*(We didn't even have to search for a spot when we parked downtown to eat at Abe's. The first meter we pulled up to had almost an hour and a half left on it! Phil is our cheap, lucky charm.)
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Friday, May 30, 2008
More on Phil...
When Phil lived in Scranton and needed to park downtown, he would drive all around the city until he found a meter to park at that still had time left on it.* From what Robyn tells us, he does this when trying to park his car in Columbus as well.
*(We didn't even have to search for a spot when we parked downtown to eat at Abe's. The first meter we pulled up to had almost an hour and a half left on it! Phil is our cheap, lucky charm.)
*(We didn't even have to search for a spot when we parked downtown to eat at Abe's. The first meter we pulled up to had almost an hour and a half left on it! Phil is our cheap, lucky charm.)
You Don't Love Me, You Just Love the Local Jewish Deli
Our friends Phil and Robyn stopped by for a visit on their way from Ohio to Central America. Yes, apparently Scranton, PA is mid-way between Columbus and Honduras.
Phil lived in Scranton about five years ago. He introduced us to our favorite breakfast joint, Abe's Deli. Now whenever I want to entice him to come visit us, I remind him of the yummy goodness and super cheapness of Abe's Breakfast Special. For just $1.95 (it used to be $1.49) you get two eggs prepared any way you want them, home fries, and toast. For another buck or so, you get fantastic coffee. Phil loves food, and Phil loves being cheap. Abe's works for him.
Here's Phil in July 2007. He still looks like this, except his beard is much bigger.
ETA picture of Phil and witty comment about his ever-growing beard.
Phil lived in Scranton about five years ago. He introduced us to our favorite breakfast joint, Abe's Deli. Now whenever I want to entice him to come visit us, I remind him of the yummy goodness and super cheapness of Abe's Breakfast Special. For just $1.95 (it used to be $1.49) you get two eggs prepared any way you want them, home fries, and toast. For another buck or so, you get fantastic coffee. Phil loves food, and Phil loves being cheap. Abe's works for him.
Here's Phil in July 2007. He still looks like this, except his beard is much bigger.
ETA picture of Phil and witty comment about his ever-growing beard.
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Thursday, May 29, 2008
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
A Whole New World
Since Jude became mobile, we've taken up residence in his bedroom upstairs. We have hardwood floors and a fireplace with a stone hearth downstairs, and there just wasn't any good way to really baby-proof all that we would need to down there, so instead we made his room into a playroom, and all was good.
... until recently.
Recently Jude has grown tired of his playroom/cell. He often times cries when I place him on the floor, whereas he used to smile and start crawling around in a wicked fury. He has been giving me these looks that scream , "It's boring in there! Those toys? Pshhhhtt! I've already played with those toys, and they will no longer distract me." So, what's a mom and dad to do... well, we just kind of figured it out.
When we bought this house a little over a year ago, Josh and I were really excited by the wooden gates the previous owners installed at the top and bottom of the stairs and on the then nursery room's doorway. We took the gates (or pony doors, as I like to call them) off because they made it hard to move our stuff in, and we really didn't have a need for them, until now. Honestly, we probably should have figured this out a long time ago, but it took until this morning. Josh *just* finished putting the last door on, and now Jude has (pretty much) the run of the upstairs. I think it's going to make for a much happier baby (and much happier parents!).
... until recently.
Recently Jude has grown tired of his playroom/cell. He often times cries when I place him on the floor, whereas he used to smile and start crawling around in a wicked fury. He has been giving me these looks that scream , "It's boring in there! Those toys? Pshhhhtt! I've already played with those toys, and they will no longer distract me." So, what's a mom and dad to do... well, we just kind of figured it out.
When we bought this house a little over a year ago, Josh and I were really excited by the wooden gates the previous owners installed at the top and bottom of the stairs and on the then nursery room's doorway. We took the gates (or pony doors, as I like to call them) off because they made it hard to move our stuff in, and we really didn't have a need for them, until now. Honestly, we probably should have figured this out a long time ago, but it took until this morning. Josh *just* finished putting the last door on, and now Jude has (pretty much) the run of the upstairs. I think it's going to make for a much happier baby (and much happier parents!).
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A Day at the Park
Josh got home from his trip to San Diego at 9:45am yesterday. Jude and I were SO EXCITED. Josh opened the car door and the kid just couldn't stop smiling. His eyes lit up and seemed to scream, "Hey! Hey! I know you... I'm so happy you're home!" In addition to that light in my sweet baboo's eyes, there was also a little bit of a glare that seemed to plead with his father, "Please don't leave me alone with this woman for days on end EVER. AGAIN. All the kissing and the snuggling... even a baby needs a break, ya know?"
We spent the majority of the day outside at the local parks. After lunch with hit up Nay Aug Park for a short walk. We settled down in some shade to let Jude play for a bit, but that was short-lived because, well, there were caterpillars. I don't do caterpillars. I don't do bugs. None of them. Not even sweet little lady bugs. So, after a few minutes of me freaking out because Jude almost stepped on one, we headed back to the car.
After another short family nap, we packed up and headed to the park at South Abington Elementary to have a picnic dinner with our friends the Bader-Sayes. After dinner Josh and Scott took all the boys to the playground to play, and Dem and I went on a short walk. It was great. Sadly, there were caterpillars at South Ab too, but this time I just put Josh on baby duty and let him deal with the little critters. I stood way, way back from it all.
Everyone was good and tired when we got home. After two quick showers and a bath, the Frank family was ready for bed. Well, Jude was at least. Josh and I stayed up and watched two episodes of The Office on his MacBook Pro. Sleep came quickly after that.
We spent the majority of the day outside at the local parks. After lunch with hit up Nay Aug Park for a short walk. We settled down in some shade to let Jude play for a bit, but that was short-lived because, well, there were caterpillars. I don't do caterpillars. I don't do bugs. None of them. Not even sweet little lady bugs. So, after a few minutes of me freaking out because Jude almost stepped on one, we headed back to the car.
