Overdue Update!

O. K. I know it's been a minute since my last post. Needless to say, parenting two toddlers is both joyous and demanding. Addison and her little brother Solomon are true siblings. One minute, they're loving up on each other big time, and the next minute they're fighting over a toy, book, or our attention. Solomon and Addison now attend the same child development center and their rooms are located on the same hall. During Solomon's first few weeks, Addison would run up to him, give him a hug, and reassure him that everything would be alright. Yes, she takes her big sister role seriously! Solomon is such a sweetie! He's crazy about Miss Addison. If he sees her water bottle empty, he fills it up, takes it to her, and says, "Here you go Addison". I've even caught him washing Addison's back during bath time. His frequent nurturing of Addison is going to make her believe she really is a princess!!! Solomon's good receptive language skills have always surprised me, and his expressive language skills are really starting to kick in. I think the next big hurdle is potty training. He has shown signs of interest, so we'll probably start that in the next month or so. We are feeling quite like the settled family of four. It takes longer to get out the house with two kids and we stay home and eat in more so now than in the past. It's just easier. On the other hand, Addison and Solomon often entertain each other which gives mom and dad a break. It's so rewarding hearing them laugh and play with each other.

What else is happening? Addison had her first dance recital at school. She was so excited and adorable. During her performance, she yelled out several times, "Mommy, my hat's coming off!" I just yelled back, "That's O.K. baby, keep dancing!" And that she did. She danced, tripped, laughed it off and got back up immediately. I love that girl! Aaron took Solomon to get his first American haircut. Aaron said he was a perfect toddler during that process. He sat in that huge barber chair like a champ and didn't shed one tear. That's my boy. I love my Soli!

For Addison's school Fall Festival, she dressed as Princess Tiana, Disney's first African American princess. Solomon just couldn't get with the whole dress up thing. He frowned and quickly removed his fireman jacket. During the festival, Solomon decided he'd be happier on the school's playground. As a person who just doesn't get the who Halloween craze, that was fine with me! On Halloween, Addison lookes very pretty dressed as a "generic" princess. Solomon stayed home with his Daddy and watched Diego. Maybe next year!

On a sad note, my brother died suddenly October 20. He was 48, very physically fit (an avid cyclist), and had the biggest smile and engaging personality. As we continue to wrap out heads around our sudden loss, we find comfort in knowing that Lonnie was loved by so many people. His home going service was unbelievably inspiring, uplifting, and representative of the kind of person he was. We are still amazed at the number of people that showed up to support us and pay their last respects. Although we already miss him. I'm very happy that he got a chance to share his huge heart and smile with Addison and Solomon.

At last, here are some recent photos. Enjoy.