Leah's Life

Wiggles: The Class Bear

2009-05-22T11:33:00.005-04:00

FINALLY!

That was the word that came into my brain the moment that the teacher said that it was my turn to take home the class bear for the weekend. Wiggles---that's his name---goes home with every kid from class over one weekend. You are supposed to take really good care of him. And then on Monday you bring in pictures and things for a show and tell. Mama even wrote a poem from the point of view of Wiggles for my teacher to share with the class. My time with Wiggles was AWESOME! Below is the poem and some pictures!

ODE TO MY WEEKEND WITH LEAH
By Wiggles

Oh joy! I won’t be all alone
It was Leah’s turn to take me home

***FRIDAY ***
Our first stop was to Grandma, she was at work
but soon baby sis went beserk
So, we quickly drove to Leah’s place
She was kind to show me around her space
She has Star Wars posters, stickers, books and stuff
She really cannot get enough
We jumped into bed, with the Star Wars sheets
And her Star Wars figurines were really neat
Then into the backyard to play on the slide
When we had a picnic, I was by Leah’s side
Leah’s Dada read us two books at night
And Mama snuggled us in so tight
The weekend had not even begun
And already I was having so much fun

*** SATURDAY ***
Off to the “eat store”---the store with food
Everyone was in such a silly mood
Mama’s camera took some pictures of me
With everyone from the family
Next, to the park with a great big lake
The geese and swans were real (not fake)
Back home we picnicked for our lunch
French fries, chicken nuggets, MUNCH, MUNCH, MUNCH!
We planted flowers, red, pink and white
Leah’s garden is a beautiful sight
While gardening we saw something in the dirt
Six snails that we did not want to hurt
Mama put them in a plastic bin
Leah used a microscope to look right in
Next up: a bath for Leah and the baby
Was the bath because we touched snails? Maybe.
A Star Wars book to end the night
And we kissed and said our good goodnights

*** SUNDAY ***
The aquarium was our destination
It felt like such a nice vacation
Fish and seals and starfish too
Really big sharks swam in deep blue
They even had a tarantula
Leah almost tried to pet her
Penguins and otters and a sea lion show
I was sad when we had to go
Back at home we played in the sun
The sprinkler was so much fun
Then, a bubble bath for the playhouse
Even the baby was pretty doused
A movie—Star Wars—ended our day
And there is only one more thing to say:

Thank you, Leah, for hosting me
I had fun with you and your family!

My 1st Dentist Visit

2009-05-22T11:28:00.002-04:00

In early April I went to the dentist for the very first time. I was a little apprehensive because I wanted the dentist to like me. I brought unused lotto paper (that you get at the supermarket to fill out the numbers) because I thought he might like it. The lady who cleaned my teeth was really nice to me and showed me all of the tools. It was interesting.

When the doctor saw my teeth, he thought that they looked very sparkly, and he said that they looked good. He did say that I need to stop chewing on my blankie soon so that my teeth don't get hurt. That is going to be a really, really tough thing for me to do. I was sad hearing about that. But, I said that I would work on that (and I will!). Right now, I'm just enjoying my sparkly teeth!

Erin Can Participate Too Now

2009-05-22T11:22:00.002-04:00

For so long, Erin was "stuck" in the stroller or Mama or Dada's arms just watching things. Now, when we go places, Erin can walk along with me and can do stuff too. She walked on her own (first real steps) at 14 months; now that she is 15 months, there is no stopping her!

Here we are at the aquarium recently. I taught Erin how to dig for bones, and we took in all of the animal exhibits (yes, the aquarium has monkeys!)

Best Buds

2009-05-22T11:10:00.005-04:00

Sure, we "argue" over who will carry the Power Ranger cell phone around the house. And, yes, sometimes we nudge each other to get more room on the couch. And, of course, there are things (like crayons, markers, small toys and certain foods) that I can have that Erin can't and she gets upset about that.

But Erin is my best bud. And I am hers.

I always introduce Erin to my friends and teachers and everyone I meet. If anyone makes Erin uncomfortable or sad, I am quick to defend her. One day we had a fire drill at our school...we had to all stop what we were doing and walk outside. When my class got outside, I saw Erin's "baby class" a little ways away on the front lawn. Even though she was content I still wanted to reassure her that everything was ok. I yelled over, "DON'T WORRY, ERIN! WE'RE JUST WAITING FOR A FIRE!" I figured that I better teach her what was going on.

Even though Erin is still a baby, I know that I am her best bud too. She follows me everywhere (and I mean EVERYWHERE). If I close the bathroom door to go potty, Erin gets so upset. One day Mama "found" us in the potty together unrolling toilet paper. Mama was a little frustrated so I admitted the truth. I told Mama, "It was Erin's idea." Erin also has to sit in chairs with me, loves to play with (or, more likely, chew on) my Star Wars figurines and wants to do everything that I do.

I just can't wait until Erin is bigger and able to talk and play more. Although Erin does walk now (WOO HOO!), she is still easily knocked down.

Still, I love my baby sister very, very much, and I know that she loves me a lot too.

The Easter Bunny Visited Us!

2009-05-22T10:16:00.003-04:00

We colored eggs a few days before the big day. Mama told me that the Easter Bunny, who happens to be good friends with Santa, comes to good children's houses, hides their colored eggs, and sends you on a scavenger hunt for them. When you have found all of the eggs, then the Easter Bunny leaves a goodie basket.

And sure enough! That's what happened!

And what a nice Easter Bunny...he remembered that I don't like chocolate, so he brought me gummi bears, stickers, a baby doll and little toys instead. He also knew that Erin loves to put necklaces on and off so he brought her fake flower necklaces called leis, an Elmo book (she LOVES Elmo!) and other little toys.

Thanks, Easter Bunny!

In Like a Lion...

2009-03-29T20:03:00.006-04:00

Well, March went by very quickly...and I can't say that I will miss it!

Unfortunately, Mama and I both got serious cases of Strep throat (ugggg) in March at the same time that Erin got an ear infection. Thankfully, Dada was there to take care of us. It was a bummer that I wasn't feeling better because it was nice to have him home for a few weekdays.

Mama tried to perk us in March with a seemingly endless supply of craft projects---from putting stickers on foam door hangers (see video) to making princess crowns to baking cakes to "writing" cards to painting seashells that we picked up at the beach. Mama is pretty good at turning a dreary, "nothing" kind of day into something special.

One day, she even brought a big bucket of snow in from outside for us to play with (because we were still sick and couldn't go outside). It was sure cold and slippery...and we used up a lot of towels to soak up the melting snow...but it made us all laugh as we made "snow castles" right on the kitchen floor.

Still, I'm glad that the spring weather will be here soon so we can have more time outside too.

The Month of February

2009-03-15T19:50:00.011-04:00

(First, let me give a "shout out" to Rebecca, Vicki, and Jillian...who may be the only ones still reading this since I haven't posted here in a long, long time. Hi, cousins!)

It sounds silly to say that we've been busy but I promise that it's true. February was a month of a lot of firsts. Here's a run down.

First time I joined gymnastics (I LOVE it...especially the trampoline!)

First time that Mama and Dada were away over night without Erin and me. (Ma and Pa watched us.)

First time Erin tried daycare. She's really taken to it; the teachers of her "baby class" say that she is very mellow, loves to learn and is very good with the other kids in the class. Yep! That sounds like Erin!

