Doodlebug - Tally Mark 144

Hey hey Rie Rie,

I don't know if it's because you started passing the Sacrament in January, or because you play on a 12U baseball team, but it feels like you've been 12 all year.  But today is the day, and we're excited to celebrate you!

You've had quite the year!  Your braces came off, you started wearing contacts for baseball, your entire body has grown a ton, and you started middle school.  Just like last year, though, baseball has taken over.  You had been playing up two years in travel ball but decided to go down one year.  The 12U team goes to Cooperstown, and we've spent all year fundraising (most of which was done by standing outside of grocery stores asking people for donations).  As we know, public speaking is not your favorite thing but you made the most of it, and became a great sign holder!  Thankfully there are a lot of your teammates who do enjoy talking so it balanced out.  

You made the All Star team again, this time with your own age group.  There is a tradition where the boys bleach their hair but you weren't so sure if you wanted to.  We ended up shaving the sides (per usual) and you bleached the center hair.  Your natural hair has gotten darker so you were excited to have blonde hair again.  June 2025 was the last time you cut your hair, which made it easy to spot you on the baseball field because your long locks were always blowing in the breeze.  You've primarily caught in both travel ball and little league, but your travel ball coaches recently told you that they trust you in any position.  No matter where you're assigned, you give it your all.  They also said they'd like for you to be louder, especially as the catcher.  We've been trying to get you to speak up your whole life so we'll see what happens.

For a time period, multiple times a week, you would ask Daddy to wrestle with you at night.  Your friend, Marcus, wrestles and we encouraged you to join the team at school.  But you were adamant that school wrestling was different from home wrestling, and you wanted nothing to do with the school's team.  However, you did join the track team, competing in the 100 meter race.  Speaking of your long hair, you wore your baseball hat in every race so keep your hair out of  your face.  You woke up early on Mondays for practice and stayed after school every other day.  We bought you spike shoes that may no longer fit because your feet are growing at a rapid pace.  You wanted to do the relays but couldn't find other people to do it with.  You and I raced at one of your recent baseball games and I ate your dust.  I believe if you keep it up, you'll definitely make the finals next year.  It was fun to watch you at your meets surrounded by your friends.  While you are a reserved person, you can tell who the people are who make you feel safe because your guard comes down and you genuinely enjoy yourself.

I'm happy to tell you that you overcame your fear of changing in front of people at P.E.  You quickly realized everyone was in the same position as you, and nobody cared about what you were doing.  I'm also happy to let you know that you did eat pizza every.single.day. for lunch.  Overall, you had a great year at school.  Your science teacher was the same teacher The Lime had.  You'd come home often and tell us she would call you his name.  You also had the same social studies and math teacher that he had but they didn't seem to get you two mixed up.  During your first semester, I got a call from the school randomly in the middle of the day.  Since you never get in trouble, I immediately thought something bad happened and you got hurt.  As soon as I picked up the phone, the woman on the other line said, "Don't worry, everything is okay!"  She called to let me know your P.E. teacher chose you to receive an award for being a great student.  I think you've been recognized every year since kindergarten for your hard work and positive attitude.  Those attributes will continue to help you succeed in life!  I would like to note that you also didn't read the book for your final book report and still managed to get a 20/20.  I'm not sure how you pulled it off but please, please, please don't do that again.  You rode your bike to school most days but also asked for a ride most days.  Your legs mysteriously hurt every morning about 15 minutes before it was time to leave.  Sometimes we would give in and take you (the perks of having Daddy work from home now) but sometimes we told you riding your bike would make your legs stronger so they wouldn't hurt as much.

For Christmas, you received a telescope.  We've been able to use it a couple times at home but forgot to bring it with us when we watched the meteor shower in Colfax.  That was a really neat experience!  You also asked for a POCOCO projector, and got one.  You've always enjoyed the moon and planets, and often ask Daddy what planets are out when we're coming home from baseball.  At Christmastime, we also upheld our tradition of reading The Christmas Pig, and you built your gingerbread house.  You would have loved for it to snow on Christmas but we had to wait for February when it snowed just up the hill.  We went one night after work to play in it and you had so much fun, we went back the following weekend. Throwing snowballs was your favorite and, of course, you built a snowman.

This year for your birthday, you really wanted these special alcohol-based markers but they're a bit expensive so you weren't sure if you'd get them.  Now that it's your birthday and you already received them, I can share that Grammy and Papa got them for you.  You don't have a lot of free time because of baseball but when you do, you like to draw and color.  We have pictures all over our windows that you've traced of cars, and then you color them in.  You don't ask us to do it too often but your favorite thing used to be a 3 marker challenge.  We'd have to blindly pick three markers and color in a picture with just those colors, then someone would judge whose picture was the best.  If I recall correctly, you won the most.  I wish we could convince you to join the art club at school, or take a class, because it's an amazing talent you have.  It'd be so cool to see you expand your abilities!

If you aren't playing baseball or drawing, you're watching YouTube.  When you get home from school, you eat a bunch which makes me wonder if you need something more than pizza for lunch.  You still prefer just plain cheese pizza but tend to not eat leftovers if you have any (and that's not just pizza leftovers, that's all leftovers).  You order chicken wings more often than not when we go out for dinner.  You still eat bagels or cereal for breakfast when I make it; when Daddy makes it, you eat eggs with bacon and potatoes.  Mashed potatoes are still not your favorite but you enjoy baked potatoes (or spuds, as you like to call them).  In just the last few months, your feet have grown and you now wear a size 10 in mens.  Daddy made you another custom pair of baseball cleats this year to match your White Sox jerseys for little league.  Rather than wearing the league issued hats, you ask Daddy to get you the flex fit hats.  You're good about splitting the cost on special purchases like that since they are a want rather than a need.  When we were in San Diego for spring break, you bought yourself a pair of Birkenstocks.  It was a big purchase but I think you've been pleased with them.  While also in San Diego, you really wanted to visit Burger Kook but they're closed on Mondays.  When we headed over on Tuesday, there was a sign outside that said they were closed again, this time for routine cleaning.  It was so sad to not be able to visit because you wanted to try it so bad!  Definitely our first stop next time.  While you mainly wore black sweats during the colder months, The Lime gave you a pair of his old Dickies that you quite enjoyed.  Don't tell anyone but I gave you an old pair of mine, too.  You outgrew all of your sweatshirts so we bought you a windbreaker at a surf shop in Santa Cruz that you were every day.  The backpack you used for all of elementary school finally broke so you got a black Jansport, just like The Lime.  To be able to tell them apart, you added a Padres keychain to one of your zippers.  Every few days, you still ask me to wrap you up like a burrito for bedtime.  You chose Rooster by Alice in Chains as your walk up song for little league this year.  You insist on having a treat every night before bed.  Chores are quite possibly your least favorite thing to do.  You would like everything to be fair all of the time.  Sleeping on the couch in the living room brings you joy but only if someone sleeps out there with you.  Your ability to swallow pills and put your contacts in/take them out at such a young age is very impressive - even the Optometrist said so.

You, as a whole, are quite impressive.  A lot of things come naturally to you, and it's so exciting to see you try new things and expand your talents.  Remember that nobody expects you to be perfect, just that you try your best.  You're your own worst critic, but Daddy and I will always be rooting for you.  Keep working hard and your possibilities will be endless regardless of what you set your heart on.

We love you so much and are forever grateful you joined our family 12 years ago.  Life wouldn't be the same without our Rie!

