Do Brasil ... From Brazil

Nate with Mom and Dad in Sao Paulo

Dad got on a plane and headed to Brazil on Tuesday to spend some time with Grandma & Grandpa. Jackson thought he should have been able to come along since he is dad's "best friend". While Jackson's assessment of his relationship with dad is correct, Jackson stayed home in Pittsburgh, while dad spends some time in South America. (Yes, in case you are wondering, it is warmer in Sao Paulo then it is in Pittsburgh!)

An update on the boys really quick: Jackson's fish and friend of two years passed away this week. Yes, Johnny the Fish is dead. (That sounds like a line right out of a movie like the Godfather, doesn't it?) Upon telling Jackson, there was merely a nod of the head and an acknowledgment, "Yeah, I think I forgot to feed him for a long time." Jackson offered a solution to the problem: "Let's buy a dog." Dad told Jackson "No", and yet the six year old wanted an explanation -- "Because you can't flush a dog down the toilet." Jackson missed the connection to his neglect of his last pet and just wonders why dad would put a dog in the toilet.

Jackson was talking to Alex the other day and told him, "Easter is about Jesus and chocolate." While it doesn't show a deep understanding of the yearly event, it does show that he is paying attention. Sure there are dresses and gloves for little girls and eggs and marshmallow chicks make an appearance along with a tasty ham. There are a few more details about a cross and a tomb. That being said, Jackson really got it right: It is about Jesus and chocolate. He remembers the Jesus part, and juxtaposed with chocolate, I would say that is a remarkable insight for six year old. (Oh yeah, Jackson doesn't like to hear anyone telling this story because he thinks it is "bad to talk about Jesus like that." Apologies to Jackson for the irreverent reference.)

In other news, Alex is busy learning how to dance and believes that "shaking his booty" is an essential dance move. So turn up the music and you will have a little guy showing you how his bahookie (that is what he calls it) wiggles. He loves helping Jordan these days -- including eating. Jordan seems receptive, even though he doesn't have a tooth in his mouth to chew with.

Seems to be enough for one post. Here are more pictures from Brazil:

Jackson's Astute Observation

If you don't know this guy, consider yourself LUCKY.
Note: The guy is actually from McKees Rocks, PA, about 10 minutes away.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billy_Mays

At the risk of sounding like Jackson watches entirely too much TV (which he probably does) and at odd hours of the day (which he probably does) he did make a thoughtful remark about the thumbs-up product hawker pictured above. Billy Mays is a renowned infomercial salesman, selling Orange Glo and Oxi Clean long before they were regular items in retail stores. Most recently, he has been seen selling Zorbeez - those quick absorbing towels. (Don't act like you haven't been tempted to buy them, especially when he throws in an extra towel and the duster.) Ok, getting to Jackson's observation, he noted to the other day:

"Why is that guy always yelling?"


It is a shame that this guy's mug replaced the pictures of snow for the top spot,
but the story was too good to pass up. The pictures definitely add to the story.

Snowy Sewickley

A Walk Walden Would Be Proud Of: Grabbed the camera and snapped a few shots

This is what we woke up to in Sewickley, Pennsylvania this morning. It is definitely cold and time to start baking something in the oven to help warm up the house. Enjoy the pictures. (Or don't enjoy them, but here is a scenery change from the smiling children.) Why does Nate have time to take these pictures? Because it is Spring Break. Yeah, take a look at that snow -- spring break.

Happy "Sicks-th" Birthday

Jackson is no less crazy at 6 than he was at 5!

Although Jackson turned six on Saturday, the most remembered present will be the flu. Jackson spent three days not feeling very well at all, but as a consolation prize there was no vomit. (Sorry for being graphic, but anyone who knows the flu, knows that is reason enough to celebrate.) Needless to say, there aren't a lot of pictures from the day, but here are a few of the celebration. Thank you for all of the cards, gifts and phone calls! You made his birthday wonderful!

DO BRASIL: Jackson got this picture from G&G in Sao Paolo
(Dad learned how to quickly put together the states of Brazil!)




Pictures from the Party
(The party lasted a few days. Jackson opened presents
when he as feeling better, and cake was not until the next day.
BTW, it was a carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. Delicious!)

Fun with Cousins

Dance Party: No one can accuse these kids
of not knowing how to have a fun time!
(Jackson with Cleve Cousins Katelyn & Jacob)

Here are some pictures of the cousins after a trip to Cleveland. (Forgive all of the black and white pictures ... they help cover up some of the lighting mistakes in the pictures.) Grandma & Grandpa will appreciate a lot of these pictures in one spot.

Put your Hands in the Air: And wave them like you just don't care!

Photo-friendly kids: Cleve Cuz Katelyn and
Indy Cousins Allison & Lauren share smiles with the camera.

Growing up together: Cleve Cuz Maya is 6 weeks older than Jordan
to the day. She is sitting up great - a talent Jordan wishes he possessed!
Cute kids with their similar sweaters and smiling faces.
(A thoughtful Katelyn makes a cameo appearance in this set.)