Luci and Jake

Has it been two years already?

2010-02-24T15:20:00.001-05:00

In our family we celebrate birthdays starting a week before your actually birthday. And for Luci this is great because she also gets to incorporate Valentine's Day into her celebration. This is her second Valentine's Day and her Second Birthday. As I was planning the week's festivities, I became very sentimental. My days are full of activity now and I didn't really have time to realize how fast time has gone by the last two years.

You can tell it's morning cause we got the crazy hair going on!

I just can't believe all the things that my two year old now does and what a great big sister she has become. She is the most loving little girl that I have ever met. She protects her brother whenever we go out and even from us sometimes. "No Take Jakey" is what I overheard her telling John today when they were hanging out in the living room watching Dora.

Speaking of Dora, she has become somewhat of a staple at our house. Before Jake was born, Luci couldn't have cared less about the TV, but once we introduced Dora into the mix, she was hooked. I try, on most days, to only let her watch Dora when Jake is eating but as we know sometimes Mommy needs a break from all the craziness and Dora does the trick. So an homage to Dora, she made her way into our hearts and our bellies at Luci's Party!

Yes, I'm well aware that I spelled Cumpleanos wrong. Oh well, she' two, she doesn't know any better.

What a difference a year makes because when all was said and done with the cake, all we had to do was wash off her hands and her mouth. Last year, she had to get a new outfit because it was a disaster. But that just shows me how much she has grown and what a little lady she is becoming.

We eventually had to help her blow out the candles because she was only making little puffs of air.

In just a little over 2 years, I remember the night that I went into labor with her like it was just yesterday because in my head it just happened yesterday. But she has grown so much and it makes me sad that life passes us by so quickly. I can't imagine how I am going to feel on her first day of school, or the first time she drives, or when she gets married, has babies and feels the same way I feel about her now with her own kids.

I am always in awe of what a little smart cookie she is. She is the happiest little girl in the world and as my mom always says, "Of course, she's happy, what does she have to be sad about?" I love that she sings to herself in the car, everything from The Wheels on the Bus to ABC's to Twinkle Twinkle. It makes my heart melt when she says Mommy, Daddy, "uci", Jakey, Shelly over and over again like she has to tell the world who her family is. And I know that I've done a good job being a Mommy when she consoles her babies when they are hurt with an "I know, It's ok" and then pats them on the back.

My little performer will always be on the look out for attention in every arena of her life. She commands an audience doing her famous "Pitty Pitty Dance" with her own rendition of "Jakey's Song" thrown into the mix. She will also be a phenomenal cook one day as she throws the best tea parties known to man with her own take on what noises are made in the kitchen.

Two years have gone by so fast and I just wish that it would slow down a little bit so that I have time to take it all in at a much slower pace. She was sad when her party guests left and I took down the decorations but that didn't stop my party animal from continuing her own party by walking around with the streamers attached to her legs, talking about her "Party" and how she TWO (picture her telling you this with each index finger pointing directly at you)

Luci at her 2nd birthday party!

Our Unforgettable Thanksgiving, Part II

2009-12-01T21:00:00.001-05:00

7:45 AM: Here we come Triage. I couldn't even check myself cause the contractions were so bad. I just wanted to walk immediately into a labor and delivery room, but of course I needed be admitted into Triage first. Taking off my clothes to get on the gown proved to be a little more difficult than I had ever imagined because the arms holes have weird snaps and so I just stood naked in the room waiting for the nurse to come in and help John and I try to figure this contraption out. Finally, the nurse came in, fixed my gown and checked me and I was already 6-7cm and my water still had not broken. She said that I was ready to go and they called the anesthesiologist to perform my epidural so that it would be ready for me when they wheeled me down to my room. That's right, I didn't even walk down to L&D cause the contractions were coming so fast and strong.

Once I was in my room, the contractions were fast and furious and I really didn't want to answer any of the questions they were asking me. I also don't remember what any of them were except for when the nurse asked me If I had wooden teeth. After I said no and got through the contraction, I was really confused as to why the hospital has to ask us that kind of question. She said that it was protocol.

Then the anesthesiologist came in, the nurse sat me up and I was ready to go. The numbing medicine, of course, hurt really bad but oddly enough the epidural hurt as well. There was a ton of pressure in my back and they had to redo the spot where they put it in. I just wanted the pain of the contractions to end because when I was breathing (i.e. groaning and moaning) I was actually bearing down and they really didn't want me to do that. So back to deep breaths that were incredibly uncomfortable but it was worth it cause in about 3-5 minutes the epidural kicked in and I was starting to feel much better. Then I had time to call my mom and let her know what was going on and check on Luci to see how she was doing since she didn't get to see us leave that morning.

Now at this point, the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade was on and I was starving. So the nurse gave me the option of ice chips or a popsicle. I was all over that popsicle because I hadn't eaten since the night before. Then about 9:00, the nurse came back in to check my cervix and said that I was almost completely dilated so she called in the resident doctor to break my water. Doing this caused me to be completely dilated and within 15 minutes my doctor was there and suiting up to deliver the baby. Typically, they let the nurses do a couple of the pushes without the doctor but since it was my second baby and I was progressing rather quickly I had to wait.

When I was delivering Luci, I had no clue that I was having contractions or knew about my need to push. But this time, it was a completely different story because I was feeling the pressure and knew that it was time. After 3 pushes, the baby's head was crowning and the doctor said I probably could have pushed in out but she wanted me to stretch out a little bit more so that I didn't have any tearing. During the 4th push, his head was coming out and she actually told me to slow down so that she could help him out. Of course, I heard everyone say that the baby was coming and even before his arms were out, silly me asked if it was a boy or girl? Then he was out and I looked at John and was like, WELL???? and he said it was a BOY! I, then asked what time he was born and it was 9:59 am. I can't believe that after only a little more than 2 hours, we had arrived and had a new baby. Totally and Completely different than my 11 hour labor for my first baby.

I still cannot believe how fast this delivery was and that he was healthy. Jacob's apgar scores were an 8, 9, so he looked great! Then after they checked him, I got to try and feed him. Go figure he's a Boob Man. He's a typical guy and latched on like a champ. I figure this is because he is my second baby so I'm a little more relax and that he is a man. Then by about 10:30 am, they took me down to my recovery room and I was already walking around and could pee on my own. So they told me that if I would like, I could go home the next day! That was some great news because I was missing my first baby and couldn't wait to have her meet him. Our family reunion was a little teary eyed (ok a lot teary eyed, from all of us) but now we are ready to take on the world as a family of four!

We'll Never Forget this Thanksgiving! Part 1

2009-11-30T18:19:00.001-05:00

Our Thanksgiving this year was truly a blessing! Our Son, Jacob John was born at 9:59 am, Thanksgiving Morning. He weighed in at 7 pounds 10 ounces and is 20 inches long.

I truly was completely surprised when my Thanksgiving plans were totally changed this year. Wednesday night, I was beginning to prep all the food that I could for our dinner on Friday. I made Coffee Cake for John so that we could have a nice relaxing breakfast, watch the parade and he could play his new Super Mario Bros. game for the Wii all day. My doctor thought that I was crazy for trying to tackle Thanksgiving at my house this year especially since she knew that I was already 4 cm dilated on Wednesday morning. I knew that it might be a little stressful but I love cooking and figured that would make for a semi-easy Turkey dinner. Little did I know that when I went to bed Wednesday night that chaos would ensue in the wee hours of the morning.

Let's fast forward to 2 am Thursday Morning: I'm sitting on the computer writing a status update about how pregnancy insomnia sucks and how I wish I could just fall back asleep. Knowing full well that sleep was very far off at this point, I decided to turn on the tv and watch my dvr'd Biggest Loser from the other night. After that was over, I figured that it was time to go back to bed and see if I could get some semblance of sleep before having to tackle more food prep the next day and juggle taking care of Luci at the same time.

4:45 (in my bed): Now to top off the pregnancy insomnia, I was getting Braxton Hicks (or what I thought) in the middle of the night as well. After about 15 minutes of braxton hicks coming every 5 minutes and getting strong, yes I was timing them because I couldn't sleep, I decided that I was going to really start watching the clock. 5:30 rolled around and I just had this hunch that maybe these contractions weren't stopping and they were getting more painful. I told John that I was going to call my mom and have her leave her house to come stay with Luci cause I just didn't think that I was going to make it. So after sobbing on the phone to my mom, she was on the road from Cincinnati to Columbus as fast as she could get here.

Well, I knew I had to pass about an hour and an half of time and I still didn't have my bag for the hospital fully pack and I really wanted to be fresh and clean when I went to the hospital. (At this point, I still hadn't called my doctor yet cause I was still timing contractions to make sure this was the real thing.) In the span of my 10-15 minute shower, I had gotten about 4 contractions that made me have to stop and hold onto the wall before I could progress on. After getting dressed and packed, I decided that maybe it was time to call the doctor. So at about 6:30 am, I called in and told her what was going on and she said why don't you head on in. Not was it till after Jacob was born that she told me that she was worried I wasn't going to make it cause I was waiting for my mom to come up from Cincinnati.

Then we were just playing a waiting game (where I had time to update my facebook status) for my mom to get here. I'm sure I called her every 10 minutes or so when I wasn't having excruciating contractions to find out where she was. Finally at 7:15 she showed up. I barely had time to say hi and give her Luci's instructions before we were out the door.

We decided to take the sports car so that my mom could have the car seat for Luci, to the hospital and boy was that the wrong choice of car. Not only could I feel every bump on the road, my contractions were now every 3 minutes apart and I was breathing very heavily. It felt like the longest ride ever. We got to the hospital and then started to make our way up to triage...

Stay Tuned for the Birth!

Finally, Some Progress!

2009-11-13T20:38:00.002-05:00

Taken from Mommy's Blog: I’ve been anticipating this doctor’s appointment for quite some time now because once the internal exams start then I feel like I know where things are headed. Walking into the office, I was hoping for the best (i.e. head over to the hospital you are ready to go) but expecting the worst (i.e. less than 1cm and closed up tight as could be). Logically, I knew that I would be somewhere in the middle (at least that’s what I was hoping). After my bout with heartburn the past couple days, when asked how I was doing today, I firmly stated that I was done! And I could just tell that she knew it, too.

Got the lovely Strep B done today as well and for some reason that grosses me out more than having someone’s hand all the in my cervix. I think it’s the little stick that does it. Oh well, I’m sure that will all be fine. I was also forced into get the H1N1 vaccine after much deliberation and discussion, I caved and got it. #1: I hate shots and will go to any length not to have to get one. #2: I am just worried that I am going to get sick from the shot (hence today I’m ingesting 10 gallons of water so that I can flush out any lingering bugs in my system out) But on the flip side, I am glad that I didn’t have to wait in those massive 3 hour + lines for the public. And I outright told my doctor that if I come back next week with any sort of cold or flu like symptoms she is never going to hear the end of it. She just laughed and told me that she would take all the blame. Serves her right for wanting to stick me with two things today.

Anyways, the exam went better than expected. Even though I made my expectations really low, I truly thought I was going to be about two. So when I laid back, feet in stirups, ready to go, I told the doc “just please be more than one.” And I think she was surprised that I was 3cm and 50% effaced!!! And the baby’s head is down! We are in launch position! Now as happy as that makes me, I just think back to when I was pregnant with Luci and was at exactly the same spot as I was today and SHE WAS 2 DAYS LATE! So, with this being said, with this unusually nice weather we are having. We are going to walk everyday at least once outside unless it is too cold to handle then we are just to run around the house like crazy.Either way, I have a rambunctious toddler that can make this happen. Other home remedies will also be apply and I know one that will make John a very happy camper . I’m determined to not have too many more appointments and whatever I can to do help this along, I’m gonna do it (except drink weird things like castor oil, I really don’t want to upset my esophagus anymore than I already have ).

So less talking, more walking!

Hiya Punko!

2009-10-21T14:40:00.003-04:00

Punko is becoming the most popular word around our house now, because it's Halloween season and there are pumpkins all over the place. Yes, if you haven't guessed, Punko means pumpkin! Last weekend, we went and got our carving pumpkins and a few little ones for Halloween at the same place we went last year because it's a pick your apple and pumpkin farm. It was a little chilly that day so we didn't stay long, but I had a blast running in and out of all the pumpkins on the field. Mommy even got some apples so that we could make apple pie, yum.

This year for Halloween I am going to be a fairy. Mommy got smart and found a costume where I don't have to wear anything on my head cause we all know that won't last.

I am now set up in my big girl room and here are some pictures to get a better idea:

Among punko being one of my favorite words, I am also very much into saying hi and bye to everyone we see at stores and everywhere we go. Another favorite word of mine is now "More", but for some reason Mommy always makes me say "Pease" (Please). The same goes for when I say "uppy". I don't get it all I want is for someone to pick me up.

I'm also getting a new set of chompers, my canine teeth are finally starting to pop through. This is not fun cause they started coming in the same week I got my flu shot, so I was all drooly and had a running nose as a side effect. Mommy said I was gross and I couldn't figure out why she was always carrying around a tissue.

As for the baby, Mommy is so ready to be done. With only 6.5 weeks to go, it is getting harder and harder for her to bend down, sit on the ground, roll over in bed. Pretty much anything that is different than just sitting in a chair or standing in one place. So we'll see, I think she is hoping that we have a Thanksgiving baby or even earlier if possible so that she can move like a normal person again. Plus the baby is really active and we don't think that he/she rests at all. Hopefully, this is not a sign of things to come.

So for now, I give you my farewell as I do with everyone, Byebye Shelly, Byebye Daddy, Byebye mommy, byebye Shello

Ta Da! Mommy!

2009-09-22T15:12:00.002-04:00

Yep, that's right we've got a certified talker on our hands. Daddy was asking Mommy not too long ago if I had 40 words in my vocabulary (which I'm supposed to have by 21 months) and today she can say yes! Everyday, I usually go through my list of words that I like to say a lot. Bye Bye Shelly, Bye Bye Daddy, Bye Bye Mommy, Car Baby, Hello Kitty, Hi Baby, Daddy Pool (we just started tearing apart our pool), Cracker, and much more.

The new words that I have added to my repertoire include Ta Da (and yes I do the hand motions as well), Night Night (referring to the large amount of blankets and binkies that I sleep with) and Mi Mi (which is my equivalent to Milky). Where I came up with that, no one knows.

At 19 months, I'm weighing about 25.5 pounds and growing like a weed at around 32.5 inches. Still wearing 18 months clothes because I have no hips or butt to hold them up (who knows where I get that from). I've officially been in my "big girl" room for about a month now and it is slowly getting decorated with all my things. We are still waiting on my new dresser and once that comes all my clothes can come out of the baby's room.

Speaking of the baby, he/she/it is measuring right on schedule but I think Mommy would be ok if the baby decided to make an early entrance into the world. Poor Mommy is still having a hard time with her hip and now sleeping comfortably has become an issue. The dreaded third trimester stuffy nose has made it's way back into the picture making it hard for Daddy to sleep well cause Mommy has to breathe out of her nose.

Sitting on the ground with me is also becoming a chore in itself and I'm sure that giving me baths is not going to be an easy task in a couple weeks.

Moving on Up!

2009-08-15T14:50:00.004-04:00

To my big girl room. After weeks of trying to get my new room painted...it is done. Daddy did a great job and the stripes are even and everything. Now we just need to get some furniture and we'll be all set. Hopefully, Mommy's September 1st deadline will be feasible still. But for now, I just like running around the room and screaming (because my voice is very echo-y in the empty room). It's so much fun and I can't wait to move on up to my big girl room!

A week of appointments

2009-08-15T14:39:00.002-04:00

After two hours in the ob/gyn office and another half an hour in the pediatrician's office, I'm done with doctors for awhile. But earlier this week, we did get to the baby on a little tv at the doctor's office. I apparently was really good while we were there and even very attentive when looking at the alien baby on the screen. The tech told Mommy and Daddy that the baby looks good and is growing really well. He/she's weight is about 1.5 pounds and we are measuring at an even earlier due date of December 4th. Now, we have four different due dates, so Mommy is giving up and just telling everyone that it will probably be sometime around the first week of December. Who knows, I showed up two days late for my party, so maybe this baby will come early.

While, we were there the tech asked Mommy and Daddy if they wanted to find out the sex of the baby and they told her no which was a good thing because baby had no intentions of showing us anything. He/She was all closed up and there was no way we were going to see a thing. He/She was also moving around a lot so it was hard for the tech to tell because of all the movement. But all in all, everything looks good and on track.

Later this week was my 18 month doctor's appt with no shots! Yeah! It was one of the faster appts. we have ever been to because Mommy didn't really have any questions and there were no shots. I am now weighing in at 24lbs 6 ounces and have moved up in my percentile to around 55% so I'm no longer a tiny little peanut. Mommy thinks I've gained some muscle from climbing all over the place. For my height, I am 32 inches and in the 65-70% range which Mommy knows is defintely not from her and I will most likely be taller than her. The doctor said that everything looked good and that he wouldn't need to see me again till my birthday. He did tell Mommy that now is the age that time outs can start working as a form of discipline. I didn't really like the sound of that. I'm just expressing myself when I scream and throw mini tantrums. Plus no one fully understands me cause I only have about a 30 word vocabulary at this time. It's not my fault that I know what I need and no one else does.

The words aren't coming out right

2009-08-01T21:26:00.002-04:00

I feel like no one understands me. I talk and talk and all Mommy ever says is uh huh or ok. But that's doesn't even make sense to what I'm saying. Apparently, she wants me to speak her language and I'm saying a lot but it's just coming out so she can understand me. In human, non-baby language, I'm up to about 15-20 words.

Mommy's favorite is now for the past couple weeks I have been saying mama and really know what it means. It makes her so happy that I can say it, but I think she's worried that I'm gonna use against her or over use it. Other words that I have been saying now for some time and very clearly are: baby, ball, fishy, dog, kitty, dada (of course), shellshell (for shelly), cracker, uh oh, all done, all gone, nana (bananas), and I'm pretty sure I said apple today.

Last week, Mommy and I stayed in Cincinnati to help Grandma out with some things and of course, wouldn't you know it while we were gone I cut my 2 top molars at the same time. Mommy had just given me Cheez-its and was changing my diaper when she noticed that I had orange stuff on my gums (which turned out to be a tooth). Now that she recalls, I was chewing on everything for a couple days, but it didn't really seem to bother me.

