Pattishall Christmas Letter 2012

Sibling Love

Seasons Greetings Friends and Family,

If you are reading this then you got our family picture and may have wondered why our annual letter was conspicuously missing.  I'd love to say I directed you to our family blog in an effort to be more green, but in fact time was simply slipping away from me this year.  "Little Miss Evelyn," while our biggest blessing of 2012, has also taken up much of our time.  Of course that's how it should be.  I didn't want to have to choose between feeding my children and sending out Christmas letters, so writing it here was the compromise.  My family's hungry tummies thank you for understanding.  Without further ado I give you our seeming whirlwind of a year in a nutshell.

Soccer Star

February 2012 - After almost 7 years of teaching I decided to stay home full time.  It has been a bit of an adjustment, as I'm a person who likes the structure, challenge, and built-in friends the workplace provides. I do find ways to stay busy though.  Evie and I attend a couple of playgroups and I volunteer for several organizations and serve as room parent at Edmund's school.  Being at home has given me more rest, however, and in turn I have more energy to spend on the family.  Edmund also had a big change in February.  He left the school he had known since he was 3 months old to begin attending Resurrection United Methodist Church Preschool (or Jacob's School if you ask Edmund) in Durham.  The change of preschools went incredibly smoothly for him.  Both he and I have made friends at the new school, but still try to keep in touch with the old.

May 25, 2012 - We welcomed Evelyn Rose Pattishall into our family.  It is hard to believe she will be 7 months old on Christmas Day.  It seems like yesterday we brought her home, but at the same time we can't remember life without her.  Evie, as we call her, is an easy baby with just a little bit of attitude.  She adores her big brother Edmund, and Edmund is enamored with her.  Sometimes Edmund loves a little too much, but Evie takes it in stride.  Steven and I are delighting in watching the sibling relationship between them develop.

July 2012 - Steven began his third and final year of pediatric residency.  Our family also went on our annual Holden Beach trip, which marked Evie's first vacation.

August 2012 - Edmund tried his hand, er feet, at his first organized sport.  He played soccer for the Black Knights with one of his good buddies.  Time will tell if soccer will be a yearly occurrence, as he didn't quite understand why sharing the ball wasn't encouraged.  For now I think we may need to help him explore his creative side.

October 2012 - Steven, Edmund, Evie, and I took a road trip to see my Kentucky relatives.  I had fond memories of visiting Lincoln's birthplace and boyhood home in Kentucky, so we took the kiddos there.  Edmund is a Lincoln Log builder extraordinaire, so he was thrilled to learn about the person who inspired the name.  After time with Lincoln, it was off to Virginia to visit with Kay Kay and Granddad while Steven went on his first interview of the year.

Little Elf

December 2012 - Steven has completed several interviews, so now we are faced with the tough process of deciding where our family should be next July.  If there is one thing Steven and I have learned from this process it is that we sure like to stretch out our decision making.  We really do hope to know our plans for the next stage in our lives by the New Year.  

This year has been one of many changes for us, and for a family that doesn't handle change well, I'd say we're doing pretty well.  In a year of many changes I feel a non-traditional letter is fitting.  However, one thing I will miss about not having a formal Christmas letter this year is that I can't write a personal message to each and every one of you.  Please know that we think about you all often.  Feel free to call or write anytime.  And I do mean any time as Evie still thinks it's fun to occasionally keep her parents awake at night.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a sleep filled night!

Steven, Tabitha, Edmund, and Evie Pattishall 

Jesus Goes to a Monster Truck Rally

"Welcome to the Monster Truck Christmas Show"

My two good friends and I were having coffee this past week.  They mentioned they take baby Jesus out of their nativity sets and wrap him so the first gift the family opens on Christmas morning is Jesus.  I thought this was a great idea so I got baby Jesus from Edmund's Fisher Price nativity and put him in our bedroom to remind myself to wrap him later.  When I went back to retrieve baby Jesus I found him missing.  I asked Edmund if he took him back and he replied "yes."  I asked, "don't you think it would be fun to open Jesus on Christmas morning."  Edmund said "No, I play with him a lot and I'd miss him.  Come see mommy.  Jesus and the camel are attending my monster truck show."  And indeed they were.  Perhaps we'll trying wrapping him next year.

Baby Big Heads

It is no secret that my children have big heads.  One day I was commenting that Evie was a "baby big head."  Reminiscing I said, "Edmund I remember when you were a baby big head." 
Edmund said, "Mom, I'm still cute.  I have cute shirts."  
I replied, "Yes you do, but you have a cute face too."