Love,

Mama

Doodlebug - Tally Mark 132

Rie,

My sweet boy!  How has another year gone by?  I feel as if I was just writing your letter for when you turned 8 and were getting baptized.  Yet it still somehow feels like you were just born and all of the nurses were jealous that you arrived with the hair color they all pay their stylists to give them.  Regardless, here we are.

What a year it has been, filled mostly with baseball and school and a bit of cross country thrown in.  You made the All Star team with little league.  The day of tryouts, we got a call from a board member that two teams wanted you and you had to decide if you played with your age or the older boys.  Since you played Majors and had already competed against the older boys, you chose to stick with them.  As you did throughout the regular season, you held your own and earned your spot on the team.  You opted to stay with a majority of the same boys from All Stars as you transitioned into fall and spring travel ball.  It was a good experience for you to play with different boys and gain a better understanding of how your performance is not the only thing that impacts your ability to play baseball.  Your mindset influences so much, and that's something you've been struggling with.  You set the bar high for yourself, in everything you do.  But when you don't meet your own standards, you get really frustrated and down.  You want to be perfect but that's not always going to be the outcome.  We hope as you progress both in baseball and life that you remember the most important thing is to try your best.  And if your best for that game means you swung the bat yet struck out, at least you tried.  If it means you got in front of the ball but it still snuck by you, you tried your best.  

The same standards you set for yourself in baseball you set for yourself in school.  The beginning of 5th grade was a struggle.  You were extremely afraid of disappointing your teacher that you no longer wanted to go to school.  As much as you pushed back, we sat down with her and shared your concerns.  She was sad to think you thought you would disappoint her.  She shared how grateful she was you were in her class, how well you listened and how much you participated (despite your shyness), how your classmates looked up to you, and how kind you were to everyone.  She reiterated those words when she presented you with the Difference Maker award in the last trimester.  You were afraid you were going to end your streak of getting an award every grade of elementary school but then she surprised you.  And you definitely earned it!

Speaking of school, you had your Walk Through the Revolution presentation this month.  You were NOT looking forward to it.  As we know, public speaking and memorization is not your cup of tea.  Yet, as you've proven to us before, you practiced often and had your lines memorized in no time.  You were very worried about your costume and if looked authentic enough.  Sure enough, you looked fantastic.  I had to work but Daddy was able to watch you in person and you did an amazing job.  Isn't it cool to remember being so afraid of something yet you conquered it as if it was nothing?  Amazing what happens when you put in the hard work and determination.  

You and Connor are still best friends.  His mom and I talk about it often, how you two are perfect for each other.  He's outgoing and you're reserved, he has ADHD and you stay focused, he's energetic and you're mellow.  This is the first year that you've been on the same baseball team, and you both got picked for All Stars.  Even with school ending, you guys will still be able to see each other every day at practice.  Connor's friend, Andrew, was also on your little league team for spring.  The three of you were a riot - only smiles and laughing when you got together.  We're hopeful that come next school year, all three of you can ride your bikes together and create an even stronger friendship.

Speaking of school next year, you'll be in middle school!  And you are not looking forward to it.  Mainly because you'll have to change for P.E.  You were very worried about the type of underwear to use as most of the boys that age wear Ethikas.  We've got you stocked up between Christmas and your birthday, and I think that has helped ease your anxiety a little bit.  Your brother has assured you that nobody is going to be looking at your underwear but I think it's something you'll need to experience for yourself before your nerves are settled.  You were ready to leave elementary school once they stopped letting you play football.  You felt very restricted there and are hopeful you'll be given a little more independence in middle school.  Your brother said that won't come until high school but we'll see.

You also tell us you're excited to eat the pizza at middle school because the school lunch at elementary school is less than palatable.  There were many a days this last year where you would come home and I'd ask you what you had for lunch.  "Chips" or "nothing" were the most common responses.  Despite me encouraging you to take a lunch from home, you insisted on eating the school lunch or at least intended to.  Unfortunately, the middle school eats the same school lunch as elementary school (with the exception of the pizza) so we'll have to see what happens.

We'll also have to see if you decide to do cross country in middle school.  You felt a bit defeated at the end of the 5th grade season because your time wasn't improving.  I told you I'd start running with you to help you practice more but that only lasted once.  You're a much faster runner than I am and I was slowing you down.  But we have the summer to try again.  I hope you'll choose to participate in cross country - it's good for you to be active in something other than baseball.  


In addition to liking pizza, you get excited when we have enchiladas, tacos, and spaghetti for dinner.  You do not get excited when we have broccoli or soup, and you definitely don't like it when we have broccoli soup.  You would consume soda all day long if we'd let you but I'm not certain how much your body agrees with it.  You also love Pirates Booty and Pepperoncini flavored potato chips.  Nerd Gummy Clusters are your favorite candy and you love s'mores.  You alternate between bagels and cereal for breakfast, depending on what we have available.  You are an early riser whether you need to get up or not.  You like sleeping in the spare bedroom so you're not with your brother.  Aksel is your favorite and you don't hesitate to tell him or show him how much you love him.  It is the opposite with your family - we don't get very much love or affection.  It's a challenge for you to open up and share your feelings but when you do, you can see the physical release as you no longer have to hold it in.  You still watch YouTube but now you watch it while you play video games.  As someone who doesn't like a lot of noise, it doesn't seem to overwhelm you.  You think we should let you stay home by yourself but you still ask that we order for you at restaurants.  You have a hard time remembering family members that live out of state but that's partially because we don't get to see them very often.  You only wear Jordans and Santa Cruz shirts.  You've lost several baby teeth this year and should be getting your braces off soon.  You are convinced you're taller than me but you have a couple more inches to go.  You wear a size 8.5 shoe in men's and wonder where you get it from (cue Uncle Kenny).  You're not a fan of doing your chores nor music.  You love cars and always want us to race people in the Explorer.  You are funny, smart, kind, and fantastic at everything you try.  I hope you can acknowledge and appreciate those same things about yourself.

I love you and can't wait to see all you accomplish as an 11 year old!

-Mama

Doodlebug - Tally Mark 120

Rie Rie,

You are finally 10!  What you thought was never going to come has arrived and you're so excited!  You've been working on your list for a couple of months, making changes, adding links, making sure I've sent it to people, etc.  You asked for two pairs of Jordans, a custom baseball bat, a gift card for PlayStation so you can get The Show '24, a weighted blanket, and some hats.  I hope you love what you got!

Your time as a fourth grader is coming to an end.  This year you learned about California Missions and the Gold Rush.  You have a field trip next week to Coloma, where gold was first discovered.  You're excited because you get to be partners with your friend, Connor, which means you'll be together the entire time of the field trip and you get to sit with each other on the bus.  While you two are friends, you're also extremely competitive.  Both of you ran in Cross Country this school year and he was FAST (always came in first).  You would get really down on yourself because you weren't coming in first.  This motivated you to want to push yourself to try and beat your previous time each race.  You never beat Connor but you finished the season off stronger than you started.  You also didn't want to initially do Cross Country but you were open to trying something new.  Way to go!

Not a surprise, you still play baseball.  We switched travel ball teams this year and you still play on the 10U team.  You also played Majors for Fall & Spring ball.  It was intimidating to play with boys so much bigger and stronger than you but you've held your own.  In fact, you were nominated for All-Stars this year and you made it!  Your coach told you that you should have made the team last year but it was his fault you didn't.  He's excited to have you on his team this year.  You're not super excited because you thought you'd have two practices a day but so far, that's not on the schedule.  Regardless, you're going to do great!  Baseball comes naturally to you.  You flow so nicely on the field, always knowing what to do and where you need to be.  Catching is your forte but you also pitch and play shortstop.  You make amazing plays and definitely earned your spot as an All-Star.  Your nickname as the Silent Assassin still rings true as you can usually be found on the bench, waiting for your at bat rather than being super vocal and cheering your team on.  While you aren't the cheerleader of your teams, you definitely set the tone for the other players and so many people look up to you.

