The beginning of life with a 2 and a 3 year old

From the time I had my first glimpse of the terrible twos along with friends telling us that three was worse, Matt and I always thought that we would surely find out for ourselves since we would have one of each at the same time. Thankfully, Abby was pretty easy on us during her twos for the most part except for her drama queen tendencies and pension for throwing up when she got really upset.  Thankfully that has subsided.  So far the 3s are way more fun than not.  I realized the difference between 2 & 3 year old meltdowns (basically the way that everyone has gone through it before would describe it)- 2 year old are way more irrational and 3 year olds are more stubborn in the I do it MYSELF kind of way.

The other night, Matt was putting the kids in the bath and Abby was throwing a fit because she wanted to do something herself (can't recall what it was), and I was undressing Zack.  Out of nowhere he melted completely because he wanted to keep his shirt on- totally irrational.  So, both kids were serenading us with screams and we just took a deep breath, gave each other a big hug and laughed!  I think this was Zack's first tantrum-like experience and he was much better when he got out of the bath and got a big hug! 

I am pretty sure I wasn't as calm when Abby went from sweet to 2 in a flash.  I think the addition of a 5 month old to the mix made it a bit more unnerving and the fact that I wasn't sure if it was a phase or a her new personality.  Now, with experience, I know that it is just a phase:)....I hope!

I love that Abby is "reading" on her own now and that she reads to Zack

On the bright side, the majority of the time they are such a joy.  Abby is getting much more creative in her play and brings Z along for the ride.  We often have pillow trains through our living room, hide and seek, and lots of other fun imaginary games.  Abby has also started playing with dolls for really the first time ever.  She takes care of them and Zack joins in to.  They do everything together and if one laughs, they both do.  Same with crying, unfortunately.  It is fun to watch them become friends and enjoy eachother's company.  It is also nice that they get to play with other kids throughout the day now that they go to separate preschool and daycare.  I love that they are so excited when they are reunited.

Zack is copying everything we say these days and his favorite it to call Abby in a low voice like daddy does, "Ab-i-gail!"  He counts one, two, bee, which is way too cute!  He is pretty mellow still-at least compared to big sis who can be a tad more demanding.  He has a really great spatial sense it seems and likes to build towers, read stories and be outside.  He has figured out how to climb in and out of his crib- so not ready to move him to a bed!  He is quite the jumper and climber.

So far I can't complain about life with a 2 and 3 year old.  I hope it I can still say that 6 months from now!

Here are a few pictures from the last month.  I have taken a total of 20 pictures this month.  I usually take anywhere form 300-1000.   So, I just have my random iphoto pics and horrible lighting. It has been a CRAZY, unpredictable month to say the least.  I am looking forward to March and more updates and decisions hopefully coming soon!

SUPER CHEESE!

Happy Valentine's Day

They like to hang out in Z's crib