We were lucky enough to spend a weekend with my dear friend Bethany, her cutie pie son Palmer, and adorable newborn daughter Grace. It was such a treat to have them stay with us!
Palmer and Bethany came to stay with us last summer too. 2013 v. 2014. Can't believe how little they looked a year ago!
It was so interesting to see how much the kids have changed and how much more they interacted with each other this time! It was also interesting to see the differences in their personalities. I noticed 2 main differences -- first was their openness to new things. Olivia is very much a kid of routine and had no interest in seeing the new shows (Curious George) or books that Palmer had. Palmer, on the other hand, was really curious about Olivia's favorite shows (Sesame Street) and quickly immersed himself in all her books.
The other big difference I noticed was how they each responded to "fights." After several hours of playing referee over various toys, Bethany and I decided to let them work it out for themselves. I am so glad we did this because it was fascinating to watch their different little personalities. And each time, the
exact same thing happened! Some toy injustice would occur, at which point Palmer would try to talk to Olivia to explain his side of it (I want that toy, You have to share, Your mommy said you have to share, Its my turn now). All very logical, rational, arguments. Unfortunately, as I know all too well, logic and reason often fall on deaf ears when Olivia is concerned. She responded the same way each time -- remain silent and stare at him as he made his case, continue to maintain her death-grip on the toy at issue, and then run away. Poor little Palmer didn't know what to make of this behavior -- I feel ya Palmer. Neither do I! ;)
But, despite some sharing issues (sorry again Palmer - we will keep working on it!), the kids had such a good time and were hugging and kissing each other when they weren't fighting.
On Friday we went to Happy Playland before naptime
And then after nap, we had a little movie/popcorn time
And we finished off the evening with a Make Your Own Pizza night...I wasn't sure how well that would go, but both kids LOVED it!
Another difference -- Palmer was pretty happy to have the freedom to create whatever he wanted....
Olivia on the other hand, wanted clear directions and help from mamma....she mostly enjoyed eating pepperoni while directing me to put on more cheese!
Happy to show off their work (Olivia on the left, Palmer on the right)
And enjoying the finished product!
On my recent trip to London, I picked up these matching dresses for Olivia and Grace, so we had to do a little photo session to show-off the matching cuties!
And, Bethany was lucky enough to get a make-over by Olivia ;)
But, I think Olivia's favorite part of the visit was getting to see Grace and learn all about all things baby. She is OBSESSED with babies, constantly asking for a sibling and was eager to be involved in each and every activity that Bethany did with Grace. Bethany taught her about the line on the baby's diaper that turns colors when its wet, tummy time, bottles, burping, and changing diapers. And, thankfully, Bethany could not have been more patient, easy-going, or inclusive with Olivia! (thank you and sorry again Bethany!!) Olivia was just thrilled to pieces to see and talk to Grace and while there were many cute lines/kisses, my favorite one was "Oh Grace, your hair is so pretty, isn't it?! And your eyebrows are so pretty, aren't they?"
She also tried to sit in all the baby chairs/swings/etc that we got out for Grace. I told her she was too big but we agreed her babies could use them!
It was such a special visit and I am so glad that Bethany is brave enough to venture out of the house and all the way to Houston with such a little one! I think the summer Dean/Jordan visit needs to become an annual tradition!