Do you know what else comes naturally?  Pretty much everything.  While it doesn't create good habits, you never study for your tests but you still get amazing grades.  You hate public speaking but you aced your San Diego Mission oral presentation.  So much so, your teacher went home that evening and raved about how fantastic you did to her husband (their son is on your baseball team so we get to talk to them often).  You never give up and you always try your best, even if you're not super keen about doing something.  Each week, your teacher sends home a progress report for each kid.  I can't tell you how many times she's written how much she loves you and loves having you in her class.  Your class hasn't been the easiest this year for her but she's told me how you make her job easy.  Thank you for being kind and respectful, especially to your teachers!

You got braces in October since you got my teeth and Daddy's mouth.  You're about halfway through your first treatment and once all of your permanent teeth come in, you'll start your second treatment.  After the initial placement, you were definitely in pain; lots of Jell-o, pudding, and yogurt were consumed.  When you get them tightened now, you refuse to take medicine to help with the discomfort and you just push through.  Honestly, you worry more about what color bands you'll get rather than how much it'll hurt you.  You need a little help brushing and flossing but you got a compliment last week from a boy in your class.  He asked you how you got your teeth so white with braces because his are always yellow.  You came home quite proud of your dental hygiene regiment.  

YouTube still gets all of your attention.  For some reason, watching other people play video games excites you.  You often ask if you can get new games on the iTouch but I always make you delete some before you can get new ones.  Then a week goes by, and you ask for another new round.  You asked me the other day to try and guess a YouTuber based off their voice.  I assured you I didn't know any YouTubers except for FazeRug.  You insisted I would know.  You turned on the clip and, you were right, I knew who it was.  It was Ryan Trahan!  We loved watching his summer challenge for the last couple of years.  We'll have to see if launches a new one this year.

For being so sweet, you definitely like to talk back.  You use the excuse that you don't know what talking back means so you just keep talking.  If I'm being honest, I'd much rather you act like this with me and Daddy but, still.  We know you can follow directions and behave at school and baseball.  We just can't figure out why you can't always behave at home.  Sometimes groans and whines come out of your mouth when we ask you to do your chore or feed Aksel.  If we ask you to do something, you have to ask if The Lime did what we asked him to do first.  Everything has to be fair and we have to remind you to worry about yourself.  One day you'll understand what talking back is, I hope.

You prefer I drive you to school every morning, and Aksel always joins us.  You don't tell me you love me back after I say it to you, but Aksel always gets lovies from you before you leave.  I'm glad you are able to show love and emotion to someone/something.  It's hard for you to be vulnerable, and you have an especially hard time complimenting people or apologizing.  I'm not quite sure where this stems from but we want you to know it's okay to say something nice to someone, or to admit when you've made a mistake and you need to ask for forgiveness.  It's something your teacher has had everyone work on this year.  I think we just need to practice more.  

For your birthday meals, you want Cane's for lunch (we've never been) and Panda for dinner - pretty much chicken since we never get to eat it.  You still love chicken wings and still eat lunch at school every day.  You sleep in our spare bedroom because you say your bed is uncomfortable.  You are obsessed with Jordans and have them as your roller skates and baseball cleats.  You finally moved up to a size 7 in shoes.  I had you clean out your drawers last month and you still had size 6 clothes in there.  We got rid of all of them and you're a M/10.  You eat bread and Nutella every morning for breakfast.  You tried dragon fruit and mango for the first time this year and you love both.  You even tried planting dragon fruit seeds but I'm not sure anything will come of them.  You still have the same haircut (long middle, shaved sides).  When we shave your sides, they act like velcro and the long part of your hair gets stuck in the stubble.  You loved going to San Diego earlier this year, especially to the Padres game.  Fernando Tatis, Jr. is one of your favorite players.  You love Coca Cola.  You tried paddleboarding this year and love it.  You just wish we'd let you go out further than we feel comfortable doing.  Talking/yelling in your sleep is not as prevalent as it used to be but it still happens every once in a while.  You're usually the first one up in the morning on the weekends.  Sometimes you let Aksel out of his crate and feed him, sometimes you go straight to the computer.  You say you don't like music but you chose Notorious B.I.G. as your travel ball walk up song.  We also paid you to pick Careless Whispers as your little league song.  You were so afraid people would make fun of you but everyone loved it.  

And just like they loved your song, everyone loves you.  It isn't unusual for us to go somewhere and hear someone yell out your name with excitement.  While not a social butterfly, people know you and want to be around you.  Keep that up, bud.  We love you so much and love being around you.  We can't wait to see what 10 year old Rie does with himself this year!

Love you so much,

Mama

Doodlebug - Tally Mark 108

 Oh my RieRie!

Since about 5:00 last night, you were counting down the hours until your birthday.  For about a month, you asked me if I had everything ready to go.  You had your breakfast, lunch, and dinner planned, when you were going to open what present, and what you wanted to do that night.  The stars aligned and nobody has baseball tonight so we get to go roller skating.

Speaking of roller skating, it was the end of February or early March that your school had a skate night.  Since The Lime started school, I've wanted to go to one of those.  Finally, I convinced you to go to this most recent one.  It was your first time skating and you were nervous.  You fell, a lot.  But each time, you got up and tried again.  There were a lot of tears and you were frustrated with yourself, and I was expecting you to say you never wanted to go again.  To my surprise (and delight), you wanted to go back the next week.  And, so, we have (when we don't have baseball)!  Most of the time it's just me and you, and I love it.  We see how many times we can go around the rink, our highest amount being 104.  That's also 104 times you've gone around without falling.  One of these weeks we'll win Four Corners.  Not sure about Red Light/Green Light.  Some of those folks are FAST.  You want to hold my hand and get upset if I let go.  You asked for skates for your birthday and it's on the agenda to buy you a custom pair (the kind where you turn regular shoes into skates).  Can't wait to see what you pick!

Baseball keeps us busy.  You started catching this season, and you do an awesome job.  You are so laid back when you play, taking everything in stride.  When you strike out, no big deal.  Just like with skating, you get out there and try again.  When you don't catch a ball, you give it another shot during the next play.  Daddy heard a college baseball coach talk about how he wants "boring" players; people that go out there and get the job done without all the fanfare/bells/whistles/drama.  That's you, bud.  Last year, your coaches called you the Silent Assassin.  You don't talk much and can normally be found sitting on the bench while the other boys are climbing the fence or playing swords with their bats.  Some days you say you don't want to play while others, you anxiously ask me when your next game or practice is.  You played travel ball for the first time last fall and seemed to enjoy that a bit more than little league.  You don't think you're good but you are.  And you'll go far in this game if you keep trying.

Speaking of not talking, you have the same third grade teacher that The Lime had.  Part of me was excited because she's great but part of me was also nervous because she does lots of oral reports.  For someone who doesn't talk much, I wasn't sure how that would go over.  Sure enough, for your first one, you were adamant you were NOT going to do it.  But you did, and you did awesome.  Then it was time for the second one and, again, you were not going to do it.  But, again, you did and got a perfect score.  There was a little hesitation for the third one but I think you felt pretty confident by then.  And it showed, as you got another A+.  It's pretty cool to see what you're capable of when you put in an effort and tell yourself you can rather than can't.