The bottom two teeth were a whole other story. Last saturday was Aunt Jessa grad party and we had a blast and I even got to stay up really late (9pm). We were just going to stay at Grandpa's house but Mommy thought it might be better if we stayed at Uncle Kenny's so that everyone could get some sleep. She must be some kind of psychic because it was so much better that we were there because I ended up teething that night with my bottom two molars and was up about 4 times that night. Good thing Mommy thought ahead and brought tylenol and teething tablets or we would have been in a world of hurt.

Now for those of you who have lost track, I am now up to 11 teeth. The one tooth that I'm missing in the set is the one next to the big front tooth that I have in the front. I should also be getting my four canine teeth pretty soon as well. Mommy recalls that Dr. Matt told her at my 15 month appt. that the next months were going to be full of teething and he was right.

Next up for me, getting into my big girl room (once it is painted) and we are going to attempt potty training in the next few weeks with the 3 day method that Mommy learned from my music teacher. Here's to only having one kid in diapers at a time. Cross your fingers :)

Let's Compare

2009-07-18T21:52:00.003-04:00

Here's Mommy with Me at 20 weeks, carrying nice and high. Looking very perky and not really tired.
Here's Mommy again with my Baby at 20 weeks carrying a lot lower, probably cause I stretched out her stomach muscles, looking a little more tired, maybe she should try cucumbers under her eyelids. Same shirt and all. Let's see how much different she looks this time. The funny thing is she is at the same weight as she was with me at this time, but is looking a little bigger in the belly. That's what having a baby does to you.

Don't Forget about Me!

2009-06-22T22:43:00.002-04:00

Ok, so after trying several different times to get my picture to work, I'm upside down. Which by the way is how I prefer to see the world. :) This is my first photo taking when I was about 10 weeks gestation. If you look closely you can see arms, a head and a body, and what appears to be a tail. This is the last time you will see a picture of my full body until I'm outta there. Mommy and Daddy has decided (at the present time) that at my next ultrasound they would like to keep my private area a surprise. I would great appreciate it as well, as I don't really want people staring at my peepee.

The doctor says that everything looks good and my heartrate at Mommy's last appointment was around the 150's. I was measuring well and the next time we go in will probably be another quickey.

Even though I'm not kicking Mommy yet, she's pretty sure there is something going on down there. She has been crampy lately, so maybe that means I'm moving all her organs around and growing up to be big and strong. She would like some sort of movement from me to know that just because Luci jumps on Mommy a lot, that everything is a-ok.

Will updated again when we have our next appt. after the Fourth of July.

I'm a Jabbering Monkey.

2009-06-20T14:30:00.002-04:00

Now onto more important updates: ME!

Last week, I finally got my 7th tooth and boy did it take a toll on me and Mommy for a little while. There were about 3-4 days where I just couldn't sleep comfortably and I was definitely achy. My teeth are definitely chompers and I just don't know where I am going to fit the rest of them when they come in. Hello, braces!

Daddy and I took our first road trip together sans Mommy up to Perrysburg. Mommy had to work that night, so she had the night to herself (kinda she was working) and the most of the next day. It's like she was living the single life again. Yeah, right. She went to bed as soon as she got home and got up earlier than normal to run errands. But Daddy and I had fun and everything went smoothly even though Mommy was worried that Daddy was going to feed me McDonald's or something very out of the ordinary for me.

One of my new favorite activities is climbing but the problem is that my legs are just not quite long enough to get on most things like the couch that I want to. I did, however, master the futon cause it is lower to ground, but I get really frustrated with the couch in the den because for some reason Mommy doesn't always like to be a climbing tool.

My vocab is slowly expanding day by day. My non-verbal vocab is great and I understand what most things are including things on the face. I know, eye, teeth, nose, ear, cheek, chin. I know what to do when Mommy tells me to get something. And if I drop a toy under the couch, I crouch down and look under there to see what is missing. As for my verbal vocab, I'm saying things (some not quite clearly) like Dada, Mama, Hi (just learned this one yesterday and said it literally 1000 times), Buh-Bye, Shelly (the h is a little hard), All Done (mostly done with hand motions) , Uh Oh (this one I used all the time), All Gone (also with hand motions), KeyKey (meaning kitty) and Eye (which I think is interchangable with Hi).

Now, we are on a break from Music Class and Story Time this week, Mommy has filled it with errands and swimming in the pool ( which is still a little cold). Next week, Story Time starts up again as well as our new class, Swim Class at the Bexley Pool. Yeah for summer fun!

Moving on Up!

2009-06-20T14:17:00.004-04:00

I always deliver my promise of updating my fans of what is going on with me and my baby (peanut, fishy) .

Our house is in the process of one big change and the rooms are not like they used to be. In order to make room for the baby, Mommy and Daddy have been busy cleaning out the office. Most of the rooms in the house are now used for different things then they used to be not more than a week ago.

Let's see if you can follow all the madness that is going around here lately:

The sun room which was our dinner room (that we never ate in) is now where we moved the futon and tv from upstairs. The console table that was in the living is now where the tv sits.

The living room is now an actually living room, not a play room. The coffee table and rocker from the den made their debuts into that room and the couches played switch-a-roo.

The den nows houses the tv (which daddy mounted on the wall), all my toys and is Mommy's new office space.

The basement is now officially a man cave. Daddy and Uncle Mike took the desk off the wall in the office and moved it down to the basement and all of Daddy's computer stuff took a trip down there as well. Mommy actually misses being able to work next to him but they can always instant message or text each other when they need something.

The office is almost a blank slate to become the bedroom for the princess, i.e. me! There are still a few odds and ends that need to be cleared out, but the closet is pretty much empty and now we just got to find my bedding and a dresser and then Grandma's got to come up and paint. Hint Hint! :)

Everyone is adjusting well to all the new changes except Shelly. She just doesn't know where to lay down.

Travelling Girl

2009-06-10T15:45:00.002-04:00

Yes, I know it's been about a month since I've blogged but things have been really busy. Or should I say, Mommy has been really busy working on her website which takes up most of the time that she should use to tell everyone about ME!

Let's see, what's new: Went up to Brecksville last weekend for Aunt Jessa's Graduation and Grandpa's Birthday. I spent the day with Uncle Kenny and Aunt Katy while everyone else went to graduation. Most of the time, I slept and got up with a surprise for the two of them. Aunt Katy went to get me up and told Kenny that I was stinking. Well, they went to lay me down and she had poop on her shirt and I had it all the way up my back and down my legs. Needless to say, that when Mommy called Kenny said that he was calling Nuclear Waste to come get the diaper. Well, at least Mommy didn't have to change it. She gets plenty herself to do.

The weekend before, Aunt Jessa came down and visited us and Mommy and Daddy got to have a night out while Aunt Jessa and I played. We went to the mall and found her a graduation dress and got me a new "baby" suit for the pool. It's so cute and Mommy and I already used it to swim in our pool.

Memorial Day: Mommy and I ventured down to Cincinnati to have a picnic with Grandma, Gammy and Gappy, Grandpa and his fam. It was a great day and didn't rain and I got to play with rocks, sticks, and all the kids. Even though I missed my nap, I had a lot of fun being outside and enjoying nature.

The week before that: Mommy, Daddy and I went up to Perrysburg so that they could get their teeth cleaned and I got to play with Grandma and Aunt Val. We spent a lot of time outside and just enough time inside so that I could torture the dogs.

Needless to say, I'm very tired from all the driving and will post again soon about all the new things I'm doing and give you an update on my little bro/sis.

I actually just got home from another trip with just Daddy to Perrysburg, so I'm spent.

Barking like a Seal!

2009-05-16T07:39:00.002-04:00

It's no fun being sick and I should know because I've been sick since Wednesday and I don't like it. It started off as a normal day and then Mommy noticed that I started to sound like a barking seal when I coughed. This continued on all day and got even worse at night. That night I got up several time between 8-11 and Mommy tried a couple different things to help me clear out my chest. We started in the bathroom with steam from the shower for as long as we could stand it then she filled up my humidifier and put me back to sleep. One of those two things must have worked well enough cause I slept the rest of the night.

The next morning, I had my well check up at the doctors which Mommy was happy about cause then she could ask Dr. Matt what was going on with me. She thought it was croup from the symptoms that I had. He never said but the things that Mommy did to fix it worked. I was still a little coughy that morning but then the diarrhea started and boy was it stinky. Mommy had to change me at the doctor's office and they had to get of the diaper outside cause it was so bad. The nurse weighed me in at 21lbs6oz (25%) and measured me at 30.5 in (50%) which is what Mommy thought it was going to be. Since I didn't have a bacterial infection or a fever, they gave me my shots and both Mommy and I were going to be in for a long day and night.

The coughing continued all day and so did the diarrhea and then that night the fever came. Around 10:30pm, Yes I had much up and down since 8pm, Mommy checked my temp. and it was 102.3, so here were go for my 3rd round of Tylenol that day. That dose must have helped along with stripping me down to a onesie and light pants for jammies cause I slept for the rest of the night and was cooler in the morning.

Friday was better and only two spouts of diarrhea in the morning cause Mommy put me on the blandest diet ever that day to get rid of the wet poop. But it didn't really matter cause I wasn't hungry at all. I barely at anything all day and refused some of my normal foods even bananas. Weird, I know. Mommy was able to get me to drink more liquids than normal so that I didn't get dehydrated. Last night, I actually slept the whole night with no coughing, no fever and no waking up. In fact, Mommy woke up before me and I'm still snoozing away.

Today I have my first Kindermusik class so I hope I'm not still feeling under the weather so that I can participate and have fun.

By the way, our little peanut is doing just fine. He/she will update when we go to the next doctor's appt. Everything so far is going smooth.

I'm Gonna Be A Big Sister!!

2009-05-08T13:16:00.002-04:00

As most of you already know, I'm gonna be a big sister. Well, today, Mommy, Daddy and I went to see the baby for the first time at the doctor's office. It was very exciting and a little bit boring cause we had to wait so long to get in, but everything looked good and the ONE baby is just fine.
I know that Aunt Tori thought there was going to be two, but when the doctor looked on the monitor there was just one baby. Whew, could you imagine????

Mommy originally thought that her due date was December 5th according to the internet, but the doctor told her that she thinks it is December 6th. Now wait, it gets even more complicated than that...the baby actually measured from crown to rump (haha what a funny word) 10 weeks 3 days, which actually puts us at December 2nd. So for now, let's just say that I will have a new baby around the first week of December. :) I showed up late for my party, so who knows what this baby has in mind.

Mommy has been feeling a little different with this pregnancy than the last. For one, she noticed right away that she didn't break out with a face full of zits! But on the flip side, it's almost like she has to eat or have something in her stomach to not feel nauseous. She hasn't thrown up at all (no one wants to hear or see that), but the queasiness is a little daunting. It's almost like this baby can't get enough to eat.

For all of you who are wondering, we are not finding out the sex of the baby. We want it to be a surprise and it definitely will be. We also won't be divulging any names, so don't ask. :) Mommy says there are few surprises in life and for those of you impatient people (Aunt Jessa) you will just have to wait. :)

We'll put the ultrasound pictures up soon, so be on the lookout!

Riding My Horsey!

2009-05-04T15:30:00.002-04:00

Summer Lovin'!

2009-05-02T13:48:00.002-04:00

Well, the past week really felt summer was just around the corner. Mommy and me went to the park four days in a row. I'm so exhausted from all the running around I did, but I can't wait for the nice weather to settle in so we can make this a daily excursion. I love playing in the dirt and picking up rocks and sticks to give to Mommy so that she will hold them for me. The dandelions in the park are very enticing and I just felt the need to pick them all up.

During our stint of great weather, Mommy and I also took a trip to the Columbus Zoo. We were going to try and see the baby elephant that was just born, but the line to see him was like 2 hours long (not exaggerating). So we went and saw the other elephants, which were just as good. I loved the gorillas and the bonobos (monkey like animals) because they were so active and jumping around like crazy. We also went to the petting zoo and I just loved the goats and sheep to death. Of course, I attacked them like they were big Shellys. I tend to hit animals. I just don't know how hard my hand actually is sometimes. Mommy has to remind me to be gentle and although she didn't want me kissing the goats, she does make me kiss Shelly to be nice.

Some new things that I have recently started doing: I love to pat my belly, my knees, Mommy's knees, Mommy's belly. Mommy's nose, teeth and eyes are getting quite the good amount of attention because I know where and what they are now. I do know where mine are too, but it's much more fun to smack Mommy in the face to point out to her where her facial features are.

Once again, I've added new repertoire to my dancing and that is tapping one foot at a time. Mommy tells me to tap my foot and I can do it like a champ.

Mommy and Daddy had been talking for awhile about when I'm going to get birthmarks and freckles and the like. Well, a couple days after their discussion of my upcoming moles, Mommy discovered a round little birthmark on my left leg right on my shin bone. It appeared almost like out of no where, but now it's here to stay.

I've also been practicing coming down the stairs at home. While, I still prefer for Mommy to carry me, I can do it. I think she would like for me to become more comfortable with this so that she doesn't have to worry about me falling down the stairs again.

Next up, look for more new and exciting things to occur.

Spinning Like a Top!

2009-04-21T15:01:00.002-04:00

Last week, I added some new repertoire to my dancing skills. I still do the bouncing, but I have added spinning around, a little bit of swaying, patting my belly and shaking my butt. It's all very fun and sometimes I get so mixed up in what I am trying to do that I tend to fall down sometimes. Mommy can still get me to dance by singing "Single Ladies", mostly the uh, uh, oh part, but I will dance to any type of music that is playing. We even went to the store the other day and I was dancing for the ladies that worked there. They got a kick out of my bouncing, but most people do. Mommy caught me singing along with her the other day. I say the uh, uh, oh part with her when she sings it too. Also, we were reading a book and one of the questions asks, "What does the busy baby say" and they say "uh oh." If Mommy says uh oh before me I will repeat it after her and very clearly nonetheless. She thinks it's really cute.

Just a little plug for Mommy, she started a new website last week called www.livingmyMoMent.com. Check it out. It's a site for moms and those Moms who run their own businesses get free advertising on the site. If you know of any moms that have their own business and would like this kind of extra traffic to their site, please let Mommy know. She would be happy to add them.

Now, back to me. A couple weeks ago, Mommy thought she spotted a tooth coming in on the top, but apparently it is just not ready to pop through yet. It's been right on the cusp for a couple weeks now, but someone on the bottom decided to beat it through. The left lateral bottom incisor (did you catch all that ) is poking through just a little bit. This should make biting off pieces of food even easier than when I did it with just my gums and the four teeth that I already have. My teeth are taking their sweet ole time coming in. Oh the joys of teething.

Hopping Along!

2009-04-13T13:07:00.005-04:00

Happy Easter to all! We just got done celebrating Easter at Grandma and Grandpa Plum's and boy is there a lot of candy that goes along with this holiday. I think that I am going to be on a sugar high for days, but I like it. This is the first holiday that I have now celebrated twice, but last year I was too little to enjoy the goodies that came along with it. The Easter bunny brought me some new crayons, new shoes for my fancy new dress, and of course a bunny! We went to church yesterday morning where Grandpa is the campus pastor and I got to play with some other little kids my age in the nursery. I think that Mommy was more worried about how it would go leaving me with people I didn't know but it was easy and I didn't even really notice that she was gone. I had a blast and Grandma and Grandpa even came to see me and I didn't care they were there either. Easter dinner was good and then I got another basket that I had to find with clues. It was fun, but I definitely like the presents that came inside and can't wait for more candy.

Two weeks ago, Mommy and I went to my first story time at the library. It's only for like 25 minutes but there is enough time to play with the other kids beforehand which is a lot of fun. The librarian reads a couple books, sings lots of songs, does things with puppets and it is very entertaining. We get to sit on these little round cushions and so far, both times, I have helped to put them away. I like to move things into boxes and if she let me, I would probably take them out too. Mommy likes it cause we get to get out of the house for a little while and to see other mommies with their kids.

Adding onto my moon walking, I have decided that it is very cool to spin around. This move can be a little difficult because I can't quite get my balance but it is fun to see how many times I can do it without getting too dizzy.

Last week, Mommy and I ventured up to Brecksville to celebrate Aunt Jessa's birthday. We had a blast and I got to play with Carmen, which is always good times. We played on the swingset and went down the slide, a lot. She always likes my toys and I don't mind cause then I have someone to play with. I really love going into Aunt Katy's room and will go in there even if I am by myself. I'm pretty sure it's because of all the pink in there and all the ducks she has but either way, it's a fun room and I like it. Mommy and I spent the night at Uncle Kenny's house and his house is fun because he has stairs that lead up to the mirror room. There are mirrors on either side of the wall and they are great to look at because I am in them. It's funny to see myself on one side and then turn around and there I am again.

Well, I'm worn out from all this traveling and candy, so I'm off to take a well needed nap.

Moon Walking!

2009-03-31T11:01:00.002-04:00

Well, I'm not quite as good as Michael Jackson, but I've started to walk backwards a lot. I started this new trick the other day and most of the time I don't know where I'm going so I run into things. Even though, I hit the wall every time, it cracks me up and I just laugh it off cause it's so silly. Mommy thinks that I am crazy and that it is funny because when I do it, I'm sneaky about it. Along with the backwards walking, I make sure that I run into Mommy and fall down on her. That's fun too. Who knew what you could do with this walking business?

The bathroom has also become an intriguing place to explore. First off, there is this white paper on a roll that is so fun to pull on. For some reason, Mommy knows every time that I touch it cause she comes in and puts it up high where I can't reach it. Another thing that is fun to do in the bathroom is pulling down all my bath toys off the toilet onto the floor where I make a big mess for someone else to clean up . I have also discovered that the basket that holds the magazines is perfect for climbing into and out of a lot. This morning I kept Daddy company while he was in the bathroom and I climbed in and out of the that thing like ten times. It is the perfect size for my little body.

Even though Gammy calls Mommy "Dooville" because she used to be very busy and do do do everything, I think it might be time to pass the title on to me. Mommy is convinced that I never sit when I am awake which could be why I sleep so much (not complaining). I have found another cabinet upstairs in the office that has a lot of things that are fun to pull out, especially ribbon that needs to be unraveled everywhere. There are drawers in the kitchen that I empty every time I pass them and toys in boxes that go all over the floor. Next, Mommy thinks we need to work on putting things away, but for now I'm having too much fun pulling everything out.

I Can See Clearly Now!

2009-03-22T20:28:00.003-04:00

The other day, Mommy and I took a trip to the Women's center at the hospital to weigh me on their baby scale for the last time. At my last doctor's appt., Dr. Matt said that I had to weigh at least 20 pounds to be turned around in my car seat, so Mommy was hoping that I didn't lose more weight this month. Of course, I had to be difficult and just make the 20 pound cut off at 20lbs and 1 ounce. And Mommy thinks my diaper was sort of full and I had just eaten lunch, so we might be pushing it but it'll be ok.

