Popsicle

This was a low key week--inasmuch as the twins are ever low key. Reid has learned to climb on things (boxes, etc.), but we haven't been able to catch it on camera. The boys have also taken to wrestling occasionally, but they stop whenever we start recording. I am posting a video of the boys trying a popsicle. It is a little longer than I normally like to post; however, the faces the boys make are worth it.

Harry Potter and the Twins Revolt

It seems as though this has been an extremely long week. Monday is so far back I can hardly remember. Of course, this isn't an unusual situation for me. I think that one of the most striking aspects of being a stay-at-home mom is the amount that the days run together. Nothing sort of sets apart a Monday from say, Thursday, except how close it is to the weekend. This week though, the days may have mushed together, but each was punctuated with a keen yearning for the next Harry Potter book. I re-read the sixth one in preparation, and it turns out my little tactic worked a bit too well. Now Nick and I are in the uncomfortable position of having only one book between us. If I was a better person I would've let him read all weekend because he has to work during the day, but it turns out I'm not that altruistic. Instead, we've been taking turns. I only have about 150 pages to go, but Nick gets it for the rest of the night. I thought the boys had taught me patience, but it turns out...not so much. It is a good thing that our marriage has weathered some challenges (twins and whatnot) because sharing a Harry Potter book could definitely cause some stress.

Anyhow, while Nick and I have been gripped with Harry Potter mania (yes, we're geeks. We didn't dress up though) the boys have been doing a few new things themselves. Gage learned to clap--all on his own. He was sort of biting at the heel of his hand, and then a minute later he was clapping. He's pretty proud of himself about the whole business.

Reid, on the other hand, has perfected the art of climbing into spaces he shouldn't be, reaching things he shouldn't reach, and touching every disgusting and germy surface in the house to his mouth. He's a pretty happy baby.

Then, naturally, there is The Spit Game. The Spit Game is only really fun if the mouth is full of food, so it generally occurs during mealtime. Usually, I have to say, Gage initiates. But Reid is happy to join in. Meals have definitely gotten louder, and a bit more splatter-y. Lucky for me I don't now own any clothes that can't handle being washed every time I wear them.

That's pretty much it. I'll post videos of the aforementioned phenomenon. Life here continues to be fun and crazy. We miss all of you and wish more lived close. I am especially enjoying the posts of Collin & Liana's new bundle of joy. Thank goodness for these blogs!

This is Nick holding AJ, Angie & Joe Stoddard's new little guy. Look how big Gage is!

Reid, Being his flirtatious self

The Spitting Game (sorry this video is so long and dark!):

Gage Clapping:


Reid Stealing the Spotlight from Gage Clapping:


Reid Climbing into a Tight Spot:

Two Little Monkeys

We got to see a lot of family this week at Dadre's wedding--congratulations Dadre! It was great to see all the family there too. Also, congratulations to Gjanden and Brittany on the pregnancy.

I hope you like the video I've posted. The boys reminded me of two little monkeys jumping on the bed, hence the title of this post (hopefully no falling off or breaking of heads).

In other news, we were at the store buying some more expensive baby stuff, and I said, "Janine, let's check to see if they have a Wii." She said patronizingly, "They won't have one." But guess what, we found one and bought it immediately. It is sweet.

I've added a few more links to friends and family websites/blogs on the sidebar in case anyone wants to check them out. Hope you are all well.

Happy 4th of July!

I know it is the 8th, but Happy 4th of July anyway. The fourth is one of my favorite holidays. Americans celebrate life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, usually by doing one of my favorite things: getting together with a group of friends or family and having a sweet barbecue. The fireworks are enjoyable too.

Collin and Liana had their baby (Lillian) on Friday the sixth, which also happens to be Laurel's birthday--Happy Birthday! Lillian is healthy and beautiful. Collin has put up a great post giving more details, so I'll won't spoil anything else. Congratulations to the Kraus family.

A quick story. Gage fell asleep earlier than Reid tonight, and (*Mr. Furious voice*) that made Reid furious. He stood in his crib, gripping the sidebars and screaming at Gage to wake up, but Gage was out cold. This happens fairly often, and it usually makes Reid furious. It is really funny.

Janine Posts This Week!

Really, it is exciting to have a post from me rather than Nick, isn't it? A refreshing change of voice. This week was pretty fun--what I can remember. We took the boys swimming for the second time, and Gage demonstrated again that he's a bit nervous about the water. He eventually decided it was fun. It helps that Reid really enjoys the water--Gage watches Reid laughing and splashing and figures it must not be too bad.

The weather has been pretty dang hot, between 98-101 most days (obviously our Phoenix friends are mocking us right now) so we haven't been able to do much outside. The boys are napping better though, so my days are a little more predictable.

Other news of the week: the boys went to their first birthday party and we said goodbye to Tina, who has moved back to Seattle for a bit. The boys will miss her!

I am picking the pictures this week. I can't describe the sense of power I feel at this moment. Perhaps I should take charge more often. I'll include some from the pool and a few cute ones of the boys in random places.

Love to all!