Cute Boy Had Cute Shirts Even Then

 

Who Says Art is Dull?

The Picture Taken By the Chapelboro Photographer

On July 22, 2011 Edmund and I went to a Family Day at the Ackland Art Museum.  I intended to write about our adventure back then, but never got around to it.  Or I did and I'm too lazy to check the old posts.  I'm not sure why or how, but when I wrote the date on the artwork Edmund made that day it engrained in my memory.  We kept his stamp art on the refrigerator for awhile, and then, because it didn't make the monthly art save, ended up in the recycling.  That was almost a year and a half ago, but still that day is fresh in my mind and apparently is in Edmund's mind as well.

For months now Edmund has been begging to go back to the "art museum."  The Ackland Art Museum is located on UNC's campus and now that we're in Durham can be a bit of a drive to do with both kids.  However, Steven has been working long hours and I knew I needed to get out of the house this past weekend.  I did a web search to see when the next monthly Family Day would take place.  I was in luck when I discovered it was on Sunday.  Edmund couldn't contain his excitement when I told him we were going.

Japanese Pattern Inspired Art

Since it was post Thanksgiving weekend I found parking easily.  I mention parking because that was my biggest hesitation about doing this outing on my own.  You may recall that after the symphony Edmund fears my parking abilities, and I didn't want that to be another outing hitch.  With Evie in her Beco (our soft carrier) and Edmund's hand in mine we walked to the museum.  When we entered we were greeted by volunteers who informed us of the afternoon's activities.  The topic of this particular Family Day was "Images of People in Japanese Art" which corresponded to the current exhibit "A Season of Japan."  We began with an art scavenger hunt, but not before having our picture taken by a photographer for Chapelboro.com.  Evie peeked up from chewing on the straps of the Beco long enough to be stunned by the camera flash.

Edmund quickly found several items on the scavenger hunt, but soon tired of the game and asked to go make some art.  He sat down at the table and got to work on art inspired by Japanese patterns.  The volunteer was incredibly friendly and helpful with him and the other children.  She helped Edmund cut ribbon so I could walk with Evie who wanted nothing to do with standing still.   After Edmund signed his artwork we went back to the lockers where I had stored the diaper bag so I could retrieve some wipes.  While I cleaned up the spit-up that Evie had lovingly bestowed upon me, Edmund chatted up a security guard who was clearly trying to eat a snack in peace.  The guard, like the volunteer at the craft station, was incredibly friendly and engaged Edmund for quite some time.  Once Edmund finds someone who will listen to him it's hard to get him to stop talking, so I had to drag him away.

Origami Dog

Next we went and viewed some Japanese pop art.  Edmund found a room behind a curtain showing Japanese pop art films made in the 70s.  The psychadelic like films got Evie's attention and she found them worthy enough for a few minutes of time away from her strap chewing.  Family Day was about to come to a close, so I encourage Edmund to try his hand at origami before it was time to leave.  There was a very simple dog pattern that Edmund did with only a little help from me.  I helped him match corners, but he did all the folding and drew a very cute face.  This was the perfect way to wrap up our time at the art museum.

As we exited the museum I told Edmund we could go to Sugarland, a dessert shop on Franklin St., for some gelato.  To my surprise Edmund asked what Sugarland was.  In all honesty I suspected the reason Edmund kept begging to go back to the art museum was because he remembered we finished our last outing there with a sweet treat.  While we did have a great time at Sugarland, and I got to eat my favorite peppermint stick gelato, I was encouraged that Edmund really does enjoy a bit of culture.  And who knows?  In a couple of years, my strap eating baby may even be cultured as well.

Evie at the Helm

Nothing Says Fun More Than Chilling in a Giant Fish

So I know I'm the second kid and all, but where's my time on this blog.  I'm supposed to be napping, but I've decided to seize the blog reigns and give you a little update on me, "Ev", "Evie", "Shmonkey", or the "cutiest baby you've ever seen".

 I took a road trip to see lots of relatives like my Nannie, Aunt Zann, Kay Kay and Granddad.  I decided this was the perfect time to make my parents suffer.  I wailed in the car and they couldn't escape, ha ha ha.

I went to two birthday parties for buddies who were turning one.  At one I was held by lots of different people and fell asleep when it was time to open presents.  At the other I took notes on how to smash a cake.  Just wait until it's my turn. 

