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!