Oh, the personality and cuteness of our dear Janie Bug

January Pictures

The kids got to have a fun overnight at the Embassy Suites in downtown Bellevue with Pa and Bubby (with a guest appearance by Tia)


Joy's first time in the Johnny Jump-up

Jane's last time in the Johnny Jump-up

Lots of relaxing as a family while John gets better

"Will"

Will is really good at recognizing letters but has never been fond of sitting down to color or draw with a writing utensil. He'd rather run around and play games or "read" dinosaur books.
This being said, I'm extra proud of the little guy for working hard to learn how to write his name, even though he doesn't really enjoy it yet.
He's cute when writes his name--he coaches himself through each letter:
"W"---"Down, UP, Down, UP"
"I"--"Straigh Line"
"LL"--"Down, over, Down, over"

Tyrant Lizard King's Castle

Haircuts

Growing up, John always got his hair cut by his Mom. We are trying to continue that tradition with Mr. Will. Unfortunately, I am not a very skilled stylist and Will isn't a very willing participant at this point in time. He tolerates the haircut only when I threaten to take him to a barber, which he dislikes even more.

Usually our haircuts consist of the following dialogue by Will:
"No, Mommy, it's poky!! Ouch, Mommy!! NOOOOO!!"
(While John shoves chocolate or frosting or some other sugar-filled treat in his mouth in an attempt to keep him still/quiet)

In the end, Will usually comes out with a bad/uneven haircut. This go-around, we shaved his head completely to make things easier, and it actually looks pretty good. He's got a nice round head if I do say so myself.

Here is a "before" pictures, with an after picture to come.

Will and his two ladies post-buzz:

Grandma Mary's 88th Birthday

John's Grandma turned 88 last week, and we all got together to celebrate her birthday. We had a delicious meal at Dirk and Nedra's house including Swedish Creme and Chocolate Malts, two of Grandma's favorites. All four of her children were in attendance along with her local grand children/great grand children (she has 18 great grands and counting!)

Grandma, age 1

Aunt Esty and Janie

Grandma and her Swedish Creme in a giant martini glass

Grandma and Nedra

Uncle John (wearing Will's hat) and Grandma

Dirk and Mabel

Uncle Dave and Dirk with the youngest great-grandchildren

U-U-U-UW.....3 Husky wins in as many days calls for a UW Cheer (while eating macaroni and cheese, of course)...