You came home from school a few months ago and told me you had a hard time seeing the tv screen.  It was right around the time The Lime and I had our annual eye exams so we scheduled one for you too.  Sure enough, you needed glasses.  You were set on only wearing them for school until you put them on at The Lime's baseball game and stunned yourself.  You could read the scoreboard and all of the sponsor banners in the outfield.  The more you wore them, the more you realized how amazing it is to see clearly.  You didn't know that at night, there wasn't always a ring around lights.  You're pretty good at wearing them all the time, except for baseball.  I think you're a little embarrassed but you'll come around.

I recently asked you what you wanted to be when you grow up.  "You know..." you said.  I racked my brain trying to remember.  Then it hit me...an electrical lineman (as long as you're securely strapped into your harness).  I have no clue where you got the idea but it's ambitious, and I love it.  

Actually, now that I think of it, you probably saw something on YouTube about linemen.  You still love devices, especially if you can watch YouTube on it.  The things you've learned...your class grew butterflies last month and you named yours Michael Myers.  We've never talked about that character or the movie he's from.  Leave it to YouTube.  You do say some funny things after hearing them online.  I think you said someone was acting rigid the other day.  I'm not sure when I learned that word/meaning but it definitely wasn't third grade.

You and The Lime fight all.of.the.time.  But the second he goes to do something with his friends, you beg to join.  Most of the time he lets you and you two have fun.  You enjoy riding your bikes together, playing wiffle ball or basketball with the neighbors, and going to Raley's to buy treats.  You get very protective of your treats, mainly because you use your own money to buy them.  Sometimes you buy Prime, other times you buy Sour Patch Kids or chips.  

I think I've mentioned it before how I've always thought you'd be a great big brother.  You interact so well with younger kids, like your cousin.  I think that's why you love Aksel so much.  You play with him in the mornings before you leave for school.  And when it's time to leave, you say, "Bye Sweetie Pie!"  You love to cover him with your blankets and he patiently lets you.  You love snuggling with him and he hates when you get close to him when he's chewing on his toys.  During Christmas break, I watched our neighbor's dog.  She's older and much easier to take on walks.  A few days in, you started joining me on our walks and you were in heaven.  Just like with Aksel, you loved on Olive and have been asking me ever since when we can watch her again.

Just like you love Aksel and Olive, you love tacos and requested that to be dinner on Sunday.  You also love Panda Express and we're getting that tonight.  You still do not love broccoli but you'll eat it if you have to.  Same goes for mushrooms.  You love frozen tamales, just like The Lime.  You love cheddar sour cream Ruffles and Doritos.  You eat cereal or bagels for breakfast and get school lunch every day.  You've been breaking out on your chin and we think it's from toothpaste.  We're on our third brand, hoping it clears things up.  You have gotten better at washing your hair and it smells so much better.  You got a size 6 pair of shoes today and can't wait until you're a 7 because then you'll be wearing men's sizes.  But you still have size 8 clothes that you wear.  You got a special pair of church pants and a nice blazer from Daddy's aunt's store in Utah.  You like going to church only so you can wear them.  You wish you were in my primary class so you could play games.  You insist on wearing long socks even if they don't match your outfit.  You got a watch for Christmas and you love having it in military time.  You love playing catch with Daddy at The Lime's baseball games.  You absolutely love chicken wings and pride yourself on being able to eat a pound of them at Cattlemen's.  

I love watching you grow and I also love that your voice still sounds little.  I'm excited you're excited to be 9!  Remember: do well, be kind, you're amazing, and I love you.

-Mama

Doodlebug - Tally Mark 84

 

Dear RieRie,

7 years old!  Wo hoo!  7 is an awesome number, and I know you're going to have an awesome year ahead of you!

You are winding up your first grade year at school and you have mixed feelings about second grade.  You think it's going to be hard but I have a feeling you're going to breeze through it like you did first!  When you started the school year, your spelling/writing/reading were a struggle.  We'll blame Covid on that one, since you had to do "school" from home for three months and not much learning took place.  But you worked so hard and your struggling scores shot up to outstanding.  You love to read and be read to.  Every math test you take has a "Wowza!" on the front of it because you got a perfect score.  Your teacher said you were perfect, and I'd have to agree (most days).

Speaking of school, we met with your Speech Therapist last week and she officially deemed you a graduate of speech!  I was watching videos of you when you were younger and it was so hard for me to understand what you were saying.  I know this was frustrating for you because you knew exactly what you were trying to get across.  I think that played a part in you being so shy, because you were afraid people wouldn't be able to understand you.  Now you confidently go to the snack bar at baseball and order a pretzel and Gatorade all by yourself.  This wouldn't have happened a year ago!  I'm so proud of how hard you worked and your enthusiasm to grow.

You decided to play baseball this season and you've loved every second of it.  You thrive at playing all the bases because you're such an awesome catcher.  At the end of every game, you remind us how far you hit the ball and that you're the best player on your time.  You love playing wiffleball with The Lime outside and going across the street with Daddy to the batting cages.  I know you'll make it far in baseball if you keep loving it and trying your best!

When you're not playing baseball, you're most likely on the iTouch watching YouTube.  Occasionally you'll go outside and play with the neighbor kids.  You've recently started asking if you could go with The Lime to his friend's house but he has a pool, and I'm not 100% confident in your swimming skills just yet.  Hopefully with lessons this summer, you'll get even better!  

You told your teacher the other day that you want to be a police officer when you grow up.  I suggested a K9 officer because you love dogs so much.  Aksel has been such a treat for you.  You want to be as close to him as possible, all the time, even if he doesn't want you to be close to him.  You two like to tease each other and sometimes it goes a bit too far.  Aksel really does see you as one of his littermates.  I'm so glad you two will be able to grow up together!

I talked about your tummy issues in last year's birthday letter.  Thankfully, it's not as bad as it once was but you still have flare ups every once in a while.  I'm beginning to think it might be linked to Red 40 dye, because anything red tends to immediately send you to go potty.  This means no red ICEEs at the snack bar.  Total bummer! 

You give Daddy and me a run for our money.  I often ask Daddy how we'll be able to handle you when you're 16 because we can barely handle six.  You know what you want, are persistent when you strongly believe in something, and rarely back down.  You have an amazing poker face.  I just hope it's a phase and not something you'll carry on with as you get older.  You insist on getting hot lunch at school.  Your art skills are out of this world, and you can draw pretty much anything.  You still give me hugs, tell me you love me, and let me hold your hand.  You can't go to bed without getting at least two kisses, because you claim to have not received the first.  You get afraid going into the garage by yourself, whether it's light or dark outside.  You say you're cold when it's hot outside, and hot when it's cold outside.  And you say you're cold if the wind is blowing no matter the temperature.  You get very enthusiastic when you tell stories.  You randomly scream in your sleep, usually telling The Lime to stop.  You've lost six teeth and are hoping number seven won't be too far behind.  You believe everything your friend, Tyler, tells you (he is not nine years old and he didn't move in down the street from us).  You're so darn cute, funny, and smart and I'm so glad you joined our family seven years ago.  I love you so much!

Love,

Mama

The Lime - Tally Mark 132

Dear Freddy,

Angel number 11!!!!  Holy cow, still shocked we're already to this moment.  We spent last night talking about the moments leading to your birth.  Your biggest concern was how your head came through such a small hole.  I love that you're comfortable enough to ask such a thing.

You came home this week, after playing with some friends at the park.  You told me one of the boys is in middle school and his voice sounded funny.  You openly asked him, "Are you going through puberty?"  He said yes.  That time is just around the corner for you, so I'm treasuring the time where your face is still silky smooth, and your little voice doesn't crack.