After another short family nap, we packed up and headed to the park at South Abington Elementary to have a picnic dinner with our friends the Bader-Sayes. After dinner Josh and Scott took all the boys to the playground to play, and Dem and I went on a short walk. It was great. Sadly, there were caterpillars at South Ab too, but this time I just put Josh on baby duty and let him deal with the little critters. I stood way, way back from it all.
Everyone was good and tired when we got home. After two quick showers and a bath, the Frank family was ready for bed. Well, Jude was at least. Josh and I stayed up and watched two episodes of The Office on his MacBook Pro. Sleep came quickly after that.
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Monday, May 26, 2008
I'm sitting in Jude's room, watching him play, and I have the windows open. There's a fantastic cool breeze maneuvering through the room. I wish I could just take Jude outside and sit on our porch with him for a while. The problem with this fantasy is that the little guy won't sit still. He would want to get down and play and then, oh, he'd want to nurse, but then he'd want to play, but don't forget about that nursing! He would crawl/walk and get into stuff he shouldn't be getting into, and I would have to keep getting up from my chair to chase him/remove him from whatever danger he had gotten himself into. Before I knew it, I would be wicked tired and would need a nap, and that would be the end of our beautiful May morning on the porch.
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Sunday, May 25, 2008
Rest
Jude is sleeping. He's lying on his side with both his arm and both his legs extended out in font of him. He kind of looks like a capital E minus the top perpendicular line. I love this time of night.
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Downward Dog
Well, I'm happy to report that Jude is following in my yoga-loving footsteps. Over the past few days he's become quite proficient at doing the yoga position downward dog. It's really amazing. God knows I haven't been keeping up with my yoga practice at home, so I'm guessing it's just one of those baby things. He also gets into a child's pose quite often, though I suspect that's because he's a child. (= I hope it sticks... I hope he grows up loving to do yoga with his mama. That would be nice.
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Yesterday was a great day for Jude and I. We spend the morning lazing around and then took a drive up to La Tonelteca to hang out with the Bader-Saye family for a bit. After a short nap later in the afternoon, we went to Peacemeal to worship and have dinner. It was a really nice day.
Today has been pretty cool so far as well. I woke up this morning to a really nice email from my grandpa and decided to call him and see if he wanted to go out for breakfast with Jude and I. He did, so we picked him up and went to Abe's for their fantastic breakfast special. Abe's is a kosher Jewish deli. My grandfather had never been there before so, I was explaining the little I know about kosher law to him. At the end of the lesson, Pop asked jokingly asked me if he had to wear a yarmulke. I laughed and said no. Then I mentioned to him that the gentiles LOVE Abe's... that I always chuckle to myself whenever a priest comes in to eat (and most of the time, there's at least one priest there). Everyone at Abe's LOVES my little guy. He flirts with the waitresses and other patrons, smiles big smiles for the owners, and makes friends with whoever talks to him (like, the priest who came in and struck up a conversation with him today, for instance). After breakfast, we all came back to the house... Jude settled in for some milk and a nap, and Pop settled in for some tv watching. At the moment, Jude's still sleeping, and Pop is still watching tv. When Jude gets up, we're going to go to my grandfather's house and from there we're going to walk to my great aunt and great uncle's house to visit. They haven't met Jude yet... I'm sure they'll be excited to see him.
Later today we're getting together with my friend Michelle. I'm thinking we'll go to Nay Aug to hang out for a bit and maybe come back to the house for some food. Jude and I are also planning to stop by our friend Fred's house for his going away party. It looks like it's going to be a busy day!
Josh comes home tomorrow morning, and I am so, so grateful for that. I miss him terribly, and Jude does too. I really dislike sleeping without him (though having Jude snuggled up next to me helps), and I miss talking to him and hugging him and kissing him. Only 22 hours and 39 minutes to go! Woo hoo!
Today has been pretty cool so far as well. I woke up this morning to a really nice email from my grandpa and decided to call him and see if he wanted to go out for breakfast with Jude and I. He did, so we picked him up and went to Abe's for their fantastic breakfast special. Abe's is a kosher Jewish deli. My grandfather had never been there before so, I was explaining the little I know about kosher law to him. At the end of the lesson, Pop asked jokingly asked me if he had to wear a yarmulke. I laughed and said no. Then I mentioned to him that the gentiles LOVE Abe's... that I always chuckle to myself whenever a priest comes in to eat (and most of the time, there's at least one priest there). Everyone at Abe's LOVES my little guy. He flirts with the waitresses and other patrons, smiles big smiles for the owners, and makes friends with whoever talks to him (like, the priest who came in and struck up a conversation with him today, for instance). After breakfast, we all came back to the house... Jude settled in for some milk and a nap, and Pop settled in for some tv watching. At the moment, Jude's still sleeping, and Pop is still watching tv. When Jude gets up, we're going to go to my grandfather's house and from there we're going to walk to my great aunt and great uncle's house to visit. They haven't met Jude yet... I'm sure they'll be excited to see him.
Later today we're getting together with my friend Michelle. I'm thinking we'll go to Nay Aug to hang out for a bit and maybe come back to the house for some food. Jude and I are also planning to stop by our friend Fred's house for his going away party. It looks like it's going to be a busy day!
Josh comes home tomorrow morning, and I am so, so grateful for that. I miss him terribly, and Jude does too. I really dislike sleeping without him (though having Jude snuggled up next to me helps), and I miss talking to him and hugging him and kissing him. Only 22 hours and 39 minutes to go! Woo hoo!
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Saturday, May 24, 2008
On Our Own
So, Jude and I are on our own until Monday morning. Josh is in San Diego on business, and though we had originally planned on Jude and I accompanying him, tickets prices skyrocketed by the time we tried to buy tickets, so we, unfortunately, are stuck in NEPA this weekend.
