I ♥ Dad

My time with my Dad was absolutely wonderful. Best 2 weeks of my whole life so far! I can't wait for him to come home for good. Dad was fun right from the start, but I wasn't so sure he knew how to do the "Mommy jobs". I looked to her to do these things for me at first, but after getting to know Dad again, I trusted him do just about anything that Mom does. He hasn't quite mastered the psychology of dirty diapers, so we'll need to keep Mom around for that job. She's an expert at it. My Dad put me to bed most nights, and I slept just great. Most importantly, we played and played and played. As soon as I saw Dad coming, I would laugh and smile, and Mom would mysteriously disappear. Dad quickly learned all the lyrics to my favorite songs, and he sings them even better than the original artists. We bounced and jumped and danced. We cuddled and I learned a little about football and mixed martial arts. He introduced me to glow sticks, which really hold my interest when the car is dark and in Chinese restaurants. We had Christmas, and Dad picked out the best toys ever so far. I showed Dad all my tricks, and am already working on some new ones to impress him next time I see him. I have been looking all over for him the past couple days, especially when I get up in the morning or after a nap. I scan the room for him, but no such luck. I really thought I saw him once, but turned out to be a pillow in the dark on his side of the bed. Disappointing, but he'll be home in just a few more months. Counting down, again!

Dad is home & so much more!

I have so much to report that I don't know where to start. I enjoyed my first Thanksgiving, my Dad is home from Afghanistan for a couple weeks, and I finally got to meet Gram and Uncle Steve. I have mastered rolling and am quite adept at sitting up. And I have had some early Christmases.

First, Thanksgiving: I went to my mom's friends' house in the forest. It was a lovely drive, and when we got there, I got to talk to a lot of cats, as well as some very nice people. Most importantly, I got to eat homemade mashed potatoes with gravy made by my friend Kermit, and I had my first try of whipped cream. It was delicious and a lot of fun.

A few days later, my Dad FINALLY came home!! I am having so much fun with him. I have never laughed so hard as I did earlier this evening. He makes the most hysterical noises. We are playing a lot of fun things together and I watch every move he makes. He has been helping me with standing up a little bit too, and I've been showing off all of my talents for him. He got me some really nice Christmas presents, one of which he calls "the best fifty bucks ever spent." It really is quite entertaining. But it's twice as entertaining when Dad plays with me. I won't know what to do with myself when he goes back to Afghanistan. It is so wonderful having him home.

This past weekend, Gram Flo and Uncle Steve came to visit. I had been waiting a long time to meet them, and cannot wait to go to Vermont to meet the rest of my aunts, uncles, and cousins there. Gram and I had a really good time. She wears shiny things on her wrist and around her neck, and I enjoyed grabbing at them. Gram and I spent a lot of time together and got along quite well, aside from me puking on our Christmas present to her. Uncle Steve is a very amusing guy too. I loved listening to him tell stories, although I do worry that I could someday become a character in one of these stories of Gibou monsters and children hanging upside down by their ankles and such. Uncle Steve is very good at the game where I drop something on the floor and he picks it up. I love that game. We had another Christmas and I got a new doll, some musical keys, lots of books, and many additions to my wardrobe. Even better than what's in the boxes, I like to eat the wrapping paper. Yum.











Dad and I have a lot more on our agenda in the coming week before he has to go back to work. Soon after that, it will be off to Texas for Christmas #3! More soon!

Playing & Counting Down

Things have been pretty routine around here lately, but I have no problem finding ways to entertain myself. One of my favorite activities is to talk to myself and play in the mirror. The baby in the mirror does almost everything that I do, so we get along really well. I've also taken more interest in my many toys. Since I have mastered rolling over and am beginning to scoot a little to get where I want to go, I am able to retrieve the toys that I want most of the time. Sitting up is currently my biggest challenge, but I am getting closer everyday. I can sit up half way, and then prop myself up on my elbow on one side. That's how I spend a lot of my time. If my mom helps me sit up all the way, then I can stay sitting up for a few seconds. Then I fall over, and that upsets me. With more practice, I will get it. It's hard being a baby. After a long day of playing, I still enjoy relaxing with a good book and a warm bath, just like my mom. I've also become an excellent splasher. Maybe I'll be a swimmer, like Aunt G and Uncle James.

