We are family

We have the smallest of dilemmas in our family.  What kind of family activities will entertain an eleven year old but work with a two year old?   We've been really good at finding ones that don't quite work.  Like driving all the way down to Point Defiance for a special biking trip only to have Jonah scream bloody murder for the half mile we tolerated it in his new bike seat. Or the Harry Potter exhibit where the quick little guy slipped behind the ropes every time we turned around.  Or the baseball game.  Our PTA sold group tickets for the Mariners vs White Sox (Go Chicago!), so we had to go.  I bought four tickets but then we debating all week whether we should really bring Jonah with us or find a babysitter and an extra friend.   At the last minute we decided to go as a family.  For good or bad.

Jonah started off GREAT and was so excited.  The entire way to the stadium all we heard was "Lukey, go to baseball game!"  He thought the crowds and seats and people and music was just fabulous.

While Lukey was upset about something. I truly don't remember what.

But a two year old doesn't stay put, especially our two year old.  We knew this going in but we didn't realize we would be sitting in the nose bleeds on the edge of 50 steeps stairs that this kid would want to climb up and down 50 times.  Aaron and I tag teamed the kid while the other sat with Lucas.  Let me tell you, we only lasted until the 5th inning.  My legs had gotten their workout.  Luckily the seats were cheap and the weather wasn't too cold.  And we'll wait another couple years before we try it again.

One activity we've found that works for everyone?  Swimming.  Well, almost everyone.  {I have to admit bathing suits are not my favorite.  Sweetly, the last 2 times we've gone, Aaron has wrangled the kids while I take pictures from the sides lines.  I'm determined to just get over myself and join in the fun and cold, which most people know I hate!  Cold, not fun.}

Jonah just gets a whiff of the word "swimming" and he's off to get ready.  Why he still puts it on his head, I do not know.

Swimming, bowling, arcades, and parks have all been winners and we're always looking for more.  We'll try biking again with a different seat for Jonah.  And no one can argue with the zoo. I can't wait for summer and having the warm and dry outdoors again.  Those possibilities are endless.  Plus there have been a few times where we get a babysitter and take Lucas to dinner and a movie.  Like old times.  But believe me, none of us are complaining of the "new times" with the Kid.  Life wouldn't be the same without him. We are so blessed for our smallest of dilemmas.