Jude has decided that he doesn't like playing in his room (read: the playroom) very much any more. I'm not sure if he's teething or if he doesn't feel well or if he's tired, but the kid just cries and cries whenever I put him down. Up until this point, Josh or I could take Jude into his room, put him down on the floor, and he would play for a while... sometimes hours. Now i put him down and he screams bloody murder. I hope this passes quickly.
What Jude *does* like these days is playing in our bedroom. I mean, overall, that's okay, but the room as a whole isn't baby-proofed. And man, that kid can find the un-proofed spots like a champ. For instance, it just took me a solid five minutes to write that last sentence because I had to redirect, redirect, redirect.
Yesterday Jude and I took a short walk at Nay Aug park. We found a nice, flat, grassy spot and sat down to play. That lasted all of ten minutes. Then the boy just wanted to be picked up and held. I complied... threw him back into the backpack and headed back to the car. It was nice to get out in the sunshine, but I was hoping to get a few minutes to read while we were there. I hear that sometimes kids will play by themselves while mom/dad reads or relaxes. Is there any truth to this scenario, or is it just an urban legend?
Oh man, the kid found the CD player and turned it WAY UP! And now down. Wow. Down again. That's right kid... bring it down to a normal level. Now he has the thing in his hands, and that means I should sign off.
Jude has decided that he doesn't like playing in his room (read: the playroom) very much any more. I'm not sure if he's teething or if he doesn't feel well or if he's tired, but the kid just cries and cries whenever I put him down. Up until this point, Josh or I could take Jude into his room, put him down on the floor, and he would play for a while... sometimes hours. Now i put him down and he screams bloody murder. I hope this passes quickly.
What Jude *does* like these days is playing in our bedroom. I mean, overall, that's okay, but the room as a whole isn't baby-proofed. And man, that kid can find the un-proofed spots like a champ. For instance, it just took me a solid five minutes to write that last sentence because I had to redirect, redirect, redirect.
Yesterday Jude and I took a short walk at Nay Aug park. We found a nice, flat, grassy spot and sat down to play. That lasted all of ten minutes. Then the boy just wanted to be picked up and held. I complied... threw him back into the backpack and headed back to the car. It was nice to get out in the sunshine, but I was hoping to get a few minutes to read while we were there. I hear that sometimes kids will play by themselves while mom/dad reads or relaxes. Is there any truth to this scenario, or is it just an urban legend?
Oh man, the kid found the CD player and turned it WAY UP! And now down. Wow. Down again. That's right kid... bring it down to a normal level. Now he has the thing in his hands, and that means I should sign off.
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Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Breastfeeding: The First Year
As I celebrate Jude's first year of life today, I also celebrate 12 successful months of breastfeeding.
I'm proud of having made it this far. I constantly read stories of mothers and babies who have their nursing relationship ruined due to misinformation and a lack of a good support system. I'm grateful for all of the support I've been given over the past year, and I'm grateful to have found good information regarding breastfeeding.
Josh has been nothing less than FANTASTIC when it comes to supporting Jude and I in our breastfeeding relationship. The first few weeks after Jude was born were scary. Sometimes he nursed for hours on end with half-hour breaks thrown in (if I was lucky). Josh kept me sane. He re-researched during the wee hours of the night when I started to doubt myself. He reassured me that I was doing great and that those long nursing stretches were NORMAL and GOOD for our baby. He kept me well fed, well hydrated, and as well rested as humanly possible. He took on 99% of everything so that I could concentrate on feeding our child. Josh's support and encouragement in this endeavor are the greatest gifts he could ever give me (with the exception of Jude himself).
I'm also really lucky to have some stellar mom-friends as breastfeeding role models. Dem, Helen, and Stephanie continue to be my personal cheerleaders when it comes to nursing my baby. Actually, all of my friends have been uber-supportive of me breastfeeding Jude. It's a wonderful thing to have your friends' full acceptance and support. I consider myself very blessed in this regard.
And since this is sounding more and more like an acceptance speech at an awards show, there are few other people I'd like to thank:
Thank you, Jerry, owner of Abe's deli, for making me and my nursing son feel so welcomed in your dining establishment.
Thank you, crazy BBC friends for making three nursing moms feel comfortable while you all got drunk during Friends' Week (BBL) '08.
Thank you, old guy at the Target in IL who commented positively on me nursing Jude while we searched the store for wipes.
And finally, thank you, smelly guy at the rest stop in OH for complimenting me on my decision to breastfeed my son. You kind of scared me, but I appreciated your kind words and your passion.
Thanks again to all of you who have supported and cheered us on in our journey. Jude isn't showing any signs of slowing down, and I'm hopeful that we'll make it (at least!) another full year!
I'm proud of having made it this far. I constantly read stories of mothers and babies who have their nursing relationship ruined due to misinformation and a lack of a good support system. I'm grateful for all of the support I've been given over the past year, and I'm grateful to have found good information regarding breastfeeding.
Josh has been nothing less than FANTASTIC when it comes to supporting Jude and I in our breastfeeding relationship. The first few weeks after Jude was born were scary. Sometimes he nursed for hours on end with half-hour breaks thrown in (if I was lucky). Josh kept me sane. He re-researched during the wee hours of the night when I started to doubt myself. He reassured me that I was doing great and that those long nursing stretches were NORMAL and GOOD for our baby. He kept me well fed, well hydrated, and as well rested as humanly possible. He took on 99% of everything so that I could concentrate on feeding our child. Josh's support and encouragement in this endeavor are the greatest gifts he could ever give me (with the exception of Jude himself).
I'm also really lucky to have some stellar mom-friends as breastfeeding role models. Dem, Helen, and Stephanie continue to be my personal cheerleaders when it comes to nursing my baby. Actually, all of my friends have been uber-supportive of me breastfeeding Jude. It's a wonderful thing to have your friends' full acceptance and support. I consider myself very blessed in this regard.
