Tattoos for Tots

We got a big booklet of tattoos at the end of January and they are proving to be tons of ongoing fun for the boys (and their Dada). First round was just one on each hand. After those faded, there was maybe one on each hand and also one of the forearm. This time around, they have sleeves! 

Soccer ball, knights, pirates, a crocodile and more!

Burke taught them these poses to show off their tats. 

Oh my!

Bowling

Last Saturday, I wasn't working and Burke didn't have any orchestra or wrestling obligations.  It was nice to have a weekend together as a family. So, for a fun family outing, we took the boys bowling for the first time ever. Can't wait to go again.

Ryan & Evan before we got started.

Ryan's up!

He knocked down a few pins.

Great reaction!

Evan needed a little help. 

After bowling we had lunch at Jimmy John's. 

Fun with bread!

Evan's Second Teeth Cleaning

I forgot my camera the first time his teeth were cleaned, but I was sure to remember it this time. He and Ryan were supposed to get their teeth cleaned the same day, but Ryan was sick and coughing a lot and I didn't want him to be subjected to it (or subject the hygienist to it). So, Ryan & I sat and watched Evan get his teeth cleaned like a pro. I was so proud when the hygienist said Evan's file said he was a great patient. And he had NO CAVITIES! A reason to celebrate! 

All clean!

Great job, Evie!!

Another Snowfall

Last Saturday, Lake Michigan dumped another significant snowfall on us. The boys came out with us while we shoveled the driveway. Here are a few shots of the boys in the snow! 

RYAN

EVAN

(It's about 10 days since this snow fell and it's all but gone now, thanks to warmer temps and rain.)

Birthday Party

Ryan recently attended his first official birthday-party-of-a-classmate. It was Lydia's 5th birthday! The festivities were held at a local gymnastics spot called Power in Motion.

Evan was bummed not to be able to go. He spends a lot of time with Ryan's classmates and feels a part of the group. He particularly likes Lydia, who is silly, fun and very smiley. She's one of the girls that Evan is referring to when he says, "I miss those girls."

It must be noted that I really enjoyed shopping for birthday gifts for a girl! Ryan said we needed to get something with flowers because girls like flowers. He picked out a cute little shirt. At first, I thought, I'm not getting her a shirt, but then I reconsidered, thinking it was sweet and thoughtful, and something that Ryan picked on his own. I noticed she wore the shirt to school today. Super cute payoff!

Just before heading in...

 Ryan next to the birthday girl (in green). 

Taking a whack at the piñata. 

After all the kids had a turn, the candy was dumped and the kids got to fill a bag. Ryan thematically, specifically chose his candy. He only picked up Tootsie Roll Pops. This will not surprise anyone who knows Ryan. The nice thing is he shared them with Evan. Also, Grandma taught him to dip suckers in water to make them taste better. They love it! 

Cake and ice cream. Ryan sitting by his friend Zac. 

Lydia opens her gift from Ryan. 

Ryan had a really good time. He was cautious, but participated with an open mind in all the birthday party activities that were new to him. When we left, he began making plans for his own birthday party.