This is your last year in elementary school and, while it's not what we envisioned (still dealing with Coronavirus), you love it.  Mrs. Lara (Ms. Coulter) is your teacher, and as previous years, she was your number one pick.  You have meshed well with her and you're thriving!  We just got your progress report for semester two and you have all As and one B.  Going out with a bang!  You're learning that studying pays off, and you're so proud of yourself when you come home to tell me you got an A on your test/quiz/story/project.  I'm super proud of you, too.  You also dressed up for every day of Kindness Week, which has never happened.  I was thinking about it earlier this week.  Every year you have asked for a yearbook and every year we tell you you can get one when you're in 5th grade.  I'm so sorry you're getting a yearbook for a school year where nothing has happened!  I promise to get you a yearbook from now on.

You love playing with friends (Cohen, Logan, Jackson, Wyatt) and count down the minutes after you get home from school where you can knock on someone's' door.  Riding bikes or scooters is your activity of choice.  You've started going to the library park with Cohen and I think you love that bit of independence.  You also play Fortnite and your friends' houses because we don't let you play it at home.  You get excited to tell me about all of the kills you've made but I really don't understand what it means.  Thank you for telling me anyway!

Many people have commented about your style.  You take much pride in your outfits and ensuring they match.  You've started rolling up the cuffs on your pants and don't care if they're rolled extremely high.  You would wear everything Vans if you could, and you hope to work there when you're 16 so you can get an employee discount.  And so you can smell the shoes and new clothes.  That's your favorite smell!  

It's been a struggle for a while to get you to push yourself, try a little harder, and see your potential.  We were doing sit-ups and push-ups the other night, and you couldn't do either.  With a lot of encouragement, you've seen your potential and we now do a round of push-ups, sit-ups, and planks every night.  Sometimes we throw in a wall sit for fun.  You've already improved so much!  And it's exciting to see you get past the negative thoughts in your mind, telling you you can't do something.  

While you still watch plenty of Dude Perfect and Fortnite videos on YouTube, you've started watching videos linked to law enforcement.  Live PD was one of your favorite shows before they stopped making it.  You've mentioned a carrier in this field might be something you'd like to pursue.  But you think it might be scary.  And you get scared really easily, so that gives us something else to push through.  It would be neat if that's what pans out.  You've played and pretended to be a police officer for so long, it really might be your calling.

You still have Lucifer and sleep with it every night.  Its full of holes and the stuffing can be found all over our house.  It's been your pal and comforted you for so long, I can't imagine it not being by your side every night in bed, or on the couch with you while you're watching tv.  Daddy still threatens to throw it away, but I promise I won't let that happen.

We sat down this week and you decided you didn't want to play baseball this year.  Part of me is sad, but you want to try something new and I support you 100%.  You're thinking football or basketball.  Here's to hoping the world will settle down and resolve itself soon so you can get out and explore new adventures.

I love you so much, dude!  Your attitude and talking back stink sometimes but I suppose that comes with the age.  You try really hard to do good.  You watch our for others, always making sure they're safe.  You remember to say thank you after we buy you something.  You still want me to carry you to bed, but I have a feeling you'll be carrying me before long.  You eat all your dinner, even if it's gross and you don't want to.  You're simply the best and I'm so glad you're mine.

Love,

Mommy

Doodlebug - Tally Mark 72

Oh My Rie Rie,

You have been counting down to this day for the last three weeks.  I'm so sorry you have to celebrate in quarantine (thanks, Coronavirus!) but that hasn't seemed to damper your spirit.

What a year five was for you!  You finished up your first season of baseball, had your first session of swim lessons, started kindergarten, started your second season of baseball (Fall ball), learned how to ride a bike, made lots of friends, barely started your third season of baseball (Farm!  And...Coronavirus), and lost your first tooth.  You amazed me in all of these endeavors and more!

You were so blessed to be on the T-ball team you were on!  Mrs. Smith, Carson's mom, was one of your Team Moms.  We knew her from school because she was Ryan's teacher.  It's not uncommon for younger siblings to get the same teacher their older sibling had.  But after getting to know Mrs. Smith, we knew she'd be a much better fit for you than The Lime's kindergarten teacher.  Daddy and I wanted to tell the school we wanted you to be in Mrs. Smith's class but she beat us to it.  She came up to me one day and said, "I hope you don't mind but I requested [Doodlebug] be in my class next year."  And, sure enough, you got her!  You have loved her and she's loved you!  You were recognized as Star Student more times than I can count, and you earned a special recognition your first semester.  It's been tough not seeing her everyday since the middle of March but you love being able to see her on your Zoom meetings every week.  This is her last year teaching kindergarten and we're hoping you'll get her again in second grade!

Speaking of school, we weren't surprised when Mrs. Smith suggested you meet with the Speech Therapist.  Since you started out grunting rather than talking, and it was still hard to understand some words you said, we knew it was coming.  You first worked with Sister Turnbull from church and then Mrs. McMorris when she came back from maternity leave.  We're not the best at remembering to do your homework but you always try your best and never give up!

I reached out to Silas and Tyler's moms a few weeks ago and asked them to do a "drive by" birthday celebration since we still can't have parties.  You originally wanted to go to Chuck E. Cheese, then Rockin' Jump, but neither of those can happen this year.  Not being able to see your best buds has been the hardest part of staying at home.  You've told me numerous times, "I just want to see Silas and Tyler!" so I'm hoping their brief visit today will make you extra happy!

We've spent the last year and a half trying to figure out what's going on with your tummy.  The last year has included lots of doctor visits, lab visits, and even a colonoscopy/endoscopy.  It's traumatizing for adults, let alone a five year old.  But even with your tears and fears, you've pushed through and showed me how brave and amazing you are!  When you went in for your procedure, I knew you were scared, and we both almost started crying when they wheeled you away, but you were so strong!  It hasn't been fun for you not being able to eat cheese, milk, ice cream, etc.  Thank you for having a positive attitude and getting excited about the "special" things we get for you.  We're still trying to find a cheese that isn't gross.  One day!

You love riding your bike, watching way too many videos on YouTube (specifically FGTeev), and being read to.  Every night before bed you ask me, "Read book?"  You're usually asleep within minutes of me starting.  You can't go to sleep without your giraffe, panda bear, and blanket you've loved since you were born (the one Sister Tanner gave you).  You don't like it when I tell you I love you but I do it anyway.  You are an early riser, no matter what time you go to bed.  You love Mouse Trap and usually win.  You hate turkeys but love babies.  Seeing you with babies makes my heart melt.  You're going to be such a good dad one day!  You loved getting hot lunch at school before we found out we needed to go dairy free.  You used to alternate doing rock 'n roll hair and "the wave" for school.  Then you got a bike for Christmas and had to wear a helmet everyday so it was whatever would stay after we took your helmet off.  You still get hiccups when you laugh too much.  You have a tendency of having bad dreams and screaming in your sleep for The Lime to stop.  You can never remember what they're about.

Daddy wishes you would stay little forever and I'd have to agree with him.  But we know that won't happen so we'll stand by and enjoy each year that we get to watch you grow.

Guess what, Rie Rie?

I love you!

Mama

The Lime - Tally Mark 120

Dear Freddy,

10 years ago at this time, I was getting a wee bit nervous, realizing that you were going to make your appearance very soon.  And I was nervous until the second the doctor delivered you.  And then I was in love!  You were the cutest baby, for having just been born, and you're the cutest 10 year old!  Every time Grammy sees you, she comments on how handsome you are.  I would have to agree.

