Where have we been?

Well, we've been here-- but totally swamped as of late. I am in crunch time for the dissertation. I have been pacing myself, but still have (it seems) so much to do in the next few weeks. My class is going well, but it is also keeping me on my toes at a time when I don't have a lot of energy or effort to spare. Mike has been working like crazy for the handyman connection; he is enjoying it, but the days are LONG.

We can see that things will continue to be overwhelming for a few weeks, but that it should be only for a limited time. We have to keep reminding ourselves that it is normal to be at the end of your rope when you are just getting over an international move, trying to sell a house, finishing a dissertation, starting new jobs, working extra hours, and all the while trying to be perfect parents to two tiny bugs. But of course your reality is your reality-- and you forget sometimes that you might have taken too much on. We are still happy that we've returned to the US, and realize that this transition time would be difficult no matter where we moved, and in that case are so glad to be in Charleston. If nothing else we have dear friends nearby, family relatively close, a mild winter, and if all else fails, the beach.

The boys are a constant joy (well, nearly constant-- if Will could only sleep a bit more at night we'd all be in better shape). James is so sweet to his brother. It is no surprise, Mike and I both have the immense pleasure of wonderful, lifelong relationships with our siblings. I would expect nothing less from James and Will, but still it is so nice to see it develop. The only downside is that James occasionally wants to hug Will too hard. Of course we tell him squashing your brother is not allowed, talk about what is acceptable-- a gentle hug, while all the time Will is laughing uproariously at his big bro. He doesn't mind the squeezing hug, but it is too much for mom.
Will also thinks its great when James plays the "let's jump over the baby" game. Mom is not happy, but Will thinks it is a riot. Will adores James, and truly everything he does. They are sweet together.

James is more of a parrot than ever these days. The questions, comments, commentary NEVER stop. Questions about everything; questions about questions; questions repeating questions that have already been answered in reference to questions from the day before; it is endless, and usually pretty funny. We have two regular babysitters: Christine who comes two mornings a week to watch Will (we call her the personal trainer, as she coached him on crawling for weeks); and Colleen, whom James calls "My Colleen"-- she comes two afternoons a week. I am here working while they are around and I am often laughing at the stream of conversation, especially between Colleen and James. Sorry- no adorable anecdotes come to mind, you will just have to believe me on this one.

Will is the smiley-est bug ever, despite the setbacks of his first fever this week, and his two top teeth, which are troubling him as they make their slow entrance. Since the last post was a pictorial James-fest, I leave you this week with a bit o' Will.