3rd birthday and other happenings

3 years ago, my life changed. The sun ceased to be the center of the universe. Instead of gravity holding me to the earth, our twin sons were born and they became my reason for existence. I can't believe how much my life has changed and how much my heart has changed because I have the pleasure of being their mother. Watching them grow feels like watching myself as a child. Loving them feels like nurturing my own inner child. Protecting and teaching and guiding them is my duty now and forever more. I cannot say that the 3 years have flown by. On the contrary, many days have felt long and unending. The boys are so different from each other, but one thing they have in common is their ability to show love and affection in the sweetest and most unexpected ways.

On Dec. 1, the twins turned 3 years old! Today we had the party to celebrate that fact. Wow. It was a chaotic day filled with smiles, laughs, screams, cries, and a few meltdowns. All in all, I think most of the kids had a good time even if it wasn't good all the time. It was the first and hopefully the last birthday party without Javier here to celebrate with us. He was missed. We had the computer set up to allow him to skype in and watch the party, but alas, his internet connection was uncooperative and we were unable to see him.

We started the party with lunch, which was pizza and sandwiches and a fruit tray. Then we lit the candles and sang the happy birthday song. Jacob and Joaquin did not like that very  much. Joaquin ran out of the room and Jacob started crying. Oiy. With a little help, we finally got the candle blown out and cake distributed to everyone. The boys needed help opening their gifts. They didn't really understand the concept of tearing off the wrapping paper. Then once the paper was off, they wanted to play with the paper. They liked all the toys, but I think they liked the balloons even more. Since we only had the party room for an hour, it was time to pack up before we knew it. Then we headed out into the main play area to let all the kiddos run around like wild animals. Even Sebi got in on the fun.

And here are a few pictures from their actual birthday that we spent at home:

I love it when the boys hang out. Joaquin and Jacob frequently sit on the recliner and watch tv together. It's really cute. Sebi plays with them too, but his favorite place to be is on my hip.

And for Javier's viewing pleasure, here are a few more pictures.

I love this picture of Jacob. This is how he likes to lounge on the couch. This is how I tell he is tired and ready for a nap.

And here is Joaquin about to have a meltdown over something I have said or done.

And here is my sweet baby Sebi and also Jacob.

Life is such a blur lately. The days and nights are long, but time is passing. I have so much to do, but there never seems to be enough hours in the day to accomodate all the things I need to do. For now, I need to get to bed because it is after midnight and my eyes are burning and watering because I'm so darned sleepy.

~Latrice