Amazing, isn't it. A mere 5 months ago we were a family of three. Just 15 months before that, Jill and I were just another newlywed couple trying to figure out all the annoying habits the other hid while we were dating (we are still discovering those by the way...). Now EVERYTHING has changed. I know, I know (that my Redeemer lives...) that we were told numerous (read millions) times that children change everything, but hearing ain't believing. I am now a believer. Jill and I don't go about anything in the same way we used to. All of a sudden, routine things like dinner require extensive planning to pull off. Thankfully we have family close by that are willing to help (Thanks Joyce, Julie, John and Randy!) so we haven't actually had to find a babysitter yet, but I know that day is coming...
There is just more to life with little ones around. Anyone that has children knows this, but allow me my time to speak my truth. I thought we had laundry before. Nay-Nay! Now we have laundry. I thought we were economically stressed before. Nay-nay! Milk, formula, diapers and daycare give new meaning to deficit spending. I thought we were tired before. Nay-NAY-NAY! The Z brothers have radar that allows them to only call out, scream or otherwise interrupt only the most important sleep of the night. It may only be once, but they'll catch you where it hurts the next morning the most. I thought I was happy helping raise everyone else's children. Nay. This is the most fun I've had since my Dad bought that little Honda 80 from Bobby McNabb for me.
They are so much fun to watch. I get in trouble for my choice of words (evidently it is too close to comparing them to pets...), but I can't wait to see what new trick they will learn next! Zeke has a plethora of tricks that can liven any party. Just ask anyone that has seen him "strike a pose". His personality is sunny (unless he doesn't get his way, then a hurricane is more appropriate) and he loves just about anyone. He's learning names and is becoming much more adept at please and thank you. He even "tee-tees in the potty" before bath time most nights. What more could you ask for you ask? How about a little brother that watches your every move, thinks everything you do is a laugh riot and doesn't complain much if your loving hug turns into a vicious headlock! It's early to tell, but I don't think Ezekiel has long before he ceases to be the big brother and is relegated to "older brother" status. As you can see above, 15 months does not a huge size difference make. We'll keep the comparison photos coming, but Zane is coming on strong in the growth department. He is working on learning to sit up on his own and can occasionally roll (when the mood strikes). He's strong (if he had any balance at all he could stand...He can support his weight already) and seems to have followed his brother's lead in the happiness department.
All of this to say, all that I've been told is true. It does go by too fast. Knowing that Zeke is a mere 7 years away from taking the TAKS test breaks my heart. Knowing that Zane is just a few months behind breaks it again. The rewards though are fantastic. Two healthy happy boys!
Thanks to all that support us and Zeke and Zane. We know that we couldn't do it without you and someday so will Zeke and Zane!