And since this is sounding more and more like an acceptance speech at an awards show, there are few other people I'd like to thank:
Thank you, Jerry, owner of Abe's deli, for making me and my nursing son feel so welcomed in your dining establishment.
Thank you, crazy BBC friends for making three nursing moms feel comfortable while you all got drunk during Friends' Week (BBL) '08.
Thank you, old guy at the Target in IL who commented positively on me nursing Jude while we searched the store for wipes.
And finally, thank you, smelly guy at the rest stop in OH for complimenting me on my decision to breastfeed my son. You kind of scared me, but I appreciated your kind words and your passion.
Thanks again to all of you who have supported and cheered us on in our journey. Jude isn't showing any signs of slowing down, and I'm hopeful that we'll make it (at least!) another full year!
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Twelve-Month Letter
Dear Baboo,
Today you turned one year old. I can't believe how fast the past twelve months have flown by. I could swear that just yesterday I was able to hold you in one arm; that it was only last week when you learned to roll over, sit up, and stand. Was it really much longer than a month ago that you started crawling? Where did all the time go? How did your growing up sneak up on me?
This past month has been a joyful month for you, Papa, and me. You've become so very vocal. You talk and sing to us nearly non-stop during the day. Just in the last three days or so Papa and I have started signing to you, and you've already gotten the hang of signing "milk" back to us. Tonight I witnessed you take about eight steps on your own. I don't think it will be long until you're full-on walking.
A couple of weekends ago we went to Philly to see you Aunt Lauren, who was visiting from Maine. It was the first time she got to see you since you were born, and she was so excited to spend some time with you. Aunt Lauren gifted you a fantastic zippy that says "Maine" on it. It fits you great, and I'm sure you're going to spend the vast majority of next fall and winter in it. During our visit with Aunt Lauren, we all went to the Adventure Aquarium in New Jersey. We saw tons of fish, penguins, seals, and turtles. (And tons of other animals... too many to name!) You really seemed to enjoy watching the fish swim all around. More than once you put your hands out to the glass tanks and tired to touch the fish! I'm sorry you couldn't get to them, but it was sweet watching you try.
For your birthday, we celebrated with friends and family at South Ab's park. Papa went to the park early to stake our claim on the picnic benches under the pavilion. Papa (with some help from Aunt Michelle and DJ) decorated the tables and pavilion with streamers and balloons... it looked really beautiful. I baked you a banana cake because you love, love, love bananas! You spent the afternoon playing on the grass and being adorable. Everyone was excited to celebrate with you.
Early this morning, Papa and I took you to Pop Pop's Workshop to pick out your birthday present. You came home with a little wooden car and a little wooden truck. Papa and I had been looking forward to taking you there for some time. I hope those little wooden vehicles will entertain you for many hours to come!
You had a fever a few days ago, but Papa and i attributed it to teething. Dr. Jennifer checked your ears, and they were all clear, and you didn't seem sick otherwise, so neither Papa nor I worried too much about it. Today you have a bit of a rash, and that has me a little worried since we haven't changed our laundry detergent or anything of that sort. I'm hoping to get a better look at it tomorrow, and hoping even more that it will be gone away by the time I go to check it out. On the upside, you don't seem bothered by it, so I guess I'm probably worried over nothing.
Jude, I know I've said it before, but you bring your Papa and I such joy. I can't imagine my life without you. I'm so grateful for this past year, and I'm excited about the years to come.
Happy Birthday, Jude.
Love,
mama *=
Today you turned one year old. I can't believe how fast the past twelve months have flown by. I could swear that just yesterday I was able to hold you in one arm; that it was only last week when you learned to roll over, sit up, and stand. Was it really much longer than a month ago that you started crawling? Where did all the time go? How did your growing up sneak up on me?
This past month has been a joyful month for you, Papa, and me. You've become so very vocal. You talk and sing to us nearly non-stop during the day. Just in the last three days or so Papa and I have started signing to you, and you've already gotten the hang of signing "milk" back to us. Tonight I witnessed you take about eight steps on your own. I don't think it will be long until you're full-on walking.
A couple of weekends ago we went to Philly to see you Aunt Lauren, who was visiting from Maine. It was the first time she got to see you since you were born, and she was so excited to spend some time with you. Aunt Lauren gifted you a fantastic zippy that says "Maine" on it. It fits you great, and I'm sure you're going to spend the vast majority of next fall and winter in it. During our visit with Aunt Lauren, we all went to the Adventure Aquarium in New Jersey. We saw tons of fish, penguins, seals, and turtles. (And tons of other animals... too many to name!) You really seemed to enjoy watching the fish swim all around. More than once you put your hands out to the glass tanks and tired to touch the fish! I'm sorry you couldn't get to them, but it was sweet watching you try.
For your birthday, we celebrated with friends and family at South Ab's park. Papa went to the park early to stake our claim on the picnic benches under the pavilion. Papa (with some help from Aunt Michelle and DJ) decorated the tables and pavilion with streamers and balloons... it looked really beautiful. I baked you a banana cake because you love, love, love bananas! You spent the afternoon playing on the grass and being adorable. Everyone was excited to celebrate with you.
Early this morning, Papa and I took you to Pop Pop's Workshop to pick out your birthday present. You came home with a little wooden car and a little wooden truck. Papa and I had been looking forward to taking you there for some time. I hope those little wooden vehicles will entertain you for many hours to come!
You had a fever a few days ago, but Papa and i attributed it to teething. Dr. Jennifer checked your ears, and they were all clear, and you didn't seem sick otherwise, so neither Papa nor I worried too much about it. Today you have a bit of a rash, and that has me a little worried since we haven't changed our laundry detergent or anything of that sort. I'm hoping to get a better look at it tomorrow, and hoping even more that it will be gone away by the time I go to check it out. On the upside, you don't seem bothered by it, so I guess I'm probably worried over nothing.