I helped carve my first jack-o-lantern.  Mommy really wanted me to touch the guts, but I was too tired and ready for bed.  She should know I'd only want to put them in my mouth anyway.

I went trick-or-treating.  This involved dressing up like a little elephant and watching my brother and his friends running around the neighborhood like crazy people.  I do that most days anyway without dressing up, but I saw myself in the mirror and must say I looked mighty cute.

I tasted my first bite of rice cereal.  Mom and dad were about to give up, but then they gave in, gave me the spoon and I ate it all.  I'm a big girl and have things under control.

That about covers my first October.  If I'm not given my due time in November you may hear from me again.  Just don't give away my secret.  Remember, I'm napping ;)

The Valiant Knight

The Knight going off into battle with his trusty...Elephant

About a month ago one of my mommy friends told me about a concert series for kids put on by the North Carolina Symphony.  I have had the symphony bookmarked on my computer since Edmund was about a year old as a fun out of the box activity.  Around that time I learned that Edmund is a kid with sensitivities to loud, even moderately loud noises, and dim or dark lighting, so I put the symphony out of mind until my friend mentioned it.  Edmund has made progress in the things he can handle as of late.  He's now seen a movie in the theater and even greatly enjoyed a bouncy house excursion after the initial tears subsided.  I love live instrumental music and wanted Edmund to have an opportunity to experience it, so I took a chance and bought a ticket to one show.  Until I tested the waters I wasn't about to buy the whole series package.

While Evie could have gone on this outing, it was best suited for a mother/son date.  The concert was entitled Halloween Spooktackular and children were encouraged to dress up in costume.  Edmund was thrilled with a chance to premiere his knight costume a couple of days early.  We arrived at the concert hall with about 10 minutes to spare.  There were musicians set up in the lobby with instruments for children to try.  We had time for Edmund to choose one before it was time to take our seats.  Edmund chose the violin and the violinist on hand found one just the right size for him.  He instructed Edmund on how to hold the violin under his chin and the proper way to hold the bow.  Edmund was a bit too enthusiastic when he took the bow to the strings, but with some guidance the musician was able to reign him in. After his 2 minute lesson Edmund looked like a true concert master.

Little Elephant

Over the loudspeaker we heard our 5 minute show call and found our seats.  I strategically purchased aisle seats in case we needed to make an early exit.  Soon the lights dimmed and I talked Edmund through it.  He settled in and excitedly awaited the beginning of the concert.  The concert began with Hedwig's Theme from the Harry Potter score.  This was a great song to begin with because it remains fairly quiet throughout.  I also knew when the crescendo was coming and was able to prepare Edmund for it.  Edmund, who was now settled in my lap, tensed up at this, but still enjoyed it.

Next a storyteller told a "spooky" story as the orchestra played behind her.  Edmund was at the edge of his seat, er my lap, and bravely told me he wasn't scared.  The concert continued with Storm Troopers making their way through the audience as Darth Vader took control from the conductor to conduct his "Imperial March." Edmund has been very into Star Wars, although he has not seen the films, so this was a treat for him.  Once I assured him that these were people pretending and the conductor was indeed not in Darth Vader's grasp, Edmund was enraptured by the scene playing out before him.

Mommy and Daddy-"Smile Edmund."
Edmund "This is my brave knight face."

After another slightly chilling story from the storyteller it was time for the costume parade.  Edmund couldn't wait for his turn, but wanted me to walk on stage with him.  Not because he was afraid of the costumes, but because he was fearful the orchestra would get too loud.  I walked with him to the stage, but to my surprise he chose to parade without me.  As I waited for him to come down the steps I saw the biggest smile cross his face.  He was so proud.  

It was now time to go and I'd like to tell you the outing went off without a hitch.  Unfortunately I had a bit of trouble locating my car in the parking deck at concert's end.  It was a small parking deck and Edmund and I eventually found the car after walking around each level.  In my defense the car was where I looked initally.  The lights didn't blink when I clicked the remote, so I assumed I'd gone to the wrong place.  In fact I'd love to leave this little detail out of the trip altogether, but my son is now old enough to tell on me.  When friends and family ask how the symphony was, his response, "It was great until my mommy got lost in the parking deck and I was so scared."  So before my son can tell on me to anyone else, I'm telling on myself.

 Since I haven't talked much about Evie this post you will see some of her Halloween pictures scattered throughout.

