Two Times Four

Two times two equals four. Two times four equals chaos, glorious chaos. At least when you get four two-year-olds together for 3 days!

Our friends from out west came to visit for a few days this past week, and it was a lot of fun! Mark met Erik in college, and they became good friends. Shortly after graduation, Erik moved out west (but graciously returned for a visit to stand up in our wedding). A couple years later, he married Amanda, and Mark stood up in their wedding. It was then that we met Amanda for the first time, and really liked her. But given that it was their wedding, we hardly had time to get to know her during that visit, of course! It was really nice to be able to spend a few days to really get to know her - - - and to discover that she is really cool! Amanda and I have quite a bit in common, and it's great to have a new friend.

Erik and Amanda have twin boys, Jackson and Isaac, who are almost 2-1/2 years old. So our house was filled to the brim with two year olds and all that brings: belly-laughter, surliness, sharing and not-sharing, marching band parades, fevers (poor Jackson), crankiness, singing, and so much more. I think we're all exhausted! I bet Erik and Amanda need a vacation after their vacation! ;)

Here is a snapshot of what life is like with four terrific twos! {Erik will be happy that I spared the blog of a very silly picture of him playing the kids' drum - you owe me one, buddy!}

Here is Jackson giggling on the swing. Jackson LOVES letters and numbers more than any other child I have seen. He is one smart cookie, and it was so cute to hear him singing his ABC's!

Here, the kids (and Amanda and Mark) are playing "quiet and loud" by tapping on the ball. Look at those crazy arms flying when they are being noisy!

Four little fishies swimming in the tiny tub in our kids' bathroom. For some reason, our kids are always bathing with any other kids who come to visit. How cozy!

Erik was holding a feverish Jackson while Ethan sneaks into his lap for cuddles himself. Ethan was enamored with Erik!

Isaac is riding our new Jeep (a hand-me-down toy). He really liked driving all over the yard, and throwing the frisbee to the dogs. Isaac is fun and energetic, similar to Abby. Silly boy!

"I'm not too sure what to think of you..." [Abby and Jackson]