We got my new car seat into the car and although I haven't actually used it yet, I'm very comfortable with it, because it has been in the sunroom waiting to be install. I put my baby in it and I love the way it feels because it is velvety and soft. We'll let you know how my first car ride go sitting front way when it happens.

Mommy and Daddy got a nice couple of nights out this weekend, when the bestess aunt in the world came and stayed with us for the weekend. Aunt Jessa and I played a lot this weekend, while Mommy and Daddy got to watch the NCAA tournament with friends. Mommy was especially excited because it's been awhile since she has been out with adults and without me. Mommy and Daddy really appreicate the help they get on short notice from everyone. It really does allow them to be adults once in awhile.

With all this nice weather we've been having, Mommy, Shelly and I have been going on walks. Shelly just loves the fact that she gets to go outside on a walk. I love it because then I can walk on my own without a stroller and I can pick up all the sticks on the sidewalk and carry them around. On one of our walks the other day, I stopped every couple of feet so that I could pick up sticks and then also move leaves from one side of the sidewalk to the other. I feel the need to clean up nature on my walk. Luckily, I haven't eaten anything on our walk, though I did try to put a rock in my mouth. What can I say, they look tasty.

Next week, Mommy and I are going to storytime at the Library for their Spring session. I'm sure that I will like it and I'm sure that I will try and hug all the other kids. We'll let you know how that goes. Happy Springtime everyone!

Springtime or Pee Time?

2009-03-12T10:23:00.005-04:00

Now that it is almost Spring and we are getting a few nice days here and there, Mommy and I gone a few walks around the neighborhood and she doesn't even take the stroller. She lets me walk around the sidewalks on my own. When Aunt Jessa was here last weekend we walked to the playground at the school by our house and went down the slides. I'm not sure about how fast you can go down those things cause it was kind of scary but I didn't cry, I just made faces. Shelly is also excited that she is able to go on walks now because it is warmer and she cries a lot to go outside. We have fun walking around and I only fall a couple times when we are out there but it's not my fault that the sidewalks are uneven.

Last Thursday, Mommy and I took a short road trip down to Cincinnati to visit Grandma, Gammy and Gappy for the day. We just hung out at there and visited. It was nice to get out and do something different. I, of course, made a huge mess and pulled lots of things out and wanted to touch all of Gammy's pretty things. They are right at my eye level and are very enticing. Then on Friday, Aunt Jessa came to visit and we went to the mall and ate dinner out which we haven't done in forever. It was fun and I was aloud to walk around at the mall for a little bit myself. I'm sort of liking this freedom thing but somehow someone always catches me and picks me up. It's like I'm too fast for them or something. Who knows?

I am finally not a jack-o-lantern anymore because I got my 2nd top tooth last week. It's still just poking through a little bit, but at least you can see it when I smile. Mommy says that my top teeth look huge so that may be why they took forever to come in.

Mommy got me my own little potty awhile ago just so that I would have it in the house. I get to sit on it right before bath time just to practice, but it's really cold and I don't like being naked sitting on the potty. The first time that I tried it, I peed in it and Mommy was so excited and she showed Daddy. I could have cared less, but I'm glad that Mommy was happy. I'm pretty sure I did it by accident because I have only gone one other time on it for Daddy last week. It is kind of fun not having to pee in my diaper, so we'll see if I do it again.

Everyone wish Daddy Happy Birthday cause tomorrow he turns the big 2-9. Only one more year till he really is an old man. haha, just kidding. Love you!

It's my Party and I'll Cry If I Want To!

2009-02-25T14:06:00.002-05:00

Well, I'm not the one who cried at my party, but I did have the best time. Yes, it's true, Mommy was a little emotional at my birthday party but I guess she has that right since she did give birth to me. The weekend went by way too fast but all the planning that Mommy did went off without a hitch, of course. After dropping Aunt Sandy off at the airport on Saturday afternoon, Mommy came home and started baking the cakes so they would have enough time to cool. Then after playing with me for a little bit and then putting me to bed. She got ready to assemble the bee masterpiece. As soon as she was getting ready to put everything together, Grandma and Grandpa P. arrived from the airport, so she took a break and chatted with them before getting back to work. Since Grandma has done many cakes before, Mommy knew she would have some input so instead she put her to work and sent her to the store to get some last minute things for the party. After starting the cakes around 7ish, Mommy was finally done around 11:30 and the cake looked beauteous :) (pictures of my party are up).

The next morning, we all just kind of hung out until I took my nap. Apparently, people like to get things done when I'm not around. I just don't understand it, I am very helpful especially now that I am into emptying drawers and cupboards. Before my nap, I gave Mommy and Grandma a show by dancing literally the whole three minutes of Single Ladies by Beyonce. I think Grandma's stomach hurt so bad from laughing she couldn't even breathe. I am such a good dancer and hopefully more videos will follow.

People started arriving around 11:15 with their food and I was still sleeping. Mommy knew that I needed my sleep though because I probably wasn't going to get another one that day. Mommy finally got me up around 11:45 and put my piggies in my hair so that I was party ready. We all ate really good food, mostly prepared by Gramdpa Bilek and I played with Carmen a lot. Then after lunch, it was time for me to eat my first piece of cake. Like I said, Mommy did a great job with the cake and cried when everyone sang Happy Birthday. But the best part was how I ate my cake. I didn't smash it up really good, but I picked at it and ate icing here and there. The funniest part was when I leaned into the cake eating like a dog several times and in slow motion. It was delicious and I was definitely on a sugar high for the rest of the day.

After cake, came presents and I got a lot of great things, including a new handmade rolling bee by Great Grandpa Bilek which is something new that he's never made before. It is a lot of fun. Oddly, when we started opening presents I did a good job ripping the paper but I only wanted to open presents if I could hold my dress in my mouth. Whatever works to make the people laugh. Shortly after presents, people started to leave to go home and I was still ready to party until bedtime. It was a great day and I can't wait to do it again. Thanks everyone for all my gifts and making my first birthday very special.

Happy Birthday to Me!

2009-02-19T10:45:00.002-05:00

Today at 2pm exactly, I will turn one year old, but in all actuality we have been celebrating since Valentine's Day! At one, I am walking, eating big people food, saying dada and nana (banana), have a little attitude, can crawl up stairs, can crawl down one step, point at everything, and give hugs and kisses.

This being my first Valentine's Day and Birthday, I am just overwhelmed by all that I have gotten so far and it's only the beginning of my birthday! Mommy got me kissing monkeys and some new socks for Valentine's Day and Daddy got me my first set of a dozen roses, which I love smelling, but I had to shared them with Mommy. Mommy and I made Daddy some cut out cookies in the shape of hearts and he loved them. I am really glad that I was born around the most loving holiday of the year.

Birthday day has already been eventful. Mommy got me up this morning and sang Happy Birthday to me a couple times, made me birthday pancakes where I got to wear my new One year old bib and she got me dressed in my I am One shirt, which I got to show off at the doctors office. Of course, since we were going out Mommy put my hair in piggy tails and all the ladies at the doctor's commented on how cute I was. It's a daily occurrence, but I am getting used to it.

So Dr. Matt said that I was doing good and that I was right on track, if not ahead on some things, like walking and not eating baby food anymore. We talked about weaning and how to I only need 16oz of milk a day now, so Mommy can start to get her pre baby body back. haha. The nurse measured me at 29 in (55%) and 19lbs (25%) and 17.5 inches on my head (30%). Mommy is shocked that I lost 6 ounces since last month when she weighed me at the hospital, but she knows that it is because I started walking after she weighed me in January. As much as I eat, I just can't gain any weight. Mommy thought I was going to weigh at least 20 pounds today but she was way off. Dr. Matt gave Mommy the okay to turn me around to face front in the car but only when I weigh 20 pounds, so maybe next month I can see the world in front of me. At any rate, by the time I reach 30 inches in length I have to be put in a different car seat anyways because I will be too long for the baby carrier. Maybe by Easter, I will be in a big girl seat. We'll see.

On the agenda for the rest of my birthday is a couple naps which I am in the process of taking one now, get more food for my birthday party which is on Sunday, and maybe Mommy will cook me a special birthday dinner. I am so excited that our family is coming into town for my big ONE and I get to taste my first piece of cake. Mommy is so excited that she is making my first birthday cake and hopes that it turns out good just like Grandma used to make for her. Well, for now I'm gonna finish my nap and then play with some new toys that Mommy and Daddy got for me today. T-minus 3 days til partay!

Brecksville Bound!

2009-02-11T20:56:00.002-05:00

Last weekend was Aunt Katy's 10th birthday party and Mommy and I took the drive up to Brecksville for her party. I got to show off my walking skills and terrorize the dog and the cat. It's hard being around animals that don't know you because all I wanted to do was pet them but I really wasn't allowed to cause they might have bit me. Oh well, I will say that the kitty was very intriguing. She reminded me of Shelly with all her long fur and plus we don't have one so she was extra interesting. On Saturday for Aunt KayKay's party, I got to play with Carmen for a little while before I had to go to bed. Grandpa told Mommy on Saturday morning that he is amazed at how well I sleep at other people's houses. He spoke too soon. I am known for sleeping 12-13 hours a night without getting up at all. Well on Saturday night, I woke up at around 11:00 pm and poor Mommy couldn't get me back to sleep until at least 1:30 or two. She tried everything and I just didn't want to have it. Let's just say that the next night we both slept great but were a little cranky during the day.

One new thing that I started to do while we were up in Brecksville is pointing. I apparently just want to know what everything little thing is now. At home, everyday I point and laugh at my new picture that is hanging on the wall. It is very exciting to see myself all over our house. Mommy is hoping that pointing and being inquisitive is a precursor for talking. I really still only babble, but I get really excited when I see or hear mention of a banana. Sometimes, if I don't get to eat a banana, I will scream nanananananana until I get it or am distracted by something else. I do understand what dada means and use it all the time except when talking to Daddy. Mommy thinks that's just great and maybe soon I will learn to understand the meaning of mama. She better know what she's getting into because once I learn that one I'm never gonna stop saying it.

I dare you to try and say goodbye to me now without me waving cause it's not gonna happen. I can wave with one hand or two, it just depends on my mood. Once I get started, I can do it for awhile. Mommy seems to think that I am learning new things everyday and she can't keep with up with them all. She tries to tape them, so check out the new videos and let us know what you think.

Big Smiles!

2009-02-05T10:08:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, I felt like a big celebrity because I was getting some professional photos taken for my first birthday. Grandma came up and she, Mommy and I all went to Celebrity Kids for my one year old photo shoot. It was so fun cause the lady had tons of things for me to play with but my favorite were all the fake flowers. Mommy said I did a really good job and for once I am smiling and looking at the camera in my pictures. YEAH! They should be ready for my birthday party which is in a couple weeks.

Since I have been taking baths in the tub, I have been very good playing and splashing around with my toys but recently I have been trying to see what my boundaries are in the tub. So sometimes I will stand up until Mommy tells me that I have to sit down or else get out and I really don't want to get out of bath cause I love it in there. I also don't know why Mommy doesn't want me drinking the water. I use all my cups that are in there and drink out of them. It's just water, right? wink wink...

Mommy noticed that my other top tooth is starting to make it's way into the world, so that way I won't have to look like a jack-o-lantern with just one top tooth. I have been a little cranky and clingy again, so that must be the culprit. Hopefully, it will come soon so that I can grind it too to make Mommy feel tingly.

Other things that go along with me growing and getting bigger is that I am eating whole blueberries now and I love them. No more mashed up fruits and veggies for me. The only thing that Mommy still makes is apples and pears but it's just like applesauce and I don't have enough teeth for biting crunchy apples. Another thing that Mommy realized that I am getting is a little bit of an attitude. The other day, I was doing something I wasn't supposed to be doing, probably climbing the stairs, so she grabbed me and put me in the living room. Well, I really wanted to go upstairs so I stiffened my whole body and straighten my arms in the air so that it made it difficult for Mommy to move me. I have done this several times as a protest to try and get my way; it's not working very well.

This weekend, Mommy and I are venturing up to Brecksville for Aunt Katy's birthday party. She's my birthday buddy cause we have birthdays in the same month. It will be nice to get out of the house for a little bit since it seems as if there is a snowstorm or below freezing temperatures every other day that cause us not to get out of the house. So till next time, stay warm!

Nails Down a Chalkboard!

2009-01-27T14:10:00.002-05:00

That is the noise that I make that drives Mommy crazy when I grind my teeth together. You may be thinking how does she grind her bottom teeth together, well it's because my top two teeth are making their way into this world. About two weeks ago, Mommy looked at my teeth and noticed that there was whiteness showing through on my gums but didn't want to say anything because of what happened with my first two teeth and them deciding not to come through for awhile. But then a couple days ago, she noticed that I was awfully cranky and clingy and knew that it would be any day. Then last night as I screamed my way through dinner, Mommy prayed that I wouldn't keep her up all night and I didn't but this morning one of the top two was there. Although, Mommy is happy that my top teeth are coming through she is not too happy with the new found sound I can make with my teeth. She says it gives her the heeby geebies. Hopefully, the second top tooth will pop out today or tomorrow so that I can go back to my regular self.

As for my walking, I am a champ. I can balance myself and from the living room to the kitchen, I will maybe fall once and that is just because the floor is so slippery. I am still tentative and don't walk really fast but the day is coming soon when I will just take off and go.

This past weekend, Aunt Jessa came down and Mommy, her and I went down to Cincinnati for an overnight. Aunt Jessa is looking at UC for college next year and her and Mommy went there for a college visit while I stayed and played at Grandma's. We had fun and I did a lot of dancing while we were there. Grandpa has this little Harley Davidson dog that plays Low Rider by War and I just love dancing to it over and over. Everytime it stopped, I looked at Grandma like where did the music go and make it come back on. We also experience a day of a heat wave while we were down there and it got up to 60 degrees. Well since I have my eczema, I don't typically wear dresses or no pants but that day I was extra hot in my fleece pants, so Grandma let me go fancy free and pantless. I forgot how much I love not wearing clothes, it was liberating :).

When we got home from Cincinnati, Mommy and Daddy got to go out on Saturday night to Daddy's late work Christmas party. They had fun and stayed out late which they haven't done in a really long time. Aunt Jessa and I had fun playing and taking a bath like a big girl, which by the way, I've been out of my baby tub (it's put away) for about 2 weeks now. I like crawling around and playing with all my toys in the tub.

This weekend, I also got to play in the snow for the first time. Mommy and Aunt Jessa got me all bundled up in my snow suit, boots, hat and gloves for 5 minutes out in the snow. I didn't really like walking around because I couldn't keep my balance cause I had too much stuff on but I didn't mind sitting in the snow and touching it. It was cold, but fun to play with and after about 5-10 minutes I had enough and we went back inside. I'm more of a summer girl, I think. Oh well, here's to at least another month of snow.

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

2009-01-19T14:35:00.002-05:00

Not much has been going on in the last week or so because we have all been cooped up in the house forever since it has be -25 degrees around these parts of Ohio. Mommy and I finally ventured out today because she wanted to weigh me since I turned 11 months old today! That's right folks, only one more month till the big ONE! Anyways, so we went this afternoon and I'm weighing in at 19 pounds 6 ounces which is right on track. Mommy also measured me this morning and I'm still around 28 inches which is good as well.

Last Wednesday during our snowstorm, Grandma made the trip up from Cincinnati to watch me for the day and then was going to go home that night, but we ended up having a sleepover because the roads were pretty bad that night and we didn't think that she should be going home by herself. The reason she came up, other than to see me, of course, was because Mommy and Daddy cashed in their free babysitting gift certificates for a day of relaxing massages and a great dinner date at the Melting Pot. They had a great time and it was nice spending the day with Grandma as well. They are now feeling refreshed and reconnected after spending the day just the two of them.

This week, I have had a lot of time to practice my new skill and I have been walking up a storm. I'm still not quite stable and fall down sometimes, but I haven't fallen too hard and I catch myself a lot before actually falling. I can make it from one side of the room to the other most times without falling and am pretty good at stepping around and over things. I'm getting really good at turning from a walking stance. Pretty soon before they know it, I'm just gonna take off and run like Mommy did when she was little.

This week, we're road trippin' to Cincinnati with Aunt Jessa so that she can visit UC's campus and spending the night at Grandma's and then Mommy and Daddy get to go out again on Saturday to Daddy's after Christmas party for work. Will blog again later. Check out my new videos if you haven't seen them yet.

The GOOD, The Bad and The UGLY!

2009-01-07T22:30:00.003-05:00

Just like the title of the of this blog says, there are three things that happened in the last couple days that were great, not so great and not good at all (but everything is fine). I'll start off with the really bad cause it's always better to end on a happy note.

So yesterday morning, I was playing around in the living room and was finding my way towards the stairs as usual. Mommy saw me and of course started following me up the stairs like she always does. I can't seem to fool her and her quick ways. Everything was going just fine and we were one step away from the top and Mommy saw that the fan was on at the top of the stairs and decided to go turn it off so that I wouldn't stick my finger in it and get hurt. So she passed by me thinking that I would just crawl one more step to the top and follow her to the bathroom. Well, after she turned off the fan, she realized that I wasn't coming and I leaned backwards and yep, you guess fell all the way from the top of the staircase to the bottom. Mommy, of course, was screaming and Daddy was in the shower, so he jumped out of the shower to hear the big thud. Mommy did a good job of keeping me calm and I really only cry for a minute and it was more because of the shock than anything else. I moved immediately, have no bruises and within two minutes (no joke) was crawling back up the stairs again. I know, I'm a martyr for wanting to go up the flight of stars again. It wasn't till later that Mommy thought to call the doctor and all the warning signs the nurse told her to look for is what she figured to look for. She doesn't even think that I hit my head at all, because I pretty much just rolled down the stairs. Apparently, I'm pretty bouncy and was my normal self all day.

Ok, so that was the ugly, the bad isn't so bad, but I needed something bad for my title. It's just that I'm still nursing my cold and still have the sniffles. Also, the Buckeyes lost the Fiesta Bowl and it definitely wasn't for lack of effort. It was a great game, so Mommy says, cause I was sleeping. But there's always next year.

