HAPPY BIRTHDAY NICK!

Nicholas is officially two today! Happy Birthday little Nickle Pickle. Although two years of age has brought out a little bit defiance in him, he still remains to be our sweet little affectionate and mellow little boy who adores his big brother, is tender towards his little sister, and loves to dance and sing.

Nicholas made his quiet and uncomplicated little entrance on December 21st, 2006. Despite his small stature, everything about him since, has been big. His emotions are big. His energy is big. His imagination is big. His heart is big. Somehow my little baby boy is now, just a little boy. The baby who once was unknown to me, hidden in my tummy and offering up only kicks and tumbles, is now the little boy who has warmed my heart and softened my soul. The baby who once needed constant comforting now comforts me with his unsolicited hugs, cuddles and kisses. He fills my whole being with joy (and sometimes a little frustration and anger too). I am still in awe of my little soulful blue-eyed boy.

There is such a mix of emotions during the hustle and bustle of each day’s routine. Yet at night when all is calm (and that happens VERY late at our house) I stare at him in his crib, I am overwhelmed with pride and awe and love for him as I am with each of my children. Nicholas continues to amaze me everyday… and even though I know something new and exciting awaits me each morning, as I stare at him in his crib, I silently say, “Don't let him grow. I like him just like that!”

He is beautiful. He is amazing. He is TWO.

Union Station and SANTA!

We got to see all sorts of trains...big one's, little one's, gigantic one's and even got to ride on one. Then we braved the cold to get on a REAL train to see Santa!!! Nick and Kate LOVED Santa....Kate was curious and Nick smiled really big and crawled in Santa's lap. Santa was kind enough to wipe little Nicholas's runny nose. Jonathan was not afraid of Santa, just didn't want to sit in his lap...of course riding the elligator and escagator was fun too.

No surgery today...

Looks like we are rescheduled on Jan. 15th. Kate's recent Bronchiolitis ruled out the possiblity due to the need to put he under for so long for the procedure...anesthesiology was concerned about any possible airway issues related to previous infection. We were disappointed, but her safety most certainly comes first. We just have to keep her healthy until then...which is a difficult task in winter and with two older brothers! :)

One of those moments I wished I had my camera for...

Our church Christmas Program was today...I had nursery duty so I had to watch it broadcast on the tv in the room, but Jonathan got up on stage and blew bubbles with his Sunday School class while the older kids sang Christmas songs. It was ADORABLE...and made Jason and I misty eyed seeing him up there looking so big and not the least bit timid. We also lit the Advent Candle as a family. Jason read a prayer while I read scripture all while juggling the three kids. Thankfully, Kate didn't try to grab the mic out of my hands. They were all on their best behavior despite all three being a little under the weather. We ended our day with a drive around to see the Christmas lights...about 20 minutes in, Jonathan says, "Let's go home. I'm tired and just want to lay on the couch and watch TV". Wow.

Nick's Birthday Party

Although Nick's birthday isn't until the 21st, we celebrated early due to Kate's scheduled surgery and recovery next weekend. He obviously wasn't feeling 100%, but he seemed to have a great time surrounded by friends and family. He LOVES his new kitchen!

I'll save a special blog message about our sweet little middle child for later in the week...what a wonderful little guy and what a blessing to have him be a part of our family and to watch him grow!

Can we catch a break?

We are patiently and anxiously awaiting Kate's surgery this coming Thursday...although we are not 100% sure it is going to happen. I took both Kate and Nick to the Dr. Wednesday afternoon as both were runny and had terrible barking coughs. We walked away with a diagnosis of bronchiolitis for both babies, but Kate was also diagnosed with an ear infections and croup. Our Pedi choose to be aggresive with medication so "hopefully" she'll be good to go. However, if there's the slightest hint of a cold, we will have to reschedule....so please say some prayers for us! We want to get all this behind us...

Our first LMC Parent gift

Jonathan brought home his first present for us made at Liberty Montessori Center. We were told not to ask many questions until it was time to open the handmade gift (as 3 years olds do not tend to keep secrets too well). He was so proud of his creations! So were we!

Santa Clause is coming to town...Jonathan's version.

Apparently he hasn't gotten the "bad or good" part! :)

I tried...even bribery didn't work!

Two Peas in a Pod

Nick will do anything for (with) his baby sister...

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