tell I'm excited?)
• continuing to go to physical therapy every other week for his neck.  The muscle is stretched, but we really need to be diligent in strengthening it now, so he holds his head up straight
• stands for long periods of time, and has tried to take that first step several times - but usually stumbles.  I think he'll be walking by the end of the year though - he has such strong legs!
• still only the 1 lone bottom tooth, but the second one is trying really hard to pop through!
• has a million dollar smile that melts my heart every time I see it
• has the most unique and infectious laugh...you just want to tickle him all the time!
• is quite the talker - especially in Meijer grocery shopping!  (Hope we didn't embarrass daddy too much!)
• Lincoln
• pulls himself up on everything.  will stand for long periods of time while holding on - but still not sure about letting go!
• has perfected the "death grip" on legs - you just about can walk with him holding onto you!
• has 6 teeth - 2 on the bottom, 4 on the top.  He's been drooling and chewing on everything again though, so keep an eye out for more updates!
• is a bit more shy and reserved in public areas, or around large groups, but let's his true personality shine more and more through that toothy grin!
• has the "quiet laugh" that is precious...you may not necessarily hear him laugh, but it is written all over his face!
• is the "thinker"...he gives us looks occasionally like "why does his bottle have stuff in it, but mine is empty"
• is very patient and content - sitting in his high chair waiting to be cleaned up after his brother

So, as you can see, we have two happy, busy little boys who fill our lives with wonder, amazement, and love each and every moment of the day. 

We wish you all a very safe, blessed, and happy holiday time.  We hope you all find a few precious moments to cherish the extraordinary in your everyday life.

Love to all,
Kate, Brian, Lincoln, and Jackson