First time Erin started walking---albeit, with help. A week before her 1st birthday, she started walking, largely due to Dada and Pa's coaxing.

First shoes---for Erin, that is!

Erin first starting pointing to communicate (not just signing)

Greatma's first visit to the aquarium (I helped to show her around!)

and, well, Erin's 1st birthday! WHEW! That is a lot of firsts.

We also celebrated 4 other birthdays in February---cousin Joey's, Pa's, Mama's, and Dada's. I had cake for all of the birthdays (and yes, Erin's cake was green as evidenced by the smooshed cake on her face!). And Joey even had a pool party! It was so AWESOME (my new favorite word).

February was so much fun...and so very busy! But since it's the end of March...I guess I better update you on that month too. Yikes! I will soon!

One Incredible Baby

2009-01-23T05:34:00.002-05:00

I just love my baby sister. Sometimes a little TOO much. Mama has a new saying, "Hugging, not mugging." But anyway, I just wanted to tell you what she has been up to lately...so many amazing things!

@9 months old: Erin signs for the first time; the sign is "milk." She also does this funny thing (like raspberries with her lips) to indicate water/binkie.

@10 months old: Erin says her first word; it's...drumroll, please...."MAMA!" While in the highchair one morning, eating breakfast, Erin wasn't too happy when Dada walked to the front door to leave for work and Mama and I went with him to give him kisses. All alone in the kitchen for a moment, Baby yelled out, "MAMA!" and it was as clear as if I had said it. In fact, Mama asked me if that was me. "No," I replied. "That was the baby."

@10 and 1/2 months old: It's official...Erin can crawl. She did it a little on one day and then the next day she was zooming all around. She can move pretty quickly. And now she's into all of my toys. Oh, man.

@11 months old: Erin uses more sign language; this time it's for the word "more." While feeding Erin during a playdate on January 21, Mama gave her a veggie stick. The thing is that Mama normally doesn't feed Erin veggie sticks but she saw Mama eating it and flipped---note to everyone: only eat things in front of baby that she also has on her plate. After a few veggie sticks, Mama stopped giving them to her. So, Erin proceeded to look down very intently at her hands. She made the fingers on both hands come together, then looked up at Mama and bounced the tip of her fingers off of each other a few times. We were stunned. Sure enough, Baby did the sign for "More."

Everyday seems to bring new wonderful discoveries for Erin, and I am so happy and proud to be a part of them. I'm definitely looking forward to the day when she says MY name!

Christmas Was AWESOME!

2009-01-06T21:15:00.014-05:00

And I have video to share.

I sent Santa two letters before Christmas about what I wanted for Christmas. The second note I drew a picture on (see video), but the first note Mama help me write (I dictated and she wrote it down). It said:

Dear Santa,
I want lots of ships. I need Hammerhead and the guy with the musical instrument. I need three things. I don't know their names but they are the Star Wars figurines that I don't have. I want the green Boba Fett too, if they make it. I am not sure. I am nice. I am 3. This is my first letter to you. We will give you bananas and milk when you come to our house on Christmas. Please bring Ma & Pa some presents too. Okay? Thank you.

Then I called Santa too. Santa sent Mama my message through email so she could hear it again to. I reiterated what was in my letter. "I want lots of ships. Hammerhead and the music guy. Three guys, I don't know their names." (And, I'll get right to it: Santa brought me what I asked for...but more on that later!)

A lot of my family came to visit me, and I played with them before and after Christmas. I helped Dada set up our decorations outside. And helped Mama with the tree inside. It was so much fun (see video).

We also drove around quite a few nights to check out the Christmas lights that people had up. One house in particular was AMAZING. Mama couldn't stop saying, "Unbelievable!" the entire time we were there! It was THAT wild.

I'm not a big fan of chocolate but rumor has it that Santa is so I made Santa cookies the night before Christmas. Mama and I put them out, with a cup of milk and a note of thanks. And then...to my amazement...when I woke up on Christmas morning, well...here's the video:

Then I patiently waited for Dada, Baby, Ma and Pa to wake up---okay, I woke them up---so we could open presents. Santa brought me so many. I was speechless...well almost:

But, as happy as I was (and BOY, was I happy), when Mama asked me if I was missing anything, I did realize that I didn't have two specific Star Wars characters that I had asked for. It was okay...but...then all of a sudden, there was a knock at the door. Mama called down into the basement where I was playing, "Leah, someone is here to see you!" I whispered, "Santa?!" And lo and behold...it was!

And when I opened up that present, well...it was Hammerhead and the music guy! I pumped my fist and said, "Yes! I knew he didn't forget!"

It was a really great Christmas!

Our Playgroup's Holiday Party

2008-12-15T19:33:00.002-05:00

With 10 moms attending and all but one having 2 or more kids, you can see that I had more than enough friends to play with at our holiday party. We went to Chuck E. Cheese, played, sat quietly (really!) and ate pizza, danced, then opened up our Secret Santa presents.

We spent almost 3 hours there, and had a blast! I'm in the holiday spirit!

Another Month Gone

2008-12-09T05:57:00.013-05:00

Unfortunately, as you can tell, I don't get around to updating this blog as often as I once did. Truth is, my life is very busy. So, here's an update of the major points that you may have missed over the last month or so:

#1. Halloween
I was Princess Leia and Baby was Yoda. Not only did I dress up to walk around the neighborhood but I also visited "Greatma," aunts and uncles and was in a parade at my preschool. I LOVED dressing up...And I still LOVE Star Wars.

#2. Baby has 4 teeth; eats real food.
Now, I'm able to tear a few pieces off of my High School Musical waffles in the morning and feed them to Baby. She loves them. In fact, she loves every kind of food out there. She's a healthy baby.

#3. Baby "scootches" and swipes my toys.
Usually, I don't mind that the somewhat mobile baby grabs my Star Wars figurines and puts them in my mouth. In fact, we gave her a nickname after a Dora the Explorer character: Swiper!

#4. Christmas Pictures
If you know us, then our card is due to arrive in your mailbox in the next few days!

#5. Ma and Pa visit for Halloween.
That's right! They came to see us in our costumes. And Baby just goes crazy for Pa. In fact. she gives the emotionless "stone-face" to anyone who isn't me, Mama, Dada, or Pa.

#6. Thanksgiving
What a fun day! We hopped around from house to house visiting relatives. Best part? Mama and I decorated our Christmas tree in the morning and put on Christmas carols. At one point, I turned to Mama and said, "This is fun." Mama smiled.

#7. The lights
In addition to helping Dada put up our Christmas lights, I also drove around with the family (including Greatma) to look at the lights in our neighborhood. One house in particular was a glow with thousands and thousands of lights. The man who lives there even gave us goodie bags. How nice!

#8. Barbie and Star Wars still reign...But Playdates and Outings are Even More Fun!
Just give me a Barbie and/or a Star Wars and I am content for at least an hour. I can't get enough of imaginative play! That being said, we still get out a lot to playdates with friends, local museums and my favorite place---THE AQUARIUM! (Even in the wintertime, it's still a blast!)

#9. The Season of Sick Begins
November was a month of sickness for Baby, Mama, and me (especially Mama). One day Mama fell down the stairs and bruised the bone in her knee...the day after that she developed a bad sinus/ear infection. Two days later, I had the sinus/ear infection. Two days after that, Erin did. On top of all of that, I apparently brought home "pink eye" from school; even though I didn't actually get it, Erin did in one eye and Mama did in both eyes! Needless to say, Mama is the only one still battling the sinus infection from early November. Dada and I have been very good nurses and are making Mama rest whenever she can.

