Happy 2024!

Our 2024 is off to a quick start. We rang in the new year with our usual group at the Houstons'. We gathered around 5PM, and Zack did a low country boil. Just like on Thanksgiving, Zack proved himself to be a master in the kitchen, and we all enjoyed his cooking - it was delicious! And for the younger pickier eaters in our group, there were chicken tenders available, along with a spread of post-Christmas treats and desserts. After eating and playing some games, we arrived home around 9PM. I was the only Kennedy that stayed awake until the ball dropped, and right before midnight, I looked on the video monitor and noticed that Eli's bed was empty. When I went in to check on him, he was asleep practically standing up in his rocking chair. This is the first time that has ever happened. He must have been pretty tired, because he didn't even stir as I carefully moved him back to his bed. On New Years Day, after resisting his nap, he fell asleep briefly on my chest. And I certainly loved that! His naps are getting less and less; it seems that we are moving beyond that season of life. 

 

Basketball is in full swing now, with both kiddos having practices on different days during the week. Eli is so excited to finally get to play like his big sister. His first practice was this past Thursday, and he is playing in a "parent-and-me" league for 3- and 4-year olds. Boomer is his designated "parent," although there is one practice later in the month when Boomer will be out of town and I will have to stand in. For the first practice, apparently the first 15 minutes were a little rocky, when Eli became frustrated with not making any baskets. However, after finally making a shot, he was pumped and excited to play again. Is there anything cuter than a little boy in an oversized jersey?

Emmy's team had their first game on Saturday, and the Lady Cardinals looked good! Before her game, we watched Zander and Maddox play their games too. All three cousins had wins to kick off the season - yay! After watching the boys play, it confirmed for us that an all-girls league was a good idea. The girls are still learning the game and aren't as wired for aggressiveness. However, I was proud to see the growth in Emmy over the last three years. She was following the action down the court and had several rebounds and assists. No baskets for this first game, but hopefully she will score soon. Not every little girl is so lucky to be coached by her Daddy and Grandpa!

Coach Boomer, Assistant Coach Buzz, Raelyn, Bri, Avery, Emerson P., Emerson K., Brinkley