Jude, I know I've said it before, but you bring your Papa and I such joy. I can't imagine my life without you. I'm so grateful for this past year, and I'm excited about the years to come.
Happy Birthday, Jude.
Love,
mama *=
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Sunday, May 04, 2008
A few days ago, Josh, Jude, and I were driving somewhere. We decided to take Jude's stuffed giraffe with us because he seemed to really be enjoying playing with it at home. About 15 minutes into our drive, Josh and I heard this "chhh chhh" sound coming from the backseat. I turned around to find Jude spanking that little giraffe's bottom over and over again. Now whenever we go for a ride, we tell Jude to "pat the giraffe" (no spanking allowed!)... it's really funny to watch.
Another thing my boy has taken to doing more and more often is emptying the trundle drawer under his crib. We normally keep extra crib sheets and mattress pads down there, but as of late, those items have taken permanent residence on Jude's bedroom's floor. Occasionally, Josh or I will attempt to put the items back where they belong, but honestly, it doesn't really help... he just crawls right on over and pulls everything out again. It *is* super cute to watch, however.
Over the past few days, Jude has started taking little steps all on his own. I think he would be full out walking by now if we actually dressed him in pants that fit him (most of his pants are a bit long). Now more than ever, you can see that he *wants* to walk. I don't think it will be too long before he's running around the place instead of crawling around the place. I guess this means I need to get some shoes for the kid.
Another thing my boy has taken to doing more and more often is emptying the trundle drawer under his crib. We normally keep extra crib sheets and mattress pads down there, but as of late, those items have taken permanent residence on Jude's bedroom's floor. Occasionally, Josh or I will attempt to put the items back where they belong, but honestly, it doesn't really help... he just crawls right on over and pulls everything out again. It *is* super cute to watch, however.
Over the past few days, Jude has started taking little steps all on his own. I think he would be full out walking by now if we actually dressed him in pants that fit him (most of his pants are a bit long). Now more than ever, you can see that he *wants* to walk. I don't think it will be too long before he's running around the place instead of crawling around the place. I guess this means I need to get some shoes for the kid.
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Thursday, May 01, 2008
They Don't Get Any Younger
I'm in the market for one of those time-turner thingies ala Hermione Granger. Anyone have one they're looking to get rid of?
Jude just keeps getting bigger and older. On the one hand, it's wonderful. He's understanding more and more each day; he's communicating with us on a new level; he's learning and growing like children do. On the other hand, it's heartbreaking. I was looking through old (okay, 11-month old, but old to me!) photos earlier today, and I just couldn't (and can') get over how little he was. I have a hard time admitting that I don't quite remember how far his legs stretched down on me when he would sleep on my chest. It makes me sad to know that no matter how much I write down/blog/remember, there will be tons of little things that I end up forgetting. *sigh* I like to think that I haven't taken our time together for granted. I tried to notice all that he did and everything about him. Even so, I don't think I did a good job. I don't feel like I took enough pictures; I don't feel like I wrote enough stuff down. I feel like I have missed out on a whole lot of his life, even though I've been with him for 99% of if.
I remember some things. I remember how, especially when he was first born, he would press his lips together and throw his head back while he slept. I thought he looked like a little bird when he did that. I also remember how good he smelled when he was born... he still smells good, but it's different now. I know I won't forget how sweaty his head would get as he slept on me (actually, he still gets quite sweaty when he sleeps)... but I guess I'm just really worried about all the things I'll unknowingly forget. That's the trouble with forgetting, I guess.
As much as I tease, I don't want to stifle his growth. I'm really looking forward to watching him grow up and helping him learn new things and appreciate life. I'm just sad. His one-year birthday is in 20 days... He has been alive for nearly a year, he's barely been away from me during that year, and I still feel like I missed something... like I'm forgetting something really important. What's worse is, I can't get any of it back.
Do all moms feel like this? Help!
Jude just keeps getting bigger and older. On the one hand, it's wonderful. He's understanding more and more each day; he's communicating with us on a new level; he's learning and growing like children do. On the other hand, it's heartbreaking. I was looking through old (okay, 11-month old, but old to me!) photos earlier today, and I just couldn't (and can') get over how little he was. I have a hard time admitting that I don't quite remember how far his legs stretched down on me when he would sleep on my chest. It makes me sad to know that no matter how much I write down/blog/remember, there will be tons of little things that I end up forgetting. *sigh* I like to think that I haven't taken our time together for granted. I tried to notice all that he did and everything about him. Even so, I don't think I did a good job. I don't feel like I took enough pictures; I don't feel like I wrote enough stuff down. I feel like I have missed out on a whole lot of his life, even though I've been with him for 99% of if.
I remember some things. I remember how, especially when he was first born, he would press his lips together and throw his head back while he slept. I thought he looked like a little bird when he did that. I also remember how good he smelled when he was born... he still smells good, but it's different now. I know I won't forget how sweaty his head would get as he slept on me (actually, he still gets quite sweaty when he sleeps)... but I guess I'm just really worried about all the things I'll unknowingly forget. That's the trouble with forgetting, I guess.
As much as I tease, I don't want to stifle his growth. I'm really looking forward to watching him grow up and helping him learn new things and appreciate life. I'm just sad. His one-year birthday is in 20 days... He has been alive for nearly a year, he's barely been away from me during that year, and I still feel like I missed something... like I'm forgetting something really important. What's worse is, I can't get any of it back.
Do all moms feel like this? Help!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Eleven-Month Letter
Dear Baboo,
Oh my word. You turned eleven months old on the 21st, and that means you're only one month away from turning one YEAR old. Wow. Just wow.
You've spend the past month refining your waving and shaking techniques. You now wave "hi" but haven't figured out "bye" yet. After many a walk outside with your egg shaker in hand, you've learned to "shake, shake, shake" whenever instructed to. It's really adorable... Papa did a great job picking out your first musical instrument.