#10. Baby Gets Bottles Now
Unfortunately, after 3 ear infections in one month, Mama had to go on strong medicine to help her. That means, Mama had to stop nursing the baby. Mama was sad...but not Erin! She LOVES her new special formula and slurps it up like a milkshake. It's funny to watch how excited Erin gets when she sees the bottle coming towards her.

Touching Me, Touching You

2008-10-26T08:24:00.002-04:00

Erin and I still love to hold hands while Mama drives.

"Where We Goin' Mama?"

2008-10-26T08:16:00.004-04:00

I ask Mama almost everyday "Where we goin' Mama?"

Truth is that we do a lot so I am used to being on the go.

Mama took these pictures right after telling us on Tuesday that we were going to Chuck E Cheese!

That is so cool! (But Erin's not so sure.)

Another Tooth for Baby

2008-10-26T07:56:00.003-04:00

Erin got her second tooth in on October 17. That's two teeth on the bottom right next to each other.

Mama says that she feels a third tooth on its way through up top.

I can't believe how big my baby sister is getting! She's a little more than 8 months old now! That's crazy!

Erin is very good standing all by herself. She just needs someone or something to balance her. But she can stand for about 5 minutes by herself.

Mama thinks that Erin is going to skip the crawling stage and go right to walking. Although Erin now likes to sleep on her belly, she doesn't really like to be on her belly. She pulls back her arms, legs and head away from the floor so that only her belly is touching the floor. Mama calls it Erin's "sky-diving move" because it looks like that.

Erin is napping really well these days. She still doesn't sleep through the night but is getting better. She now naps 2-3 times a day, usually in her crib but sometimes in the car (especially when dropping me off to school).

I have so much fun with Erin. Mama says that no one makes Erin smile like I do. That makes me happy. Baby smiles and laughs a lot now. She even claps her hands for me. She's a very good audience! (And I LOVE an audience!)

Another Friend's Birthday Party

2008-10-15T09:32:00.004-04:00

Back to the Beach

2008-10-11T16:50:00.003-04:00

Today, Mama, Dada, Erin and I went to the beach. We played at the playground A LOT. We pretended that Dada was a shark and we had to run away from him and I steered the "boat" away. Dada would jump out and pop up all over the big playground and try to scare me. I laughed so much.

Then we went for a really long walk to the lighthouse. When we got to it, I thought it looked like an old village. We went inside and it was really cool.

Anyway, we had so much fun...even driving over the bridges to get there. Problem is: we forgot the camera in the car! Oh well. I guess I'll just have to share OTHER beach pictures with you. These are from the day that I "fell in the WAR-DA" while playing with my friends! ;)

Children's Museum

2008-10-07T14:54:00.003-04:00

It was so nice to go back again today. We got there at 10:30am and stayed until almost 2pm!! The best part is that so many of my friends were there. One of my best friends, Becca, was there. She and I rode the motorcycle together. Then I got to show my friend Annie around; she had never been to this museum before. Erin was so happy in the Baby Bjorn for the entire time. She fell asleep on the car ride there and the car ride home.

My favorite memory was dancing in the "DJ room" with Miss Lisa, Annie, Mama, Erin, and Uncle Frank (that's Annie's 83 year old uncle, who we pretty much have all adopted). Uncle Frank played in the radio room with us, telling us stories about radio programs like the Lone Ranger and The Shadow. It sounded pretty cool. But all I wanted to do was DANCE!

Baby Claps!

2008-10-06T20:50:00.003-04:00

Yesterday (October 5), Erin clapped for the first time...and clapped a lot.

Mama was putting Erin to bed when Erin clapped. Mama got so excited that she started clapping. Then baby started clapping just like Mama. Then Mama clapped more...and so did baby. For 15 minutes, they went back and forth clapping. Erin is now 7 and 1/2 months old. I wonder what she will do tomorrow!

Family Time

2008-10-06T20:31:00.005-04:00

We always try to do something as a family every weekend. Some weekends we go to the children's museum or a park or the aquarium or a friend's house.

The weekend before last we went apple picking and eggplant/pepper picking. We had a wonderful time. And brought home 19 pounds of apples!!! Needless to say, we gave some away but we did eat most, thanks to Mama's slow cooker and my love of fresh fruit for breakfast and snacks!

Change of Seasons

2008-10-06T20:29:00.002-04:00

A change of seasons often means a change in the type of playdates that we have and things that we do as a family on the weekends. But Mama really loves to take us to the park still...she says it gets "our energy out." (But I want it *IN*!)

Big Sister Lessons

2008-10-06T20:11:00.004-04:00

Not only do I entertain baby with my silly face, but I also teach her things...take a look!

No More Naps

2008-10-02T13:10:00.006-04:00

I stopped napping about 3 weeks ago. Every once in a while, I might drift off to sleep for a few minutes, but mostly I'm done with napping. Now, with no naps, the late afternoons and evenings are proving to be a very "interesting" time of the day. I get a little...well, nutty...as you will see in these clips.

Evening Playdate at the Beach

2008-10-02T12:54:00.005-04:00

Originally, Mama took this video for Ma and Pa to show them all of the butterflies and how lovely the beach looked in the evening, but watch for my appearance at the end of the video!

A Birthday Party for Two, Part II

2008-10-02T12:36:00.002-04:00

Here is a video from the party mentioned below!

A Birthday Party for Two, Part I

2008-10-02T12:32:00.002-04:00

Two of my friends, Lauren and Ryan, are sister and brother. They are almost exactly a year apart in age, and so they decided to celebrate their birthdays together with a big party for all of their friends (me included!) at a play that has bouncers and an arcade and all kinds of crazy things. We took pictures and video so enjoy!

Erin's 1st Tooth!

2008-10-02T12:21:00.002-04:00

Erin's first tooth came in on September 21. She was 7 months old when it finally "arrived." HOORAY!

WE'RE UPLOADING VIDEOS NOW!

2008-09-08T15:48:00.004-04:00

Can you see the video below of me at the arcade?

While you're at it, check out this new site that Mama is a part of:

Caution: Teething in Progress

2008-09-08T15:36:00.002-04:00

Watch out! Erin is teething (and has been since she was 3 months old). No teeth yet but she's already chomped on things that she shouldn't, like:

* My Chewbacca figurine
* Mama's Blackberry
* A tissue
* The remote
* My hair
* Mama's hair
* A wipe
* A book
* Barbie

She tried to grab and chomp on Fenway's tail but we caught her in time. We convinced her that her thumb or a binky were better options. (She agrees.)

Get Yer Motor Runnin'...

2008-09-08T15:34:00.001-04:00

My Official 1st Day of Preschool!

2008-09-08T15:31:00.002-04:00

On September 3, 2008, I officially started preschool. Although I had moved into a "big kid class" in July, this day was the official first day of school. Here I am in my new outfit, with a new haircut, and new shoes. I'm so excited, can't you tell?!

Bye Bye Summer!

2008-09-08T15:28:00.003-04:00

It's been a really cool summer. All of my cousins were here everyday. It was like having a constant playdate right in my backyard! We played so many things (Star Wars, making a movie, house, hide and go seek, Barbies, video games, etc), but the best part was just having so many fun kids to play with. Now everyone is back to school. That makes me a little sad but, then again, I have school too. (And I like school.)

Erin Naps...Finally!

