Nolan

Swimming with Cort out back

Watching the storm

Playing boat or Captain Hook

Eating Thai food

4th

Loving to jump

Swim lesson with Ms. Becca and another Nolan!

Dentist

Most of you have either witnessed or heard me complain about Nolan's stage.  He is very challenging and this has been his most challenging stage so far as parents.  Instead of blogging about the various tantrums, power struggles and teasing toward his brother, I'd rather blog about the real Nolan.  These tantrums and behavior are not him.  I know they are not.  At church yesterday, the teacher said he is so polite, one of the most polite boys she has ever met.  Really?  Then this must be a passing phase reserved for mom and dad.  Either way, we are struggling to get through this as a family, but my sweet Nolan is still there. 

Nolan you amaze me each day by:

telling me you love me at least once a day without a reason.

being an adventurous eater.  You will try anything from clams to Thai food.  You and Daddy are my favorite people to cook for. 

telling me thank you for dinner each night and putting your plate in the sink *most nights without me asking.

being so smart.  You love to learn and love to write stories with me.

being independent.  At this age tattles should be a major part of our day, but they are not.  You prefer to find ways to do things on your own-even if it means crying.  We will work on the crying, but you remind me so much of Daddy when you insist on solving problems for yourself. 

being helpful.  You want so badly to cut the grass, set the table, sweep the floor, clean the pool and other various chores.  Its so nice to have an eager helper.

telling me I look pretty.  Daddy taught you this one, but you always say, "Momma, you look pretty today" when I need to smile! 

telling me you love your brother.  I know you do and sometimes it can be hard having a little brother, but you truly do love him. 

telling me that I love you even when you make bad choices.  Yes I do Nolan, and I always will.