T & Z

My dad's cousin, Karen came to visit last week. Karen's daughter, Camille and grandson, Zander came too. Let me see if I understand the genealogy here... Karen would be my first cousin once removed. Since Camille and I share the same great-grandparents, we would be second cousins. So that would make Tate and Zander third cousins, I think! It's just easier to say we are all cousins.

Camille and Zander stayed with us. The boys had a great time together and became quick buddies. They ate breakfast together most mornings.  They played almost all day together; then at night, brushed their teeth together and read bedtime stories. Tate shared his Mimi and Zander shared his Oma. Thankfully, one thing Tate didn't share was his fever or sore throat!

After the boys went to bed, Camille and I chatted about mommyhood, husbands and of course, cloth diapers! They shared our stash while visiting. It worked out great for both of us. She didn't have to pack as many diapers for the trip, plus got to try a few new brands. I got a chance to see how crazy diaper laundry with two kids is going to be!

Zander is exactly two months older than Tate. He has a great expressive language skills. My favorite is that he usually refers to himself in third person! Tate seemed to pick up on that too. He has started talking a lot more after being around Zander.

We had so much fun!! Sunday was pretty hard on us. The house was too quiet. I never thought I would miss two crazy two year olds making a so much noise or such a big mess. Tate looked for Zander and "Momma" (Zander's Momma/ Camille) at bedtime. Brushing his teeth wasn't easy because he was fussing the whole time.

Monday morning wasn't any easier. He was still hoping to see his friend. I told him again that Zander went home. He pointed to himself and said, "GO! GO!"

Me: "You want to go to Zander's house?"

Tate: "Yep! Momma. Oma."

Me: "His house is far away. We have to fly on an airplane to get there."

He pointed to himself again and said, "GO! GO!" Then pointed to the sky and said, "VROOM!"

It was so hard to explain that we couldn't just go for a visit. On the west coast, I understand similar scenarios took place. Zander wanted Tate to come over for lunch and also wanted to go to Mimi's house to play.

Maybe next summer, we can go for a visit. The only airplane Michael has ever been on was just a small one. It is also a possibility that their family will be transferred to Fort Leavenworth next year. That is only about a four hour trip and a whole lot cheaper than a family of four flying! 

Tate and I miss our cousins and can't wait to play again! I hope the boys will still remember each other next time. We've considered Skype, but Tate has to start talking more or it won't work! :o)