We recently spent week in Illinois. You traveled *amazingly* well. You spent most of your first plane ride nursing and sleeping, but during your awake times, you made friends with everyone on the plane. The train ride from Naperville to Galesburg was a teeny tiny bit tougher. It took you a while to settle in, but when you finally did, you slept for most of the remainder of the ride. The first few days of our vacation we visited your grandma and grandpa, and the last few days we spent in Chicago while Papa attended a conference for his web design job. Everyone was super excited to get to spend some time with you... Grandma and Grandpa; Great Aunt Lois, Great Uncle Don, Andy, and Amy; Aunt Erin and Uncle Grant; Uncle Richie; and Aunt Kenzie. They all wish they could see you more often.
You, Papa, and I were lucky enough to get to see the Cubs play at Wrigley Field during our trip! Uncle Richie met us there, and so did Papa's friend Kierstin. You really made out that day; not only did your papa and I buy you a Cubs hat and two Cubs onesies, but your Uncle Richie also bought you a Cubs hat for when you get a little older/your head gets a bit bigger!
It was super fun walking around Chicago with you tucked firmly inside the Ergo carrier. Everyone smiled at you and many had kind words to say.
Sadly, during our travels you picked up one nasty cold. You had a low-grade fever for two days or so, and you still have a runny nose and a hacking cough. None of this is slowing you down, but it makes Mama and Papa sad to hear you cough.
While on our trip, you got to experience grass for the first time. At first, you wouldn't even touch the grass! You cried every time either your papa or I tried to put you down to crawl on it. Eventually you decided that grass wasn't so bad, and your second time out (at our friend Marty's house), you were crawling around with the best of them.
You seem desperate to walk these days. I'm sure you'll master that skill soon enough. I can't believe that not too long ago you couldn't even roll over. It amazes me how quickly you're learning new things.
In a few short weeks you'll be one year old. I'm amazed at how quickly this past year has gone by. You are the best thing to have ever happened to me, Jude. You are all the best parts of your papa and I combined (and you're super cute, to boot). You're happy and sweet and smart and expressive and just plain old wonderful. I can't imagine life without you.
I love you, sweet one.
Love,
Mama
Oh my word. You turned eleven months old on the 21st, and that means you're only one month away from turning one YEAR old. Wow. Just wow.
You've spend the past month refining your waving and shaking techniques. You now wave "hi" but haven't figured out "bye" yet. After many a walk outside with your egg shaker in hand, you've learned to "shake, shake, shake" whenever instructed to. It's really adorable... Papa did a great job picking out your first musical instrument.
We recently spent week in Illinois. You traveled *amazingly* well. You spent most of your first plane ride nursing and sleeping, but during your awake times, you made friends with everyone on the plane. The train ride from Naperville to Galesburg was a teeny tiny bit tougher. It took you a while to settle in, but when you finally did, you slept for most of the remainder of the ride. The first few days of our vacation we visited your grandma and grandpa, and the last few days we spent in Chicago while Papa attended a conference for his web design job. Everyone was super excited to get to spend some time with you... Grandma and Grandpa; Great Aunt Lois, Great Uncle Don, Andy, and Amy; Aunt Erin and Uncle Grant; Uncle Richie; and Aunt Kenzie. They all wish they could see you more often.
You, Papa, and I were lucky enough to get to see the Cubs play at Wrigley Field during our trip! Uncle Richie met us there, and so did Papa's friend Kierstin. You really made out that day; not only did your papa and I buy you a Cubs hat and two Cubs onesies, but your Uncle Richie also bought you a Cubs hat for when you get a little older/your head gets a bit bigger!
It was super fun walking around Chicago with you tucked firmly inside the Ergo carrier. Everyone smiled at you and many had kind words to say.
Sadly, during our travels you picked up one nasty cold. You had a low-grade fever for two days or so, and you still have a runny nose and a hacking cough. None of this is slowing you down, but it makes Mama and Papa sad to hear you cough.
While on our trip, you got to experience grass for the first time. At first, you wouldn't even touch the grass! You cried every time either your papa or I tried to put you down to crawl on it. Eventually you decided that grass wasn't so bad, and your second time out (at our friend Marty's house), you were crawling around with the best of them.
You seem desperate to walk these days. I'm sure you'll master that skill soon enough. I can't believe that not too long ago you couldn't even roll over. It amazes me how quickly you're learning new things.
In a few short weeks you'll be one year old. I'm amazed at how quickly this past year has gone by. You are the best thing to have ever happened to me, Jude. You are all the best parts of your papa and I combined (and you're super cute, to boot). You're happy and sweet and smart and expressive and just plain old wonderful. I can't imagine life without you.
I love you, sweet one.
Love,
Mama
Monday, March 31, 2008
Ten-Month Letter
Dear Baboo,
The past few weeks have been big for you. You've nearly mastered standing on your own, and you've learned to pivot a bit while you stand. Though you don't wave "hello" or "goodbye" with much consistency yet, you're getting the hang of it and always look very proud of yourself when you accomplish the task. On our walk the other day, Papa and I discovered that you really enjoy shaking things that produce a neat sound. Little do you know, today Papa is taking you shopping for a real egg shaker! What a lucky boy you are.
I remember when you were first born. For the life of me, I couldn't understand how your skin and your breath smelled so wonderfully sweet all the time. This past week I was reminded of both and started worrying about how soon both those lovely smells would be gone. I love when you're asleep with your mouth agape. During those times, I love to get really close to you and breathe in your breath as you breathe out. I don't think I've ever smelled such a sweet smell as your milky breath. I love it when you fall asleep on my chest... it puts you in the perfect position for me to smell your head. I don't know what I'll do when those smells are gone.
