High Five

Naked trouble (Chris, L and Aiden, R)



Chris looks like he's ready to disco!



Aidens early morning, PJ tractor rides.



I had to take a picture to capture the boys happily sharing the tractor! Chris driving and Aiden going for a ride in the cab.



Grandpa Hopkins and Chris going for one of their many tractor rides on Saturday!



Aiden giving cousin Eileen one of her wonderful presents of pine needles and wood chips.



The perfect little seat! Chris, L and Aiden, R



Auntie Laura and Aiden pause for a pose.



Aiden's version of playing the outdoor game with the big kids!



Aiden looking up to his cousin, Maggie!



Thursday was our long waited, long debated trip to CT Children's Medical Center with Christopher. While the appointment itself wasn't anything extraordinary I think the trip was quite eye opening for both Mike and I. As we sat and waited for our turn, I felt more grateful than ever before to have not just one, but two perfectly healthy, happy, bouncing little boys. We were surrounded by so many young toddlers who were truly facing some of life's biggest challenges; unable to walk, unable to talk and stand but just as happy as ever. It was eye opening none the less and humbled both of us.

Chris was in his glory, wide eyed from the moment we got off the highway, drove through the busy city and pulled into the parking garage. He took his curiosity to a whole new level as he attempted to take it all in. The appointment was about an hour and a half long during which time we met with an OT and nutritionist. The nutritionist was excited to measure Chris and find that he was up to 19 pounds, 1.3 ounces. In 2 weeks I was doubtful it was "true" weight gain and am guessing it may be more likely due to the variance among different scales but I guess it's not my position to be a Debbie downer! This would mean that Chris gained 4.3 ounces in 2 weeks. Maybe everyones prayers are working!

The meetings were good and informative. They got to witness Chris in action as he threw a temper tantrum in his highchair and refused to eat, throwing his food on the floor and in the end, they both concluded that they thought it was all behavioral. We now have a very regimented eating pattern of meals and snacks alternating every 2-3 hours with no snacks in between and all meals only occurring in the highchair. Aiden and Chris have been vetoing but we are staying the course to give it a fair chance. We will be going back in a month for another weigh in and re-evaluation. Aiden was the man of the house while we were gone and loved his one on one with Grammie Hopkins. He had fun showing off as usual and didn't seem to miss us much.

Friday we laid low to start our new eating regime. As you can guess, it didn't go well and more food landed on the floor than in their mouths but it was nice to be able to have a cranky day when we didn't have to worry about going anywhere or meeting anyone. Friday night Mike and I enjoyed a visit with Mike's cousin Drew. It was nice to relax on our porch, enjoying the gorgeous night while catching up and it was a great way to start a long weekend.

Yesterday we ventured to Southwick to visit Grammie and Grandpa Hopkins. The boys were quick to recall exactly where Grandpa's tractor was kept and wasted no time checking it out. Christopher was in his glory going for a ride while Aiden was a bit more cautious and hung back. We had an awesome visit and loved watching the boys delight in being outside and running around.

This afternoon we headed to Belchertown for the extended Ptaszynski family picnic. Our little show boats did not disappoint and knew that it was their job to entertain everyone around. They were busy boys as always and loved being around all of the aunts, uncles and cousins. They couldn't have been happier and Mike and I truly enjoyed visiting and having so many extra hands around!

Tomorrow Grammie and Dziadz Pt are coming over to hang out with Aiden and Chris while Mike and I catch up on some fall clean up and yard work. It will be such a great feeling to have some of the projects that have been lurking over our heads DONE! We can't wait.... and better yet, 6 more days until VACATION!!!!!! Not a bad week at all :)