So looking back on the holidays, we can say we were blessed beyond belief. Max's mom Nora came to stay with us for a week, we celebrated with my family both days, we heard from all our loved ones and we saw friends too. We were reminded of how lucky we were to share the holidays with one another when we were given the news of the loss of a friend. Pat coached with Max and taught with him at Wayland. He was a father of four, a strong Christian, a husband to his high school sweetheart, an educator, and one of the nicest, most funny people we've been blessed to know. Seeing someone of our age, with so much going for him pass so suddenly (heart attack at 39 on Christmas morning) has really shaken Max and I. Something like this makes you take stock, be grateful, and hold your baby and one another a little closer. So in the spirit of what Pat's loss has taught us, let me tell you how much we love everyone reading about our lives. And how thankful for you and all our blessings.
I'll end this post with some upbeat photos. Ryan continues to be our joy and is changing so much. It's hard to explain it, but it's like he's morphing into a boy right in front of us. He talking in full sentences. And he is so ironic. Yesterday for example, he sneezed while in the car. I said, "What a big sneeze." His response, "Yeah, bless me." When he's done with certain foods, and if he's not throwing them when his naughty comes out, he says "No thank you, no thank you," until you remove it. He's shot up in the last three weeks and sometimes is wearing a 3T. He's in the midst of transitioning up to an older classroom at school, early pre-school, and he's excited. He knows all his letters, colors, many of his shapes, is singing songs and reciting books from memory. Most of all, he curious and playful and always happy....that is when he's not showing his red headed temper. We certainly are loving this stage since it really feels like we're building relationships, not just being caregivers.
I'll leave you with this. Yesterday Ryan and I were deep into playing trains when Max came home. Ryan stopped, got a huge smile on his face and ran to greet Max. When Max picked Ryan up, Ryan gave him a huge hug (and made the "ummm" noise I make when I hug him) and just said on his own for the first time, "I love you Daddy." SO sweet it bring you to tears.
Love to you all,
Court, Max + Ryan
Christmas Eve with Papa.
The new "DJ Station" has arrived. His new music maker has a turn table to scratch, a recording station and sampling station. He loves it.
After Christmas Eve dinner our angle began praying for a train set....
The tree was PACKED for Christmas morning. Santa was good to us.
The jingle bells from Grandma and Grandpa were a big hit...where were they when he needed to sing Jingle Bells at school? I think this music maker may be the only thing that could have un-frozen him!
In true form, like his mommy, Ryan has begun his bowling career at age 2. And he's better than me already. Look at him checking ou that pin placement before taking his form.
Though you can't tell by the facial expression, Ryan's new train was a hit!
Ryan was so into opening presents and then playing with each gift after, that opening took almost 4 hours!
Not sure who was more excited, Uncle E or Ryan for his new Fire Station. No it is not a doll house. It is a fire training facility with figurines.
Christmas dinner on my new table linens! It was a perfect day.
Rosy cheeks after time outside on the sled. Ok, daddy was on the sled. Ryan was into watching.
Nana and Ryan playing with his new puzzle cards.
