Rites of Passage

Today was room and board day in the Fredericks' residence. After a trip to Lowe's, the boys installed a lock for the sliding glass door to keep Jack from wandering out on his own. I am sure if he knew we were locking him in he would never have helped! But he was mezmerized by the drill, screwdriver, etc. Rob was very patient about showing him how everything worked. Honestly, it was one of the most adorable things I've ever seen. And the bonus is that it works! No more 6:30 AM playing in the backyard with the loud popping lawnmower. I'm sure the neighbors will be grateful.

Jack also wanted to help with the recycling. I don't know how that little boy managed to carry a bin as big as himself. After about 5 feet he asked, "Mommy help?" He did manage to carry an empty box to the recycle bin. At least it's a step in the right direction.
I'm going to enjoy his helpful spirit while it lasts, I won't expect this much cooperation when he's a teenager. But it is Mother's Day weekend.

Day with Grandma Laura

Jack had a fun day with Grandma today. After the two of them had a lunch date and played at the mall, Jack got his very first ice cream cone. He was mostly confused at first, but managed to figure it out pretty quickly. When it came down to the actual cone, he had no idea that you could EAT IT! Imagine his surprise! He did a number on that treat. I was most impressed that he didn't drop the entire scoop directly on the floor.

After lunch Jack wanted to watch Lion King...with his sunglasses on. He has been in love with those glasses lately. Maybe we'll have to get one of those 3D televisions if he keeps this up.

Tattoo Jack

We went to a mini carnival this afternoon at a local library. Some teenagers organized it all as part of their community service (gives us hope for the future of our country). They had many fun booths. Jack did the ring toss (actually the "walk up and put the ring directly around the seal's neck"), took a spin on the wheel of fortune, got two balloons twistwd into a sword and a dog. Finally we went to face painting, but voted for a tattoo instead. It's hard to see in the photo, but his tattoo is a circus elephant balancing on a beach ball. He loves it. I hope he doesn't end up regretting his decision to get inked at such a young age. Do you think the guys in his fraternity will appreciate his circus elephant tattoo?

Jack Gordon Fredericks

If he is Jack Gordon Fredericks, then who are we? Mommy Gordon Fredericks and Daddy Gordon Fredericks, of course!

Pickup Truck

Grandpa Nick and Tutu arrived last week with a pick up truck for Jack! Time flies, but don't panic! He's still only two, he doesn't have his driver's license yet! It is a Flintstones style truck that is the perfect size for him. Daddy and Grandpa Nick constucted it ("What's wrong? We always have leftover parts at the end of our jobs!") following Tutu's directions ("Those screws have to fit somewhere!"). Finally Jack got to take a ride with Alex in the back! We might have to get a Yorkie because Gracie will NEVER fit! He had great fun cruising up and down the sidewalk for nearly an hour, until he ran over his own toes! No problem, he still loves it. Once he figures out how to drive it without causing personal injuries we'll all be happy. Thanks for the cool new ride!

Game Boy

Thanks Auntie Julie and Cousin Everett for the cool game system...I think! We have a gaming monster on our hands! He LOVES all his fun new games: Spiderman, Scooby-Doo, Toy Story and Zayzoo the Alien. While he doesn't exactly understand how to play, he knows that pushing the buttons makes things happen. Yea, he's got a lot to learn...so far his favorite thing is making Spiderman fall into the river full of alligators!

Visit with Grandpa Nick and Tutu

Jack had a great time visiting with Grandpa Nick and Tutu over Easter weekend. Paula and I were both celebrating our birthdays, too. What a fun weekend! We opened presents, dyed eggs, built trucks (more on that later) and read new books. We even had two Easter egg hunts on Sunday. It was so great to have them visit (with little Alex, of course). Thanks for making the trip up, our front door is always open to you whenever you can make it. Jack LOVED having you both here! Paula, as per your request, I won't publish the photo of the three of you in bed on Saturday morning, but I love it! Pure happiness:-)