The Big Hit

The Big Hit
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

If Michael had never taken a swing all year, he would have walked about 95 percent of the time; in fact, at one point, he had walked at over 20 straight at bats. It was killing his desire to play, so we said no more, and had him start swinging at the pitches once more.

At first he was rusty and had a tendency to bail out of the batting box, but now things seem to be getting better. At his team's playoff game, Michael had a nice RBI in the middle of the game which turned out to be important at the end since it was a close contest. His team won, and he contributed, but he was happiest about earning his way to first.
RAP (7.17.2007)

Focal Point

Focal Point
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

Right now Jake is the center of his universe; it will be interesting to see how he accepts his sibling. I think he did have a good time at our party, and next year he gets to bring his sibling with him. Double the fun! Jake loves animals, and probably zombie movies. I say that because he walks like Frankenstein! I am told he is getting more vocal. Soon, we are going to go up north for the day to hear it for ourselves. <<>> RAP (7.13.2007)

Is Your Refrigerator Running?

Is Your Refrigerator Running?
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

One of our greatest blessings is how well Michael and Alex get along with each other. I think this is partially due to being the same gender (more in common) and being 25 months apart in age (just enough space, but not too much). Furthermore, I think this is partially due to Michael being the older child. I think if Alex was older he might push to be with the older kids (as he does now to be with Michael) and away from the younger Michael.
RAP (7.12.2007)

The Water Boys

The Water Boys
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

Bill came for the fourth and fifth of July. I think he had a good time, but he does have suggestions. He wants sandwiches next year and he wants my tables all the way at the edge so it easier for strollers. OK. I think we can count him in for 2008. Most people enjoyed the Village People more, but he liked K. C. and the Sunshine band better. Jake liked the fireworks he kept pointing at them and saying "Wow."
RAP (7.11.2007)

Mr And Mrs Patton

Mr And Mrs Patton
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

Our fears or thunderstorms and tornadoes never materialized and our 4th of July celebration was a success once more. One of the benefits of the party this year was Jens and I were in a good picture together (see the front). That is rare! Next year we decided that we may go up to 4 tables, if we stay with Boston Market seek more variety with the side items and we will put the dinner time on the invite. Also, if we can't be in the center, I think being on the north side would be better.
RAP (7.10.2007)

Go Michael!

Go Michael!
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

Michael and Alex's hair had gotten a bit too shagadelic recently. I had kept it long until Nana and Joe saw it, because they are fans of the 70's era hair, but it needed to go. The Monday after Nana headed back to Milwaukee, Jens took them to get their hair cut. For the first time the boys had a shampoo with their cuts, and as Michael was getting his hair washed by Ainsley (his stylist) he said out loud "a guy could used to this!" RAP (7.3.2007)

See Ya Later

See Ya Later
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

When I conduct an "achievement hour" (give them a small reward for answering questions) I am often amazed at how the boys treat their reward differently. Michael greedily gobbles each candy as soon as he gets them. On the hand, Alex, for the most part, will store them away for later. It does not dampen his enthusiasm, he still wants to get as many as possible, but he just may not eat them now. You might infer that the reward does not matter, that he just wants the thrill of victory, but that is not quite true; if the reward is something he doesn't want he will withdraw from the contest. I think this ties into Alex's behavior to not over consume, which is good because I think he has my metabolism. RAP (7.2.2007)