We are counting down and getting ready for Dad to get here!! I can hardly wait. I have so much to show him and tell him. I have learned so much in the last 6 months, from rolling (one of the basic moves of jiu-jitsu) to how to eat mushed food. When he left all I did was cry and eat... I didn't sleep much back then. I have changed so much, even though I still don't have much hair or any teeth. I know exactly what I am going to wear when he gets here too. I already know we are going to have a lot of fun together. Gram and Uncle Steve are coming too. SO excited!

The Big Guy

There wasn't a more loving friend than Sir Leo Pottomus I. Although he was not particularly pleased about my arrival, he was always gentle and patient with me. I loved to grab a handful of his soft fur or his pointy ears. If he was irritated when I pulled his tail, then he didn't show it. He was a much better napper than I am... We miss laughing at the big guy, sprawled out with his fluffy, fat tummy in the air. Our house just isn't the same without him. My parents' "first child" was one of a kind. He was extraordinarily loved, and will not be forgotten.

Status Update

I turned 6 months old last week, but have been waiting for my "official weigh-in" to give you all my new stats. I saw the pediatrician yesterday, and all is wonderful, aside from the 4 shots that he told the nurse to give me. Here's what's new:

-I weigh 15 pounds, 12.5 ounces. This is the 48% for babies my age. Pretty average.

-I am 27.25 inches long. That's the 94% for babies my age. I'm a long one. Maybe I'll be extra tall, like my basketball hall of fame ancestor, George Mikan.

-My brain is 42.5 cm, 53%. Don't worry, I'm super intelligent.

-I've been eating a lot of fruits and vegetables, and so far the only thing that I don't like is sweetpeas. Dr. G said I can start eating big people food, like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and little pieces of bread. I've been telling Mother for months that I can eat that stuff, and she didn't believe me. Wish I could get that Halloween candy back!

-When I'm in a good mood, I can roll back from my tummy to my back, which makes my Mom very happy. When I'm tired or grumpy, I still yell at her to flip me over.

-I sleep great at night, but am really not a fan of naps. I'm afraid I'm going to miss something good.

-I LOVE to stroll. We go for walks once or twice a day, except when it's cold and snowy.

-I'm getting really close to being able to sit up by myself. I work on it every day. I really like to stand up with help.

-My hair is growing a little bit.

-I'm really good with my hands now. I use them to put almost everything in my mouth. I pick things up, knock things over, and bang on things. I pull hair and grab dog ears. I've got a great grip.

The highlight of my month was seeing my Dad live via satellite from Afghanistan. I looked him over really well. I can hardly wait to see him in person at the end of this month. He will be so impressed with the many skills and abilities that I have perfected since he last saw me. I can sure fill a diaper better than I used to. I hope he remembers how to change diapers, because my Mom says she's taking 2 weeks off of diaper-changning while he's home. Plus, I finally get to play with Gram Flo and maybe even another uncle and aunt. Counting down!

Halloween Tricks

Halloween seems like it will be an exciting event in years to come. This year, I think my mom had a little more fun than I did. We went to a Fall Festival and picked out a pumpkin. I watched Mom carve the pumpkin. Then she started dressing me in this ridiculous bunny costume, and taking me out in public.

She blames my dad for picking the costume. Although most people said I looked adorable, I felt pretty silly. We went door to door, and people gave me candy for dressing like a bunny. That was pretty cool. After trick or treating, I was exhausted. I dreamed of eating candy. But when I woke up, my mom wouldn't let me have any of the candy. I feel so used. We mailed the candy to my dad. Hope he enjoys it. I was tricked.

I'm on a roll

I love to roll from my back to my belly. I do it constantly. I roll on the floor. I roll in my crib. I try to roll in the bathtub and while I'm getting changed. I roll when I'm mad. I roll when I'm happy. I even roll when I'm asleep. After I roll to my tummy, I am so proud of myself. Then, I scream. I get very angry, and start shouting so that Mom will come flip me back over on my back, and I can do it all again. All day & all night: roll, scream, Mom, flip, roll, scream... My current goal is to learn to roll from my tummy to my back. My mom says I've done it before, but I don't remember that. But once I do, I'll be rolling all over the dang place. Watch out, here I come.

Howdy yall.

