We Can Play Violin

 I am one proud momma! 

We Can Play Violin...Really! Watch! 

It's Picture Day!

We're Going to the Zoo

Every week, one of the 5 Year 1 classes puts on a mini-show about what they have been learning.  The class that week performs in front all of the other Year 1 classes and their parents.  I love this concept, as it is teaching these kids an important life skill.  Not only are they having to prepare and practice something, but they are developing a sense of confidence speaking and performing in front of their peers, something many adults can't do.

Eric's class is Year 1E, so his class is the last in the rotation.  They had just come back from a field trip from the Shanghai Zoo and have been studying animals, their habitats, and what they need to live and be happy (thus the theme of the play).  I have to say, I was so impressed with what they were able to do.  When you watch, remember that these are 5-6 year olds. 

Enjoy! 

Are you ready for some Football??

Football season has officially started and thankfully the drought has somewhat ended here in Shanghai.  In the past year, there have become more options for us to watch both NFL and college games, some even live.  Technology, Doug's best friend.  So, Doug is officially a happier person now and has a little buddy for all the games.  

Our stats man, Eric, can tell you who the Packers are playing in which week and what the scores of all the games have been to date.  He changes into his Packer uniform every day, helmet and all, and has games with himself and his imaginary teammates in our living room.  (The Packers always win of course, even though the Bears have come close a few times!)  He comes home from school on game days and his first question is "What was the score of the game?"  Even Sophia is asking about the Packers.  I think it is safe to say they have officially been brainwashed.  But Doug says he is ok with that since he was also brainwashed at a very early age.  We just need to work those Hokies in there a bit too...

Here are a few videos of the kids practicing their skills with Daddy.  Not sure if Doug is being completely fair here, but it has good entertainment value!

They Continue to Amaze Us

YCIS Summer Concert

Eric had his end of the year Summer Concert at school this week.  He was VERY excited to be on stage with his class and we were very proud parents.  Amazing what they are capable of at such a young age!!

Enjoy!

Eric biting his nails like his mom, a little nervous for the show to begin!

But he's really excited...

 

 

Growing Up

Mom, today Jade asked me to marry her. 
She said that we would live happily ever after and that she would give me a present.

What did you tell her?

That I didn't know. Mommy, what does it mean to be married?

When two people love each other they get married.

Then I can marry all my friends. And I can marry Sophia.

That sounds like a good plan Eric.

;O)

We have Lift OFF!!

They just grow up too fast!!!  Once again, Eric was right.  He has been telling us for a month that he was ready to take his training wheels off his bike.  So, today was the day and he was riding solo within 5 minutes.  Amazing what a little confidence can do.  

Congratulations Eric!!

Getting Ready

A quick lesson...

And we're off!  Did you let go??

A Natural

Quickly it became a game of chase.

Eric's Cheerleaders

Photo Shoot

Sand and Sun

Happy Birthday Eric!

Happy 3rd Birthday Eric!

Just one year earlier!

Our bubby is 3 years old...hard to believe! It is amazing how much changes in a year. In the last year, we have picked up 2 new imaginary friends, a hockey obsession, a standup comedian, a practicing doctor, big boy underwear, 2 new schools, lots of new friends and teachers, and a fantastic big brother.

We loved every minute of the last year (well, ok...maybe not EVERY minute, but most of them!) and can't wait to see what the next year brings.

Happy Birthday Eric!! Thank you for keeping us laughing, teaching us more than we ever thought a 2 year old could teach us, and for loving us back. We can't imagine our lives without you!

Faceoff!

Eating corn at 2...

Now at 3, I still love my corn but I am way too cool for you guys!

Celebration #2

How did you know this is what I wanted???

Being silly at 2....

Still silly, just with more accessories!

Slow Fast Color Song

At school, Eric's class has been working on writing their own poetry for a few months. A few weeks ago, they had a local musican come in to the center and work with the kids on putting their poetry to music. Their first CD was just released. Track 4, Slow Fast Color Song, was written and sung by Eric's class and is a new Lohse household greatest hit. Eric is so proud! (I tried to find a way to put it on the blog and so far, no luck. But I will keep trying.)

Hockey Buds

Potty Time

The current deal...1 skittle for every pee, 1 lollipop for every poop. Last night was our first lollipop, but was a huge step for our little man. He was so incredibly proud of himself.

Our goal is to have Eric out of diapers by Easter Sunday. We will see how this goes...Wish us luck!

Originals

Eric has become quite the storyteller. He will go on and on and on about everything he can think of. He literally talks about everything he has going on in his brain. Sometimes, he is talking so fast we just can't understand a word he is saying. However, he seems to be getting the fact that he has to put some structure around them, an intro, a plot, and then bring it all back full circle with his ending.

His teachers at school captured his first true story that I thought I would share. Surprise, surprise...it is about hockey. ;O)

Famous Hockey Player, by Eric Lohse
I am the most famous hockey player ever.
I play for the team with the crest.
I am doing good with hockey.
It is still a good hockey and goalie stick.
I am famous because I wear a helmet.
I like to play hockey ever.
The End.