2008-09-08T15:22:00.002-04:00

Erin is now getting to be a very consistent and content napper...finally.

It was rough for a while. Erin was so intent on learning and being awake that she would not nap for more than 3 ten-minute naps and sometimes even less. It was hard on everyone. But, despite that, I still always am so good with my little sister. I never get mad at her and just want to play with her.

Now that she is napping more, she is happier. And now that she is sitting up and interacting more, I've fallen in love all over again...with my little sis!

(By the way, I told Mama the other day that I like Erin's eyes. I told her that they "look like blueberries." What do you think?)

My Special Birthday Party!

2008-09-08T15:18:00.003-04:00

Finally, I was center stage for my very own birthday party. I'm 3 now!

I had all of my friends from the "mommy group" and my cousin Ryan come to a place that is a big inside playground. We played on "every-fing" and then they sang happy birthday to me and I got toys. The day was, in my own words, "pretty fun!"

In the Pool

2008-09-08T15:13:00.002-04:00

I became a good swimmer this summer. I wear a bathing suit (I say "seething boot" for some reason), my lifesaver (so I don't go "down down" in the water) and a little float around my waist. When those are on, I can go in the water all by myself...as long as an adult is watching me.

I dance in the water, I splash, I play with "Poo poos" (my word for water guns, and well, any toy blasters), I swim and race around.

I can swim really well now!

Erin Sits Up

2008-09-08T15:10:00.003-04:00

Erin is so funny. On her exact 6-month-birthday (August 24) she sat up. Now she can sit up and play with me. Plus, she is eating cereal and fruits and veggies. Granted, the fruits and veggies are in baby food jars and are all mushy, but she really loves them so much. She's a healthy eater!

...And August is Here!

2008-08-13T12:56:00.005-04:00

August...my birthday month! And what a birthday it is shaping up to be!

First, Erin was baptized! Mama told me that we were going to a special place called church so that Erin could become God's friend. When Mama asked me, "Do you know who God is?" I promptly responded, "Darth Vader!" Mama laughed and told me that she definitely needed to look into Sunday school. (Apparently Darth Vader is incorrect.)

Next, a friend of mine hosted a party for my little "Hospital Group" of friends. These are all of the kids that I met when I was 6 weeks old, through a moms group set up by the hospital that I was born at. We had a lot of fun! I've included a bunch of pictures.

More pictures and details to come on my birthday and all the other birthdays that we celebrated this month.

July Flies By...

2008-08-13T12:36:00.003-04:00

I haven't posted in a long time but the truth is that I barely have the time to get online. What with starting nursery school (!!!) on July 9, having my cousins here to play with me (right in my backyard), going to library programs, running around with my friends at playdates, swimming in the pool (I LOVE it!!), riding my big wheels, and entertaining my baby sister, the summer is flying by.

And everyday Erin gets bigger and closer to being my best friend that I can actually PLAY with. At 5 and 1/2 months, Erin found her toes (and promptly shoved them into her mouth). I let her pull my hair because it makes her laugh. I also share my Disney figurines with her...but only the big ones since she puts EVERYTHING in her mouth and Mama told me that she can choke on little toys.

I'm sure that there's much more to tell but...I gotta run! Things to do and places to see, you know...

Spray Park With Mama and Baby

2008-07-08T19:33:00.002-04:00

Today I had a playdate with friends at the spray park. I had a TON of fun! Not only did I splash in all of the little puddles and sprinkles but also the really big ones that only the big kids go in. (It's okay because I'm a big kid too! At least, that's what I tell everyone!)

Mama put Erin in a little bathing suit shirt too. Erin mostly stayed out of the sun but did get sprayed a little. I'm not sure that she really liked it.

Mama wanted to take pictures there but there was too much going on. She even got into the spirit and got dunked under the water too. I took buckets of water and splashed her with them.

When we came home, Mama put Erin and I on the couch and took pictures to remember the day. Then we had "quiet time"...and it sure was quiet in the house with both Erin and me napping!

Summer Recess

2008-06-30T09:53:00.002-04:00

Work has been slow for Mama lately, so we cut back on my days at "school" for the summer. That means more time with Mama and Erin! WOOHOO!

A Long Time Between Posts

2008-06-25T10:51:00.021-04:00

I know, I know. I've been slacking with my blogging. But really, it's been a busy time here.

Here's 10 things that have happened in June:

#1. Ma and Pa came for an unexpected (and much appreciated) visit this month. They stayed for about 2 weeks, and played a lot with me and Erin (and Mama and Dada too).

#2. I had Field Day at school. That's the day that we all go outside and exercise and play fun games.

#3. Erin went to the "tummy doctor" to help her tummy. She was spitting up a lot and was very crabby (Mama affectionately calls Erin "Crabby Crab Cakes" or "Crab Apple" when she's really cranky). She even had trouble pooping and napping because her tummy hurt so much. So, now Erin is on more medicine to help her and it seems to be working, thankfully. (I really feel bad when she cries.)

#4. We had a garage sale and made almost $250! Mama organized the garage sale and a lot of my friends' mommies brought things over to sell too. Dada took care of me and Erin while Mama took care of making money from our "junk."

#5. I went to another birthday party and had a few at school too. I have yet ANOTHER birthday party this weekend for my cousin, Ryan, who I go to school with.

#6. I got new shoes, and am now in 5T tops and 4T shorts/pants. Erin is in 3-6 month and some 6-month clothes and doesn't have new shoes because babies don't need shoes.

#7. I went to the children's museum with my friends.

#8. I went to the farm with my friends.

#9. Mama put my hair up in pigtails and I wore it the ENTIRE day like that (a big deal since I usually take clips out of my hair almost immediately).

#10. Mama and Dada took us to the aquarium and then strawberry-picking.

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-26T20:34:00.003-04:00

We had a really nice weekend as a family. On Saturday, Mama and Dada worked around the house for a bit while I hung out with my cousins and Aunt Bonnie who had come down for a visit for the weekend. On Sunday, Mama, Dada, Erin and I went to an old time village where I saw them sheer a sheep, make shoes for horses, spin sheep fur into clothes, bake blueberry pies in a fireplace, and many other things. But my favorite memory is sitting under a tree with my family and having a picnic; it was so nice and relaxing. On Monday, we went to a parade and cheered on all of the policemen and firemen. Then I played with even more cousins. They were all so nice to me.

Unfortunately we didn't take a lot of pictures because the camera battery died; but you can just imagine how fun and relaxing my weekend was...

Lunch

2008-05-25T09:16:00.002-04:00

Mama took Erin and me into town this past Friday. We love town. We walk around in the stroller and play "I Spy!" ("I spy a flag...does anyone see a flag?"). Mama also took me to the local cafe for lunch. Erin slept next to us in her stroller.

The best part is that Mama let me where my princess dress-up dress out. I asked her if I could. I said, "I wear my dress, and everyone say 'WOW!'" And they did!

Settling In As a Family

2008-05-25T02:46:00.004-04:00

Now that Erin is 3 months and 1 week, we are really settling in as a family. Erin still sleeps a lot and eats a lot but she is developing a real personality. Since day 1, Erin has been really good at lifting her head and looking around. She just wants to see and be a part of the world around her. She's generally a very content baby, though she does cry (especially if she's hungry or having a tough time soothing herself to sleep). When Erin's awake, I like to play with her. And she watches me and smiles at me a lot. She also recognizes and smiles at Dada too...and, of course, she knows Mama.