Now for the good or should I say GREAT! We were all sitting in the den today and Mommy and Daddy were jabbering about something. Daddy was sitting in his recliner and Mommy was sitting on the couch. I was playing on the floor and decided that I wanted to push Daddy in the rocker, so I stood up next to him and was hanging out for a minute. Then a couple minutes later, I must have seen something that I wanted on the coffee table because I just WALKED over to it. Mommy and Daddy stopped talking and just watched as I took about 3 or 4 steps from the chair to the table. Of course, Mommy teared up but that is to be expected and then she wanted me to do it again and I was done showing off for that moment. Mommy thought it was just a fluke and thought that I probably wouldn't do it again for a couple days but all day today I was doing it. I would stand up next to something, get stable and then take a couple steps. Yes, folks she even got it on tape. So when Daddy gets around to it, we will post the video. They were so proud of me and Mommy kept making me try to walk to things all night.

Next up, I think I might try talking.

It's 2009! ah-choo!

2009-01-05T14:40:00.002-05:00

The start of the New Year was the start of my new cold; my first cold. The day after we got back from Christmas travel, everyone was sick. Daddy was still sick and Mommy and I got head colds. One night, I had a slight fever of 100 degrees but nothing that a full night of sleep and a dose of Tylenol couldn't cure. The fever only lasted hours while my runny nose is now going on a week. I don't and didn't really have any other symptoms of a cold so I think it is just the change in weather that is getting me all drainy. Mommy can't wait to put away all the nose wipers that she has laying around the house. I hate those things even though they are better than tissues. I just don't like it when Mommy comes at me with one of them because I know she is going right for my nose and after a week of being dripping; I am just a little tender.

Pretty much right after we got settled back home after the holidays, Daddy installed more child safety locks in the kitchen. Mommy does let me have one cabinet of tupperware that I can play in and throw all over the place. One day, as I was emptying out the cupboard, Mommy noticed that I had disappear and she realized that I had found a perfect little hiding spot in the cabinet. I crawled right in there and played in there instead of on the kitchen floor. She was laughing so hard that it made me and Daddy giggle. Oddly, enough I only did it once even though Mommy didn't seem to mind. If I am missing, she will know where to look.

Up, up, up is my new mantra. It doesn't mean that I want to be picked up cause I can't talk yet but it means if I spot a flight of stairs, I'm gone. I've gotten so quick on my excursions up the stairs that sometimes I will be 4-6 stairs up before Mommy notices. And after the 5th time of following me up the stairs, Mommy has now put a gate up on the first bottom stair so that I can't go up them. I don't think she understands, all I want to do is go upstairs and get the printer in the office that I'm not allowed to have. OH - well -IO.

What a good seque into my next topic. Tonight is the Fiesta Bowl and OSU's last game of the season. I won't be up to watch it, but be sure that you cheer the Bucks to victory. GO BUCKS!

Merry Christmas to All and to all a Good Night!

2008-12-27T14:43:00.002-05:00

Whew, am I tired after our whirlwind trip around the state of Ohio for Christmas. All in all I had a total of 5 Christmases and now I got toys, clothes and books up to my ears. We had a lot of fun everywhere we went, but let's start from where I left off last week.

On December 19th, I turned 10 months old. Mommy and I went to the hospital to weigh me with Aunt Jessa who came and stayed with us that weekend. I weighed 18lbs 5 oz which is only 5 oz more than I weighed a month ago and I am 28 inches long so I grew an inch. I'm so active now that Mommy wasn't really shocked to see that I hadn't gained much weight. Saturday night, I got to play with Aunt Jessa while Mommy and Daddy went out with some friends. We had fun even though I gave her a little trouble (just a little) going to sleep, but I finally zonked out. Then for the next couple days, Mommy and I finished up our Christmas shopping and started packing for our Christmas adventure.

Our trip started us in Cincinnati on the 23rd, where we went to Gammy and Gappy's house first for dinner and opened presents with them. I got lots of books and clothes that I can't wait to use and Mommy and Daddy gave me my first doll and I love to kiss her and hug her cause she is soft and cuddly. The next morning was Christmas Eve and we did a huge breakfast at Grandma's house and Grandpa's kids and their families came over so that we could open presents with them. I liked having other kids around, especially Eliza cause she was very interested in me and I in her cause of course I wanted to kiss her. At Grandma's I got a toy barn with animals that play lots of sounds and music that I played with most of the time we were there. After opening presents, I changed into my traveling clothes out of my pretty Christmas dress and we loaded up the car to head up to Perrysburg.

I slept most of the way up to Toledo until Mommy answered her phone then I was up and not really wanting to be in the car. We had every intention of going to church that evening but since I was cranky from the car ride and we only had half an hour to get ready for church once we got there, we foregoed church and decided to spend time with family which was fun. We had our traditional feast of many snack type foods at Grandma's and once I went to bed they started the real party, I guess. Apparently, they opened some presents without me and got ready for Santa to come in the morning. They also played a bunch of games, no, not the reindeer type to pass the time along. Early the next morning, I got up and was raring to go for opening more presents especially to get my ones from Santa in my stocking (that Mommy made me). Daddy, all of sudden got sick that morning and wasn't feeling good for about a day and an half, so I gladly volunteered to open present for him. Grandma got me box that had a bunch of different toys on it that kept me busy while everyone else opened their presents. After presents, we had brunch and then started to pack up the car so we could head to Brecksville.

The always quick ride to Brecksville, which is one of the shorter legs of our trip was going fine, everyone slept most of the way, except Mommy who was driving, until we stopped to get gas about five minutes from Grandpa's house (so that we could drop off Shelly) and when Mommy went to restart the car her battery had died. Luckily, we were at a busy gas station on the turnpike and someone jumped our car real quick and we were off again. (Reminder to Mommy car batteries only last 5 years, it's time to get a new one :)). After dropping Shelly off, we went to Great Grandma and Grandpa's for festivities with the whole fam for the evening. I loved playing with Carmen because now she can sit better and of course all I wanted to do was hug her and I tried; a lot. I was so tired from our day that we had to postpone present opening at Grandpa's house till the next day and we thought that maybe Daddy would feel better if he just went to bed. He had been sleeping all day even at Great Grandma's and still was feeling yucky. So we all crashed once we got to Uncle Kenny's house and Mommy got to relax from all the driving.

The next morning, Daddy was feeling better and I was well rested from minimal naps over the last couple days, so we went over to Grandpa's and opened presents. I got lots more presents there and cannot wait to use my leap frog music table that I got. The rest of the day was spent relaxing and hanging out at the house till we went to Great Grandma's for leftovers that night. I got to play with Carmen for a little bit and my aunts a lot till it was time to go home. We left around 7pm last night and I slept the whole way and went right to bed when we got home. I'm so tired thinking about the last couple days, but it was fun and I am so thankful for everything I got. Please everyone take a nap for me after thinking about my wild Christmas extravaganza.

P.S. Daddy is feeling much better.

Up on the Housetop, Reindeer Pause...

2008-12-18T11:24:00.002-05:00

Well, I'm not literally on the house top but I am climbing my way to the top, top of the stairs that is. On Saturday, Mommy and I went down to Cincinnati for our now annual get together with our group that went to South Africa. While we were there I was checking to see if my legs were long enough to get from the bottom of the stairs to the top and guess what, they are! Grandma's stairs are much easier to climb than ours because they have carpet and once I got started I went all the way upstairs. When we got home I even went halfway up our stairs. This makes Mommy happy that I'm learning new things but now she said she has to watch me even more. Too bad, Mommy.

The party at Grandma's was a lot of fun because there were a lot of kids there and some even were around my age so I had other people to play with and it was great. I was so excited for this party that I basically skipped my afternoon and played all day. I wasn't cranky and was even very friendly and happy the whole time. When Mommy and I got in the car, I passed out immediately and then got home and slept the whole night. Whew, that was a long, fun day.

This is apparently a week for new tricks because I learned to open the cabinet doors in the kitchen and found all the Tupperware. I pull everything out of the cabinet and had it all over the floor. Mommy doesn't seem to mind because they are plastic, but there are a couple cabinets in the kitchen she keeps leading me away from and I don't know why the bottles in there look so pretty...

Along with my crawling up the stairs, Mommy has also lost her safe haven of a sun room because even though the step that goes from the sun room to the kitchen is big; I have learned to launch my body up onto the step so that I can crawl into the kitchen. The sun room is where she used to put me when she was doing stuff in the kitchen and she knew I would be stuck in there but she could watch me the whole time. Not so much anymore, cause I can get into the kitchen, hahaha.

Mommy has noticed that I am getting quite the little personality now. I do cute things like smile real big when I like something or do the squinty eyed smile when I'm being facetious and silly. I also like to give kisses and hugs to Mommy, Daddy and Shelly. On the flip side, I don't quite understand the meaning of being gentle. I hit Mommy a lot in the face and pinch Mommy when I'm nursing. She keeps taking my hand and telling me to be nice and gentle but it's just easier to get her attention when I smack her in the face.

Tommorrow, I turn 10 months old, so Mommy and I are going to get me weigh. Stay tuned for the results.

Here Comes Santa Claus!

2008-12-10T15:23:00.002-05:00

Well, it's officially my first holiday season and so far it's been a lot of fun. This past weekend, Mommy and Daddy put up the Christmas tree and all the decorations around the house. They did most of it while I was napping, so when I got up from my nap, I got to see the tree with all the lights and ornaments on it. I even got to see my first ornament on the tree. Mommy was smart and put all the soft ornaments on the bottom of the tree and even up a little higher so that I can't pull on them. I do light to use my pincher skills and try to grab at the lights on the tree. But if that's the worst thing than Mommy doesn't really care. Mommy has tons of Christmas stuffed animals and she put those around the skirt of the tree so that maybe those would distract me from the rest of the glitziness of the tree and it's works. We turn the tree on every morning and of course keeping up with our advent calendar countdown to Christmas.

Last Thursday, Mommy and I took a road trip down to Cincinnati to Gammy's house so that she could pick up the pieces of felt and other sewing items she needed to get started on my stocking. She is making my stocking from scratch and the best thing is that it is the same stocking that Grandma made for Mommy when she was born and it's still held up 27 years later. Mommy has been working like a fiend so that she can finish it before Christmas Eve, so that Santa has somewhere to put my presents. Tick Tock, Clock's a ticking...

Speaking of Santa; on Monday, Mommy and I went to the mall to finally get my pictures taken with Santa. Daddy was waiting for the call that said that I screamed my head off when I sat on Santa's lap, but no such call occurred. Luckily, Mommy was smart about this Santa trip, because we went on a Monday when the mall first opened and we were the only one's there. This made for a less hectic picture and I loved looking at the Big Man's glasses and beard. Mommy gots some good pictures and the best part is that they were free because Easton lets you take your own pictures. Now, I didn't really smile for the pictures, but I did not scream and that's better than smiling. One of the elves told Mommy that next year I will probably scream cause that is the age when kids are a little more tentative of strangers. We'll see.

Along with diligently working on my stocking, Mommy has almost finished all her Christmas shopping and working on other Christmas projects that need to be done by the big day. She is working hard like an elf in Santa's workshop.

Gobble Gobble Gobble! Part 2.

2008-12-01T13:55:00.002-05:00

On Wednesday, Mommy, Daddy, Shelly and I, all loaded up into Daddy's new small car and drove up to Perrysburg to Grandma and Grandpa's house for the Thanksgiving weekend. Even though it was a tight fit, I manage to sleep the entire way up there, which is a long nap even for me. We got there and Grandma and Aunt Val had gotten all the old toys out and clean them for me to play with. I loved the little activity center, the little people dolls and the surprise box.

Thursday, was Turkey Day and Mommy was so excited for me to eat Thanksgiving food and more table food. Over the course of the weekend, I ate spaghetti with Meema's sauce, Turkey, Rolls, Stuffing, Cranberry Sauce (just a taste cause it's sweet), Garlic Mashed Potatoes (I don't think my little taste buds were ready for the garlic), Corn, Broccoli, and Pork. I liked a little bit of everything. Mommy is now going to have to start getting more creative with my meals cause I want to taste new things.

Some new things that I started doing this weekend were: Kissing the dogs. I kept trying to make a beeline for Minnie because I just wanted to kiss her. Mommy realized that this is what I was trying to do because today I kept going over to Shelly and kissing her. Today I also kissed Mommy a lot and a baby on a magazine that we have. I also passed another milestone. I have been pulling myself up onto things for a couple weeks now, but this weekend I would let go and balance myself for a good 30 seconds. And to make it even more spectacular, I also clap and stand by myself at the same time. Up next, my first steps. They can't be too far off.

On Friday, Mommy and I went to visit Grandma at the library where she works so that she could show me off to her co-workers. Of course, as soon as everyone came out, I just stared at everyone and once we walked away I was all smiles. I tend to get really shy when there are a lot of people around but one on one I am great. Mommy and I stay a little bit to play in the children's area. I met one of Grandma's co-worker, Marge's grandson. Mommy talked to his mom for awhile and found out they live really close to us in Westerville. His name is Noah and I played with him for a little bit. I tried to hug him and kiss him, but being a typical boy he just shunned me. Oh well.

That afternoon, Mommy, Daddy, Aunt Val and I went to this place called Children's Wonderland. They had all these Christmas scenes set up that moved and played music. There was even a Santa Claus there but he wasn't the best Santa and plus he was on break, so I didn't get my picture taken with him. There was also a talking tree there that actually talked to you. He was kind of mean and scary but the idea of him was good. I loved all the lights and the characters that move. I was enthralled by the other little kids that were there as well. On our way out, we made a little plastic Santa that apparently Daddy made out of the same machines when he was growing up. Not much had changed with the exhibit in 20 some odd years, but I still liked it and want to ride the train next time we go.

On Saturday, we thought that we would try again to go see Santa at Levi's Commons which is an outdoor shopping place, but he wasn't scheduled to arrive till later that night, so strike two on the Santas. Hopefully, the third time is a charm. Mommy did manage to get me my first ornament and a stuffed Rhonda the Reindeer to match our Rodneys for my stocking. I know that I am going to enjoy Christmas this year even if I only like the boxes and the wrapping paper.

Mommy and I put up our Christmas Advent Calender today, so that we can count down the 25 days till Christmas. The rest of the decorations will probably go up this weekend and I'm excited to pull them all down.

Gobble Gobble Gobble! Part 1.

2008-12-01T13:34:00.002-05:00

Well, let back up a little bit before I get into my first Thanksgiving! I haven't really updated in awhile so this may be a two parter:

Last Friday, Grandma came to visit me that day so that we could finish taking my nine month pictures. We did them in my room and put up a backdrop so that it would look like a professional studio took them. The first set of pictures outside turned out so much better cause I was looking at the camera more, but this set turned out good, I was just a little distracted. Mommy even set me up with Rodney the Reindeer so the pictures would look Christmasy.

Saturday, THE BIG GAME day, Michigan vs. Ohio State. Grandpa and Uncle Kenny came down to tailgate at Hineygate in the morning and watched part of the game there but then it got too cold for them so they came over to our house to watch the rest of the game. They were of course very entertaining being their silly selves and I love having company. They left after the game, cause I was getting cranky and they didn't want to get stuck in traffic. Shortly after my nap, Grandma and Grandpa came to our house for a little bit after the game. They probably just wanted to warm up after being outside at the game. So they came and hung out for awhile and then went home.

Mommy made Thanksgiving cookies this year. They are just like Gammy's and even though I couldn't really enjoy them they were a big hit. She did give me a taste of the apple spice ones and when she wasn't looking I took a butterscotch piece out and ate it. Yum. It wasn't till after I did it that she had realized what I had done.

Monday morning, Mommy, Daddy and I went to the doctors for my nine month checkup. The nurse asked Mommy a bunch of questions about me, probably to see if I am developing correctly. Which I am thank you very much. I weighed in at 18 pounds even (38%) and am 27 inches long (30%). And for those following the growth of my head, I have gone up from 15% to 25%, so it is now closer in line with the rest of my body. I didn't get any shots this time but they did prick my toe to check for anemia and my iron levels are good. The doctor said that I should start eating more and more finger foods and wouldn't you know as soon as we got home that day I really didn't want as much baby spoon fed food as I used to. It's like I know that I am supposed to be doing something new. As for the rash with the yogurt, he said to try it again and if I get a rash on my back then I am probably allergic to the yogurt but if it is just red on my face then it is just a skin allergy. And that is exactly what it is so bring on the yogurt. Now since we know that the yogurt is ok, bring on the eggs. (maybe next week sometime).

Monday afternoon, Mommy and I went and met Grandma for lunch at the outlet malls and I ate a lot of Mommy's Chicken pot pie. I just love peas, carrots and chicken. We then went over to Osh Kosh b'Gosh and got a sweater for me to wear with my Christmas dress. Yeah for Christmas but first Thanksgiving...

9 months old!

2008-11-19T20:57:00.003-05:00

Wow, I can't believe that I am nine months old today. Who would have thought that after nine months , I would be crawling like a champ, standing all by myself (we'll talk about this later) and cruising along the furniture and anything that is my height all with my two little teeth that are almost all the way in.

This week, I have been climbing on Mommy like a little monkey and I like to prop myself on her legs and stand next to her like I'm a big girl. Today I stood by myself with no leaning for a good 3 seconds. And if history tells us anything, once I learn something that is all I want to do. So I'm sure within the next week, I'll be standing by myself for longer periods of time which is now a precursor to walking, dum dum dum...

We had to break out the winter coat this week. I can't believe it but it was snowing. I would say how exciting it is to see snow, but we all remember the day I was born there was at least a foot of snow outside. You should see me in my winter coat because it's just a little big. Mommy didn't want to get a size that would just fit me now cause I would have grown out of it before Winter is over so it's next size up. Oh well, it's kinda better that way cause I don't really have to wear gloves since the sleeves cover up my hands.

Since I started this crawling thing, I have helped Mommy figure out what to baby proof in the house. The one thing that is hard for her to move is the dog's water bowl. Shelly doesn't seem to mind that I like touching her water, but that darn Mommy catches me everytime. All I want to do is splash the water outside the bowl and I don't understand why she doesn't want water on the floor.

Another thing that I love playing with is the stereo. I have already scared myself a ton by blasting the tv volume as loud as it can go, but the knob and all the buttons are so cool looking that I have to touch them as much as possible. So what I do is crawl over to the tv stand, pull myself up and then start banging on all the buttons on the reciever and cable box. It's so much fun to make Mommy get up every couple minutes to fix the tv after I touch everything.

I had my first taste of formula this week while Mommy was at work. Our freezer supply of Mommy's milk was getting low and she really doesn't want to have to pump extra times during the day. So she let Daddy give me half of her milk and half formula in my night bottle and I didn't even mind. She was relieved that I drank it but a little sad that she had to give me formula. But hey, it's only once a week and at most half a bottle for the next 3 months or until the doctor gives us the go ahead on cow's milk.

