Chores

I really like having the kids to more chores. I like that it teaches them responsibillity, working together, caring for others and what they own. But I REALLY like that I get to sit down after dinner. All the kids work on cleaning the kitchen after dinner. They have to clear that table, put dishes in the dishwasher, clean up left overs, wipe off the table, and vacuum under the table. Kevin is old enough where he is in charge of washing the pots and pans.

I LOVE having him wash dishes. Mainly because the next day the dishes are still dirty. You can tell he wiped the middle, but didn't get the edges. It just makes me smile. I feel like a few years ago I would have been frustrated, and would work towards teaching him how to clean. But for now, I am resting after dinner, the kids are talking as they work, and I get to be reminded I have young kids at home when I pick up a dirty pan.

The Boys

I am sitting here typing this, watching the boys. They have not separated since I sat down and started talking to them. At this point in their lives, they wrestle when brushing teeth. They wrestle when cleaning. They are connected at most times. The will sit and talk to each other lying on each other, giggling, play fighting, laughing, and talking. They have been like this as long as Colin has been mobile. At this point, they are no longer together when they sleep. (Colin is now in Gwyn's room.) But every thing else is still the same.

At some point, they will not be like this, not in the same way. I know they may outgrow giving each other kisses on tops of their heads, or walking up and wrapping their arms around each other. Or maybe they won't. But I am positive that these two boys have a very special bond - different than other brothers. I usually describe them as two halves of a whole. I can't think of a better way to explain it. If you have never noticed it, look for it. It won't be hard to find.