What do you know! I have a few minutes of quiet time - Marko and the twins are out, naughty Max is asleep and I have answered most of my emails. I think I have time for a blog post! A look back on 2011 and a look forward to 2012.
2011 was a tough year for our extended family, as it was for many others. I can't say much more because contrary to popular belief, I do not share everything on the Internet. And I especially do not share stories that are not mine to tell. Suffice to say that the year contained loss, betrayal, hurt, separation, grief, anger and a slow move to new chapters for a few people who are really close to me.
On a personal level, in my immediate family, it was a good year. The twins did really well in their last year before big school. Adam especially has had a very good year. He has really matured well and is increasingly finding better ways to cope with his sensory issues. If I compare how he was 2 years ago to how he is now, the improvement is amazing. The school the twins are at is amazing and he has a wonderful OT who he sees once a week. He has turned out to be a really wonderful, sweet, kind boy. He really is super kind, everyone remarks on it. Such a generous person, he will give his last sweet to you.
As for Kate, I know I am biased, but she really does get more lovely every day. In fact, have you ever heard me say my kids are good looking? I don't usually say that. I believe all children are attractive in their own special way and physical appearance is not important (and my children really are not super models, which is totally fine with me) however, I look at Kate and I can't help but admire how what a lovely girl she has become. She is tall and lean and has a beautiful frame. Perhaps a little too lean at the moment, but hopefully she will put some meat on those bones.
For the first time since just after birth, Kate weighs less than Adam. Adam is 128cm tall and weighs 23.5 kgs and Kate is 126cm tall and weighs 23kgs. Both are super skinny but both Marko and I were like that as children so I suppose it is to be expected. Max is going to be tall too, not sure whether he will also be a skinny malinky like Adam.
As for Max, he is super dooper unbelievably naughty. Seriously. He is not malicious or mean or (purposely) destructive, just SO bloody naughty! I am not sure whether it is because we are older or because he is a third child, but OMG! NAUGHTY! Naughty, but so damn cute. My goodness, I love that child. Everyone says he has me wrapped around his little finger. I think they might be right. Love love love him. Even if he is the naughtiest baby in the world.
The twins start Grade 1 this month. I am a little nervous about it because I have heard from many sources that Grade 1 is a big deal. No more messing about at school and playing, they have to do some serious work. I am extremely grateful that they have had two good years of preparation and that they are at a good school. It makes it a LOT easier for me.
As for Max, my little baby starts play school this month. Three mornings a week from 9-12. I am in a total state about it. I know he must go and I know it will be good for him but he is my BABY! He is going to cry and tell me not to leave him there and it is going to break my heart. I know it is only for a bit until he gets into it, but those first few times - aargghhh! I can only hope that he is more like Kate (didn't cry once) than Adam (cried EVERY DAY for 8 months). In fact, the young woman who helps at the school casually asked me whether Max was more like Adam or Kate and I happily assured her that he was not another Adam. Not quite as tough as Kate, but not nearly as sensitive as Adam. (Although, look at what a wonderful boy Adam has turned out to be!)
Well, I better go before Max wakes up. Best wishes to all of you for a wondeful 2012. I hope the year is filled with lots of good health, wealth and happiness for you and yours.
Here are some pics over the last few days, we are on holiday in Hermanus having a fab time.
xx
I am a little worried about my "baby"s first day to "big" school. He seemed so ready and mature but all of a sudden not ready at all. I hope all the "first"days go well
Posted by: Melany Bruyn | 01 January 2012 at 04:02 PM
I think it's partly just the "third child" thing. My own third is...well oh my. WHAT a little shit he is! But so cute that we mostly overlook it. Just like Max it's not that he's nasty, mean, destructive, etc. just...oof. Cheeky and sly and naughty! You look at him though and while he drives you up a wall and down another you can't be upset because awwwww de bebe! Looking at Max's sweet little face I can see you're in the same boat :)
Posted by: MFA Mama | 01 January 2012 at 04:58 PM
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Posted by: escort | 02 January 2012 at 12:46 AM
I'm glad your immediate family had a wonderful year and I hope this next year is equally fabulous.
As for Max, I really think it's a third child thing because my third child is a naughty one too.
Posted by: Kristin | 02 January 2012 at 05:38 AM
Wishing you and your family an amazing 2012. May all your dreams come true.
Posted by: Tam | 02 January 2012 at 08:06 AM
I love reading updates about the kids and especially seeing the photos. It is so hard to believe that you have "big kids" now! They are beautiful. Wishing you and your family a happy and healthy 2012! Joanna
Posted by: Joanna | 02 January 2012 at 05:59 PM
I am looking forward to putting 2011 behind me and 2012 being a much better year. Your family is beautiful. I LOVE this blog. Bet you hear that all the time though!
Posted by: alyssa | 07 January 2012 at 08:53 AM
Have an awesome 2012, Tertia. Your family is just plain gorgeous and my wish is that 2012 is filled with love, laughter, good health and healing for your family.
Posted by: Wobs | 16 January 2012 at 05:25 PM
I just wanted to say I'm loving your blog. As someone who's blogging about not being sure if I want to have kids, it's great to hear from someone who definitely wanted them and is now making the most of it! Keep up the great writing!
Posted by: Maybe Lady Liz | 23 January 2012 at 10:41 PM