Once again, I have fallen way behind. We've got some catching up to do, fans. First, let me tell you about my time in Texas:

A couple of weeks ago, I made my first trip to Grandma and Grandpa's house, also where my mother comes from: Texas. I liked it quite well. The trip started out with a good nap on the drive to Denver, and lots and lots to see at the Denver airport. Then I flew, which I neither loved nor hated, and ended up in a warm, humid place, with all the familiar people who have come to Colorado to meet me. Grandma and Grandpa's house was fun, and they even had my own little crib set-up for me right next to my mom's bed. There were some very entertaining toys to play with, and I had an audience at all times. I got so much attention from my grandparents, aunts, and uncles, that I haven't known what to do with my free time since I've been back home. It was fabulous.

One of the activities that Aunt Jill and my mother planned was my first swim in a pool. I appreciate their thoughtfulness, because I do love my bath, but pool water is cold! I did my best to pretend to enjoy it, but it was rough. It was not the warm, relaxing bubble bath that I am used to. Don't mess with Gracie!

We went out to eat at restaurants a few times, and I sat in high chairs for the first time. I really prefer sitting up at the table with everyone else, instead of in that carrier all the time. I watch everything that everyone puts in their mouth. It looks SO much better than what my mother feeds me... mush. (Although I do love sweet potatoes and squash. Peas are disgusting). I got to meet a couple of my mom's friends too, and even got to spend a little time with my other family, without my mom! Party on!

It was a great time, and I am looking forward to going back at Christmas! More soon. Yee haw.

Top Ten Things That Make Me Giggle

Turn your volume up!


10. Spitting sweet potatoes.

9. When I trick Mom into getting me up from my nap.

8. Gas.

7. Yoooooo Gabba Gabbaaaa!

6. When the dogs give me a bath.

5. Grandma's attempts to speak my baby language.

4. The crazy sound that Aunt Jill makes with her lips.

3. Playing "Bounce the Baby" with Grandpa.

2. Aunt Gretchen's funny face.

1. When I see Fedor Emilianenko kick someone in the diaper.

What else is new??

In addition to being an interstate traveller, and getting to know my extended family, I have made several important discoveries over the past couple of weeks:

One is oatmeal. It's got a little more flavor and a little more texture than rice cereal, so I'm eating a couple bites a day, but my patience is short. Like most things, I prefer to do it my way, not Mom's. I'm perfectly capable of putting the spoon in my mouth by myself, it just might not have any oatmeal on it.

Second, sure enough, I have toes. I entertain myself for minutes upon minutes, just holding my toes in my hands. I talk to them at great length. What I haven't figured out is where the toes go when I have shoes on.

And I got this amazing new activity that makes being on my tummy not so bad, thanks to Grandma's spoilage of me. This week, I rolled from my tummy to my back for the first time. It was shocking and pleasing at the same time. I haven't decided if I will do this again anytime soon, although Mom keeps urging me to do so.

New Mexico & New People

Last week was fabulous. Grandma & Grandpa Ford, and my Great Uncle John and Great Aunt Kathy visited. I got to show off all my skills and talents, as everyone liked to watch me. Plus, I was constantly entertained by one of them, especially the men--Grandpa danced whenever I played my song, and Uncle John made silly monkey noises and funny faces. As soon as I got tired of one of them, I would let them know, and they'd simply pass me on to the next person! It was great. They all did lots of projects around the house too, which my mom really appreciated. I got to spend lots of "quality time" with my Grandma, while my Mom went horseback riding with John and Kathy, and especially on the train ride.

This train ride that I mentioned... we drove to New Mexico, and rode in a steam train through the mountains. It was pretty, but the best part was the fresh air and the rhythm of the train was perfect for napping, plus I didn't have to sit in my stupid car seat, so I got to sleep almost all day, mostly in Grandma's arms. Awesome. All kinds of firsts too: my first train ride, my first out of state trip, my first time in a hotel, just to name a few. Everyone said I was a good traveller, except for that little car seat issue. I'm ready to get out of there.

My Friend, Chuck

My mother said she was too busy to help with the blog tonight, but I finally convinced her to take a few minutes to tell you all about my day. I had my first trip to Chuck E. Cheese. It was in honor of my friend, Asher's, 3rd birthday. I liked the flashing lights and the sounds. I was suprised that there was not a giant dancing mouse though, as Mom had promised. I was also a little jealous that everyone got pizza and cake, except me. Mom has let me have a little rice cereal, but it's pretty bland. Pizza really looks and smells much better. All in all, an exciting event... got to drive in a car with a mouse. That's definitely a first!