Speaking of the doctor, I will give a full update of my appointment when we go on Monday and then it's off to Perrysburg on Wednesday for my first Thanksgiving!

They're Back!

2008-11-10T15:29:00.002-05:00

Well, Mommy spoke too soon once again. Two days after I wrote my last blog, my two bottom teeth started to poke themselves through. I have been a little cranky but I'm still sleeping great which is good for Mommy since she loves her sleep. They are not full sized teeth yet, but they are getting there. Mommy says they are sharp as when she tries to feel them they hurt her a little bit. Well, that's what she gets for sticking her fingers in my mouth. Hopefully, the next teeth don't take 8.5 months to come in.

Last Thursday, we had a very nice day out for a photo shoot. Grandma, Gammy and Gappy came up to see us that day and we went over to Jeffrey Mansion in Bexley and had Grandma take our family pictures for the Christmas card. Of course, we also took a bunch of pictures of me for my 9 month pictures. We are going to take a few more inside closer to me actually being 9 months and then we'll get them up on the website and printed out for everyone. The outside pictures turned out great, because the leaves had fallen on the trail and I was in a good mood!

This weekend was busy and we were out and about most of the weekend. First, Mommy and I went to a going away party for her friend April (also her manager) and her family because they are moving to France at the beginning of the year. Then that night Uncle Mike was in town so Mommy, Daddy and I went out to dinner with him. That was fun, cause I got stay up a little later than my normal bedtime and I got to eat some big people food.

On Sunday, we drove up to Brecksville for our early Thanksgiving dinner. Aunt Diane and Sarah will be in Iceland over the actual holiday and wanted to celebrate early, so the whole family got together for our Feast. It was fun cause I got to see my aunts and my buddy Carmen. She just got a new exersaucer and we shared in the fun and both played with it for awhile. I also got to chase around the Chihuahuas and they are fun because they are my size. I got to taste my first Thanksgiving turkey that Grandpa made and stuffing, mashed potatoes and some other stuff that Mommy gave me. It was delicious. And now so begins the holiday season of feasting!

False Alarm!

2008-11-05T14:00:00.003-05:00

Well folks, it was just a false alarm on those teeth of mine. Apparently, what my Mommy saw were just the whites of the teeth on the cusp of my mugs getting ready to come out. They are really close now and should break skin any day now. This time she is certain, because she can feel them and see them really well. Also, for my sake, it's not just one tooth on the bottom that is ready, it is two! Let's hope that I can crank my teeth out two at a time, since I still haven't gotten any and many babies get theirs when they are six months old. Oh well, they are getting healthy staying in my gums longer.

Last week, I told you how Mommy found me sitting in my crib during the beginning of nap time when I should have been laying down trying to sleep and that it should be any day now that I would be standing. Well the next day, Mommy couldn't figure out why I wasn't falling asleep, I was standing in my crib. Now all week, I just stand in my crib when I'm supposed to sleeping banging my mouth on the rail and saying mamamama over and over.

My first successful Halloween has come and gone and I had a blast handing out candy with Mommy and Daddy cause I got to look at all the kids walking around in their costumes. I got to wear my bee costume for the first time and it wasn't too bad. I had a little hard time sitting up cause of my stinger and I hated the hat, but Mommy knew that was coming. I even got to stay up late and didn't have to take a bath, I love holidays! It was a great night to sit outside and didn't really get that cold until Trick or Treating was over anyways.

The other day, Mommy let me try my first egg yolk and it was delicious and I didn't have any reaction to it at all. So the next day, Mommy decided to just separate the egg whites from the yolk and scramble the yolk for me to eat and I devoured the whole thing and loved it. But about half an hour later.....Mommy and I had been playing upstairs and I was standing up in front of her jumping a little bit when all of a sudden I let loose. I projectile vomited all over her, not once but twice and it was definitely the egg. So Mommy thinks that maybe some of the whites got into my yolks and that is what made me sick. It didn't even phase me one bit cause one Daddy got me cleaned up, I was playing again like normal. Mommy on the other hand had puke all over her front and leg and in her lap. She was definitely disgusted and said that I am going to have to wait a couple weeks before I can have eggs again and it will definitely be a hard boiled with no sign of the whites what so ever. Oh well, now we know better and we'll try again later.

Chomp, Chomp!

2008-10-28T14:37:00.002-04:00

So, this afternoon, while Mommy and I were in the car on the way to the store, I was unusually cranky. Well, Mommy thought that I was mad cause I had to wear a hat, but then when she came back to get me out of my carseat; she looked in my mouth and saw a little white nubbin. That's right, my first tooth is coming in! It is my bottom middle incisor and it is pretty sore but hey all those days of waiting now I'm getting teeth. I know that Mommy has been saying for awhile that she thought it would be coming soon, but this time she really saw some signs. When I would tired of nursing or become bored, I was gumming at Mommy and she really doesn't like that at all, go figure. But I had been doing that to her for about a week and she just knew something was up. So finally at 8.5 months old, I finally have teeth!

Mommy finally had to put up the side of my crib when I'm sleeping because recently she has been finding me in the morning sitting in my crib waiting for her. So if I am sitting now, standing up in the crib won't be too far along and I guess she doesn't want me to fall out of my crib. What a nice Mommy.

The other day, Mommy and Daddy were sitting downstairs with me while I was playing. Recently I have been climbing up on Mommy like a little monkey and trying to stand, but anyways they were down there with me and I climb up and got myself to a standing position and stood by myself for a few seconds before I lost my balance and Mommy caught me. If only our couches weren't so high and didn't have thick cushions then I think I would be able to pull myself up on them.

On Saturday, sadly Mommy and Daddy watched the Buckeyes lose to Penn State, but on a happy note, Gammy, Gappy, Grandma and Grandpa came to visit. Gammy had a lot of Halloween stuff that she wanted to get rid of and of course they wanted to see me. Grandma and Grandpa of course had tickets to the game and it was a night game so they were her to see me before hand. Well, honestly I don't think that Grandma or anybody but Mommy and Daddy for that matter has heard me really get hysterical when I laugh. Mommy was chasing Shelly around and Shelly was rolling around on the ground and I just thought it was hilarious and apparently my laugh is contagious because everyone thought I was funny and that made me laugh even more. Shelly really is a silly dog.

To top off our weekend, Mommy and I drove up to Brecksville for the first annual Bilek family Oktoberfest. Most of our family came over to Uncle Kenny's house for German food and football. We had a good time and I entertained my Aunts for the good part of the day. I did get to see my buddy, Carmen and I thought she was "the best thing since sliced bread" coincedentally that's what her shirt said as well. I kept wanting to touch her face and play with her and luckily she didn't mind and kind of found me funny. I can't wait to play with her in a couple weeks again and show her my new tooth.

It's Pumpkin Time!

2008-10-22T19:38:00.002-04:00

This week, I hit another milestone. That's right I'm 8 months old. Mommy and I went to weigh me and I am 17 pounds 2 ounces (37%) and I am 27 inches long (64%). So I am continuing to grow at the same rate which is great!

This weekend, Mommy, Daddy and I went to a U-Pick apple/pumpkin farm. We had a good time out in the field picking out the perfect pumpkin to carve for the Halloween season. We also got a peck of apples so that Mommy could make pies and applesauce. Mmm, Yummy.

Today, we carved one of our pumpkins and I helped Mommy (sort of) scoop out the guts of the pumpkin. After I got bored and tired of that, Daddy carved the pumpkin, I played with my toys and Mommy got the seeds ready for roasting. Even though I was a little whining, I took a good picture for my first Halloween. I can't wait till next week, so that I can dress up and see all the other kids in their costumes.

Grandma came up to visit today and she got to see me crawl since I wasn't really all that great at it the last time that she saw me. I also got my first winter coat today. I'm so excited to be able to play in the snow when the time comes (hopefully not too soon). But now, we are on a mission to find some snow boots and found out that I probably wear a size 2 shoe.

I am getting really good at this crawling deal, it's a piece of cake on the rug and anything that has traction but as for the wood floor, I can do it but it's not so easy and I get tired and have to rest for a minute. Even though, the hardwood is not the best for crawling; I don't have a problem with sitting at all. I am getting quite good at maneuvering myself from a crawling position to a sitting one.

Mommy and Daddy had to baby proof the house in the last week, since I am getting mobile. Watch out world, I'm on the move.

And She's Off!

2008-10-14T11:19:00.003-04:00

This week, the leaves started falling and it was time to rake them up. So one afternoon, Mommy and I were outside; she was raking and I was swinging. We were having a lot of fun and we also had a little photo shoot outside in the piles of leaves that she had made. Of course, I tried to eat some of the leaves but not before I took a good look at them to see what I was sitting in. They were fun to play with and I didn't mind the crunchiness at all. While we were outside, we also put Shelly on her chain so that she could be out with us. And just like I imitate the sounds that Mommy and Daddy make, I apparently want to be a dog as well. First off, Shelly hates anything that moves and wants to chase it, so when Mommy was raking Shelly was barking at the rake. So every time that Shelly barked, I made a noise that sounded almost like a bark. Mommy couldn't stop laughing.

As of Saturday this week, I'm officially mobile. I crawled from the edge of the rug in the living room to the tv stand where of course there was a cord that I just had to get and I got it! Then all of a sudden, I was lifted off the ground and moved back to my started stop. I guess I'm not supposed to be playing with cords, but it looks so good I just wanted to chew on it. I also surprised Mommy a little bit when I was laying on the ground, I got up on my hands and knees like I usually do and then I sat up! I've only done it once, but she was so shocked that I could do that already. I keep trying to do it but I think my arms were only strong enough for that one time for now. Oh well, I'm sure I'll do it again real soon. As for the crawling, most of the time I only go one or two times and then I fall down. I still have to strengthen my muscles, but I am no longer just a fish out of water. I think practicing at Grandma's and Gammy's really helped me since they have carpet.

Since, our hardwood floors are so hard to crawl on, I decided the way to get from one room to another is by rolling. One day this week Mommy started me in the living room and I made it all the way to the fireplace all by myself. We don't spend a lot of time in the den, so it really was a new experience for me. I'm gonna master this crawling thing soon enough and then I'm really gonna be on the move.

Rocky, Rocky, Rocky!

2008-10-07T11:59:00.003-04:00

No more fish out of water, I'm up on my hands and knees but just rocking back and forth. This weekend in Cincinnati, I worked on my crawling technique. It was so much easier to practice at Grandma's and Gammy's because they have carpet all over their house. I can inch my way across the rugs and carpets whenever I'm on my hands and knees but coordinating it all together to crawl is still a little hard. One time, I did make a crawling motion for one leg and one hand but then I got tired and fell down. I also, can almost get back from the crawling position to a sitting one. I can do it the other way but get back to sit is difficult.

Even though I am working on this new skill, I still love being upright and jumping around. Mommy likes to have me practice walking but I'm not quite there yet. I was the entertainment on Friday night at Grandma's house because I was propped up against her couch and I was jumping up and down, throwing my face against the side of the couch. It didn't hurt me at all but it was pretty funny looking.

This weekend, I also got to meet some more of Mommy's cousins, Jen and Brandon who came into visit for our annual October get together. Just like how I stare at my Aunt Katy, I stared at Jen a lot. I think I realize that these people look kinda like Mommy but I just can't figure it out yet.

As you can see by the new picture on the blog, I went to my first pumpkin patch this weekend and got to take my picture by a bunch of pumpkins. I also went on my first hayride which was really bumpy but I loved it. It was fun being outside in the midst of fall. I can't wait till we get to pick out our own pumpkins and carve them for Halloween, but we'll wait till it gets a little closer. I'm gonna love mushing all that pumpkin goodness all over my hands.

New Foods that I have tried this week and loved: Zucchini (Mommy mixes it with bananas and puts in a dash of nutmeg and cinnamon), Cauliflower (which tastes just like mashed potatoes,mmm) and Halibut (we were out to dinner at Vito's Cafe in Kentucky on Saturday night and Mommy had some fish and I ate a ton of it. It was yummy and apparently good for my eczema)>

Like a fish out of water...

2008-09-29T10:42:00.004-04:00

This weekend Mommy and I traveled up to Brecksville to visit Grandma, Grandpa and my aunts for their Homecoming. Aunt Jessa wanted up to come up so bad, so we made the trip. We had a good time. On Friday, we went to the Kiln to visit with Lindsey, but Carmen wasn't there so I didn't have a playmate, but that's ok we'll see her next time. Then we stopped by G-Grandma and Grandpa's house to visit with them for a little bit. After going to their house, we saw Uncle Kenny and got a key to his house (and luckily for Mommy we didn't lose it this time) and I'm pretty sure we didn't leave anything there either.

That night, I went to my first football game. It was perfect weather for football, just a little chilly but not too cold so Mommy didn't have to bundle me up too bad. We stayed till just after halftime because we stayed to watch Aunt Tori march in the band. She did a great job and they even do a script "Bees" (their mascot), which made Mommy nostalgic for OSU games. That night we stayed at Uncle Kenny's and I slept so good, I was the last one to wake up that morning. :)

On Saturday, we just hung out at Grandpa's house and watched OSU (Go BUCKS!) beat Minnesota. YEAH! Then after the game, we helped Aunt Tori get ready for the dance. Aunt Jessa was out getting her hair and makeup done, so she didn't really need our help. Both of them looked great and were ready for a night out at the dance.

While we were up at Grandpa's, Mommy noticed that when I'm on my belly trying to crawl, I start to flail my legs and arms around like a fish out of water. It's really funny but she knows that I'm almost ready to start crawling. I also stood on my own for literally a second but I did it. I really like to prop myself up against something and hold on, pretty soon I'll be standing on my own.

I have now mastered the skill of sitting on my own. There are still times when I go to reach for something that I still manage to fall over but usually it's not too bad. A few times this week, I bonked my head pretty loud on the hardwood floors, but only one of those times did I cry a lot. I think I was more startled than anything. For a couple hours, I was a little clingy, but I got over it and sat on the floor.

Yesterday, Mommy let me try to eat with a spoon all by myself. Well, lets just say that I got more on my body (yes, Mommy stripped me down to my diaper) than in my mouth. But I'm learning and maybe soon I'll be able to get more food in my mouth. I looked like a big orange mess, but it was fun to squish the food in between my fingers. What a weird feeling that was.

Up for this week, road trip to Cincinnati for our annual family get together!

We Survived...

2008-09-19T13:35:00.002-04:00

the windstorm and the Buckeyes sad loss at USC. We were one of the lucky few to get our power restored the night after the winds came through. And I say lucky because the people across the street from us still don't have power and it's Friday afternoon. The day of the storm, we were also lucky enough not to be here during the power outage cause I think that Shelly would have been driving Mommy and Daddy crazy all day with her nervous barking.

Instead, we were up in Perrysburg that day visiting Grandma and Grandpa. It was actually pretty rainy and windy up there and it was very muggy. It was nice to spend the day there and hang out with everybody. I got to try some turkey while I was there and liked it a lot. The drive home wasn't too bad, but we came back a lot of tree branches all over the place up and down our street. Then Daddy drove around and saw a few trees had been uprooted. The damage was pretty huge.

Then on Wednesday, Grandma came up to visit and we went and got me weighed. I am still little weighing in at 16lbs 3oz (34%) and Mommy measured me at 26.5 inches (60%). This week she let me try a couple more new things: Nectarines(yummy like peaches), Plums (nice and sweet) and a couple tastes of Roast Beef from her sandwich (mmm meat).

I have not started crawling yet and have not gotten any teeth, but like Mommy says all the time "any day now." She thinks it's just going to happen one day and I'm gonna crawl away and I'll bite her finger since I use that as a teething ring.

Daddy realized last week that I was getting a little bored in the tub during bath time, so Mommy went out and got me some bath toys. They are fun cause they squirt water and of course they are great for chewing.

Oh and by the way, Happy 7 Month Birthday to Me! I'm more than halfway to my first birthday. Oh my.

Go BUCKS!

2008-09-12T14:59:00.002-04:00

This past week was another week of firsts and new experiences. Last weekend, Grandma, Grandpa and all my aunts came down to our house to visit for the Buckeyes game. We spent the day watching the Bucks get a win over the OU Bobcats and I got to get all dress up in one of my OSU dresses that I have. The next morning Mommy and I met Grandpa halfway to drop off my aunts and then we went home and just relaxed for the rest of the day.

Then Sunday evening during my bath I was just playing around and splashing myself and Mommy all over, then I tooted in my tub or what Mommy thought was a toot. When she was getting me out of the tub, there it was just sitting in the bottom...that's right I pooped! Luckily, Daddy was home to help Mommy get me out of the tub so that she could clean it out. It really wasn't as bad as she thought it was going to be but I think I just surprised her is all.

Also, this week Mommy and Daddy noticed that I was starting to put up on the rails of my crib, so rather be safe than sorry they lowered my crib mattress all the way to bottom. I still pull on them but I can't quite sit up yet. This also prevents me from trying to grab at my bee mobile and pulling down on my face.

Grandma came down to visit yesterday and she did not see us (or I should say Mommy) on our best day. Apparently the night before I was ready to party for a good amount of the evening. Mommy came into my room to check on me at around 10 and it made me stir a little bit and I didn't really fall asleep until midnight/1 am when Mommy gave in a fed me so I would go back to sleep. Then I decided to wake up again at around 4:45 and this time she fed me immediately because she was so tired that she just wanted to go back to bed. The hypothesis of all this waking up the other night: teething!

I have been chewing on anything I can get my hands on or other people hands in my mouth. Mommy definitely thinks this time it is coming soon because my gum are really swollen and sometimes I get a little irritable. To prepare ourselves for this lovely but painful time in my life, we went and got some teething tablets so now we are armed and ready to go.

Also, in the last couple days when I am playing on the floor I have been rolling over and getting up on my hands and knees and rocking back and forth. Mommy thinks I'll be crawling in the next couple weeks or so. I have been scooting around the living room too and will end up on the hardwood floors where I like to bang my hands on them as hard as I can.

Tomorrow Mommy and I have plans to watch the BUCKEYES take on USC. Well the plan is that I am sleeping by the time the game starts so that she can watch it in peace. GO BUCKS!

Sleepover Time!

2008-09-05T09:07:00.002-04:00

Happy Belated Birthday to Mommy! My oh my is she getting old, she turned 27 yesterday! But of course in our family we have a birthday week, so the celebration is far from over!

