Easter Updates

We had a good Easter. On Sunday we went to church a little early and Emily set up some activities for Easter. Four families did bag decorating and then Emily hid Easter eggs with another mom in a classroom. It was a lot of fun and the kids all enjoyed it. Sam had also gone to the local Sunday School and since he wasn't there for his birthday last month, he was able to go when they sang happy Birthday. In the afternoon, the kids and Em took a nap and I quick prepped for the wedding I'm going to be in. I'm mostly happy to do it, but still nervous about messing things up. Luckily, most of the talking has been turned over to someone else, but I still have several big chunks to read. Reading is still one of my hardest areas. The truth is that most people never get to the point where they can read well in local language. I'm getting there, but it's challenging to do this, especially in a liturgical setting. I think it will be a good experience for everyone. We were really encouraged to come to dinner last night, and I think that part of this is because it can often relax things having others around. I really like the couple, and we're glad to do what we can to help.

Otherwise, the kids are coming along. Eli's very giggly lately. Getting him to laugh usually just requires laughing yourself. Yesterday Emily heard him laughing in the back seat and said he sounded like a goat. He has a bit more of a raspy voice that is very entertaining. When he "snaps" his fingers and dances, he really reminds me of a jazz singer.

Eva is exploring more. She's discovered the toilet, which she likes to put things in. She's pretty strong--not quite where Eli is, but she can hold her own. Emily says she and Sam are pickier eaters. Her favorites are bread, pasta, and rice. She's continuing to sing "doh" a lot. Sometimes if we are singing, she tries to go to the piano. Pretty entertaining. Eva is also a pretty good napper now. If you ask her is she's sleepy and hold her hand, she'll walk to the crib. She rolls over on her tummy, sticks her bottom in the air, sucks her thumb a little and goes to sleep.

Sam is really a pretty nice little boy. He has his moments, but he's interested in the world and plays pretty well with others. We have a good bed routine, he takes long naps, and the rest of the time he has a lot of energy. He likes his church class. I really enjoy being able to watch him interact with others there. He's a very low "breakdown" kid. Usually he can be encouraged or persuaded to go along with things, especially if there is some fun to be had.

That's our kid updates!