At the start of the June, Nathan turned four and more than ever, it's apparent how big he's getting. He is a loving, enthusiastic big brother to Andrew. He has said on more than on occasion that he wants to be Andrew's teacher, when he grows up and he practices quite a bit now. Nathan will ask us a question and after receiving an answer, will "teach" it to Andrew. For example, while driving by the steady road construction on the highway near home, he has said, "Andrew, it takes hard work to build a road, that's why they are still working", echoing a statement from one of us.
In approaching four, Nathan has been exposed to a few luxuries that might be normal in other households, including a few yummy treats around each holiday and watching his first full length movie at home (Cars). He takes these opportunities very seriously. :) Nathan's favorite color is red and expressed an interest in painting red spots on my car and an American flag on Jeff's. We both declined. His favorite food group is cheese.
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| Nathan, bottom left, and his class following an Easter egg hunt. |
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| Nathan and classmate, Aaron, on a field trip ("on a big bus with no carseats!") |
Nathan continues to be an inquirer, always asking questions about the world around him. It can be tiresome to answer the same three questions in four different ways, but we don't want to discourage his thinking. It's fun to switch Socratic roles and ask him the same questions in response. Nathan does a great job of answering questions, which shows how much he really picks up.
When I was young, I loved hitting the keys on a typewriter to hear the sound and pretend that I was writing something important. Nathan enjoys the same and will ask to sit at our family computer and write something. In general, we limit his screen time, but occasionally allow him to do so. Similarly, Nathan has recently started writing us "notes". He will ask for a piece of paper to write and note, then carefully write a long series of letters.
Potty training was a milestone for us this year. Last fall, we collaborated with Nathan's teacher to give him extra encouragement for success. Now, Nathan rarely has accidents during the day. He tells us promptly and loudly, "I have to go potty!" Potty training is exhausting but there are plenty of lighter moments. Just this week, Nathan amused me with this tale of using the potty (you might skip if you're squeamish about bodily functions):
During our daily household siesta, Nathan is good about using the potty on his own. If he has any sort of accident, he calls for help. A few days ago, I woke from a nap and Nathan explained how he had had an accident. While I asked him some probing questions, here's what I learned: Nathan needed to go #2 but didn't get there in time. He had some in his underwear which he dumped into the potty. Some fell on the floor, but he picked it up with toilet paper and put it in the potty. He washed his hands. With soap. He put his dirty underwear in the laundry and put on clean underwear. All on his own! Such an independent problem solver! |
| Hat and clothes were a gift from Auntie Ellen |
We celebrated Nathan's fourth birthday with a simple family party. We always appreciate those of you who drive out here to share such days. The sun was shining and he had a great time decorating his cake, playing with grandparents or aunts and uncles, and opening presents.
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| The goofy face he now makes when I try to take his picture. |
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| Nathan looked forward to decorating his own cake, this year. |
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| Love that goofy face! |
My dad once likened Nathan to Ferdinand, the bull who likes to sit and smell the flowers, which was a very accurate description. He has always loved quiet, seated activities, like puzzles and coloring. I love his thoughtful nature and often reap the benefits of him snuggling with me on the couch or in bed. While we get ready in the morning, he loves to bury himself in the thick down quilt on our bed and sit. Nathan's favorite past time is still reading but he also loves building with his Legos, playing with cars, making music on the piano, and any park with a playground.
Thanks to all who celebrate each year, month, and day with our boys! It takes a village to raise a child and we don't take you for granted. Whether from near or far, we appreciate the support you provide to us all. Our home is always open to you, should you choose to visit!
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