Grammy and Papa were just here for Christmas and you had so much fun with them!  You and Grammy played football outside, she recorded you on your bike while you tried (and succeeded!) making trick shots into the basketball hoop, you played lots of games and read lots of books.  You begged them to stay, hoping their flight would be delayed longer than it already was.  You have such a great time with them and I know you're anxious for our next visit.

You've been anxious this year to try other sports; basketball and football.  While we didn't sign you up for them, you've been playing plenty of both at school and with friends after school.  In fact, I think all of your white shirts are grayish brown from all the mud you roll around in.  Last year was your first year not playing baseball in the fall, in hopes of being able to play basketball.  We weren't able to make it happen but we'll see if we can work something out this year.

After four years of having girl teachers, you were initially excited to be put in the class of the only male teacher in the whole school.  It's been a different dynamic, and it's taken you a while to get used to it, but it's been nice for you to have something that's out of your comfort zone.  You did, though, tell me Thursday night (as we were studying for your DLI test) that Ms. Swithenbank and Mrs. Lee are still your favorite teachers so far.  And I'd have to agree!  Especially Ms. Swithenbank.  She still says hi to you every time we see her at school.  She was so good for you!

This year at church, you're not participating in scouts.  They've implemented a new program for the youth where you work on goals in four areas; physical, spiritual, intellectual, and social.  You'd like to read the Book of Mormon, include people at school who don't have someone to play with, get better at division, and get better at baseball/football/basketball.  You told me last night that you think you aced your multiplication/division test this week.  I know when you put your mind to something, and really try, you're able to knock it out of the park!

A couple of months ago, you were struggling with that; not really believing in yourself.  It stemmed from us receiving an email from your teacher, letting us know that you were extremely disruptive in class one day.  I came across a book from Cost Plus where you write, each day, why you're amazing.  I got a Five Minute Journal for Christmas and we've set aside time each night to both write in our books.  We then share with each other what we wrote.  I love that you're able to find even the smallest reason as to why you're amazing (you bought pizza for the family one night).  It was super cool when, after you initially weren't feeling so hot about yourself, you were able to write about being the only one to clip up in your entire class (that's a good thing!).  Or how you got a perfect score on your math test.  Always look for the positive!

You started riding your bike/walking home from school this year.  Daddy has been encouraging it for years but neither you, nor I, felt comfortable with it.  Something changed this year and you were eager to start.  The only thing, when you see the unruly neighbors down the street outside, you choose to go the long way just to avoid them.  You are so my child and I love that you're aware of your surroundings!  You're willing to go the extra mile (literally) to ensure you're safe.  You got walkie talkies for Christmas and you've been bringing one to school with you while I keep the other.  While I know you wish it was a cell phone, I can tell you think it's pretty cool to be able to chat while you're riding home.  With all of this said, though, there are some days where you do opt for me to pick you up.  And I am more than happy to!

You have also started staying home by yourself (or with Doodlebug) for short periods of time.  I know it makes you feel old and responsible.  When Daddy and I left you two home alone one Saturday while we went Christmas shopping, you called Daddy's phone about 6 times in almost two hours, wondering when we'd be home.  So while I know you love feeling like a super big kid, you have moments like that where you're still young.  I'll take it because I know those times are winding down.

Keep up the good work, my love!  I love seeing you progress, learn, grow, and I can't wait to see where you end up.

I love you so much!

Mommy

Doodlebug - Tally Mark 60 - Part 1

Dear RieRie,

One of my favorite songs to sing to you is "Oh My RieRie!" to the tune of "Oh My Darling, Clementine". And my favorite part is when you sing it back to me saying, "Oh My Mommy!" Even though you say Mommy in the song, you normally call me Mama and I absolutely love it. Yes, you're a big five year old now but when you call me Mama, it reminds me you'll always be my baby.

This has been a great year for you! First off, you finally got to play baseball! After four years of watching The Lime play, it was finally your turn and you've done AWESOME. You thrive at every position you play; always down and ready. You know that all of your games are written in red on the calendar so you're able to see when your next one is. The day of your game, as soon as you wake up, you ask if you can get dressed but that's usually nine hours before your game so I have you wait. Then, throughout the day, you ask if it's time. You just love to play and it's hard to be patient sometimes but when 4:00 rolls around, you're SO excited things can get rolling. And as soon as that game is over, you get pumped for the next.

You've had to spend more time at babysitters' houses in the last year any other time in your life. And with how shy you are, you've done surprisingly well. You especially liked going to Ben's house and you didn't even want to leave the last time you were over there. With school starting in less than four months, you're going to make even more friends and, hopefully, work your way out of your shell even more.

You are a monster on your scooter, always zipping around at a speed that makes my heart skip a beat. You've skidded so many times, your back tire is a square. It makes for an interesting sound :) I can always tell where you are at the baseball field; I just have to look for the Evel Knievel helmet. But I think it's about time we move you up to a bike, a REAL bike. Maybe Santa will bring you one for Christmas?

Puzzles are still your strongpoint. Your little mind loves figuring things out and puzzles are the perfect challenge. You also LOVE Transformers for the exact same reason. The 8+ toys are right up your alley but they always stump me. You definitely get that attribute from Daddy.

I'm convinced you've been growing nonstop for the last six months because you're always hungry. Thank goodness you're a great eater and request things like blueberries or strawberries. But goodness gracious, if you're like this at five, I don't know how I'm going to keep up when you're sixteen.

Speaking of great eating, when I asked you what you wanted for your birthday dinner, you said pizza and salad. "Salad like the one we just had," you said. That would be Caesar salad. What five year old asks for salad for their birthday dinner?! You do tell me you hate broccoli, though, but always eat it when it's given to you. Hot dogs are not your favorite and I think it's because of the texture. Interestingly enough, you are more than willing to eat corn dogs.

You have a great eye for bugs and tell me when you see one in the house. You also don't go in the bathtub if there's one in there, even if it's a tiny fly. But you're more than happy to play with them outside. Potato Bugs have been known to make their way home with us from school but you kindly put them in the grass when we arrive, so they can go back to their families. You love pointing out butterflies and you move across the street if you see bees.

You are kind and sensitive, hilarious and quirky, shy but talkative with those you feel comfortable with. You have been just what I needed this year to feel peace and happiness. I've treasured these five years I've had you all to myself and I'm excited to see where you go from here.

I love you so much!

Mama

The Lime - Tally Mark 108 - Part 2

-Is growing his hair out. We'll see how long it gets, and how crazy is makes everyone, before we breakdown and cut it.
-Says "Let's go!" every time he gets excited about something.
-After eating salami nearly every day for lunch since kindergarten, he's now willing to take ham.
-Has also been known to take a Caesar salad.
-Still has Lucifer; sleeps with it, takes it on trips, sniffs its back when he's sitting on the couch.
-Likes to read (so unlike his parents).
-Wants to play basketball next fall instead of baseball.
-Wears a 5.5 shoe, medium shirt, and size 10 pants.
-Has to coordinate his clothes/shoes/hats. If he wears a Nike shirt, everything else (down to his socks) have to be Nike. Same goes for Under Armour.
-Still has a REALLY hard time saving money.
-Would play with our neighbor, Logan, all day/every day if he could.
-Hates breakfast but tolerates an apple sauce pouch each morning.
-Is slowly but surely learning how to tie a necktie.
-No longer watches regular TV, just YouTube.
-Is definitely my child. A classmate touched the cap of his water bottle and he insisted I take it home and wash it before he used it again.
-Still likes to pretend and can often be heard making race car sounds.
-Even though he's almost bigger than me, he still asks if I can carry him to bed every once in a while.
-Has a bit of an attitude and likes to tell us to "hold on."
-I'd like to tell him to "hold on" when it comes to growing up and stay my little Lime forever!

