Merry Christmas: Round One

In the past, Christmas has been an absolute whirlwind of madness. We would try to see all of our families on Christmas Eve and Christmas day. It just got to be where even though we were trying to be with everyone, each stop felt rushed and insincere. Our eyes were constantly on the clock, thinking about the next stop, not able to enjoy the family in the present. In the back of our minds, we knew this would only become more challenging as you boys grow.

This year, we have changed things up and will be able to spend more time with each family. Yesterday, we spent Christmas with Daddy's dad's side of the family. We will see them again on Christmas Eve morning, but some of our out of town family will be gone by then. So, we had a mid-week pizza party! It was so fun watching you play with your cousins and interact together. (Wiley, you were a little more focused on the dancing Minnie you immediately claimed and didn't want to let go of her!)



I so enjoy this time of year - making memories and sharing the love of Christ with friends and family.

Decorating Christmas cookies:

   

 

 

 

 

  

 

So many giggles and tickles!

    

 

 

 

 

Two grandparents. Eleven children - all five and under - entertaining to say the least!

 

 

 

 

 

Adventures in Potty Training

We introduced you boys to the potty this summer. And while we aren't doing any major potty training, we are at least getting you used to the idea, giving you some big boy undie time, following your lead, and when you show willingness, plopping you on the potty! You have both had a lot of successes already (...and some failures too!); I'm sure diapers will soon just be a distant memory.

Potty training with twins is great because you will often encourage each other. Your newest thing is wanting the door closed - already you need your privacy - but wanting your brother to join you. I often hear, "Yeah Ry-Ry!" or "Gooooo Wy-Wy!" as you clap and cheer each other on to use the big boy potty. If I try to peek in, I'm often reminded to "Close door, momma!" It's the best!

Life with twins is definitely double the joy!

Happy Thanksgiving

There is so much to be thankful for on a daily basis. To help us focus on all that we have in our lives, we spent the month of November reflecting each night on giving thanks. Often at the top of our lists were family. Time is too short. So, we are trying our best to soak up every beautiful moment, especially those spent with those we are closest too.

(Appropriately so, I spent most of Thanksgiving just enjoying being with family and not behind the camera snapping pics. Here are the few we got from the day)

Mommy, Tse-Tse, and Funcle all accidentally matched! Zsu Zsu forced us outside to get some pictures of her babies.

 

 

 

 

  

                                              

                                                      

                                                

                                                   

Oh TWO-dles / Chugga Chugga Two-Two!

As a momma to twins, I have always been uber to sensitive that you are two different people. I don't want you to be lumped together as "the twins." I want people to recognize your very different personalities. So, planning your party, I decided to do a double theme - one for each of you. However, I didn't take into consideration the fleeting moods of toddlers ; ) Wiley, you had a train theme; Ryan, Mickey Mouse. By the time your birthday arrived though you were both equally fond of Mickey and trains. But, it still worked out great. You came downstairs the day before the party after naptime to find your house decorated in choo-choo and "hot-dog" (Mickey) decorations and were so excited! You couldn't stop pointing to all the choo-choos and hotdogs you saw. I was so excited to see you both so excited.

You had such a blast at your party. You are so blessed, little boys, to be surrounded by so many people who love and care for you. Happy Birthday, monkeys! We love you so much!