Nathan and Andrew’s relationship has really started to blossom over the past couple of months. Early on it was obvious these boys share a mutual love for each other. But now, I can see a real friendship taking shape. They genuinely seem to enjoy spending time with each other. And when they are apart they often ask for their brother to return.

It wasn’t until recently that Joe and I realized just how well Nathan and Andrew play together. We can’t remember the last time we were asked to sit and play cars with Nathan. Instead of his parents, Nathan has found a formidable play partner in his younger brother. And Andrew couldn’t be more welcoming of his new role. Watching my boys as they happily hang out together is such a wonderful sight to see.

When the boys woke up last weekend to the sight of snow they were thrilled! For months Nathan has been patiently waiting for snow so that he could help Daddy shovel it off the cars and sidewalks. After breakfast he couldn’t wait to go outside and try out his new McQueen snow shovel. And Andrew was excited to just go along with the plans and spend some time walking around outside in his winter boots.

Once we got everyone bundled up and stepped foot outside we realized that the snow was actually more of a thick layer of ice. This of course made it a challenge to maneuver around but, since we were already committed to the activity at this point we continued on with the plans. I am glad we did because we had a fun time together. Nathan immediately set out to work getting the ice off the sidewalk while Andrew and I spent a few mintues walking (or sliding rather) on our short walk around the neighborhood. The boys loved the change of scenery and getting some fresh air outside. The morning activity was also great for expending energy. By the time nap-time came around in the afternoon, both Nathan and Andrew were more than ready for it!

Here are a couple pictures of our family all bundled up:

Just before Christmas break, I assisted in Nathan’s preschool class. The timing couldn’t have been better. While I was there I witnessed Nathan write his name all by himself! The teachers tell me this was a first for him. When I came over to see Nathan’s cute little name written with marker on construction paper, I couldn’t have been more proud. He is growing up so fast! Nathan was certainly proud of his accomplishment. When he returned home from school Nathan went and hung up his artwork showcasing his name on the refrigerator. I love my little guy!

Take a look at the pictures below:

I love how the "t" and "h" are combined together.

I love how he threw in some extra letters at the end of his name!

The day after Christmas we went to DC to spend the day. First stop of all places, was this great Mexican restaurant Joe and I found back in 2005. We couldn’t wait to return and have the awesome guacamole that is prepared table-side. After all these years the place did not disappoint! And to add to the good food, the restaurant was extremely family-friendly which made the experience very pleasant.

Nathan received some special treatment as soon as we stepped foot through the door. He was given a little apron and asked if he wanted to help make the guacamole. He quickly responded with an enthusiastic “Yes!” and proceeded to talk the man’s ear off while he mashed avocados, used his first mortal and pestle, and mixed all the ingredients together. I may be a little biased but my little chef made the best guacamole I have ever tasted!

After our nice, leisurely lunch it was time to walk around the city. We saw the White House, WW II Memorial, Lincoln Monument, the Washington Monument, and finally visited the National Archives to see the Constitution and Declaration of Independence. It was a lot of walking but the weather was beautiful and felt wonderful to be outside. The boys must have felt the same way because they were wonderful throughout the entire day.

Here are some pictures from our trip:

Andrew is really into coloring with crayons now. Here he is entertaining himself at the table as we waited for our food.

Nathan making guacamole.

Cute group shot.

Another group shot. Nathan is busy preparing our food in the background.

Andrew couldn't get enough of the vanilla ice cream. I wonder wher he gets that from?!

Nathan enjoying his ice cream treat as well.

Daddy and Nathan in front of the "Light House" as Nathan called it all day.

Andrew taking his afternoon nap in the stroller.

The Rigby's and the White House.

Mommy and Nathan smiling for the camera.

Mommy and Andrew get a picture too!

Nathan taking in his surroundings from the top of Daddy's shoulders.

A picture with my husband.

My sister and I in front of Lincoln.

Ryan and Joe in front of the Washington Monument or the "big stick" as Nathan liked to call it!

Christmas morning turned out just as magical as I had hoped. Our day started around 6am with an extremely excited three year old boy. He was racing around upstairs and shrieking with delight as Joe went downstairs to confirm that Santa visited our house during the night. Nathan couldn’t have been happier with his toys from Santa. He instantly went to his pile and started playing with them. And it didn’t take long for Andrew to figure out the fun of Christmas morning. He had a great time watching his older brother and inspecting all his new goodies.

Seeing the pure happiness and excitement on our boys’ faces all morning was amazing. Joe and I couldn’t have felt more content and filled with joy. It was absolutely perfect.

Santa came!! He brought a firetruck for Nathan.

And a firetruck for Andrew.

The boys playing with their new toys.

Andrew sitting with Auntie Megan and Uncle Ryan.

Enjoying coffee with my sister.

Nathan quietly checking out his new toy.

Andrew quietly checking out another toy. Apparently, this is a popular way for boys to examine their toys.

My boys building a train track to test out their new engine.

Family picture.