Background

Here's a little background for those of you who haven't heard from us in a while. Dan is a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army and we've been stationed at Fort Lewis, WA for one year. He works many long hours, and takes frequent week-long trips to the field, but we are so proud of him and his many accomplishments since his commissioning. I have been busy at home with the two boys and am thoroughly enjoying it. Now that I have experienced being a working mom as well as an at-home mom, I can truly appreciate what all those other moms out there go through. It is definitely a challenge - especially when Dan is gone - but we manage. We enjoy living in the Pacific Northwest, but certainly went through some "climate shock" when we moved here. Our Hawaii lifestyle didn't transfer well to this milder climate, but we are getting used to it - just like we do every time we move!

Nicolas is 6 years old and is almost done with kindergarten. He is immensely smart and witty - if I do say so myself. He is interested in everything: political history, astronomy, anatomy, Legos, and even video games! He loves to read and draw and figure things out. He questions everything - which I love! It has been awesome living in a neighborhood with other kids. Nicolas is a friendly guy and will get outside to play nearly every day. His newest skill: hula-hooping! Nicolas is a wonderful big brother when Gavin isn't trying to get into his things! He is such an affectionate little boy - it's hard to believe he's growing up so fast!

Gavin is 15 months old and is certainly developing his own personality and attitude. He enjoys playing outside and getting dirty. He has the ever-present "toddler bump" on his forehead, making me look like a bad mom! He eats anything we put in front of him with gusto, and is therefore at the top of his height/weight class for his age. He is usually pretty quiet and easy-going, dragging his favorite blanket all over the house. He loves Nicolas' bedroom and will do anything to get in there! He is quickly becoming a fan of Thomas the Tank Engine, so there is no shortage of toys to keep him busy at our house! Gavin is going to be a big brother soon, too, although he has no idea what is coming! I have a feeling someone might be a little jealous when the new brother arrives!

Dan comes home today from two weeks in the field, so we are all excited to see him again. That's all for now! Check back again for the next update.