On Wednesday, I had my first sleepover without Mommy and Daddy at Grandma's house. Mommy and Daddy went down to the Indiana riverboat casinos that night with their friends Scott and Andy. They spent the night in Indiana and then the next day went to a Red's game in Cincinnati. Grandma and I have a good time at her house. She said that I went right to sleep for her and slept for a good 11 hours. I didn't even cry at all when it was time to go to sleep. Then on Thursday, we went over to Gammy and Gappy's house to spend some time with them and I got to see someone familiar when we were over there, Shelly! She spent the night there with them cause Grandma didn't want both of us for the night. Grandma told Mommy and Daddy that I was scooting around a lot that day on the floor. I was picking my butt up trying to crawl, which I've been doing for about a week, but I just don't get very far yet.

Then last night for Mommy's birthday dinner, we went to a Japanese restaurant. I got to eat some rice and drink some water like a big girl. This was not my first time eating Japanese food though. Last week, Grandma was driving through on her way up to Mentor (for her 30th class reunion) and Mommy, her and I went to get Japanese food. At that restaurant, Mommy let me eat avocados, rice, edamame, tofu, and ginger root. I loved it all.

This past week, I also tried pears for the first time and those were yummy. They taste and have the texture of apples which I love. I have also learning the loudness of my voice this week because Mommy has dubbed me the screecher monkey. I like for everyone to hear what I have to say and I have a lot to say. I've been saying mamama bababa and dadada all the time and that's how I wake Mommy and Daddy up in the morning.

One another new thing that I got to experience this week was my first Buckeye's home game. I watched the game with Daddy on Saturday while Mommy was at work. Yeah for a win, Go Bucks!

I'm a little Peanut

2008-08-25T14:40:00.002-04:00

Whew, am I tired. We had a really busy week and I just want to lay down and take a long nap. On Wednesday, Mommy took me to get my 6 month pictures taken at Kiddie Kandids in Babies R Us. I did a really good job of not crying or whining but when they tried to take my picture, I wanted nothing to do with smiling. Of course, every time Mommy picked me up so that they could switch the backgrounds, I would give her a big gummy smile. Maybe Mommy should just set up a studio in our house and take our own pictures or have Grandma take them with her nice camera. Plus, it would be a heck of a lot cheaper to print out our own. Anyways, even though I didn't smile, the pictures still came out cute and it good to see how much I have grown.

On Thursday, Grandma came down to visit and we spent the day hanging out at our house and then of course we did a little shopping for me! We went to Burlington and got a couple of cute little outfits including something for the Halloween season, but not my costume which Mommy should probably get pretty soon. It's gonna be great and so appropriate for me. Grandma also gave Mommy and Daddy the best anniversary present ever "free babysitting" for a night out! They can't wait to use that one and will probably try and make duplicates. :)

Friday came and I knew it was not going to be a fun day because I had to get...dum dum dum... shots! We went to the doctors for my six month check up and boy am I still just a little peanut. They weighed me in at 15lbs 4 oz (30%) and measured my length, 26 1/4 inches (60%) and my head is still in the 15% range. The doctor told Mommy and Daddy that he is not worried at all about my size and said that I am on the right track and growing. He did say that I get to eat solids twice a day which is a chore for Mommy cause I sometimes don't want to finish one meals let alone eat two. Oh well, we'll try and I'm sure eventually one day I will eat 3 meals a day.

Saturday just tired me out and I slept a lot on Sunday. We went over to Scott and Andy's house because Daddy and his friends were supposed to play flag football that morning but it ended up getting canceled. So we went over there anyways and had a cookout and I got to go to the park with all the kids. I only had one nap that day and conked out as soon as we got in the car to go home. Mommy was glad that we had a busy week cause it made it go by so much faster. Now this week will go back to normal and we'll have to get in a couple more swims before we close the pool for the summer in a couple weeks.

Look for the new professional pictures that we took and some from me sitting in the grass (which I didn't mind) watching Daddy practice for football.

6 Months Old and Happy Anniversary!

2008-08-19T12:58:00.002-04:00

Happy Half Birthday to Me! Wow, half of a year has gone by so fast. I'm doing and experiencing new things every day. Mommy and Daddy can't believe that I am doing all these things already and just think soon I'll be walking and talking.

This last week, I tried apples and peaches and boy oh boy do I love my fruit. Lucky for Mommy she didn't even have to really mix them with anything (except of course for cereal for a little extra iron). In the short amount of time that I have eaten solids, I have tried so many new things and can't wait till I can have little finger foods of all the things I have tried so far.

On a side note, Happy 2nd Anniversary to Mommy and Daddy! Not only is it my half birthday that we are celebrating today but it is their anniversary. On Saturday, Mommy and Daddy got to go out and celebrate because Aunt Jessa and Aunt Katy came down to stay with me while they were at dinner and a movie. They were happy to just be able to go out and do adult activities while my aunts took good care of me.

Sunday, Mommy and I drove Jessa and Katy back to Brecksville and we stayed all day cause it was the August birthday "gala" at Great Grandma's house. Everyone was there and I even got to finally meet Mommy's cousin, Stacy, who was in from Mississippi for her mom's 50th birthday! It was a fun filled day of swimming, playing with Carmen (who still doesn't do too much but she's getting there), jumping in my jumperoo, and then sleeping in the car on the way home.

Mommy can't believe how fast time has gone already and by the time she knows it, we will be celebrating my first birthday. Coming up this week, getting my 6 month pictures taken, Grandma's coming, another Doctor's appointment and watching Daddy play flag football!

Becoming a Night Owl

2008-08-10T18:58:00.002-04:00

So, lately I've been staying up way past my usual bedtime, blame it on the summer, blame it on teething, or blame it on the fact that I'm getting older. Who knows what it is but I've pushed my bedtime from around seven to 8/8:30. Mommy was loving the fact that she had a good three hours of alone time or quality time with Daddy when he got home from a long day at work, but now I've cut that time in about half. Oh well, Mommy knew something like this was going to happen sooner or later, cause just as she gets settled into a routine I want to do something new!

This weekend we did something different and went up to Perrysburg for my first trip up there to visit. Aunt Val was supposed to have a surprise Law School Graduation party but in the end it fell through, but we ended spending the day at G/G's instead. It was fun cause I had never been there before and got to meet Minnie for the first time. She liked my toys but I really didn't notice her.
-Speaking of dogs, I just recently started to notice Shelly. This morning, she was licking my hands and I could not stop laughing. I thought she was the funniest thing ever and so I try to do my version of petting her. She doesn't really like the way I "pet" because I pull on her hair, but she hasn't snapped at all so I think she'll just have to get used to it.

Anyways, back to my mini-vaca. While we were up in P-burg, I got to swing on Grandma's swing and I liked it out there cause I could listen to the little waterfall she has out front, look at the hummingbirds and eat my yummy carrots outside. Grandma was telling Mommy that when Daddy was younger he would only eat carrots and sweet potatoes so in turn he had an orange nose. Grandma and Aunt Val thought it was funny that I make a humming noise when I eat. I have actually been doing that since I started eating solid foods. It does make a lot of sense that I do that cause Mommy used to do that when she was a baby too. They also said that I was like a little bird waiting for it's Mommy to feed him, cause every time Mommy put food in my mouth I was there waiting for more right away with my mouth wide open.

Later, while everyone was eating dinner, I sat like a big girl in an old highchair that Daddy used to sit in too. I also got to play with toys that he played with when he was a baby. They still chew really well. :) After a long and exciting day, we drove home and I slept like a champ on the way home and didn't make more than one peep.

Next week, Aunt Jessa and Aunt Katy are coming down to babysit me on Saturday night while Mommy and Daddy go out for their anniversary dinner (a couple days early, but at least they still get to go). On another note, Happy Birthday Aunt Tori! (She's 14 today!)

Roly Poly!

2008-08-04T15:43:00.002-04:00

This week I had another new milestone and for those of you who have seen the video you know what it is. That's right I can now roll the other way. I am a mobile girl. When I'm on my mat, I just roll around all over the place. I still get pretty mad when I'm on my tummy but now I'm able to get myself out of that position and on my back so that I can look at the world (or my toys). It was so all of a sudden when I did it too. Mommy and I had been practicing for a couple days with her help and then I just did it myself with very little coaxing on anyone's part. The best thing about it was that both Mommy and Daddy saw me do for the first time, so Mommy didn't have to really convince Daddy that it was true. Finally!

This week, I started eating fruit. Oddly enough, I'm not real thrilled about fruit by itself. Mommy tried to feed me apricots and I don't know if it's cause they are bitter or what, but it was the first time that I truly did not like something. I shut my mouth and when she got some in, I was so angry at the taste of it that I started gagging cause I DID NOT want to swallow it. I'm also not thrilled about mushed up bananas, but I do like when Mommy just gives me bit of a banana right from the peel. Weird, I know. So instead of forcing me to eat the fruits plain, Mommy did some mixing of foods. I now like avocados and bananas, sweet potatoes and bananas, and sweet potatoes and apricots. Hey whatever works. Next, we'll see how apples and plums go.

Yesterday, Mommy and I went on a little road trip to Cincinnati to visit everyone. We went down cause Mommy's friend Beth from high school was performing in a musical down there and she went to go see it with Grandma. So, I got to stay with Gammy and Gappy while they were off gallivanting around the city. We had a lot of fun; I jumped in my jumperoo, went on a walk (which immediately put me to sleep), ate a bottle and play around for awhile. I definitely tired Gammy out, but that's probably cause I'm more active then the last time she saw me. Fun for all was had and I got to stay up way past my bedtime.

Staying up late has become quite an ordeal now because the last 3 or 4 days, I have not wanted to go to sleep after my last feeding of the night. So I typically eat around 6:15 and then Mommy tries to lay me in bed around 7ish. Well I apparently want to wake up and play till 8:30. I am not tired at all but she insists that I stay in bed, well I told her that I'm just gonna cry until you come in and put my binky in my mouth. I will then immediately stop crying and begin laughing and blowing raspberries cause I'm cute. Mommy tries so hard not to smile but I know she thinking I'm funny and cute, too. So I'm afraid that she is going to try and revamp bedtime so that I will be tired when she wants me to go to sleep. We'll see who's the boss when it comes to bedtime! ;)

Make me Laugh.

2008-07-27T14:19:00.003-04:00

This week was pretty uneventful. Mommy took Shelly and I on a bunch of walks, I played in my exersaucer, jumped in my jumperoo a lot and I tried some new foods. I did go swimming with Mommy a couple times this week. I did a lot of dunking under water and love floating around in the tube. Mommy sticks me in there and I just pulls me around the pool. We're still working on floating on my back, it's a work in progress cause I make funny faces when I'm doing it.

Mommy found a slightly embarrassing (for her) way to make me laugh this week. She had just finished drinking a big glass of water and burped really loud. Well apparently I think that burping is just hilarious. She wanted to see if it was just a fluke or I really did think burping was funny, so she continued burping over and over and I just kept on laughing. Yes, she did get it on video and we'll have it up in the next few days. FYI, it was just a fluke for that day and the next cause now when she does it I smile but don't laugh hysterically.

The new foods that I tasted this week were carrots and sweet potatoes. I was a little indifferent about the carrots but by the end of day four I was eating them pretty quickly and without reservation. It could have been because they don't puree as well so there were some little itty bitty pieces that could have compromised the texture. This morning I got to try sweet potatoes and I inhaled those, probably because they are the sweetest thing I have eaten so far. Next up apricots, my first pureed fruit minus the bananas I get to taste here and there when Mommy is eating them.

I got sippy cups to try out this week. Every time we go on a walk and come back, Mommy always gets herself a cup of water but she thought maybe I would like a cup of my own water. For now, I have just been playing with the cup and sometimes I'll get it in my mouth the right way. I've only gotten a few sips cause the sipper is hard to suck. Instead, Mommy just gives me sips out of her big cup and I'm pretty good at drinking out of a regular cup (only a little dribble).

Yesterday, Grandma and Grandpa Plum came down to visit for the day. It was nice cause I hadn't seen Grandpa in awhile. They took us out to lunch and we walked around Gahanna. They have a nice fountain area right next to a big creek. I was a very content and happy baby the whole time we were out. Then when we got home, I had to put on a little show of jumping in my jumperoo and eating carrots like a big girl in my high chair.

Next up, road trip to Cincinnati and moving on to fruits. :)

Growing up too fast!

2008-07-19T23:04:00.004-04:00

Well today I'm officially 5 months old. My life has gone by so quickly already, meaning I have done things that I never thought I could do: smile, laugh, roll over, sit up with help, stand with help, eat solids and I know a lot more will happen sooner than I think. Mommy took me to get weighed yesterday and I'm still a little peanut weighing in at 14 lbs 9 ounces (46%) and measure in at 24.5in (42%).

Mommy thought it would be a good idea to put me in our pool this week and to dunk me under the water. Grandma was here and thought it would be ok (and wanted to get pictures of me with my hair wet) and boy was I shocked, but I didn't cry and was okay with the whole experience. This week she put under the water 6 times and I think we're just going to stick with the dunking for awhile. Mommy a little apprehensive about just throwing me in the pool, maybe next year after some swim lessons.

This week I got to try two more new foods and ate them in my new highchair. I ate avacados and green beans and liked them both. Next up we're trying carrots and sweet potatoes. Mommy loves being able to make my food, but I don't like the sound of the blender. It scares me every time she turns it on. Oh well, I'm getting healthy, homemade, organic food instead of the jar variety. On a side note, Mommy is none too happy with having to change my diapers more and let's just say we're using a ton more wipes!

My favorite new toy is the jumper that goes in the doorway. I love jumping up and down and Mommy thinks it hilarious to watch me bounce around. I get so excited when I jump all over the place and laugh like a real little person. I could spend more than half an hour just jumping around and I don't get cranky at all.

5 Months has gone by way too fast. I can't believe that next month I will be halfway to my first birthday!

Love my Veggies!

2008-07-13T14:52:00.002-04:00

Another busy week we had. Aunt Jessa was here again staying with us for another week, so that Mommy could work some while she was here. It was also good that she was here because Mommy and Daddy got to go out twice this week and Mommy and Aunt Jessa went to see a movie one night while Daddy stayed home with me.

This was definitely a week of new things: I tried peas and squash with my cereal this week. The peas were a big hit and the squash is growing on me. I like the squash once I start eating it but the first bite I made a face. I'm really getting a hang of this eating deal, because Mommy noticed that I open my mouth when the spoon comes towards my face and I'm getting less and less on my bib and more in my mouth. I'm not too picky when it comes to food of any kind. The other day Mommy was holding me and she was eating pizza and when she put up to her mouth, I leaned in to try and get a bite. Apparently, you need teeth to eat that kind of food.

I also went swimming a lot this week in our pool. Aunt Jessa took me every day that it was nice out and I loved it. I spent up to about an half an hour in the pool kicking my legs like a little frog. Next up, going under water. Mommy wants to do this by the end of the summer and I don't really mind water on my face but we'll see how it goes.

On Friday, Aunt Jessa sent Mommy a message at work that said that I was laughing (like haha laughing), so when Mommy got home she tried it. And the thing that makes me do it a lot is the song "This is the song that never ends" and "Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes." I just think those two songs are hilarious and my laugh is very contagious because everyone else laughs when I laugh too.

Now that I've learned to really roll over on my own, I do it every time that someone lays me down on the ground. I, of course get super mad after a little while because I hate being on my tummy and I have no clue how to roll myself back over. Oh well, I'm starting to get too big to lay on the ground anyways. I like it when Mommy has me sit up and gives me a toy. This week, I sat on my own (without my hands on the ground) for about 3 seconds. Most of the time, I can hold it for about a second and then I get wobbly but that's ok because the doctor said that he didn't expect for me to sit on my own until 6 months. I also like standing all the time and while Grandpa was here today getting Aunt Jessa, he said that he thinks I'm going to be walking soon. Oh no, Mommy and Daddy better child proofing our house because I'm growing up too fast.

This week, we're going to try avocados and green beans. Mommy wants me to get all my new veggies out of the way first before we try fruit. So far, I haven't been too picky so hopefully I won't reject the veggies cause I love 'em.

Independent Girl!

2008-07-12T21:06:00.002-04:00

It's been a busy couple of weeks. After Aunt Jessa left last week, Mommy and I had a relaxing week. We went and visited Mommy's friend April's new baby, Owen. He was born about 3 weeks ago; it was so fun to see and meet a new baby younger than me. But most of this week was spent hanging out at home and resting up for a busy weekend ahead.

On Friday, Mommy, Daddy and I traveled up to Cleveland for our first getaway weekend since I was born. We went up there for the Fourth of July weekend so that daddy could help paint and work on Meema's house so that they can get ready to sell it. I met a lot of new family members this weekend. On Friday, I spent some of the day at Grandpa Bilek's house and then Aunt Jessa, Aunt Katy, Mommy and I went to the mall before going to meet Daddy at Meema's house. Then that afternoon, we went with Aunt Laurie, Gina and her kids to go see Meema at her new place.

On Saturday, we got up early (we stayed at Uncle Kenny's while he was away) and dropped Daddy off at Meema's. Mommy and I hung out for most of the day at G. Bilek's and then later that day we went to the pool in Mayfield Village (with Gina and Carmin's kids). Gina and Mommy took me in the baby pool and I loved it cause I got to go into the pool with my "baby suit." Then Mommy and Daddy got to go out that evening with Uncle Mike and Daddy's cousins Christopher and Carmin downtown Cleveland. Mommy can't believe that she got to stay out till 2 am. She can't remember the last time that she got to do that.

Sunday morning came and we slept in til about 8 am, but Daddy had a little too much and slept til 2. :) That afternoon, we went over to Great Grandma's and I got to swimming again in her pool wearing my baby suit. There is a new video of me with Aunt Jessa and Aunt Katy in the pool. That night we drove home and starting a new week of having Aunt Jessa stay with us.

Stay tuned for more updates of new things I am doing and it's a lot. I had a great and busy first Independence Day.

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

2008-06-30T14:43:00.002-04:00

Well, after my doctor's appointment this week, Mommy decided to try all the new things that the doctor said I could do.

So on Thursday, Mommy and Aunt Jessa took me for my first dip in the pool. Unlike the first time Mommy stuck my feet in the pool (I screamed), I was very content and really did like the water. Mommy was definitely being brave though because she didn't even put a diaper on me; I was a free woman! We stayed in the pool for about 20 minutes but she didn't put me under water, maybe next time. I did get everything but my face wet and I can't wait to do it again.

I think with all the excitement of the pool, I was completely exhausted so I went and slept till about 6:30 the next morning without getting up to eat in the middle of the night. The doctor said that I should be able to sleep that long now with out getting up to eat. One time this week I did get up at like 4:45 but Mommy put me back to sleep and I slept till almost 7 am.