The Lime - Tally Mark 108 - Part 1

Dear Freddy,

I love that you still let me call you Freddy. In fact, you insist I call you Freddy. The other day, Tyler (the boy we babysit) asked who Freddy was and you quickly replied with, "ME!"

While this time is always so exciting for you, mainly because you can't wait to find out what your presents will be, it's a little hard for me. I always go back to the first January 17th and I think about all the work my body went through to prepare for your arrival. Now I just think about how it's my last day to savor you at a particular age. Like how when I kissed you goodnight last night, it was the last time I'd be doing it with you as an 8 year old.

But this letter isn't about me. It's about you!

A few months into 2018, we weren't sure where we'd end up. More than anything, Daddy and I wanted to keep our lives (your life) as close to the way its been as possible. We were worried you wouldn't be at the same school, with the same baseball league, or near your friends like you've been the last 5 years. Thankfully, we were able to move down the street and you gained a great friend next door.

We knew about Logan, just from seeing him at school or in the neighborhood, but you hadn't built a relationship with him. That quickly changed this summer and you two hit it off immediately. You both go back and forth between our houses, you play in the court across the street, and all I can think about is how grateful I am you have someone right next door you can call a good friend.

All of the first-fifth graders at your school participate in the Morning Walk (where we walk around the perimeter of the playground until the bell rings). The teachers help with the yard duty during this time and all the way back in first grade, you noticed a particular teacher on the basketball courts. From that point on, you hoped and wished she would be your third grade teacher. Imagine your excitement when you saw the class lists posted for third grade and you saw you were in her class. She thinks just as highly of you and I'm so glad everything worked out in your favor.

You got your first taste of AA baseball last fall to help you for the upcoming spring season. Every season, you come to the conclusion that your favorite position is _________ (it changes every year). This time, you tried your hand at pitching and decided you really like it. I'm anxious to see you work hard in the next few months and magnify your talents. Every time someone asks you what you want to be when you grow up, you tell them a professional baseball player. If that ends up happening, I can't wait to share all of your little league stories and photos!

The other night, I forget exactly what we were doing but I pretended to cry and, without hesitation, you got a concerned look on your face and knelt down to get a better look at my face. "She's joking," said Daddy. But I was taken back because you did the EXACT same this as a toddler. If anyone fake (or really) cried, you were the first one to see what was wrong and try to console them. I love that even though you're growing out of the little kid phase, you still harbor the same wonderful qualities.

Like pretending. When Auntie Amy and her family were over on Christmas, you, your brother, and your cousins dressed up and were playing some game. Auntie Amy looked at me and said, "I love that he still pretends!" We were getting ready to leave for the Pinewood Derby tonight and I could hear you making car sounds in your bedroom as you were getting your shoes on. You beg the boys we babysit to play Cops & Robbers with you. Please be a pretender forever! It's quite possibly my favorite thing about you.

Thank you for trying, most of the time, to do the right thing. Thank you for doing your homework every night. Thank you for still wanting to snuggle with us and for ensuring we give you a kiss goodnight. Thank you for watching our for your little brother. You two are going to have so much fun at the same school in the next two years. Thank you for coming to our family and being the best Lime we could have ever asked for.

I hope this year is simply amazing for you.

Love you tons!

Mommy

Doodlebug - Tally Mark 48 - Part 2

-Spends too much time on the iPad watching YouTube.
-Is an early riser. Sometimes too early, like before the sun comes up.
-Says the sweetest prayers.
-Still gets the hiccups if he laughs too much.
-Hates when people watch him.
-Wears a bowtie to church every week.
-Always takes a handful of Sacrament bread and keeps his cup.
-Thinks he rules the world.
-Likes to say, "What da heck?!" and "Oh my goodness!"
-Will occasionally have PB&J for lunch but still prefers quesadillas.
-Says all sodas are spicy.
-Prefers to apply his own suntan lotion.
-Insists we look at the toys every time we go to Target.
-Is no longer afraid of ladybugs. In fact, he treats them the same as he does babies.
-Likes to exercise so he gets big muscles.
-Gets excited when he sees the letter F.
-Doesn't like loud noises.
-Likes to do different things with his fingers; I love you, rock & roll, and shaka brah.
-I give him two thumbs up for being the best RieRie!

Doodlebug - Tally Mark 48 - Part 1

Dear RieRie,

You have been waiting for this day almost as long as we waited for you! And you made it...you're 4 years old!

This is the year that you become a big boy; you don't wear diapers anymore (except Pull-Ups at night but they're usually dry when you wake up), you started Primary, you can brush your teeth by yourself, you try really hard to buckle your seatbelt by yourself but sometimes need help, and we're getting you to walk more because big boys don't always need Mommy to hold them :) We're also getting you to work on the crying and whining. You tend to cry about EVERYTHING and while it's okay to cry, we don't need to break down every.single.time. something doesn't go our way.

You have lots of best friends and none of them are your immediate family members. Ha! But rather Great Grams & Great Papa, Sister Boden, Eli, McKayla, Natalie, Sophie, and Baby Lilly. You are extremely shy around people you don't know but you go 100 miles/minute around those you love.

Speaking of love, you LOVE babies! Having Baby Lilly in our home and seeing how sweet you are with her, and all babies, has warmed my heart. You share your toys with her, beg to hold her, talk gently to her, and do whatever you can to make her happy. If we ever have another baby, you're going to make the perfect big brother.

But you're still the little brother and you and your big bro fight...A LOT. I sometimes feel like I have twins because what I do for one, I have to do for the other. But you look up to him so much. You can't wait to go to his school, you can't wait to play baseball, you are anxious to pick him up from school each day, and you're always following him around (which may be the reason for the fighting). But I love how much you love him and I hope you always look up to him.

Can I tell you one of the things I love most about you? You love Coldplay! I love driving in the car with you and when we hear Coldplay, you yell at me to turn the radio up. You're also an awesome dancer that can't control his moves when you hear the perfect song. Dance parties are sweeter when you're involved and I can't wait to chaperone your youth dances in 10 years!

You give the best hugs and apparently needed one really bad the other day because it was quite possibly the tightest, most loving hug I've ever received from anyone. We've been getting ready to move and you haven't been getting the attention you need or want so I was more than willing to squeeze you until you eeeekkkked. Feel free to give me those hugs anytime!

You're a rebel at home but when we're in public or with other people, you like to follow the rules and make sure everyone else is following the rules too. You give us the weekly report on who was naughty in Sunbeams, you yell at Natalie to stop on the corner so she doesn't cross the street without us, you encourage McKayla to stay where her mommy can see her at baseball, and you keep tabs on The Lime when he's doing something he shouldn't be. I appreciate that you're obedient with other people, like your Primary teacher, and that I can take you out without worrying about what might happen. You've come with me to The Lime's school on several occasions (music, parties) and you're perfectly content with playing with the classroom toys or puzzles. I've overheard other parents say their kids would never behave the way you do. You can misbehave at home anytime as long as you're good in public :)

This is my last year with you at home before you start Kindergarten and I promise to savor every second. Promise me you'll always be my RieRie!

Enjoy your day, silly boy!

