Washburn Hall of Fame

10 years ago I played on a team that had an unforgettable season that ended with a Division II National Championship.  My life has changed a lot since that day, but I can still remember those final games like it was yesterday.  A couple of weeks ago we got to relive those days once again as we were inducted into the Washburn University Hall of Fame.  Our entire team was there to celebrate, reminisce, and laugh about all the stories and memories.  It was great to visit with all the fans and supporters we had, and catch up with all the families that were there through it all.  We got to bring our own children back to the place Erin and me met.  (I remember my parents taking us by campus and telling us all sorts of stories, its only fair we do the same to our kids.)  Luke's big question was if we won all the games.  He was disappointed when I had to tell him we did lose two games that season.  I couldn't have asked for a better weekend with all these special people!

Lawson's Birthday Party

Lawson's birthday fell on a busy weekend for us so we decided to kind of do it in two parts.  I figure why not just stretch the celebration out longer, what kid wouldn't want that :)  We did a little get together with a few friends at the park on Wednesday evening.  The weather was great and the kids all enjoyed running around and eating cupcakes.  Then on Sunday we had family over to celebrate with us.  We are so thankful for all the people that could help us celebrate our little three year old.  He is one loved little boy!

Had to have birthday donuts!

Zoo full of animals :) Lawson doesn't like not being able to see.

Laney is 11 Months

Is it possible that our little girl is one month away from being ONE!!!!  She is a busy little thing always getting herself into something.

11 month photo shoot:

• At her appointment a couple weeks ago she was just under 18 lbs.  She is at 62% in height and 13% in weight.  
• She wears 9 month and some 12 month close just depending on the piece of clothing.  Still in size 3 diapers.
• We have been adding shoes to our wardrobe this month.  With the cooler weather and her wanting to stand by herself all the time its a must.
• She has started wanting to walk along furniture with more of a purpose and standing up to things, but the thought of walking away by herself is not happening.  She will take a few steps if holding her hands, but knows crawling is more efficient for right now.
• She loves to eat!  She still takes 4 bottles a day of formula and eats meals and snacks between.  She eats basically anything we do and is always willing to try new things.
• Sleeping good through the night and still takes 2 naps on most days.
• Has 9 teeth now. A big one on bottom finally came through.
• Laney loves getting into cabinets and drawers.  She likes to help "clean" them out.
• She seems to almost pose for pictures.  She loves to smile.
• Laney will wave hello and goodbye or goodnight.  I think she is trying to talk in response too, but not really words coming yet.  Just loud noises.
• Laney has also throws tantrums when she throw herself on the floor and cries for help.  This is usually if she is tired and doesn't want to crawl or everyone leaves her from the room.  I know her tantrums won't always be cute, but right now this one makes us laugh.
• She gives great hugs and loves to cuddle still.

Lawson Turns 3

Lawson you are such a blessing to our family.  You have always wanted to be included in whatever the big boys do and don't ever want to be held back.  You do things on your terms and don't like to be rushed or pushed along.  Today we get to celebrate the little boy in you and the three years we have got to watch you grow.

You have such a goofy side to you and love to make people laugh.  Hearing your little giggle is one of the best sounds in the world.  You like to be tickled, which I love to do.  My favorite phrase you say is, "What the heck?"  which you say frequently and just laugh.  You have really enjoyed getting your sister to laugh now as well.

You have become very observant of things around you.  You always want to know what is going on or what we are talking about.  You are especially interested in what your brother is doing.  You are his little sidekick and want to copy anything he does.  I love watching the two of you play and interact.  There is nothing like having siblings as your best friend.

I think eating is your favorite past time.  You are always ready for meals and ask for snacks in between.  You are also one of the slowest and messiest eaters as well.  You are the first to sit down and the last to leave the table.  I think you see utensils as an inconvenience and would rather just use your hands and fingers for dipping.  You aren't real picky but especially love cheese in any form.

You are an active and busy little boy.  You love football and like to play.  The only part you really want to play is the tackle part though.  No throwing or really even football needed.  You just want to run and tackle people.  Your dad loves it!  You like to be outside playing.  We race everywhere.  Your little legs don't move real fast that doesn't stop you from trying.  You don't have much fear and want to try everything.

You like to read books and have started to enjoy coloring and drawing lately.  You can say your ABC's and can count to about 12 before the numbers start getting random.  You love to sing, especially songs from movies.  If we are in the car, the kids songs must be on for you.

I think ornery should be your middle name.  You are always getting yourself into something.  Some things are Luke's idea, but you don't hesitate and jumping in.  That ornery little face is hard to get mad at, especially without laughing.  It keeps us on our toes.

Lawson, you are such a sweet little boy.  You are always very concerned with others and how they are doing.  You want to share your toys and treats with others.  You like to cuddle and give hugs.  You have become such a wonderful big brother and always looking out for your little sister.  She is a lucky little girl.

Class Field Trips

Luke has already had two field trips this first quarter.  They started out the year learning about farm animals and got to go to Deanna Rose Farmstead.  We have been there before, but did not make a trip this summer so the kids were excited to go back.  Erin took the day to spend some extra time with the boys.  Lawson was lucky and got to tag along as well.

Then this past week we got to kick off fall and visit Carolyn's Pumpkin Patch.  Its always fun to watch Luke interact with the friends he is always talking about.  It is a great pumpkin patch with all sorts of things for kids to do.  I highly recommend it.