On Saturday we tried another new thing: CEREAL! (it is on video for all to see) I actually did really well other than the fact that I get pretty messy, but I ate most of it and swallowed most of it. I didn't really try to push it out with my tongue much. Mommy just doesn't like when I grab the spoon when there is food on it cause then it gets on everybody. She also realized that I don't like when she takes it away from me cause every time she did I would scream cause I wanted it back. Just a theory, but maybe the cereal is helping me sleep better cause I have more in my tummy, so far my hypothesis is correct.

Later on Saturday afternoon, Mommy and Aunt Jessa decided to take me to the library, so Daddy dropped us off on the way to work and we were going to walk home. We had fun picking out movies and books for us and I didn't cry like last time we went there. Anyways, it was really pretty out that day, a little windy but it didn't look like it was going to rain (like it had all week). Of course about a quarter of the way home (home is about 40 minutes away walking), it started to get really dark and windy and they knew that the rain was coming. Well, lets say it wasn't just sprinkles it was a heavy down pour with about 4 inch puddles of water the rest of the way home. When we got home, Mommy and Aunt Jessa were soaked from head to toe (they couldn't even come in the house with their clothes on) and when Mommy went to get me out of my stroller, I was bone dry, smiley and happy. Well at least she knows that the stroller is good and waterproof.

Sunday morning before Aunt Jessa left we were all downstairs and I was playing on my mat. They were watching something on tv and coaxing me to roll over on my mat (which I've never done) and all of a sudden when no one was watching I did it. Cause Daddy was walking up the stairs and he saw me on my tummy. I'm so sneaky. hehe

My new thing is imitating people whether it is with sounds or with my tongue. Today, Mommy was sticking out her tongue and making raspberry noises and then I wanted to try so we did that for about 15 minutes. Then I showed Daddy and he thought it was funny. Of course now I am drooling even more with this new found trick.

This weekend we are going to Cleveland for the fourth and I will meet some more new cousins and aunts! Yeah for road trips and my very first sleepover away from home. More tales to come.

Summer Time

2008-06-25T21:52:00.002-04:00

It's been awhile since I have updated you on my life. We have been pretty busy the last week and an half. Last week after my baptism, I practiced my rolling and Daddy finally saw me do it. He still thinks it is cheating because I rolled on the couch, but a roll is a roll. Then last weekend we went to a wedding in Cincinnati, my first wedding and reception ever. I had a really good time and only cried once when I was hungry. It was fun to meet new family members that I had never met before. The wedding was for Daddy's cousin Alex, so Grandma, Uncle Mike and Uncle Joe were there. Also Grandma's brother and sister and all their kids were there as well.

This week Aunt Jessa came down to stay with us for the week. It's been nice for Mommy cause she's working a little bit this week and her and Daddy got to go out tonight just the two of them (the first time since before I was born). Aunt Jessa makes me laugh a lot cause she makes a lot of silly faces and I just started really hearing my voice so my noises are getting really loud. I am laughing and smiling a lot more now.

Grandma, Gammy and Gappy stopped by this week on their way home from Youngstown. It was nice to see them if only for a few. Grandma made me a photo book from my baptism so we were all looking at that and seeing that Mommy has a problem taking pictures sometimes. :)

Mommy also got me my first bathing suit this week. We haven't gotten a chance to try it out yet, but we waiting for a nice hot day to test the waters. I did get to model my new suit and it fits great.

Today, I had my four month doctors appointment and I'm weighing in at 13lbs 10 oz (50%) and 24.5 inches long (50%). They also measure my head circumference and the nurse said that I am in the 15% for that, so I have a little head. We can't figure out where that comes from but oh well I'm sure I will grow into it. I also got some shots today and of course I screamed but felt better pretty much as soon as they were done. Now I'm sleeping off my shots with some well needed Tylenol. Aunt Jessa is just glad that after my screaming fit while Mommy and Daddy were gone that I am finally asleep. It was a rough day and I was just a little overwhelmed so I took it out on her, but she is a great babysitter and aunt!

I'm Baptized!

2008-06-16T09:35:00.002-04:00

It's my party and I'll cry if I want to. This weekend was a busy one with my baptism on Sunday and preparations on Saturday! It all started off with a small road trip down to Washington Court House on Thursday. Great Gammy had finished my dress and we went to try it on before Sunday. Well let's just say it was a little big and even Mommy could wear my bonnet. So back to the sewing machine Gammy went and Grandma brought my dress up on Saturday and it looked great! On Saturday we went to the grocery store to get all the food for my party on Sunday and then Grandma and Mommy prepared it all day while I napped and played in my exersaucer. Then that night Mommy and Daddy went to a wedding and Grandma and I had fun at home.

Apparently, I was one tired girl because Pops (that's what Grandpa Jeff wants to be called now), Grandma and my aunts came over to drop off the food and I was not a happy camper. Grandma said that I screamed like they were torturing me and I'm pretty sure I just get overwhelmed really easily around people. But I'm sure I was happy to see them anyways.

Sunday was fun and exhausting. Mommy said that I did really well at church. I did like all the music and videos that they play and I didn't mind when the minister walked me around the church after they baptized me. I think I was so tired that it didn't matter who held me just as long as it was a soothing motion. Everyone said how cute I was and I was such a good baby.

Then after church was my party and it was fun except I got really tired since I hadn't napped all morning, so I slept for a couple hours and then was slightly cranky when I got up but I had a very pretty dress on and looked very cute. Uncle Kenny thinks that Mommy put me in that dress on purpose because she was wearing the same color, but it was just a coincidence.

All in all, I had a good weekend. Oh and Grandma told Mommy that when they were at the wedding I rolled over again. We should have left the video camera for Daddy to watch.

Update on the bottle: I'm getting better and this week I actually let Mommy feed me one but I still prefer to nurse. Aunt Jessa is coming next week so hopefully I will not cause any problems for her. Cross your fingers.

On a Roll!

2008-06-08T14:20:00.002-04:00

This week was a big week for me. Mommy and Grandma seemed to notice that I am doing a lot more things now. It was all of a sudden too. Grandma was here on Friday and I hit a few milestones that day as well; one of which Mommy isn't really sure happened, so she's not going to count it quite yet. The big one though was that I finally rolled over from my back to my front. I was on my changing table and I started to roll towards my bees and I just kept going! Luckily, Mommy wasn't alone when she saw this because Grandma was here, but of course when she wanted to tape it for Daddy to see, I did not want to do it again. I'm sure I will do it for him again sometime soon and for now Mommy will just have the video camera glued to her hand.

The other thing that Grandma thought I did was laugh but it wasn't a whole hearted laugh that Mommy thinks I should be doing, it was just the cough laugh that I have been making for awhile. So we'll just keep holding our breath on that one until I have a real little person laugh.

Now I know I have been sucking my thumb on and off for awhile but on Friday when we went out to dinner I was going to town on it and even had my pointer finger resting on my nose. It was very comforting to know that I can soothe myself but also good to know that I have my binky if I need it.

Yesterday, Mommy and I went to our cousin's son's graduation party. They live in Westerville but it was fun because we got to see Grandma and Grandpa Bilek, Aunts Jessa, Tori and Katy, Great Grandma and Grandpa and Uncle Kenny. It was super hot outside but we had a good time.

This morning I did something Mommy was shocked to see. I took a bottle from her and Daddy at home!!!!! This is great because now hopefully I will do it again for Daddy tomorrow while Mommy goes to work. How they did it was they stuck me in my carseat and turned on the tv to distract me. But I ate it at a regular pace and ate 5oz! Mommy is praying that this is not just a fluke and that I will do it again. She says we have a lot of things going on this summer that will just be easier for me to eat out of a bottle. So we'll see what happens, keep your fingers crossed for this rocky transition.

Home Cooked Meals, Please.

2008-06-01T21:06:00.002-04:00

Well, after last week's attempt of feeding me a bottle, Mommy tried lots of different ways to get me to eat from one, but I wasn't having it at all. She tried it upstairs, downstairs, in my exersaucer, just with Daddy, in my bedroom, standing up, but none of those ways worked. Then she remembered that the last time I ate a bottle we were in the car, so she tried that. We were on our way home from Polaris Mall and she thought that it would be a good idea to try it then since we are in the car for about 20 minutes. Well, at least I didn't scream like I normally do at the thought of a bottle. I drank about half the bottle which mom thought was better than nothing. Then a couple days ago, we went out to dinner with Grandma and she gave me a bottle and I drank 3 out of the 5 oz that Mommy had put into the bottle. So I'm getting better at taking the bottle, but I still just want to nurse. I know how to eat from a bottle but I just don't want to. Well we'll keep trying.

After getting to eat a pea last week with no reaction, Mommy gave me a little piece of banana. I think I actually liked the pea a little bit better, but I wasn't against eating the banana at all. I don't think I'm quite up to eating solid foods on a regular basis but it's nice to try new things.

I think I want to stick with trying to eat out of a bottle before we move on to solids. Mommy is not looking forward to this transition at all. She's hoping that maybe I'll like formula out of a bottle better because it's not breast milk. We'll see what I decide to do with that but we don't really have to worry about that for another couple months.

On a side note, our pool is opened! Granted it's only 70 degrees right now, but hopefully it will be warm enough in time for my baptism party in three weeks!

The Princess and The Pea!

2008-05-25T16:34:00.003-04:00

The other night I was just minding my own business and playing on my mat with my toys while Mommy was making herself some dinner. She had made some peas for dinner and wanted to try a little experiment. So she took the shell off the pea and mashed it into her fingers. Then she came over to me where I was playing and let me taste the pea. I actually liked it and I liked it so much she gave me the whole thing and then later I got to eat another one. She figured since peas are one of the firsts things that babies get to eat that it would probably be okay for me to try. And now we're a couple days later and no allergic reaction (from two peas).

Another new thing that I just started to do is to grab toys. Daddy gave me one of the toys off of my activity mat and I held on it for a good while (like more than 30 minutes). I liked to look at it and swing it around. Mommy loves that I am holding things and that I am noticing them but she does not like when I swing my toys into her face.

Yesterday, Mommy went back to work (just picking up shifts at Changs for the summer) and left me at home with Daddy. She thought that we would be find together but apparently I really missed her cause I didn't want to eat the whole time she was gone. Poor Daddy, I really gave him a hard time cause he kept trying to feed me and I just wouldn't have it. And of course as soon as Mommy got home she fed me and I was a happy camper.

Then later last night, I was on my mat playing like I usually do and I started to roll over onto my stomach. I almost did it but then got so mad that my arm was stuck that I ended up not rolling over all the way. Mommy thinks I will definitely roll over sometime this week because I am moving my head when I roll now which I was not doing before. I just got to get that darn arm out of my way and tuck it under my body when I roll. I only do it to one side for right now, but I'm starting to move to the other side as well. Watch out, I'm getting mobile.

3 Months Old!

2008-05-19T14:37:00.003-04:00

I can't believe it. I'm already three months old today and I've seen so many things and met so many new people. Mommy took me to get weighed today since I don't have a scheduled doctor's appointment. I weighing in at 12 pounds 3 ounces (51%) and am 23 inches long (46%), which means I am right on track.

Yesterday Mommy and I went down to Cincinnati to visit Grandma and I saw my first concert while I was down there. Last year Mommy and I (in her tummy) went to Mamelodi, South Africa and stayed with a lady named Ann. Well, this week about 40 South Africans came to Cincinnati and she was there. So I got to meet her for the first time out in the real world. Now I can say that I have met some one from not only another country but another continent. The people from the church in South Africa brought their worship team and gave a real South African concert last night. I really liked the music but the clapping really scared me so Mommy and I walked around a lot. That was ok too because we saw a lot of people that went on the trip last year that were in our group and they were so excited to meet me too.

New Things: I just realized that my hands are attached to my body and I love to look at them. Mommy and Grandma caught me looking at them yesterday. But one really funny thing that I just started doing is that I suck my left hand and with my right hand I move it around in front of my face. Grandma says it looks like I am doing sign language while Mommy says it looks like I'm throwing gang symbols. Either way it really makes them laugh and I'm thoroughly entertained.

Great Gammy also noticed yesterday that I have dimples on my cheek, something that even Mommy and Daddy didn't noticed. Great Gappy held me for the first time since I was born yesterday. I think he finally felt as if I were big enough not to break me.

Bathie Time!

2008-05-16T12:42:00.002-04:00

First off, I would like to start by saying I love bath time. Every night before bed, Mommy gives me a bath to relax me and calm me down before bedtime. Well, last night Daddy was home and Mommy was getting my bath ready. So she told him to strip me down and bring me in. Well, let's just say I must have had my diaper off for too long because while Daddy was getting ready to set me down, I peed all over him. Now mind you I have never peed on Mommy before bath time, so she was laughing while I peeing all over the bathroom. Poor Daddy, he was just trying to help and I had to give him his own little bath.

New things: I'm almost laughing. I sometimes will let out a cough or a loud noise when I get excited but it's not exactly a laugh but I do know when things are funny. I do smile a lot so Mommy and Daddy are just waiting for me to let one out.

I just finished my 3 month growth spurt. Which means I was eating a lot more than normal, sleeping a lot more and being a lot more cranky than normal. Now we are back on schedule!

Also, Mommy and Daddy just put up a new video of me so check out the link to the right to watch me and our silly antics.

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-10T21:42:00.002-04:00

First off I just wanted to wish my Mommy a Happy Mother's Day! She's been such a great mommy and we have so much fun together. I also want to wish all the other mothers Happy Mother's Day as well especially all the new mommies.

Like I said earlier this week, it is like I am on a meeting new people hot streak! Yesterday, Mommy and I drove up to Brecksville to meet our new cousin, Carmen. She is so tiny and new (3 days old). We all took a bunch of pictures of us together, so check her out. It was nice to see family yesterday and hang out at the Kiln (Cousin Lindsey's store) I just wish that it wasn't such a long drive. I usually sleep for about an hour of the trip and then I have to entertain myself by looking at my little guys that hang from my carseat. They are interesting for a little while but then I get antsy. :)

Today, My Uncles Mike and Joe came to help Daddy with some yard work. It was the first time that I had met them as well. We had a good weather day out today and even though I can't really help in the yard, they got a lot done. We'll see what tomorrow brings and if they can get anything else done.

I think this week I'm gonna take it easy and get back on a regular schedule. Even though I've been running around Ohio like a mad woman, I still have been sleeping like a champ (as my mommy always says). Mom does think I'm going through a growth spurt or at the end of it cause I have been sleeping even more during the day. She hopes it almost done cause I'm just a little more cranky than normal.

Again, Happy Mother's Day to All!

New Friends

2008-05-08T16:52:00.003-04:00

In the past couple weeks, I have met a lot of new people. This week, Mommy's friend Darla came over with her little boy, Evan. It was fun to meet them even if I did just look at them the whole time. It definitely breaks up our day a little bit and give Mommy a chance to talk to someone older than 3 months old.

We got my professional pictures back from Target and I will have to say they turned out pretty good considering I am little and can't smile on cue yet. We'll post those soon so that everyone can see me and how much I've changed since I was born.

Speaking of newborns, our cousin Lindsey just had her baby girl on May 6th. Her name is Carmen Renee and she was 7lbs 6oz and 21 inches long. We are going to go meet her tomorrow in Brecksville. I can't wait to meet someone younger than me, so that I can tell her all about the world as I know it!

I'm not really doing anything really new this week even every week I get closer and closer to rolling over. I still love my nightly baths and have just realized that if I move my hands the water splashes. Although, I don't do it a lot, Mommy is preparing for a nightly bath herself.

Road Trip to Grandma's

2008-05-03T16:09:00.003-04:00

This weekend Mommy and I took a mini-road trip down to Cincinnati. The reason for our visit was that I got to meet my Great Uncles Ken and Bob (Grandma's Bros). It was the first time they had seen me, other than my pictures, since I was born. I always like meeting new people and I didn't mind being past around. After we got acquainted, Grandma, Mommy and me went for a walk, I took some naps, and tired Grandma out. Great-Gammy watched me a little bit when Grandma and Mommy went to pick up dinner. I think it was the easiest babysitting job ever cause I slept the whole time. It was nice getting out of the comfort of our home and seeing other people. Hopefully next week we will be going up to Brecksville to meet my new cousin.

Mommy got me an exersaucer this weekend as well, even though I am way to little to sit in it by myself. She put me in it to see how I liked it and I kinda fell over a little bit, so she put a blanket in it and I sat quietly for a good ten minutes or so. I like to look at all the toys all over the saucer and that's all I can really do for now cause my arms aren't long enough. I have a feeling that I will really like this toy once I am big enough to enjoy it.

New Things: I'm still trying to roll myself all the way over, I get really close and then I flip myself back onto my back. Once I get close, I start to cry because it's very frustrating when I can't get all the way over.

I am also still sleeping like a champ. Mommy can't complain one bit because she gets a ton of sleep at night. That makes for a much happier and not cranky Mommy during the day.

Say Cheese!

2008-04-25T15:56:00.002-04:00

Today Mommy and I went to Target to get my first professional pictures taken. It really wasn't as bad as it could have been. Since my head isn't really that steady yet, there are a lot of awkward poses, but of course they turned out really cute. I was really good until we had been there for about 30 minutes then I was getting tired of Mommy and the photographer lady trying to get me to smile for them. I then took a nap in Target while we waited for the proofs to be ready and Mommy picked out some really cute shots. They will be here in about a week and an half and finally I'll have some pictures of me up in the house.

Oh by the way since my shots the other day I've been sleeping like a champ at night. I was really crabby the night of my shots and had to take some tylenol but then I fell asleep at my regular 8:30 bedtime after Mommy gave me a nice relaxing bath and slept till 6:45. Mommy couldn't believe it. Then last night Mommy thought I would go back to my regular 8 hours of sleep but instead I slept from 8:30-5:30. Yeah for lots of baby sleep!

Ouchie!

2008-04-23T12:30:00.002-04:00

Well today was the day! Shot day at the doctors. I was not aware of what mommy and daddy were taking me there for but was I in for a big shock. Today I had to get five different shots, really it was only 4 needles cause one of the vaccinations was oral. I did fine with the oral shot, but my face turned bright red when the shots started. I screamed the whole time the nurse was giving them to me but was fine when we got in the car. I actually fell right asleep when daddy started driving. I also got some tylenol from Mommy cause she doesn't want me to be sore later today. Hopefully, I don't have any reactions to the vaccines and today goes on like normal.

The doctor said I looked good and growing well. I am 11 pounds exactly (55%) and 22.5 inches long (50%). Mommy realized today that my size one diapers are starting to get a little small so we are going to finish out this pack and move up to the next size. So the doctor was right I am a growing girl.

