Sentence Work

Westbrook is reading like a crazy man these days. Last night we played the sentence game. Essentially we hold up a flashcard and he makes a full sentence using the word. Some samples:

Brown
 WB: My vanity is brown. (um, ok?)

As
WB: I am as cute as a strawberry. (indeed)

Of
WB: I am a part of your heart. (Then he kissed me on the nose. Then I cried just a little.)

There is no camera that can capture these moments

There are a handful of moments that are a part of my memory forever. For example, the first time I saw Wade across the ASU gym and knew with 100% certinaty that I was looking at the rest of my life. * There was also the first time I saw Westbrook and Llandis's squirmy newborn faces and the way they each felt in my arms.

Along the way, they have each produced incredible memories that we have tried to capture on camera. With nearly 3000 photos taken just by us in 2010 thus far, we have tried really hard to get it all. Still, there are things that we could not capture even if we had a full-time photographer following us around. Llandis and Westbrook both gave me those moments today.

Gram took the kids to the bounce house while I was working. I decided to join them because I missed the little bugs. Llandis was wearing the most beautiful yellow dress and colorful tutu. She was dancing in the middle of the play area when she spotted me. She ran at top speed with a smile. Her arms were flailing. Her legs were all over. She screamed Mama with her happiest high pitched squeal. Simply put... she was perfection. Even if I had a real camera or better yet, a video camera, there would be no way to capture her joy. As she hugged me she said "I'm happy, Mama." Just try to top that... I dare you.

Westbrook tried. I climbed in the big bounce house with him in hopes of carving out a little one-on-one time. Llandis was baby stalking** an 18 month old so I knew she would be occupied and allow me some time with my little guy. Westbrook and I wrestled around.*** There were a few painful knee knocks and head butts. We talked about preschool, summer vacation, and his impending year at Montessori school. With a scrunched up face, Westbrook looked my way asking "Will you sing?" He laid down on top of me with his head on my shoulder and feet past my knees. I sang a few verses of our favorite song while rubbing his back and he played with my hair. Love is so sweet.

Llandis never stopped moving long enough for a picture.

*Also, I can picture his name "Wade Cox" our dorm room message board after he called. Since I knew we were going to get married, I was devastated that this meant I would never be able to name a child Boxley. Boxley Cox? I think not. It has been almost 12 years since I realized I would never have a son named Boxley and I am still not 100% over it. One day. Fortunately, Wade is worth it :)

**Llandis must stay as close to all babies as possible. She will test the limits of how close she is allowed so you must watch her closely. Her obsession started with the twins, has progressed to cousin Lily, and at this point is a full on addiction.

***Westbrook: "You are not a good wrestler like Uncle Ben but it is still fun."

My Multitaskers

Me: Westbrook, what are you doing?

WB: Just working on somp'en. And loving. We are working and loving.

Check this out:
Westbrook wanted to send Liam an email asking him to come over for a playdate. He spelled out both names all by himself. We worked on the words play date together. He found all the letters on the computer himself. He was extremely proud. We didn't send his exact email but we did email his mom for a playdate. We are meeting Liam and his little sister at the bounce house tomorrow!

Movie Night w/ Daddy

For Wade

Thanks for the fabulous birthday, my love.

Bright Eyes - "First Day of My Life"



Thanks for the link, Leslie!

Daddy Tool Belt

After Westbrook was born, I gave Wade a "Daddy Tool Belt" complete with the baby owner's manual, diapers, etc. I was pretty proud of my creative little gift. It wasn't actually useful during the sleepless nights or endless diaper changes but I knew one day it would come in handy.

(doesn't he look young?!)

This week the tool belt is more than handy. He is busting his tail this week to build the kids a treehouse. I have no doubt that the tree house will be in the bulk of their childhood memories. I am awe of his dedication and work ethic to build this dream tree house. He is working himself to the bone. His work this week mirrors the type of father he is on a daily basis. He gives everything to the kids. He never stops. We are a lucky bunch of folks to have him.

Waking Up Is Hard To Do

What Motherhood Has Taught Me (#6)

You take what you can get and you cherish every second.

My Sleeping Baby

WB, one day old:

WB, almost 4: