Too Many Cute Ones

Ben and I often have trouble choosing which pictures to post on our blog. Ben is a darn good (and prolific) photographer, and his subjects are pretty photogenic. (I know I am extremely biased on both accounts.) So today we decided to independently look at pictures taken over the last week and each select our favorites, then see which ones we agreed on. These are the six we both thought deserved to be posted - two of Ethan playing outside with Grandpa last weekend, and four of a little Adam photo shoot today. Enjoy!

Happy Maine Maple Sunday!

Yes, today actually is "Maine Maple Sunday", when sugarhouses across the state open their doors so locals can taste the season's fresh syrup and see how it's made. We visited Parsons' Farm this morning, where Ethan got to see the sugaring process. He was actually much more interested in the cows and horses than the maple syrup, that is until he got to taste the delicious stuff over some ice cream...mmmm.

Aren't Grandads Grand?

Recent events have given me a new understanding of the very special bond little boys have with their grandfathers. Last weekend, we said goodbye to Ben's grandfather - a true patriarch who has inspired three generations of descendents to live full and meaningful lives, just as he did. Then this past weekend, I got to watch Ethan follow his Papi around with complete adoration, finding things like going to the car wash and picking up sticks super exciting, just because he got to do them with his Papi. I have watched him similarly enthralled during times spent with Grandpa, helping him fill the bird feeder or bring in logs for the wood stove. I am so thankful that my boys have two such special grandfathers who dote over them and teach them to find joy in life's littlest adventures.

Playing School

We got a glimpse of the future the other night, when Ethan put on his backpack and grabbed his (well, Ben's) lunchbox, as if heading off to kindergarten. He looked like such a big boy (until he turned around and we saw how much the backpack dwarfed him).

Growing Up Fast

Adam had his four month check-up yesterday, and we're pleased to report that he passed with flying colors. He has grown 5 inches and gained 6 1/2 lbs since birth - it's remarkable how fast these kids grow! Those measurements confirm that he's got a Stockwell body - 90th percentile height and only 43rd percentile weight. We are loving this age, where coos and giggles far outnumber cries, and where exploring the world (or at least one's hands and feet) provides endless fun.

Frosty

With all the snow we've had this winter, it may come as a surprise to hear that we just built our first snowman last Friday! We were blessed with a dumping of perfect snowman snow - heavy and wet.

Unfortunately, perfect snowman snow means hard-to-shovel snow. Good thing Daddy had his little helper.

Family Resemblance

Everyone who sees a picture of Adam says "He looks just like his brother!", and Ben and I always disagree. But the other day, Ethan pointed to a picture of himself hanging on our wall and said "Adam!". We corrected him, but then put that picture beside a recent one of Adam, and finally saw the striking resemblance! Yes, the coloring is quite different, but the facial structure (particularly in the nose and mouth region) is nearly identical. See what you think:

Ethan at 5 1/2 months

Adam at 3 1/2 months