I had intended to write this month's letter to just one of you and alternate months, but I'm having a hard time focusing on just one, so it's to both of you this month again! You both have been busy boys since the last letter. School is in full swing and we have somewhat settled into our routine. Elliott, you've been enjoying school, particularly gym and recess. You love to tell me about the silly things that happen at school and I love to hear them. You are supposed to read for 15 minutes each day and your latest choices have been your children's Bible and a book about dingos and coyotes.
Ian, your school year is off to a great start, too. You have been very eager to learn how to read, mostly because you want to read the guide on the TV to find your favorite shows. Your first sight word (other than people's names) was the word "FREE". I'm pretty sure you learned that one out of necessity, knowing we'll only download free apps. You have been making progress and have successfully sounded out several words to your own surprise. The other night you spent quite a bit of time making cards for your friend's birthday. Writing his name as best as you could. You are becoming so independent now and it's fun to watch. I'm so proud of you and I know you're on your way to being a great reader and writer!
On Saturdays, you both play soccer at the Y. You each play on different teams and occasionally play against each other. Ian, you are much better about noticing that there is a ball on the field, this year, but you still like to hang back most of the time. You'd much rather hang out with your friend on the field (aka Natalie) and have not shown much interest in scoring goals. That's okay. Because everyone once in a while you get after the ball and try to score. Sometimes I wonder if you're a bit of a soccer shark. Elliott, your style is a bit more aggressive. You are always on the ball! You've worked hard at including other players and you've improved so much! We love to watch you both play!
Elliott, you have recently discovered a video game called Minecraft. I'll be the first to admit that I'm not entirely sure about the point of that game. Whatever the point, you have also discovered that you and Ian can play on separate screens, but connected in Minecraft land. It has been pretty entertaining listening to you both discuss your game play as if you know exactly what you are doing. Sometimes you battle each other within the game and sometimes you have real life battles right in our living room - usually in costume - at least to start with. Your living room battles are more like a wrestling match with a countdown to action. There's usually a lot of moving around and major sound effects. Then, at the end I'm asked to name a winner, which I find pretty amusing. Even with all the battles, when it comes down to it, you both love each other (see fighting image right next to hugging image - taken within minutes of each other). It is my hope that you will always love each other and look out for each other. I know that you will have your share of arguments and full-out fights, but please always come back together as brothers who love each other (and maybe even give each other a hug).
Things are just starting to look like fall around here with colorful leaves on the trees and ground. We salvaged our one little pumpkin from our backyard garden and it sits proudly on our porch, soon to be joined by glowing jack-o-lanterns. As much as I love our summertime fun, fall has it's fair share of fun activities. You both are looking forward to choosing and carving your pumpkins, dressing up for Halloween, and Ian's birthday party. It's sure to be a fun month ahead!
Love you both so much,
Mom