Over the past week or two, you've started half waking up at night. Sometimes you'll sit yourself straight up and then collapse into a child's pose. Last night you did this and followed it up by rolling your back towards me and draping yourself over my side. It made me laugh, and when I looked at you, I realized you had fallen asleep during the transition, and I laughed again. You bring me such joy!
The weather has started to turn, and you and Papa and I have gotten in a few good walks. Just last week we went to Nay Aug Park and saw some of the animals they have in the wildlife center. You were especially amused by the monkey-type animals. Mama really liked the binturon.
I can't believe that in (less than... eep!) two months you'll be a year old. I have loved watching you grow, but a part of me wishes you would stay little forever. I have a hard time imagining what life will be like when you no longer need to be carried or worn... when you don't need me to console you when you fall down... when you don't need me to fall asleep... I know there are lots of fun times ahead, but as we approach your first birthday, well, I can't help but get a bit weepy.
I love you, Sweet Baboo.
Love,
Mama
The past few weeks have been big for you. You've nearly mastered standing on your own, and you've learned to pivot a bit while you stand. Though you don't wave "hello" or "goodbye" with much consistency yet, you're getting the hang of it and always look very proud of yourself when you accomplish the task. On our walk the other day, Papa and I discovered that you really enjoy shaking things that produce a neat sound. Little do you know, today Papa is taking you shopping for a real egg shaker! What a lucky boy you are.
I remember when you were first born. For the life of me, I couldn't understand how your skin and your breath smelled so wonderfully sweet all the time. This past week I was reminded of both and started worrying about how soon both those lovely smells would be gone. I love when you're asleep with your mouth agape. During those times, I love to get really close to you and breathe in your breath as you breathe out. I don't think I've ever smelled such a sweet smell as your milky breath. I love it when you fall asleep on my chest... it puts you in the perfect position for me to smell your head. I don't know what I'll do when those smells are gone.
Over the past week or two, you've started half waking up at night. Sometimes you'll sit yourself straight up and then collapse into a child's pose. Last night you did this and followed it up by rolling your back towards me and draping yourself over my side. It made me laugh, and when I looked at you, I realized you had fallen asleep during the transition, and I laughed again. You bring me such joy!
The weather has started to turn, and you and Papa and I have gotten in a few good walks. Just last week we went to Nay Aug Park and saw some of the animals they have in the wildlife center. You were especially amused by the monkey-type animals. Mama really liked the binturon.
I can't believe that in (less than... eep!) two months you'll be a year old. I have loved watching you grow, but a part of me wishes you would stay little forever. I have a hard time imagining what life will be like when you no longer need to be carried or worn... when you don't need me to console you when you fall down... when you don't need me to fall asleep... I know there are lots of fun times ahead, but as we approach your first birthday, well, I can't help but get a bit weepy.
I love you, Sweet Baboo.
Love,
Mama
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Nine (and a half)- Month Letter
Dear Baboo,
You’re about nine and a half months old today, and as I sit here, watching you play (with one of the many horrible loud plastic toys you’ve been gifted *smile*), I am again amazed by you.
You can stand unassisted for a few second now. You cruise along furniture (or whatever is handy) and can climb up on small boxes if given the chance. You cut two new teeth last week… the second one coming about three days after the first. This time around, you were quite a bit cranky while you worked to get those teeth to break through. You amaze me (and others) by how content you are. You’ve started letting me use the bathroom on my own with little fanfare, and for that I’m grateful.
I think you’ve finally said your first official word. Though you’ve been making “mama” sounds for quite a while now, I don’t think you’re really connecting the word “mama” with the person mama (me). However, each morning you wake up, sit yourself up, and proclaim “cat” (or there abouts) while smiling at and reaching for the nearest feline. You *are* your mother’s son.
I’m looking forward to spring time and the nice weather that accompanies it. I can’t wait to take long walks with you and your Papa, and I can’t wait to take you to one of the local parks to play.
I love you, sweet one.
Love,
Mama
You’re about nine and a half months old today, and as I sit here, watching you play (with one of the many horrible loud plastic toys you’ve been gifted *smile*), I am again amazed by you.
You can stand unassisted for a few second now. You cruise along furniture (or whatever is handy) and can climb up on small boxes if given the chance. You cut two new teeth last week… the second one coming about three days after the first. This time around, you were quite a bit cranky while you worked to get those teeth to break through. You amaze me (and others) by how content you are. You’ve started letting me use the bathroom on my own with little fanfare, and for that I’m grateful.
I think you’ve finally said your first official word. Though you’ve been making “mama” sounds for quite a while now, I don’t think you’re really connecting the word “mama” with the person mama (me). However, each morning you wake up, sit yourself up, and proclaim “cat” (or there abouts) while smiling at and reaching for the nearest feline. You *are* your mother’s son.
I’m looking forward to spring time and the nice weather that accompanies it. I can’t wait to take long walks with you and your Papa, and I can’t wait to take you to one of the local parks to play.
I love you, sweet one.
Love,
Mama
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Get Up, Stand Up
Our boy is growing by leaps and bounds.
It surprises me how much can change in 4 hours, let alone a few days or a week. For instance, when Jude started crawling, Jillian called me to let me know. I think she said something like, "Your son is going to crawl while you are gone this morning." By the time I came home late that afternoon, our world was turned upside down. Jude was moving, and moving fast. And this was only the worm-like, military crawl; I had no idea how fast he could be until he started crawling on all fours recently.
So then he starts sitting up on his own. And within a week he started pulling himself up to standing (thus, this video entry). Now it seems like all he wants to do is crawl to the nearest not-quite-safe object and use it to pull himself up. There haven't been any major walking-like steps yet, but he's starting to shuffle his feet a bit to move around while holding onto whatever he's standing up against.
This whole fatherhood thing is beyond words: wonderful, exhilarating, tiring, scary, frustrating, self-emptying, joy-filled... There are times when I can't wait to see who and what Jude becomes, what he'll look like, how tall he'll be, who he will look like, what his interests and passions will be; and then there's the part of me that wants him to stay little, crawling around, trying to climb over me, looking up at me with bright eyes, a smile, and beautiful sounds right when he wakes up in our bed each morning.