A Day in the Life

I'm so far behind on my blogging! I turned 4 months old last week, and went to my pediatrician a few days ago. Here's my stats: I weigh 13 pounds, 13 ounces, which is the 56th percentile for babies my age. That means I have grown so much that I've caught up to the average 4 month old. (At 2 mos, I was only in the 18th percentile). The doctor seemed very pleased. I'm 24 1/2 inches long, and my giant brain is 41 cm. My eyes are still blue, and I'm still mostly bald. I played a great joke at the doctor's office. Mom had just told him how I always cry within a few seconds of tummy time. So when the doctor put me on my tummy, I looked in the mirror and laughed hysterically, like it was the most fun thing I'd ever done. Dr. G ordered my mother to buy me a full length mirror for tummy time. As if Mom needed an excuse to go to Target! The doctor said I was perfect, and he enjoyed my happiness. Then he told the nurse to poke a needle in each leg. The happiness ended.

We've been keeping busy doing everyday things. Nothing too exciting. Most days, I wake up around 6:30am and demand my breakfast. Mom feeds me and we go back to sleep for a while. When we wake up, she feeds me again, and then it's off to our friends' house. My friend Kendel and I watch our mothers exercise. It's really entertaining... for about 15 minutes. Then we take turns demanding attention. After that, we usually come home and play a little and eat a little. Often my Dad calls around this time. Then I usually give-in to an afternoon nap, so Mom can get a few things done. When I get up, I eat some more. I love eating. We might run some errands or get out of the house for a little while. After dinner, we go for a stroll around the neighborhood. I enjoy that. Then my bedtime snack, my bubble bath, and asleep for the night. A few hours after I go to sleep, Mom comes in and feeds me one more time, but I usually don't even wake-up for it. Being a baby is wonderful!

In my free time, I'm really working on sitting up. I can almost do it by myself. I've also gotten much better with my hands. I enjoy grabbing things, particularly soft things that I can hold onto easier. I like to taste anything that I can get in my mouth, and have been experimenting with the possibility of sucking my thumb. I like to look at the TV, but Mom won't let me watch but for a few minutes. I've been practicing my happy scream A LOT. I cried with tears for the first time a few days ago--that really got me a lot of extra love and attention from Mom!

I promise to update you all more often. Next week, my great aunt and uncle, and Grandma and Grandpa Ford are coming, so there should be lots of new activities, including my first train ride and out of town trip. Ciao!

Crazy Aunt Jilly & Uncle Jeff

Last week was super fun and busy. I got to meet another aunt and uncle. Jill made the most shocking noises. It kind of freaked me out. Jeff took about 1000 pictures--literally! I can't wait to see them. I wasn't the most cooperative model.

We went lots of new places. We went to the zoo, where I smelled lots of unusual smells. Mom let me face-forward in the stroller for the first time, so I could see where we were going, instead of looking at her the whole time! I saw lots of people and trees, but I decided that I wouldn't notice the animals until Dad gets home, since he likes the zoo, too. I'll save that for him. Mom thought it would be funny to let this big bear hold me. I disagreed. We also toured cliff dwellings and watched Native American dances. That was neat. And we went shopping and out to eat a couple of times.

Aunt Jilly put together this new toy for me, which I LOVE. It's got all kinds of lights and toys that I can reach, and it bounces me up and down, and plays music. My feet don't quite touch the ground yet, but it's awesome. Jill also introduced me to Barney. I was mesmerized by his orange dancing friend. Mom says no more Barney, but she'll let me watch Sesame Street soon.

I really enjoyed Aunt Jill & Uncle Jeff. Next month, I get to meet a great aunt & uncle, plus Grandma & Grandpa Ford will be back. After that Dad will be home for a little bit, and I'll finally get to meet Gram Flo too. Can hardly wait!

Shout out

Happy Birthday Dad!!!
We miss you!

Daddy's other girls

Mother literally threw me to the wolves. I had taken notice of some larger animals around the house, but I was keeping my distance. From what I understand, my Dad loves these animals a lot. Tonight, before my bath, I got up close and personal. I wasn't sure about it at first, but after a few minutes of adjusting to their aroma, I kind of liked them. I don't know where the smaller, striped animal with the pointy ears was at... probably taking a nap.