Even though our family has grown and our schedules have changed a bit, Mama still brings us places and does things to entertain us. Last week, Mama took us to the children's museum (see pictures). She packed up the double stroller and also put Erin in the Baby Bjorn. Erin was so fascinated with the colors and activity at the museum...then she fell asleep pretty much for the whole time that we were there. But I played for almost 2 whole hours! I had so much fun. Then the other day, we hosted an impromptu afternoon playdate at our house for a few of my friends. The weather hadn't been nice so Mama felt an afternoon playdate was in order. We even ordered pizza! (Unfortunately, I don't have any pictures from the playdate; sorry!)

Anyway, I love going places and seeing things...now when I wake up I say, "Mama, where we going today?"

Playing With Baby

2008-05-25T02:35:00.007-04:00

Mama brings us upstairs and gives Erin tummy time. I take out Erin's "baby toys" and play with them (and show them to her). I also really like to have baby propped up on a pillow on the floor, and I lay next to her and read her books. Sometimes Mama takes off Baby's onesies and puts her in a diaper to do tummy time; then, of course, I want to be down to my diaper too. It makes Mama laugh, and me too. I like being silly.

Baby likes to watch me play too. Like the time when I asked Mama to play hairdresser with me and we put all of my clips in my hair (and some in Mama's hair too). That made Baby laugh...and cry (maybe because she doesn't have enough hair yet to have clips in it?!?!). Silly baby...you'll have hair one day!

Hey!

2008-05-06T20:56:00.003-04:00

"Hey!" is one of my favorite phrases. It seems to make a real point.

"Hey! What are you eating?!"

"Hey! That not right!"

"Hey! I missing something!"

"Hey! You eyes are all shiny Mama" (Mama had makeup on one day)

Mama doesn't really like "Hey!" so when she catches me (and remembers) she tells me that, "Hay is for horses...and sometimes cows!"

So now when Mama says, "Hey!" I remind her with a chuckle that it's for horses.

Getting Better With Pronouns

2008-05-06T20:54:00.002-04:00

Now I've gone from calling Erin "it" to calling Erin "he"...as in:

"He's awake!!"
"Oh! Ick! He spit up!"
"He's so cute!"

Mama reminds me that Erin is a "she" like me...at least I'm getting better.

Erin Laughs...for the First Time!

2008-05-06T20:53:00.009-04:00

On Sunday (May 5, 2008), Erin laughed for the first time. She's 10 weeks old now. Grandma was holding her and we were all at Grandma's house when all of a sudden she let out a big chuckle. It was so cute!

(Here is Erin with her very first toy; a toy that I picked out for her right after she was born. It plays music and it makes her smile.)

My Cousins!

2008-05-06T20:51:00.002-04:00

I love when my cousins come to visit me. I have LOTS and LOTS of cousins. They are so nice to me. They play lacrosse with me in the backyard. We ride bikes together. They watch out for me.

I love when my cousins come to play with me!

I Love Playing Pretend

2008-05-06T20:49:00.004-04:00

One day I am a backpacking fairy princess (see photo).

The next day I am having a tea party with my baby (see picture).

And the next day I am a movie star (see picture).

Playing pretend is lots of fun!

"I Big Sister"

2008-05-06T20:44:00.003-04:00

With everywhere I go and everyone I meet, my usual first words are, "I big sister!" I am so proud to be a big sister and show off "my baby, Erin."

Now that I am a big sister, I completely believe that I am also a big kid. If Mama says that I can't play with something because it is dangerous (like scissors), I respond, "But I big kid." When I go to the park, I search out the big kids. One day a girl who looked to be about 8 years old said, "We have to be careful. There's a baby on the see saw too." I looked around, and laughed. I didn't see a baby. I only saw that girl, another girl her age, and me. Because I am a big kid now, I responded, "I have baby! Come see, Erin!"

Playdates, Playdates, Playdates

2008-04-18T20:50:00.005-04:00

Even with school, the new baby, and classes, Mama still finds time to get together with our friends for playdates. I am very lucky to have so many friends. I really enjoy playing and having fun with friends.

(And Erin really likes sleeping in her car seat! No, really, she does!)

My NEW Favorite Toys

2008-04-18T20:40:00.004-04:00

It's my Disney figurines. I have figurines from the movies Bambi, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Beauty and the Beast and all of the "Disney Princesses." I bring them around the house and set them all up in different places. My favorite thing to do is set them up. I also act out little scenes with them too.

The Disney Princesses are my new obsession. I now play dress-up to look just like a princess. I read books at night by myself about the princesses (and I usually have Dada read a Disney Princess story like Beauty and the Beast or The Little Mermaid as my bedtime story [Dada reads my bedtime stories]).

I even listen to a music CD in the car that is devoted solely to songs that Snow White, Little Mermaid, Jasmine and other princesses sing on. I love it!

It's Not Easy Being a Baby

2008-04-18T20:18:00.002-04:00

Wow, I didn't know how much hard work it was being a baby. Mama gives Erin "tummy time" so that she can do exercises. I clap and cheer Erin on. I show her how to lift her head. Mama says that it is important that Erin lifts her head herself--I want to help her--because it will make her stronger.

You can do it, Erin!

Teaching Baby to Smile for the Camera

2008-04-18T20:12:00.003-04:00

So, I smiled "CHEESE!" for the camera...

...A few minutes later, so did baby!

Special Time

2008-04-16T14:05:00.004-04:00

Mama and Dada are making sure that Erin and I get our own special time with each of them. While I am at school, Erin went to the library today for a Mommy & Me program with Mama. Mama told me that Erin smiled SO BIG when Mama sang to her; it was Erin's biggest smile yet. When Dada comes home, I get special time with him. We play with my toys in the basement; I play video games with Dada (Star Wars LEGOS---my favorite character? Darth Vader!) No joke! Sometimes at night, Dada will take Erin and spend time with her and Mama comes up to my bedroom and plays dress up with me.

I love Mama and Dada very much. And, so far, because they still spend so much time with me, I'm not jealous that they also have special time with Erin. There's lots of love to go around!

Baby Erin Update

2008-04-16T13:51:00.003-04:00

Just thought I would give you the latest scoop on my little sister:

It seems that baby Erin has a cold. She's had it for about 2 weeks. Could it have something to do with the fact that I had a cold and, when I went to kiss her one day, I accidently squeezed on her?! ....hmmm....NAH!

Dada and Mama are taking extra special care of Erin. Mama's drinking lots of OJ and eating protein to help Erin's immune system fight the cold. But because Erin's so young, she can't take any medication. I feel so sad that Erin is sick. But Mama says that there is a bright side: her immune system will keep getting stronger.

Keep fighting those "bugs," Erin!

My 1st Professional Haircut

2008-04-16T13:29:00.003-04:00

I had my first professional haircut yesterday. Mama took me to a special place where I got to sit in a "Lightning McQueen" car and watch a movie while they cut my hair. I wasn't nervous at all. If fact, I was very good with listening to the lady's instructions.

Erin came and Mama mostly held her so she could see me getting my haircut. I wanted to be super good because I am a role model now that I am a big sister (I take the job seriously)!

I Cook!

2008-04-16T13:22:00.003-04:00

Again, here I am helping Mama. I cooked corn muffins to go along with our dinner one night. I put the ingredients in the bowl, stirred them, whisked them, and then poured them into the muffin pan using a big spoon.

