The Hale Hat-trick

Toy sorting happens about once a week at our house. While the boys nap, I sort toys. By the look on that giraffe's face, he knows he won't be on this shelf and upright for long.

We've had some difficult days at our house. Actually, the last 42 days (six weeks) have pretty much been craptacular. August has had ear infections this entire time. Unlike his brothers who cry or are just overall more needy when they don't feel well, August instead bangs his head. It's an absolute helpless feeling seeing him do this. Today was the first day that felt like it was more of what our days used to be. For the last six weeks, Mark and I could not leave August's side. He would bang his head on everything, from the door facings, to the hardwood floor, bring toys to his head and bang with force. He had bruises on his forehead and an occasional cut here and there. We bought him some sweatbands to wear and at least it softened the blow. I've had days where I've cried, screamed, thrown things, called Mark 500 times at work telling him how frustrated I was, emotionally exhausted, etc. We had a very sunny day today and I'm hoping more are on our horizon. Mr. August is not so great at expressing himself verbally and this head banging stuff is his way of telling us that he feels terrible. I know someday he'll be able to tell us what he was thinking during all of these times. Even though August is verbally delayed, he understands what we're saying. He shows me this everyday. Mr. August, It has been so wonderful to see your smile, see you look at me with those beautiful blue eyes and to hear that wonderful laugh again. I love walking out of the room you're in and coming back to find you've wandered off to go and find a toy or whatever it is you're looking for because it feels like a long time since you've done that.

Henry is such a kind little boy. Here he is offering water, out of his bucket, to our pink plastic flamingoes.

Carly and Henry. Henry's trying to act all cool.

I ran across an August store and a Henry St. in NYC. I never came across anything named Luke. I think Luke does something in the Bible. Please don't quote me on that though.

For days, months, years, I've heard of kids going to the MD, having ear infections, stomach bugs, herpes, whatever. My boys have been so healthy, until the Winter of 2012. We've been to their MD more in the last two months than we've been in the last year. COME ON.

I can tell you one thing, this is not the strangest place I've found a yogurt raisin. Not even close, Mister.

There's no denying, Luke had something brown in his mouth and I just pray it was chocolate.

Henry and Luke

St. Patrick's Day 2012. It seems these guys just get cooler as the days go by. I mean really, who else can sport sunglasses like this?

Thank you Tom Thumb and Home Depot for having carts that will hold three or more children. We now frequent you more than necessary.

Luke is learning quickly that in our house you must multi-task. When drinking your milk you can also get in a good stretch, hold a green cup and turn a Hot wheel upside down.