It surprises me how much can change in 4 hours, let alone a few days or a week. For instance, when Jude started crawling, Jillian called me to let me know. I think she said something like, "Your son is going to crawl while you are gone this morning." By the time I came home late that afternoon, our world was turned upside down. Jude was moving, and moving fast. And this was only the worm-like, military crawl; I had no idea how fast he could be until he started crawling on all fours recently.
So then he starts sitting up on his own. And within a week he started pulling himself up to standing (thus, this video entry). Now it seems like all he wants to do is crawl to the nearest not-quite-safe object and use it to pull himself up. There haven't been any major walking-like steps yet, but he's starting to shuffle his feet a bit to move around while holding onto whatever he's standing up against.
This whole fatherhood thing is beyond words: wonderful, exhilarating, tiring, scary, frustrating, self-emptying, joy-filled... There are times when I can't wait to see who and what Jude becomes, what he'll look like, how tall he'll be, who he will look like, what his interests and passions will be; and then there's the part of me that wants him to stay little, crawling around, trying to climb over me, looking up at me with bright eyes, a smile, and beautiful sounds right when he wakes up in our bed each morning.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Eight-Month Letter
Dear Baboo,
I should have started doing this a long time ago.
You recently turned 8 months old. In the matter of two or three days you learned how to sit yourself up and how to pull yourself to a standing position. A few days prior to the above listed events, you abandoned your military crawl for a traditional all fours crawl. You’ve gotten more daring over the past two weeks than I could ever have imagined an eight-month-old could be. Recently you’ve started having some separation anxiety, and though it makes it hard for me to use the bathroom while we’re home alone, there’s something heartwarming about you needing me for comfort and security the way that you do.
Although it seems like I’ll need to start putting you down to nap on your own during the days soon, I can’t really bear the thought. I love laying down with you… nursing you while you kick your feet into my belly, legs finally coming to rest over my mid-section as you drift off to sleep. I love it when you wake up slowly and smile because you see me close by. I love being able to anticipate your needs because I am right beside you, listening to you breathe.
These first eight months have been a true blessing. I love you.
Love,
Mama
I should have started doing this a long time ago.
You recently turned 8 months old. In the matter of two or three days you learned how to sit yourself up and how to pull yourself to a standing position. A few days prior to the above listed events, you abandoned your military crawl for a traditional all fours crawl. You’ve gotten more daring over the past two weeks than I could ever have imagined an eight-month-old could be. Recently you’ve started having some separation anxiety, and though it makes it hard for me to use the bathroom while we’re home alone, there’s something heartwarming about you needing me for comfort and security the way that you do.
Although it seems like I’ll need to start putting you down to nap on your own during the days soon, I can’t really bear the thought. I love laying down with you… nursing you while you kick your feet into my belly, legs finally coming to rest over my mid-section as you drift off to sleep. I love it when you wake up slowly and smile because you see me close by. I love being able to anticipate your needs because I am right beside you, listening to you breathe.
These first eight months have been a true blessing. I love you.
Love,
Mama
Monday, January 14, 2008
Jude's first Christmas was wonderful! On Christmas Eve, Josh, Jude, and I had dinner and worship with Peacemeal. It was lovely... after dinner, we watched A Charlie Brown Christmas. At home, we gave Jude two gifts: a special pair of pjs and his first Christmas ornament. After getting Jude changed into his Christmas pjs, we hung his new ornament on the tree and got ready for bed.
In the morning, Jude had tons of fun ripping open his presents. Josh and I got him a set of three soft blocks, two books, a teething ring made from stuffed wool balls, and two additional sets of pjs. Around 11am, my mom, her husband, and my grandfather came to visit and to give Jude (and Josh and I!) some gifts. We asked my mom to limit the gift giving to two or three gifts. She obliged (for the most part *smile*). After having a nice brunch and taking a nap, we called Josh's parents and siblings via our webcam. They got to see Jude crawling around, grabbing at the tree and other things he shouldn't play with. During the call, my father stopped by to visit. After that we had dinner and relaxed. It was a great day.
We spent New Year's Eve in Philly with Josh's brother and almost sister-in-law. Josh, Richie, and Jenny rang in the new year by banging pots outside. On New Year's Day, we watched a bit of the Mummer's Parade, but spent the bulk of the day caught up in an ANTM marathon. We're a bit lame. (=
Since New Year's, Jude has learned to sit up by himself. He's in the midst of cutting new teeth, and has started reaching for people (namely, me) when he wants to be held. He's getting really big.
That's all for now. I'll have Josh upload some new pictures soon.
In the morning, Jude had tons of fun ripping open his presents. Josh and I got him a set of three soft blocks, two books, a teething ring made from stuffed wool balls, and two additional sets of pjs. Around 11am, my mom, her husband, and my grandfather came to visit and to give Jude (and Josh and I!) some gifts. We asked my mom to limit the gift giving to two or three gifts. She obliged (for the most part *smile*). After having a nice brunch and taking a nap, we called Josh's parents and siblings via our webcam. They got to see Jude crawling around, grabbing at the tree and other things he shouldn't play with. During the call, my father stopped by to visit. After that we had dinner and relaxed. It was a great day.
We spent New Year's Eve in Philly with Josh's brother and almost sister-in-law. Josh, Richie, and Jenny rang in the new year by banging pots outside. On New Year's Day, we watched a bit of the Mummer's Parade, but spent the bulk of the day caught up in an ANTM marathon. We're a bit lame. (=
Since New Year's, Jude has learned to sit up by himself. He's in the midst of cutting new teeth, and has started reaching for people (namely, me) when he wants to be held. He's getting really big.
That's all for now. I'll have Josh upload some new pictures soon.
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