Love,

Mommy

His Special Day

As soon as I finished with work, I headed to the doughnut shop and got there two minutes after it opened.  I asked the man if they get many customers at 4:30 and he said, "Only you..."  :)

We've carried on LaVor's family tradition of not opening presents until after dinner.  But I wanted The Lime to be able to wear his new shirt to school yesterday so I let him open just one while we FaceTimed with LaVor.

This kid is a HUGE fan of Dude Perfect as is, apparently, the rest of the world. This was the only shirt on their website that wasn't sold out! He was super excited to wear it and I was super excited it wasn't anything Warriors related :)

The Lime originally wanted to bring cupcakes to school as his treat but changed his mind when he realized he'd be getting cake after dinner. We ran through some ideas and when I suggested root beer float cookies, he nearly jumped out of his seat. "Yes!" he exclaimed. He couldn't have picked an easier treat!

Doodlebug and I swung by Togo's to grab The Lime his favorite pastrami/salami sandwich and zipped over to his school where we met his class just in time for lunch. Those kids sure have to eat fast before they're kicked out for the next group. But we still had fun spending some time with The Lime and his buddies, and everyone (except for one girl) loved the cookies.

I needed to finish up The Lime's birthday cake before we headed to dinner with friends. He wanted another basketball themed cake and, since he's on an even bigger Curry kick this year than he was last, this is what I came up with.

There was no way I was making an edible hoop and Curry so those are just pictures taped to skewers. The Lime was happy with how it turned out which is all that mattered.

While I was finishing up his cake, The Lime was painting his Pinewood Derby car. The race was the following day but we had to turn it in that night. LaVor raced home with the weights for it, he strategically slapped them on, and we were the second participant at the leader's house.

Just like the day The Lime was born, it was pouring rain as we drove to a pizza dinner with friends. We were running a little behind and came up with the brilliant idea to order the pizza on the way there. That way, it was ready when we arrived and the kids wouldn't be starving. It worked! Our friends got there just before we did, we walked in, found a spot to sit, and were given our pizzas within minutes.

Since we don't have family close enough to celebrate fun moments like this, it's such a treat to have friends that can fill that void. We love the Swyers and I shouldn't be surprised The Lime begged me to invite them to dinner.

We sang happy birthday, played some arcade games, and called it a night so we could head home and open the rest of The Lime's presents.

The Lime said he didn't know what to ask for since he got everything he wanted for Christmas.  Thankfully he was able to come up with a few ideas and seemed to be pleased as punch with the outcome.

Before we knew it, the day was over. But the festivities were really just beginning! More to come in about a week...

The Lime - Tally Mark 96 - Part 1

Dear Freddy,

What in the world is happening?! I was looking through old pictures a few nights ago and it seems like you were just born, and just went potty on the toilet for the first time, and just started baseball, and just started school, and now we're here. You're officially 8 years old and I'm in shock!

We were driving to Target the other day and I said, "Just think...in 8 years, you'll be driving!" To which you replied, "I could drive now. I'm really good at my video games." Time is zipping by on its own, no need to rush it :)

You try hard, most of the time, to be a tough kid who appears to be older than 8. You adjust your voice so it sounds a little deeper. You attempt to act rough, tough, and "cool". You don't seem to be into things kids your age are into. But then you ask me to carry you to bed at night. Or you ask to snuggle with everyone on the couch. Or you get nervous doing something on your own. And I realize you do still need me and I love it! You aren't afraid or embarrassed to hold my hand in public, you still believe 110% in the magic of Santa, the Tooth Fairy, and the Easter Bunny. In fact, Daddy and I let some things slip after Christmas and you questioned us. Particularly why the box for Doodlebug's present was in our closet. When I told you Santa left the gift in the package and I thought it'd be too hard for Doodlebug to open it so I took it out and hid the box in my closet, you were totally satisfied with that answer. And it filled my heart with gratitude that I hadn't ruined the magic for you and you are still so innocent to believe.

Speaking of your brother, it's becoming harder and harder for you two to get along. Christmas vacation was brutal for everyone and the bruises on both your bodies, from wrestling and hitting each other, are proof :P Yet you were his biggest cheerleader the first week he started potty training. And you love teaching him how to play basketball and baseball. I love when I overhear you talking sweet and gentle to him, as I know that's your true character. You're a teacher, leader, and protector, especially when it comes to Doodlebug.

This past year was a fun one for you! Disneyland, trips to San Francisco, teeth falling out of your head like it's going out of style, visits with grandparents, the mud run, lots of baseball, tons of laughter, and so many afternoons spent playing with friends. You're one lucky kid that one of your best friends lives down the street AND is in your class at school. You've always treasured your friendships and this one with Cohen is no different. You're a great example to him and share your story of praying in front of him often (Cohen stayed for dinner one night and The Lime said the prayer). Santi is also one of your good friends, which I find funny because the last two years of school you guys haven't always gotten along. I think you realized you're very similar, have a lot of the same interests, and are able to put that first born mentality behind you guys (most of the time).

You've taken a greater interest in cooking this last year, beyond your "concoctions".  I'll catch you sneaking into the kitchen while I'm making dinner and stirring something on the stove.  Or trying to chop or measure something.

Speaking of food, you are your father's son.  You beg to go to La Piñata when we visit the Bay Area.  And if I'm being honest, you wish for it often when we're at home.

You are not the picky eater you once were and you're willing to try at least one bite of most things.  You usually end up liking it and have done a great job expanding your pallet.  Now if we could just convince you to order the spread on your In N Out burgers :)

You've continued your perfect score on spelling tests streak, even when you started the week out struggling with the words. You get excited when you answer your math problems correctly. You even know how to make slideshows on Google (which I didn't even know how to do). You're gathering new information constantly and sometimes think you know more than me and Daddy. We have to remind you we've been around just a smidge longer than you and know just a smidge more. Nevertheless, you are a smart cookie!

Use that knowledge for good! Especially since you'll be baptized in a week and Satan is going to work extra hard to get you to make naughty choices. You've always strived to do what's right and I hope you can rely on what Daddy and I have taught you, what you've learned at church, and the good examples of those around you. Continue doing what you're doing and you'll be one successful dude in all aspects of your life.

I love you to pieces!

Mommy

Doodlebug's Party

This is what I get for waiting 6 weeks before posting about Doodlebug's party...I can't remember anything!

I do know we were able to baby-sit his little friends that morning so he was in hog heaven from 9-11. And he has a sticker from Doodlebug's shirt in all the pictures but I can't remember why we were there.

I think we might have had quesadillas for dinner since those are his favorite. But I do remember what we did that night because I took pictures :)

He really wanted a "Me May Mas" (PJ Mask) birthday so that's what he got. LaVor snagged some balloons the night before and his little friends bought some more over that morning. They're still flying high, tied to our closet door in the hallway. If you don't buy your balloons from the Dollar Store, you need to. I swear there are steroids in the helium or something.

Doodlebug scored a Paw Patrol tank top/t-shirt set, a new book, Everest & Rider from Paw Patrol, a bubble machine (that I've since dropped and broke), and Mr. Potato Head. I don't know why it took me 7.5 years to buy a Mr. Potato Head for one of our kids but it's been a hit!

I made him a cake that didn't turn out as cute as I had hoped but I ran out of time. He still loved the look of it but apparently not the taste. He only had a couple bites and after it sat in the fridge for 4 days, I had to throw it away. He nearly melted into a puddle on the ground when he saw his cake in the garbage. He's still talking about it :)

We sang happy birthday and he had a hard time blowing out the candles (I had a video that I thought I uploaded but now I can't find it) but eventually got it after several tries.

We loved celebrating our Doodlebug and have enjoyed him talking about his birthday ever since.