*Almost* Real People

Steve and I have been having the same conversation a lot lately. We are amazed that the buddies are almost real people now. We've taken most of the baby gates down to give them the ability to roam free around the house. They tell us what they want instead of throwing tantrums (and usually accept it if it is something they cannot have). When something hurts, they tell us and ask us to fix it. We have very basic, yet real conversations with them. Best of all, we are almost ready to ditch our stroller when we go out in public. After spending the last 2 1/2 years of my life practically attached to their heavy, bulky duo-glider, I won't be sad to pass it on to another family.

This morning, the buddies and I made a trip to Costco to buy some items for our Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve parties that are quickly approaching. As we completed our shopping trip, we stopped for our usual 1/2 pound hot dog and soda (for just $1.50!) at the snack stand. Instead of making them eat strapped into the cart, we decided to sit at the tables and eat, like "real people". They loved it and sat very nicely. And they took turns drinking our lemonade, passing it back and forth, saying, "Ace's turn!" and "Ben's turn!". I enjoyed my nice lunch date with my two handsome boys (although they don't have the nicest table manners yet - check out Ace, stuffing his hot dog in his mouth).