The life and times of the kids, Solack: The Big Picture, or The Kids are Alright

It's very easy to get caught up in the daily grind and the weight of every moment of every day. I have a tendency to get a little too introspective and worrisome about every action and reaction with regards to the kiddos. I can get slightly over analytical with even the tiniest of things that happen day in and day out. Today we went for a walk around the neighborhood, and I was given a healthy dose of perspective.

Due to some logistical issues, it had been over a month since I took the kids for a walk around our neighborhood. Between being out of town, catching a cold(s), and catching up on life (ha ha ha....yeah right!) I haven't had an opportunity to walk with them in quite a while. We finally got our chance to get back out today. As we walked, I noticed so many changes. The last time we went for a stroll; school had just started, the green leaves were on the trees, we were wearing shorts and tank tops, the kids barely fit in the strollers and, uninterested in their surroundings, they would fall asleep upon leaving the driveway. Today they filled out their stroller seats nicely, enjoyed the sights on the trip, and chatted us up almost the whole time. They only fell asleep towards the end, and it truly seemed like they had fun. I couldn't help but reflect on all of the changes that have taken place in just a few weeks. It is wild how much older they seem, and how capable they are these days. All three will play and interact with toys and people, they have preferences and personalities. In other words, they are not just cute little blobs anymore.

This is how we roll

As I was admiring their development, it forced me to take a step back and look at the big picture. All three babies are thriving, and happy (most of the time!) and we are all doing a great job. These moments help me to realize that, if Sloane falls asleep in my arms instead of her crib on occasion, it does not mean that she will be a maladjusted teenager still sleeping in our bed. Or, if I let Dylan suck his thumb (actually he prefers his index finger) instead of a pacifier, it is unlikely that he will develop and oral fixation and chew on branches as an adult. Similarly, if I don't read books with Hudson in the evening, he likely will not be in 8th grade with a 2nd grade reading level. I have to remember to take a step back and look at the big picture more often. I'll probably learn that the repercussions of every action are not life altering.

Sloane is becoming such a fun little lady. If I had to guess what she will be when she grows up, I'd say a Thespian. She is such a little drama queen, who knows she is adorable and uses it to her advantage. She can turn on the charm in an instant and make anyone putty in her hands. I've said it before, but she is so nosey! Feeding her is like hitting a moving target, as she looks around the room at anything and everything. She intently watches everything we do, from buckling her stroller straps to making her bottles. When we get her out of her crib she gives us the biggest smile you can ever imagine. She is endlessly entertaining and so sweet!

Those eyes!

How she prefers to sleep: on her side, arm over face, in Mom and Dad's bed

Pretty in pink

Dylan is growing more animated and strong everyday. He does the cutest eyebrow raise, followed by his handsome smile (dimples and all) when he sees something he likes. I'm pretty sure he is practicing his Upward Dog, as he is so strong and can push himself up very far. He is comfortably wearing 9 month clothing, doesn't fit it in the swing anymore and can wiggle himself out of it. He laughs so hard he snorts, and is becoming quite the chatter box. He can be such a focused, serious little guy sometimes too. I can just see the gears turning as he tries to figure things out.

Labeled...so you know

You're gonna hear me roar

Not sure what this face is all about

Hudson is really becoming quite the playful character these days. When he laughs his whole body goes crazy. Feet in the air, hands clasped, eyes shut laughter...it's absolutely the best. He loves reading books, especially Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, he's also taken an interest in playing the toy piano with his feet. He is becoming such a big boy that he can soothe himself to sleep sometimes. Huddy can roll from his belly to his back and thinks it's hysterical to lift his legs straight up and slam them down. He is pretty taken with his reflection, and loves to play with the little boy in the mirror. I can see him being very creative and artistic.