Mama was very proud of me. More importantly, Dada and Mama loved eating my fresh made corn muffins!

Not Shy Anymore!

2008-04-16T10:07:00.004-04:00

I used to be a shy kid. When strangers would talk to me, I would hide a little.

Now, everywhere I go I talk to people. I tell them that I am a big sister. I show them my baby sister. I tell them, "This is my mama." I show them my new shoes.

And it doesn't matter where I am. I could be at the doctor's. I could be at the mall.

As long as there are people, I like to talk to them.

I Love to Help Mama

2008-04-16T10:02:00.002-04:00

Mama has so much to do, and since I love to be around Mama as much as possible, I am certainly willing to get my hands dirty too (though I prefer to do work that keeps my hands clean).

MapQuests Got Nothing on Me!

2008-04-07T20:18:00.002-04:00

On the way home from a playdate the other day, we were diverted off of the road by some police officers. "Dudes" were cutting each other off and zooming through the parking lots. They seemed very angry. I could tell that Mama was getting a little tense.

Of course, being the ever-curious toddler, I wanted to know what was going on. "What is it, Mama?! What happened, Mama?! Dude bang car, Mama?!" Despite Mama's reassurances that the police officer was asking us off the road to help someone, I wanted to know more. "Why?"

At this point, Mama was figuring how to get home. Of course, that didn't stop me from asking all of my questions. Finally Mama said, "Honey, Mama needs to pay attention so I need you to be quiet for a minute, okay?" Of course, it didn't work. So Mama was a little more firm that she needed me to be patient so she could concentrate.

I finally listened.

Then, out of the blue, I exclaimed, "I thinking!" And then "I have idea!!!"

Mama asked me what my idea was. I told her to go "That way." and pointed to a road up ahead. Apparently, it was a good idea because Mama started laughing and reached behind to give me a high five. I guess she didn't expect a toddler to be thinking, tapping her hand on her mouth, and then giving directions.

We did make it home safely, but not before seeing a bunch of police cars and fire trucks in the road. Again I asked Mama my new favorite question: "Why?"

Mama told me that "They're cleaning the road to make it safe for everyone. And the best way to be safe is to listen to Mama when she says to be quiet. Mama needs to focus on driving."

"Okay, Mama," I said. "I listen."

And I did!

Can I Feed Baby?!

2008-04-07T20:16:00.002-04:00

I told Mama that *I* wanted to give the baby "Mama milk." I said, "I have boob too!"

Mama told me that I was very sweet but I would have to wait until I was a mama too to feed a baby. Oh, man.

I Help Mama

2008-04-07T20:12:00.002-04:00

Lately I have been super attached to Mama. I want to be with her a lot. I want to help her hold the baby. I want to help her make dinner (especially pancakes!). I want to help her feed the cats and do the laundry. I just miss Mama sometimes. I get so sad sometimes but I don't know why. I like being a big sister and I love my baby sister but I miss getting attention sometimes.

My mama said that it is okay to be sad. Sometimes she tells me that she misses me too.

"I Pee On Potty!"

2008-04-07T20:09:00.002-04:00

Today, Dada brought my potty to school. Mama and Dada said that it's time for me to start to pee and poop on potty. I seemed ready to do this and then baby came along and now I'm a little reluctant. That is, until I saw my friends at school using the potty. Apparently I am one of the last kids at school in diapers! HEY! No one told me!

So, I went on the potty today. Mama and Dada are so very proud!

(Yeah...no pictures for this one obviously!) :)

Baby Sister Beats My Record!

2008-04-07T20:00:00.003-04:00

So Mama told me that she remembers thinking it unusual and amazing that at 8 weeks old, I was holding on to her fingers and pulling myself into a sitting position. She called it "Baby sit-ups." Even then, she said that she knew I would be independent and "determined" (and I am).

Well, this week, at 5 and 1/2 weeks, Baby Erin started pulling herself into a sit-up from a laying down position. She's ready already to get going; no more sitting around for Baby Erin (well, at least, not when she's awake!). I think it's pretty amazing that Erin does exercises already!

Mama said there must be something to this "Mama milk" after all.

Back-to-Back Parties

2008-04-07T18:45:00.006-04:00

On Sunday, I went to a party for my friend Alex. She turned 3. On Monday, I went to ANOTHER party. This one was for my friend, Annie, who turned 4. Here are some pictures from those parties (Mama and Erin came too!).

Girls' Day Out

2008-03-31T20:55:00.004-04:00

Dada had his all-day draft for his fantasy baseball league, so Mama (who I now have started calling "Mommy" some days) decided it was a good day for a "Girls' Day Out." First, Mama, Erin, and I went to a big mall. We went to a special store where I picked out a doggie and got to dress her whatever I wanted to dress her and got to wash her and comb her. While I did that, Erin slept in the car seat (which sits in our new double stroller).

After the mall, we headed home (Erin and I fell asleep in the car). We had lunch at home, and then headed out again. This time we went to our local library to pick out new videos. While I played puzzles with Mama at the library, Erin slept in the car seat/stroller.

Next, we went to the food store ("eat store") where we picked up marshmellows, popcorn and soy milk. The marshmellows were for me, the popcorn for Mama, and the soy milk for Erin (Mama is starting to drink soy milk because Erin gets an upset tummy sometimes and Mama thinks that she, Mama, needs to drink less real milk. You see, Erin drinks "Mama milk" from Mama.). While I helped Mama shop, Erin slept in the car seat/stroller.

Finally, we got home, put a bunch of blankets and pillows on the floor in the living room, and set up our snacks for "Movie Night." We watched Cinderella II and then Aladdin. While I watched the movies with Mama, Erin...well...Erin woke up, had her Mama milk and then snuggled with us.

We then ate ravioli (Mama and me, that is. Erin has no teeth--or "teef" as I call them) and ended the night around bedtime, when Dada arrived home.

I had such a good "Girls' Day Out" that I hope we all do it again really soon! Unfortunately Mama says she needs a little rest before the next one. :)

My Amazing Baby Sister!

2008-03-31T20:44:00.002-04:00

I have to share this with you because I was really impressed!

On Thursday, March 27, my baby sister rolled over from her belly to her back 3 times! She was only 4 and 1/2 WEEKS old (that's pretty amazing considering that most babies start rolling over when they are about 3-4 MONTHS old). She rolled over again today, so I'm pretty sure it wasn't a fluke.

I get really excited when she can do something. I cheer when Erin kicks her feet or lifts her head up when doing "tummy time." I am very proud of my baby sister.

Happy Easter!

2008-03-27T12:54:00.002-04:00

We had a wonderful Easter. Erin and I briefly dressed up for pictures. We colored eggs and had an Easter egg hunt. We had a birthday cake for Aunt Lisa and another birthday cake for the Easter Bunny. I even gave out candy to my family.

I had a lot of fun just spending time with my family.

Taking Care of Baby

2008-03-27T12:51:00.002-04:00

I am excited to see the baby every morning. I talk to her and sit with her. I brush her hair gently. I turn on her bouncey seat. I kiss her too.

She is a good baby sister. And I am a good big sister too.

Chef Leah

2008-03-18T12:37:00.003-04:00

I'm really big into "imaginative play" now. That means that I like to make up scenarios and act things out with either my cars, trains, Disney figurines, stuffed animals or...well...with costumes and other people. When Mama and Dada got me this chef outfit to go with my new kitchen (both congratulatory gifts for being a "new big sister"), I was more than happy to serve up some good food. My favorite thing to serve?
Blueberry pie! (Chef Pig from one of my favorite shows--"Word World"--serves that too.)