Jack-O-Latern the Verb

Sitting Among the Gourds

Hello again faithful readers.  When last I posted Edmund was just about to begin preschool after the summer hiatus.  His entrance back into the world of formal education went very well.  Edmund also began soccer.  I've resisted mentioning soccer, because to be totally honest, it has not been at all sunshine and rainbows.  However, today Edmund made it through soccer pictures and the entire game without tears or complaints.  Hallelujah!!!  Those 3 exclamation points are an understatement.  He happily cheered on his teammates when he didn't have the ball and even made a few goals for the other team.  We're making progress.

How is Miss Evie you may ask?  She is doing splendidly.  I have quite a bit of "mommy guilt" over the lack of time I have to focus exclusively on her.  I suspect this is par for the course with subsequent children and may explain why many people say going from 1 child to 2 is more difficult than 2 to 3 and so on.  I remember saving tickets and recording every first adventure Edmund had.  Evie has done a lot of the same things and sooner, but I simply don't have time to stop and record each event.  Yesterday we went to Ganyard Hill Farm, the pumpkin patch we visit annually.  I knew I hadn't posted anything recently and wanted something fresh and exciting to post about.  I don't want to bore anyone with repeat posts, but when I got to thinking about it, the pumpkin patch is still a new experience for Evie and this blog is really for the kids.  So without further ado I give you the Pattishalls 2012 trip to the pumpkin patch.

We picked the perfect autumn afternoon to spend on the farm.  The temperature was in the mid-70s and there wasn't a cloud in the sky.  Edmund has a superb memory and remembered all the farm has to offer.  Before we arrived he laid out our game plan, so as soon as we entered the farm it was off to the tube slide.  Edmund climbed the large bales of hay to the top and waited patiently in line for his turn to slide.  He decided a trip through the bumpy tunnel was not complete without sound effects.  We knew Edmund was coming when we heard the shaky "ah ah ah" emanating from the chute.

Next Edmund led us to the corn crib.  Edmund loved jumping and sliding into the massive bin of dried corn.  Evie loved watching her big brother being so goofy and laughed at his antics when she wasn't busy chewing on her baby carrier.  This was by far Edmund's favorite spot, so we hung out here for awhile enjoying the Disney music playing around us.  Edmund was convinced it was Halloween music, so we just let him believe that.

After bouncing about in the kernels it was time for the requisite hay ride.  Evie was wide eyed as the tractor pulled us around the farm perimeter.  She definitely wasn't sure about the jarring ride, but if Edmund could handle all the bumpiness it must be ok.  When we were about halfway through the ride Edmund cried out, "Where's the maze? I need to do the corn maze."  The previous year the tractor dropped us off in a corn maze toward the back of the farm.  This year it was in a different location, and Edmund feared he wouldn't get to do one of his favorite pumpkin patch activities.  We assured him there was indeed a maze and we would do it as soon as the ride stopped.

Immediately upon our exit we headed for the tall corn.  We let Edmund take charge as we maneuvered the twists and turns.  OK there really were only two paths, but to Edmund it was a labyrinth.  In the past there hasn't been much corn to find, but this year we were finding it all over the place.  Evie really got into this and reached out to grab the stalks in an attempt to lead us to the biggest ears (of corn that is).  After collecting more corn than I could hold, because somehow I became the sole corn carrier, we decided to exit the maze.  At this point Steven decided to take the lead because if Edmund remained at the helm we probably would have continued in circles for hours.

We then fed our corn to the goats, made a few pictures, and picked out our pumpkins.  This year we decided to get one of the pre-picked pumpkins  to ensure we have a good carving pumpkin.  We decided the last 2 pumpkins should come straight from the vine.  I found a good one and then encouraged Edmund to find one of his own.  Despite showing Edmund a multitude of perfect, ripe pumpkins on the vine he set his heart on one someone had already plucked and left sitting next to the vines.  After encouraging him to find another pumpkin I caved and let him take his "very best" pumpkin with us.  Edmund was so excited about his pumpkin he asked "when can we jack-o-lantern my pumpkin."  And with that it was time to leave, but I assure you dear reader,as I did Edmund, that it won't be along until we are able to jack-o-lantern those pumpkins.

Even though we could have just gone through the motions of our tradition, I made it a point to really make this a "special first" for Evie.  As part of our family she will be thrust into our rituals, but I'm going to try my hardest to make sure she is able to truly enjoy the experiences as they come to life for her for the first time.  Fortunately for her, she has a big brother who seems intent on making sure his little sister doesn't miss out on anything, even if it means squeezing the daylights out of her!