Emmett's first play date

Whenever EV has a "first," the immediate thing that conjures up in my mind is a blogpost topic. But for Emmett it's not even an after thought.  I guess that's why second-borns are more laid back, they really have no choice.  Life is crazy keeping up with EV's schedule including play dates.  Poor Emmett doesn't really have friends his age, that is until recently. 

Logan is not only Emmett's age (they are only a week or so apart) but they both have older sisters (also very close in age, the girls are 7 months or so apart and are in the same ballet class).  How perfect!!  I love that we could have a play date with just the boys or with both kids and they both would have playmates.  So, last Friday, Emmett had his first play date.  There were some bumps and scratches, discovery of new toys and sippy cups, and best of all a friend to experience it all together.

They played together:

Ate together:

Laughed together:

5 years old!

I cannot believe Evangeline is 5 years old.  We celebrated her birthday last weekend the only way we knew how--going all out!  I have developed a love for planning parties. I enjoy thinking through the details and seeing everything come together. And I love watching people enjoy it all, making it all worthwhile.

For EV's 5th birthday we had a costume dance party. I let EV give me ideas of what she wants and then we do our best to put it together. Jimmy was in charge of the invite, music and food. I took care of the costume, decorations, and activities. This year EV helped quite a bit with crafting the decorations and it was such great bonding time.

The day of the party was hectic for sure but we all had such a great time. Jimmy dressed up as a lobster and EV was a mermaid. We had both kids and parents dancing. We crafted masks and the party favors were noise makers and pop rocks. Get it pop rock? Since its a dance party?

And just like that she's now 5 years old. She continues to bring our whole family laughter and joy. She truly is a gift from God and we are thankful everyday for such a blessing. Evangeline, we pray that you will grow to be a passionate, thoughtful, loving young woman of God. And that as you develop and discover new talents and passions you will use it to glorify Him. May you have a love and compassion for people, caring for those in need. We love you sweet girl and we are so proud of you!

Mommy, Emmett is getting in my way!!

And so a new chapter begins.  Emmett has been mobile for a couple months now, which has brought on new challenges and adventures.  As much as EV has been wanting a new playmate, she didn't realize that this new playmate would have his own idea of fun.  She attempts to tell him what to do and how to do it, but alas, he does not listen.  He rummages through her baskets filled with her artwork and knocks down her figurines she has strategically placed.  She gets frustrated and he thinks its funny.  Then it started happening, first she would take toys away or scream "noooooooo."  Then she started pushing him. 

We try to teach her that she has to share now and learn to compromise.  We try to explain to her that it cannot always be about what she wants to play and that if Emmett was playing with something first that she cannot snatch it away from him.  She does not like this new way of life.  This is not what she asked for.

There are days when she is sweet to Emmett.  She lets him join her in her pretend play.  Those are the days when Emmett seems a little more cooperative.  It's when she gets possessive, he gets defensive.  I know they will figure it out and my hope is that they will learn to become great friends. I feel grateful for these two and I'm trying to learn how to make the most of every moment I have with them.