"Awww...It's So Cute!"

2008-03-18T09:04:00.002-04:00

That's my exact reaction to (and statement about) my new baby sister. I want to hold baby sister a lot. I help her put on her toys so that she can listen to pretty music. I even give her some of my toys in hopes that we can play together but she can't really hold them.

It's okay...it's still so cute!

She's Here!

2008-03-14T20:27:00.006-04:00

My new baby sister is finally here! And her name is Erin.

As you probably have noticed, I've been pretty MIA from writing my blog. That's because it's been a whirlwind as we prepared for baby and then baby all of a sudden arrived.

Although Erin wasn't officially supposed to be born until March 11, Mama woke Dada up at 5am on February 24 to tell him that she thought that she needed to go to the hospital. I woke up around 5:30am and was concerned that Mama was sick. But Mama said that she was okay, then Ma D. came over to feed me breakfast and watch cartoons with me so Mama and Dada could go out for a bit.

The next day I went up to visit Mama and my new baby! I was so excited. I really wanted to bring Mama and baby home then and there but Mama said that she had to stay in the hospital for a few more days to rest and take care of Erin.

Since then, things are pretty much back to normal. I'm getting a lot of attention (and having a lot of fun) with Ma and Pa who are visiting with us. Mama says that I am the best big sister and that I am something called "maternal." The moment the baby cries I say, "Mama, the baby needs you!" or I say to Erin, "Don't cry baby." I am not jealous at all over the baby. I just want to make sure that she is happy.

And I am happy as a big sister...officially!!

A New Haircut

2008-02-11T11:38:00.000-05:00

I don't like clips or bows in my hair so Mama came up with a solution to keep my hair out of my face and still look cute---a new, short haircut!

I like it a lot more because I don't have to constantly get the hair out of my face. Mama did it herself one day while I was watching a video (after a bath). I stayed still the whole time while Mama cut my hair. It wasn't a big deal at all.

Miss Perceptive

2008-02-11T11:24:00.000-05:00

Mama says that I am very "perceptive." It means that I am very in-tune with what people are feeling and what is going on around me. Now that Mama is getting ready to bring home my new baby, I can see that she is very tired. One time, when Mama grimaced I asked her, "What's wrong, Mama?" and Mama told me that the baby kicked her. Well, I went right up to Mama's tummy and I said very firmly, "Don't kick Mama, baby!" Mama laughed for some reason.

I also get upset if I think that Mama and Dada are sad or mad. Recently, after a time-out, I told Mama that I was mad at her. When she asked why I said, "BECAUSE YOU MAD AT ME!" Mama explained that it was okay to be mad but it is not okay to throw things or to hit, which is why I was in time-out in the first place. (You see, even though I understand emotions, I am still learning about how to vocalize them properly.)

And, boy, am I worrying about Mama lately. I am always asking Mama if she is happy, sad, mad, tired or hurt. She seems to want to sit or rest a lot more than I am used to, and she can be cranky some afternoons. Mama says that I shouldn't worry, that she is okay. She says that her being tired has nothing to do with me and that I am a good, little girl. That makes me happy.

Marching to the Beat of My Own Drummer!

2008-02-03T19:55:00.000-05:00

As you can tell in this picture---of me wearing a Home Depot hard hat AND a Disney Princess dress---I don't fit into anyone's stereotypes or gender types. My parents are just as happy to entertain my fascination with trucks and snakes as they are to entertain my love of Prince Eric (from The Little Mermaid) and wearing jewelry.

Mama says that this picture best reflects my spirit. And hey! I think I look pretty cute too!

Another Birthday Party

2008-01-28T20:17:00.001-05:00

This was the second birthday party that I went to this month. Mama says that I have a more active social life than she does! We went to an indoor playground where we got to run and jump and play. We also did a scavenger hunt, played with a pinata and ate pizza and cake. More importantly, I love this friend of mine. Her name is Becca. I told Mama before the party that "I love Becca. She my best friend." Mama likes Becca's mama too so it works out well.

And I love birthday parties. When it is someone's birthday, I say, "Happy birthday to you, [name]!" I just LOVE that song!

A Weekend at the Farm

2008-01-14T09:48:00.000-05:00

Mama, Dada, and I went to our farm and had a great time! Enjoy the pictures!

A Bunch of Christmas Pictures

2008-01-09T11:16:00.000-05:00

I Like This Christmas

2008-01-07T19:12:00.000-05:00

Despite my face in the picture (taken at school right before our Christmas party), I really had a lot of fun this Christmas. I *so* was into opening presents. What fun! I think the actual ripping open the presents was as much fun as playing with the new toys inside! Still, I got a lot of great toys, books and clothes. I made sure to say thank you to everyone...even Santa (which I pronounce "San-tee").
Mama and Dada opened presents with me early on Christmas morning. It was our special time together. And before I unwrapped a present, I looked at it, held it up, turned to Mama and Dada and said, "I don't know what this is." And they said, "Well, open it." And I would cheerfully reply, "OKAY!" before methodically peeling the wrapping paper.

I really liked everything about Christmas, from the visits with relatives to the late drives with Ma and Pa to see Christmas lights to the beautiful Christmas tree in our living room to the baking of the Christmas cookies and more!

Only another 350+ days until next Christmas!

Christmas Cookies With Ma

2008-01-06T07:36:00.000-05:00

Mom cut the cookies and showed me how to put sprinkles on them. Then we baked them and I gave them to Mama, Dada, and Pa to eat. I was so excited that everyone liked our special cookies. It was fun making them.

Visiting Ma and Pa's Friends

2007-12-24T09:44:00.000-05:00

While we were down in Florida, we visited with Ma and Pa's friends, Pat and Dan. They have a BIG doggie named Shadow. I had a lot of fun during my brief visit with them.

Back From Our Disney/Florida Trip!

2007-12-10T12:16:00.000-05:00

They say a picture is worth a thousand words so instead of going on and on about how much fun I had chanting "All aboard!" on the Main Street train at Magic Kingdom or the endless laughs I shared with Pa singing "Born to be Wild" with napkins tied around our heads like bandanas or me making Ma laugh so hard that she was practically crying on the Dumbo ride or the thrills I had on my first rollercoaster ride, I'm going to share a bunch of pictures with you so you see all of the fun that we had...after all, I'm still recovering from all of the excitement!

Thanksgiving

2007-11-30T14:15:00.000-05:00

We didn't get a lot of pictures because, although we had dinner at Ma's next door, Mama and Dada cooked. I mostly played with my cousin Bryan and "Unc Paul" who I just could not get enough of. Unc Paul helped me do a puzzle of Lighting McQueen (he's the main character in "Cars," my new obsession!).

It was a very good dinner because we were able to relax with family that we don't seen as often as we like...my aunts, uncles, and cousins. Later I had desert at Dada's aunt's house, complete with birthday cupcakes (note the hat!) and toys. I found a musical instrument that I kept calling my "tuba." I learned that word while watching a new favorite show---Word World. It teaches me letters and sounds and words.

And I Still Love Blankie!!

2007-11-30T14:14:00.001-05:00

I Still Love Trains!

2007-11-30T14:11:00.001-05:00

Fun With My Friends

2007-11-30T14:00:00.000-05:00

I love to get together with my friends, whether at the indoor playground or the indoor farm. I just have so much fun! I've even begun to befriend the babies of our "playgroup." I help the babies walk and share my snacks with them. I also get sad when they cry. I like happy babies!

