Alphabet Books.

I decided to have the boys make their own alphabet book.  (Inspired by No Time for Flashcards)
A few days of the week, I pick the next letter of the alphabet to have them make.  When it comes to writing letters, I know there is a certain order kids should learn letters based off the form/shape of letter, etc.  However, my theory for identifying each letter is that since both boys know how to sing the ABC song, I thought if we started from the beginning with A, then they could sing their way through their book to help them identify the letter.  After going through the book enough times, they would eventually recognize and memorize each letter.

A is for Alligator 

(Jackson was finished by the time I remembered to get out my camera)

B is for Bee

While we were waiting for the {large amounts} of glue to dry, the boys searched for slugs to pour salt on....  

{I sometimes think I should have a "Mother of Boys" stamped on my forehead}

(excuse the left over peanut butter and jelly on his mouth) 

Jackson found something.

I love this picture.....notice Rigley in the background, too.

Focused and searching....

Jackson is in the stage where he will say or do anything for a laugh.  I guess licking his brother made us laugh.  

C is for Caterpillar

Blue Collar Workers.

Do you ever wonder why there are guys that just know how to fix things around the house and there are guys who don't even know how to change a light bulb?

I grew up watching my dad fix things around the house.  Back then, I don't think I realized that not all men are that way.  I assumed they were all handy men.

That is something I have always loved about Aaron.  He is just like my dad in that aspect.  If it is broke, he can fix it.....if we need something to be installed, he will install it......if he doesn't know how to do it, he will find out.

I sometimes wonder how some men just KNOW how to fix things and some don't have a clue.  However, when I looked out the window the other day, I think my question was answered.

Brick and Stone Complete!

Garrett's Stats: 2 Years Old

Since his last check up @ 18 months, Garrett grew 2 and a half inches and gained 2.4 pounds. Looking at his percentile, he is a tall skinny thing!

Comparing Jackson at age 2 to Garrett at age 2:

• Jackson was 6 ounces bigger
• Garrett is 1/2 inch taller

Looking back at previous blogs, their weight is becoming closer, but Garrett continues to be 1/2 inch taller. I always like to compare their stats because they both weighed 7 pounds at birth and Jackson was 1/4 inch taller than Garrett.

Everything went good at Garrett's checkup. She was concerned about his vision screening for his left eye. He didn't fail it, but there was just one number that concerned her. She said the test only shows that there may be a problem, not that there is a problem. She wants me to bring him back in September when Jackson has his 4 year check up and they will screen Garrett again. If it is the same result, he will then see an eye doctor. I really don't feel like anything is wrong. I have never noticed him struggling to see or a wondering eye.

He was great at his doctor appointment. He was so calm and serious and for the first time in history, he didn't cry when he got his shot!!! That's a first! He used to cry when they rubbed the alcohol on his leg.

Playdate & House Update

Tuesday, the boys and I went to Marla's house for a playdate with Parker, Payton, and little baby Grace. The weather was beautiful, so we were able to spend a lot of time outside.

More birthday fun!

Presents for Garrett and Sprinkles Cupcakes! Yum!

This is a moment that I REALLY wished I had my video camera for. Parker was holding the umbrella and Jackson decided to pretend like it was raining...pretending is currently one of his FAVORITE things to do. He is quite the little actor.

Here he is saying something like "Parker, did you get the umbrella because it is raining outside?"

Jackson then pretending like it was raining and said something like "Oh no! I need to get under the umbrella too!!" I love Parker's face in this picture. I am sure she was thinking "What the heck is wrong with this kid?"

Now they are both safe from the "rain!"

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Aaron went by the house today and got some more pictures.

Side of House

The front of the garage....the stone is still wet.

Hallway.

From left to right:  bathroom, Jackson's Room, Garrett's Room.

Garrett's Room

Jackson's Room

Their Bathroom

Standing in kitchen, looking out to dining and living room

The Office

The ceiling in the living room

The Master Bedroom

Master bedroom ceiling

Master shower

Master bath

Standing in the kitchen, looking towards front door.  

Front room to the right is the office.  The open room with the column, is the dining room (which I think I am making a playroom)

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