Other than that, I've had a great week. I slept in my own room overnight for the first time this week. It was no big deal to me, since I've been taking naps in there for a while, but Mom liked it better when I was in the bassinet, right next to her all night. I'm still pretty entertained by my hands. I enjoy having my knuckles in my mouth so much that it sometimes distracts me from eating. Of course, I'm going everywhere that Mom goes, and I'm behaving very well. This week we went to an army wife meeting, a memorial service, a boring class, exercising, and shopping. I was a perfect angel, most of the time.

I'm going to meet my Aunt Jill and Uncle Jeff this week. I'll tell you all about it next time!

I have hands!

I have hands, and I (sort of) know how to use them. My friend let me borrow the greatest toy ever (so far) for my car seat. Now I don't sleep during car rides anymore, because I've got cool things to rattle and spin. Look, my hands are moving so fast you can't even see them!

Also, I can suck on my knuckles, grab Mom's glasses, and help hold onto my bedtime bottle. What's next? Feet?

How to Avoid Naps

What a week. Mom and I have both been sick since Monday. I survived my first fever, and am feeling much better. Since there have been no exciting events, and not a lot of photo-taking this week, I thought I would share my wisdom on napping with you. I've been perfecting some new techniques this week.

How to Avoid Naps:

1. Cry. This is the simplest technique. I used it a lot when I was younger. I still use it occasionally. If you cry long enough, often it will be time to eat again before you have to give in to the nap.

2. Fake it. Just as Mom gets out of the rocking chair to put you in your crib, pop your eyes open and give her a whimper. She'll sit back down and rock with you again. Repeat as many times as necessary.

3. Fight it. Open your eyes as wide as you possibly can. If your eyes get dry, that's a good thing, as it will help them stick open. Look around at everything. If Mom turns off the lights, find a little glimmer of something to stare at! If your eyes get heavy and you start to drift off, then cry a little to wake yourself back up. I do this one a lot.

4. Smile. I've recently discovered that avoiding a nap goes more smoothly if I make Mom smile. Go ahead and take a little nap, but no more than 15 minutes. Then start making some obvious noise, to let Mom know you are awake. When she tip-toes in with plans to put you back to sleep, don't cry. Give her your biggest smile with wide eyes, and she'll surely let you get up.

Those are the basic methods. A couple of other pointers: if your Mom swaddles you to "help you sleep," although it may feel safe and cozy, wiggle it for all it's worth! And, if your Mom says something to the effect that she needs to get a few things done, then this is not the time to give in to the nap--you might miss something new and interesting, and Mom might need your help. Good luck!

My Fourth Trimester is Over

Holy smokes. Tomorrow I'll be 3 months old. I think I've accomplished quite a bit in that short time:

-I am starting to bat at things with my hands, and can get my fist in my mouth, which pleases me.

-I've tamed my animal friends that go in circles above my crib and my swing. They are very obedient now. And I've just noticed that there are some much larger, stinkier animals around the house.

-I sleep about 6 hours per night, and I've learned to take naps in my very own crib. (My biggest accomplishment due to that case of the colic.)

-I weigh a whopping 12 pounds as of yesterday. I am going to catch up with that fat cat before long!

-My babble vocabulary grows daily, but few seem to understand the complexity of my language.

-I've taught people to smile back at me, when I smile at them. (Didn't my picture make you smile? Thought so!)

-My media empire has exploded--I've got this blog, have starred in my own movie, and have modeled on numerous photo shoots.

-I'm learning to tolerate tummy-time. Baby stuff.

Not bad, eh?

Big G & Uncle James take Colorado!

Last week was exciting. Aunt Gretchen (Big G) and Uncle James visited, and I saw lots of sights I'd never seen before. We went to Denver, Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Canyon, shopping, and out to eat. G loves to spoil me, and I really enjoyed the extra love & attention that I got from both of them. Uncle James was especially interesting... I studied him a lot. I also liked G's hair.

One evening, Mom's friends came over for dinner, and Uncle James grilled dinner for all the ladies and kids. This flirty boy, Kendel, kept trying to bite my face. I guess you could call it my first kiss... don't I look like I enjoyed it??

It was an awesome week, and I could tell that my Mom enjoyed it too. Hope they come back soon.