Fun With Friends

2007-11-16T14:09:00.000-05:00

This morning we trekked to the children's museum to meet up with a bunch of friends and play. We were there from 10:20am until 1pm! I had so much fun that I pooped out quickly on the car ride home. Here's hoping that I have a really long nap (I sure need it!).

My favorite things were playing in the car that they have inside the museum and playing in the music rooms with my friends, Becca and Alex (their sisters are too small to play really but I think that they still had fun watching us "big sisters"...or "big sisters-to-be" in my case)!

Build-A-Bear...or Penguin

2007-11-04T16:09:00.000-05:00

Mama and Dada took me to a really big mall today. We walked around a lot and then ended up in a store with lots of animals. Mama and Dada told me to pick one and that I could feed it, give it a heart, name it, wash it, comb it, and dress it. Although there were lots of cute and cuddly bears there, I chose a penquin as my new friend.

The most exciting part was to pick out a heart and then wash the penquin (who we named Penny). I washed her MANY times.

After that, Mama and Dada took me to see horses at the mall. I got to ride a zebra...TWICE!

What a day!

Baking is Fun!

2007-11-04T16:03:00.000-05:00

Since Dada and I both have a cough, Mama came up with some fun things for us to do for another day spent in the house. We baked! And we decorated! And we ate!

We made a spooky Halloween gingerbread house and five little Halloween cakes. Mama mixed, stirred, and cleaned. Dada baked and spread the icing. And I...well...I mostly licked the icing and spread the sprinkles and got sticky...but it was still a lot of fun!

What Do You Do When You're Sick and Can't Go Out to Play?

2007-11-02T17:24:00.000-04:00

Here's what *I* do:

Race my "Cars" on the sleepy cat's head and body.

Feed the cat pretzels.

Play hide and seek with Mama while she does the laundry.

Enjoy my toys in the basement.

Draw on my big eisel.

Race around in laundry baskets.

Read books on the couch.

Skate on the kitchen floor with my new slippers.

Chew on blankie.

Recite the alphabet.

Slide the cars along the kitchen floor.

Halloween, After School

2007-11-02T15:53:00.001-04:00

After school, Mama and I went over to my greatgrandma's house, where we met up with other family, including my cousins, Ryan and Alec. We all weren't feeling so great (the three of us have colds) so it was a quick visit. I did get to see Ryan and Alec's costumes, though I wasn't in the mood to put mine back on. Instead, I opted for my candy corn pants!

After feeding ducks, snapping some photos, and getting a cute Halloween gift bag from "Great Ma," we headed home. I didn't trick or treat after that. Instead, I asked to watch my new favorite movie (the 2nd movie that I have ever seen)---"Cars!" I fell asleep shortly afterwards.

Trick or Treat at School!

2007-10-31T13:51:00.001-04:00

This was my first, real trick or treating experience, with the holding of the bag, the saying "Trick treat," and the putting of the goods into the bag. I even got a special trick-or-treat bag that had my name on it; I put some stickers on it to make it even better.

I TOTALLY love this holiday!

While the other kids dilly dallied through the halls, I bee-lined right for the classrooms with the bowls of treats and methodically placed one treat in my bag, said thank you, and moved to the next classroom. When we got back to our classroom I was the only kid to spill out my treats to review what I had picked up. I only eat "pops" (lollipops), pretzels and gummi treats, but it was still fun to see what was in my bag.

We also went to the big gym to play a game and listen to songs about Halloween. Mama stayed the whole time to watch me and help with all of the kids since Mama just became the official class parent for my classroom. She even gave out cupcakes that my cousin Cara made for the class and danced with us to music from a CD that Mama had made for our classroom. It was fun to have her there with us.

But, the best part was when a real life Winnie the Pooh (who I call "Tig Pooh" as a combo of Tigger and Pooh) showed up in the hallway. I gave him a high five, and was all smiles!

Visiting the Museum

2007-10-31T13:49:00.000-04:00

We haven't been to our "kid museum" in a long time. Finally, Mama and I went on Tuesday. We were there just as it opened up. I had so much fun playing pretend---I cooked for Mama, dished out food for Mama, we went to sleep in a little hut, we fished, we made bubbles, we played in a car, and we did so much more.

In fact, we were so busy that Mama didn't snap any pictures until we got back in the car. I was more than happy to say cheese!

Indoor Playground

2007-10-24T13:31:00.000-04:00

Mama took me to an indoor playground yesterday. We were the only people there for the entire hour that we stayed. Mostly I wanted to play in this big enclosed trampoline-like tent but Mama and I also played chase, hide and seek (I can count to 5 by myself and 10 with a little help!), and house.

What a blast!

Playtime at the Mall

2007-10-24T13:17:00.000-04:00

I love the mall. I get excited whenever I see it. And when Mama asks what I want to do on the way back home from school, I almost always say "Mall!" I like to play in the indoor playground and watch the fish that swim around in the indoor fish pond. I also like the little rides, especially the ice cream truck (seen here). I love to "dish out" ice cream to Mama.

ACORNS!

2007-10-19T17:28:00.000-04:00

One of my new favorite outdoor activities is to collect acorns. I put them in cups and buckets. I line them up and count them. I show them to Ma.

Here I am on the hunt for acorns. I get so excited that Mama and Dada can barely keep up!

Me and "Daph"

2007-10-19T17:24:00.000-04:00

This is me and Daphne (who I call "Daph"). She used to be very afraid of me, since I was a baby. She used to run and hide when I came in a room. But I have learned how to pet nice and how to move slower and how to whisper. Now we are the best of friends. She often sits with me (and vice versa).

Here I am reading and telling her all about my Thomas trains. She likes that. And she also likes to snuggle.

One Rainy Day + No School = Chuck E. Cheese!

2007-10-19T17:15:00.000-04:00

Mama took me to Chuck E. Cheese today. We had pizza and played a lot of games. Usually I play the little kid games and the ones where I get tickets (and I get A LOT of tickets. It makes Mama laugh when I land on "125 tickets!"). But today I climbed up on a SUPER BIG game meant for older kids.

Just as Mama was trying to help me down, one of the workers there came by and said that he would put it on for me just to see.

Well, that was all it took. I was HOOKED. It was a game where I was a pilot of a jet and I had to fly around other jets and mountains. Without any help, I got up to level 3!! NO KIDDING! I wouldn't let Mama help me. She was laughing so loud! But then I crashed...and I wasn't too happy about that.

Mama said I can't play again until I am older because it isn't exactly "age-appropriate" (whatever that means), but I still had a lot of fun!

"Night Night Time"

2007-10-09T08:40:00.000-04:00

We have a whole ritual for "night night time"---every single night. It usually starts with me noticing that it's getting dark outside (OH! DARK!). I'm a little afraid of the dark; I don't like it. Mama reminds me that the dark means it's getting to be "night night time." After "clean up time"---when I put away my toys---Dada brings me upstairs to change me into my PJs and give me a toothbrush. We climb in bed and read a book or two. Then Mama comes up and finishes brushing my teeth and sings to me. Then it's off to my crib for a nice long sleep.

Dada, Mama, and I all love night night time. It's just so nice to be together as a family.

(And, yes, that is a Yankees shirt...compliments of my Uncle Robert. Dada only lets me wear it to bed!)