This past weekend Mommy and I went down to Cincinnati to meet some new friends at Grandma's house. Mommy's friends Trish, Jan and Trisha's daughter Ashleigh came over first. I am so excited because now I have a friend who is around my age and hopefully we will get to play together when I am older. Then Grandma's friend Patty came over and that was fun because Mommy hadn't seen her in awhile (since her wedding). Patty said that I look just like Daddy which is what most people tell us, but Mommy knows that I am half of her because she was there in the delivery room.

This week Mommy and I started to read a book every night. I really like the book because of all the pictures and because it is a kissing book so Mommy gives me lots of kisses.

I would also like to give my condolences to Great Grandma and Grandpa Bilek. Peanut, their chihuahua passed away this week. She was a good dog and will be missed.

One, TWO, buckle my shoe...

2008-04-19T10:13:00.002-04:00

Today I am TWO months old and time has really flown by. I can't believe that two months ago, I was still in my mommy's tummy waiting to be born. In that time, I've learned how to smile. I like tummy time. I sleep in my own crib and am sleeping 8 hours a night. I love the bees in my room. I've gone on several car trips and am really good in the car cause it puts me to sleep. I've been nursing like a champ which in turn is saving mommy and daddy lots of money (no formula). And now that's I'm now two months old, I'm no longer in Newborn diapers or Newborn clothes. I love my big girl clothes (size 0-3 months), even though some of them are still big my chubby baby legs are starting to fill them out. I can't wait till my doctor's appointment on Wednesday cause then we will see how big I am. The only I'm not looking forward to is getting my shots, but I know it's for the best cause I don't want to get sick.

New things that I did this week:

When laying on my back I tend to lay there for a couple seconds and then roll over to one side. Mommy thinks I'm really close to rolling over all the way, but my silly arm gets in the way. If it would just move with my body then I would definitely roll over.

I am now just in the past couple days sleeping eight hours a night. I think that Mommy is getting a clue that if she gives me a bath with the Johnson's bedtime bath before I eat that I get really sleeping and am not fussy when she puts me to bed. I try to let Mommy sleep till about 5/5:30 before I get up to eat. Then I go back to sleep till around 8 and then I'm on my 3 hour schedule for the rest of the day. The other morning (around 5:30), I did experience my first earthquake. Mommy thought that Shelly was shaking the futon with her foot but then it didn't stop, but we didn't really know what it was. Then in the morning, Daddy told us that there was an earthquake in Illinois and that made a lot more sense to why the room was shaking.

I also experienced my first trip to the park. We didn't do too much, but Shelly liked it cause we got to take a walk on the bike path. I love my stroller cause it kind of has the same effect as the car, which means I fall asleep.

I'm still sleeping a good amount during the day, but my awake times are getting longer and I am much more alert. The other night Mommy and I read books, sang songs, and she gave me lots of kisses which make me smile a lot for about an hour. I love spending time with Mommy cause she is so silly.

My First Babysitter!

2008-04-12T18:02:00.005-04:00

Mommy and Daddy finally got a night out by themselves for the first time in 7.5 weeks. They went to their friends Scott and Andrea's wedding and let me have my first sleepover with Grandma. Mommy only cried a little bit in the morning cause I think she realized that it was the first time she and I were going to be apart for more than an hour, but knew I was going to have a fun time with Grandma. She only called once and it was just because she was on her way from the wedding to the reception. Mommy and Daddy looked really nice all dressed up (Daddy was the bestman)Mommy was also really excited because she really hasn't been out of the house, let alone in a dress (that by the way fit :)) They had a lot of fun and can't wait to do it again. They should probably start looking for a babysitter closer to home, but I'm sure Grandma wouldn't mind doing it again, cause we had fun too. We talked a lot and ate and slept; sorry I don't do too much yet.

New Things I started doing this week:

I have recently found that my thumb and sometimes my pointer finger are the best thing in the world. Sometimes when I'm supposed to napping mom will hear me in my crib making really loud sucking noises. Yeah, I found it! But when I lose the thumb I get really mad and just want something to suck on so a pacifier will usually suffice.

Also, Mommy noticed that when I suck my thumb I only suck on my left hand. So you know what that means, I'm probably going to be left handed. Mommy is so excited, cause lots of people on her side of the family including her and grandma are left handed. So we'll see if it's just a fluke or if it really does stick.

I'm really starting to like laying in my crib in the afternoons with my bee mobile on. The other day Mommy and I spent about 45 minutes just staring at the bees and we had to make sure that the music kept going, but I really was focused on staring those bees down. I also do the same thing on my activity mat, but there it is the lion. I do a lot of tummy time on my mat and I can't wait till I can hold my body up some more.

There are some new pictures posted as well, so take a look. Next Week...Taking a trip to Cincinnati to meet friends and Further down the road my next doctor's visit (including shots).

Road Trip to Brecksville

2008-04-07T15:39:00.004-04:00

Yesterday, I had my first road trip to Brecksville and got to meet a lot more of my family for the first time. Our cousin Lindsey's baby shower was yesterday, so mommy and I got in the car early in the morning and took the boring ride up north. I did really well in the car; sleeping for about half the trip and the rest of the time I looked at the monkey and the elephant that I have on my carseat. They are so funny and make me smile all the time. I could definitely win in a staring contest. My aunts were so excited to see me as they always are and when we got to Grandpa's house, my Great Aunt Sandy came over just for a minute. She's happy that we share the same hair color. :) Then later we went to the party and I got to meet my Great Aunt Diane and my Great Uncle Kenny, (Mom thinks she is funny if she writes Great a lot in front of their names cause then it makes them feel really old), my mom's cousins Sarah, Lindsey and Roy.

The party was fun and I did really good and slept for a long time on Aunt Diane's shoulder and yes, she still has the touch. She is going to be a wonderful grandma.
Great Grandpa also gave me my long awaited L for my room. Mom was so excited and can't wait to put it up in my bedroom.

I also got to make a piece of pottery for my room. We painted my feet and put my footprints on a flower that Lindsey is going to finish for us. She is going to write my name on it and my birthday. It totally matches the decor in my room. The first time kinda got messed up but we found out that a mirror goes in the part we messed up, so it was good that we got to try again.

After the party, mommy and I went back to grandpa's house and hung out for a little while before we left to go home to see what daddy had been up to all day.

All in all it was a good trip and I only cry a little bit when I was hungry, poopy and tired. I can't wait to go back in May when my new cousin is here and I will have someone around who understand why I cry.

Some new things that I have been doing this week:

My swing has a mirror above my head and I love to look at myself. Mom catches me smiling at myself all the time sitting there. She loves it cause she just recently realized that I will sit in it quietly and then put myself to sleep in it, so she can get some stuff done.

During tummy time, I have been picking my head up a lot more lately and I think that scooting/crawling is right around the corner cause for an instant I can hold myself up on my hands. But since I really don't have much muscle tone in my body, it can be very tiring so I go back to digging my head into the blankets.

Just the past week, when the smiling started, I have been more alert and awake for longer periods during the day. This in turn makes it great for mommy because I'm sleeping between 5-7 hours a night in one long stretch. YEAH!

So Big!

2008-03-27T16:33:00.002-04:00

Today I had my one month (but I'm 5 weeks and 2 days) checkup at the doctor's office and it was quick and painless. My mom (8lb 4 ounces) and dad (8lbs) were making bets on how much I would weigh. Well guess what, apparently I'm a little porker cause I weigh 9lbs 10 ounces and I am 21 inches long. I grew 2 inches since my last appointment, so maybe I will actually be taller than mommy. Mom couldn't believe how much I have grown in 3 weeks, but it makes sense because I am starting to get too big for my newborn clothes. It's like getting a whole new wardrobe every time I get too big for my clothes. How fun is that. I can't wait till I'm older and I can actually go shopping. I really think I'm gonna love it.

This week we had a lot of visitors, so look for some new pictures to pop up with them. It's nice that people want to come and visit me, since we don't really do all that much but sit around (i.e. eat, poop, sleep with the occasional playtime).

Oh and by the way, I am smiling now. Today at the doctor's office I look at Mommy and gave her a big smile. She was sure this time because I did it a couple times. :) Yeah!

Happy Easter!

2008-03-24T09:33:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was my first major holiday and it was great. The Easter Bunny visited me at home and at Grandma's house. Luckily for my mom, I am too little to have clues to find my basket but nonetheless I still got a basket. Dad put up some new pictures of me, so take a look at me in my Easter outfit. I think I look pretty snazzy in a dress. It was nice to be out of my sleepers and in something pretty. We ate dinner at Grandma's house in Cincinnati, which means I had my first long car trip as well. I slept the whole way there and back. I guess I was really tired, but it was nice to meet my step cousins and spend time with the family. This week is going to be busy. Mom and I have a full schedule of doctor's appointments and then my aunts and Grandma Bilek are coming down here to visit for a couple days cause they are on spring break. I can't wait, we love to have visitors and it definitely makes the day go by so much faster.

We hope everyone had a Happy Easter and that you all got lots of goodies from the Easter Bunny!

My First Photo Session (at home)

2008-03-20T12:38:00.005-04:00

Mom decided yesterday that she wanted to dress me up in a little bunny outfit that someone had gotten me and take a ton of pictures. Here's my first photo session and certainly not my last. These are the good ones.

Here's my little bunny butt

My "sweet feet"

Little Hip Hop Hat (try saying that three times fast)

Sleepy Bunny

Luci the bunny

Me in my "bunsie"

Sleeping baby

Time to Celebrate!

2008-03-19T08:55:00.002-04:00

I am officially 1 Month old today! It has gone by so fast, it feels just like yesterday that I was coming into this world. I am getting pretty well adjusted to life at home. The other day my dad noticed that I am starting to really hold my head up much better which means that maybe I'll like to be on my tummy more and can start working on rolling over soon. My mom likes that I go for pretty good 3-5 hour stretches at night so that she can get some semblance of sleep. This makes for a happier and more attentive mommy during the day. Recently though, I have gotten really fussy during the day and do no want to take more than hour naps which makes it difficult for my mom to get anything done. I am still wearing my newborn clothes and can't wait to start wearing cute little summer dresses, but it's still kinda cold so I'll wait a little while. Another milestone that mom thinks I will hit soon is smiling (not gas smiling), because when we look at each other I give her a glimpse of one.

Stay tuned for some Easter pictures in the next day or so, I'm pretty sure that mommy is thinking of dressing me up and giving me my own personal photo shoot at home. Now I really feel like a celebrity.

Oh and for those of you curious about my rash, it's almost gone, but it is still really peely and flaky. And of course as soon as this has gotten better, the baby acne has started to pop up. I can't wait to have that perfect baby complexion again. Oh, to be a teenager at one month old.

Monster Baby :(

2008-03-10T10:20:00.002-04:00

Since my last post, we have really settled into a really good routine here at the Fatica house. I'm doing great sleeping at night time and I even had a 4.5 hour stretch the other night where I didn't wake my mom up. I think she appreciated that a lot. I'm up more during the day where my favorite activities included looking at mom, dad, and also looking at myself in mirrors. Still I don't do much else but poop, eat and sleep.

The latest new experience for me is that I had a pretty gross allergic reaction to what my mom thinks is metal (from the shower caddy). She knows it is definitely from a wash cloth that she used on my face. I broke out into a rash that covers my forehead, eyelids, cheeks and the bridge of my nose. This happened on Friday but today it's looking a lot better and some spots are actually starting to clear up. Mom wanted to take me to see people at PF Changs yesterday but didn't want them to see my rash. So instead Grandma (Andow-Plum) stopped by to see me and says I'm still cute and adorable even though I have this rash. Mom agrees with her so now we just wait it out and hope that it dries up in a couple days. As Grandma told Mom, you live and learn, which for us means: use new washcloths every time I take a bath!

Good News from the Doctor's

2008-03-03T11:41:00.003-05:00

Well, today I had my two week checkup and I'm supposed to be at least up to my birth weight. After going to the lactation consultant last week, I have started eating more and going to the bathroom more consistently. With all this going on, my mom felt better about me gaining weight but still she couldn't tell if anything was happening. When we got to the doctor, the nurse weighed me and I'm up to 7lbs 3oz and 19 inches! Yeah, so apparently I'm such a good eater now. My mom is so happy that I'm not such a little tiny peanut anymore. I'm still on the lower end percentile wise, but that's okay because I am growing. I still don't quite fit into all my clothes yet, but that's alright, cause I'm sure that in a matter of weeks my newborn stuff won't fit me at all.

The past couple days have been quiet around our house cause pretty much all of our family has come to see me and now my mom and dad can start settling into a good routine. We were so grateful for everyone who has stopped by so far and I can't wait till the weather stays nice so that I can make some outings and see what is outside the realms of my house.

I'm a Free Woman

2008-03-01T09:29:00.002-05:00

Last night after a long day of being awake, my mom was rubbing my back trying to get me to go to sleep when she felt something lumpy rolling around in my sleeper. All of a sudden she knew what it was and started trying to get it out of my clothes: it was my umbilical cord! 10 days after I was born it fell out, so as previously stated I'm a free woman. Now I can wear undershirts that aren't little t-shirts and I can get a real bath. I'm sure I'll scream at first but hopefully for my mom and dad's sake I like the bathtub, so that they can get some more sleep.

One Week Old!

2008-02-26T07:27:00.002-05:00

I am one week old today! It's been a week of major adjustments for my parents. Mom and Dad are doing really well with the lack of sleep. I think last night was the best night of sleep for them. I'm sure Mom got almost a total of 6.5 hours. That's pretty good, considering I just wanted to get up to eat and I didn't cry at all. I'm such a good sleeper. This week has been a whirlwind of emotions, we have gone through extreme happiness to being extreme overwhelmed. We're so thankful for the people who have been so supportive of everything that has happened this week. I had my first doctor's appointment yesterday and had to get weighed. I only gained an ounce so I'm up to 6lbs 4oz, so we are taking a trip to the lactation consultant today to make sure that I'm getting enough food when I eat. I've had my first bath and that went pretty good. I really like getting my hair washed but got really mad when mom cleaned the rest of my body. I get a lot of hiccups, fart, eat, pee and poop but I'm really cute so it doesn't matter when I make a stink.

I'm a Local Celebrity!

2008-02-23T10:17:00.005-05:00

We've made the Columbus Dispatch. They came to the hospital on Tuesday and asked my mom if they could do a human interest story on my grandma Andow-Plum. The story was on first-time moms and first-time grandmas.

http://www.johnfatica.com/2008/02/23/extra-extra/

This is the link to the article on my daddy's page.

Everything is accurate and it made my mom cry, so it must have been good. How cool is it that I'm a local celeb and that I had my paparazzi before I was even born. I'm so much more interesting than Britney Spears. Let's see what I can do next!

We're Home!

2008-02-21T22:05:00.003-05:00

Well John pretty much gave you all the information about the birth. We just got home today around 2:30pm. So far so good. The only one who is a little out of whack is the dog, but she'll calm down eventually. She even took a nap right next to the baby's pack n play today. I'll post more when I'm not so exhausted but just wanted to let everyone know to look for an article of us in the Columbus Dispatch on Saturday. I'll post the article when it comes. Now it's time to feed the baby and getting some much needed sleep. I'm on like 10 hours of sleep for the last 3 days.

Lucia Lynn Fatica

2008-02-20T14:26:00.002-05:00

This is John posting. Abbey is busy recovering, so I'm going to post a brief story and some vitals.

I climb into bed at about 2:30am Tuesday morning shortly after arriving home from work when Abbey springs up exclaiming that I kicked her. "No wait, my water broke!" And just like that, we were off to the hospital.

Everything seemed to be advancing very quickly. Contractions started shortly after we got the hospital. Contractions became almost unbearable after about an hour. (Note: do not tap your fingers on the chair while your wife is having a contraction.) Abbey received an epidural, and the nurse informed us that she was already at 7cm! This is at about 6am. After that, everything pretty much stopped....except for the contractions. We stayed at 7cm for almost 6 hours. The doctor increased the inducing medication to try and get things moving again. Finally everything picked up and we were at 10cm within an hour. There was about an hour of pushing, some slight thoughts of a c-section since the baby seemed stuck, and then finally some forcep action. We had our baby girl.

She was born at 2:00pm on February 19th, 2008. She weighed 6lbs 14oz, and was 18.5 inches long. The professional hospital picture can be found here (pictures will be posted Wednesday night).

Pictures taken by family and friends can be found here.

Oh yeah, and we'll call her Luci for short :)

Tomorrow's the Big Day!

2008-02-18T18:14:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow at 7pm to be exact! Today at the doctor we found out that I was still not ready to come out, so the doctor set up an induction date for my mom and I'm coming soon. We go into the hospital at 7pm on Tuesday February 19th and hopefully the medicine will kick in so that I can make an appearance into this world. After I'm born, my mom and dad are changing the name of the website, so be ready to see it (cause it includes my name)! Also, by the end of this week, please start looking for pictures of me.

Almost Ready!

2008-01-13T22:15:00.000-05:00

After a whirlwind of baby showers the last three weekends, I can finally sit back and see what we still need before the little one arrives. Come to find out today that it really isn't as much as I thought. I only need one more really big ticket item and it's one that I'm sure that no one wants to give as a gift (cause it's a little personal): my breast pump. But come on, I still need it. ;) Anyways, I want to thank everyone for their generosity at my showers and I cannot wait to use all the stuff we got on the baby (who will still remain nameless, despite all the begging, which by the way doesn't help your cause).

Me, Janelle, Jessa, Tori and Katy at my Shower in Brecksville
(By the way these are the people who beg the most to know her name)

Here's Me with the cake that my Aunt Sandy made for the shower! Thanks

Now that we (Baby, John and I) have made our travels throughout Ohio for the showers, we will be staying home for the next five weeks (maybe more, maybe less) waiting for our little peanut to arrive.

Next Week at the doctor's, she'll starts the internal exams and I will keep you all posted on the progress and whether or not the baby will be early or late.

Baby's Room

2008-01-04T12:16:00.001-05:00

Here are some pictures that I took of the baby's room. My mom came down this week to paint the decorative stuff on the walls. All I want to do is sit in there and stare at everything cause it's so cute! Enjoy the pictures!

Testing New Site

2007-12-17T14:20:00.001-05:00

So I'm testing out a new website for the baby because the one I used during my pregnancy does not have enough free web space to post pictures for free and post different things. I will posting information about the baby's birth and beyond on this website, but for information before she is born will still be on the old site http://sites.bundleofjoys.com/afatica/index.php. This will probably be the last post before she is born, but start looking for more posts around February 17th.