HARLEY'S PLAYHOUSE

Just a quickie...

2009-07-11T20:25:00.004-06:00

I went to the dentist! Here I am wearing the cool sunglasses they gave me.
They let me suction my mouth with a vacuum cleaner.

This nice lady stuck her fingers in my mouth. She's lucky I didn't bite her.
My mom was watching so I had to be good.

The dentist says my teeth are perfect.

My first vacation

2009-05-27T20:51:00.002-06:00

I've spent the last week in New York. Mom and Dad took me to visit Aunt Jenna. We spent a few days in Binghamton, where she lives and then drove to Niagara Falls.

From NY

(Aunt Jenna, Use that NY link to see all of our photos, not just the ones here.)

I really liked flying on the airplanes! Takeoff is my favorite followed closely by the moving walkways. Hotels are cool too. I like sleeping in the same room as Mommy and Daddy, but don't like falling out of bed and I don't like bright flashing cell phones that wake me up.

In Binghamton, we visited the zoo where Aunt Jenna works. She let me touch a chinchilla and an armadillo. I especially liked watching the meerkats get fed!

I'm playing tug of war with Dad.

We also painted pottery. This is my lizard.

We also hiked around Watkins Glen park. It's full of waterfalls. I can't count as high as the number of waterfalls we visited in NY.

Mom and Dad dragged me to a few wineries. I danced to the guy playing guitar and played under the chair.

Long car rides are boring. you need to be silly to survive it.

Niagara Falls is really really really big. There are lots of blue people on boats, scary haunted houses everywhere, and candy and ice cream stores everywhere you look.

I WANT TO LOOK IN THE BINOCULARS!

Thank you.

There are lots of pretty flowers in Canada.

After the splashy boat ride, we went to another zoo that had reptiles and birds.I got to touch this snake. Its name is Marley.

I tried to catch the seagulls, but they kept flying away.

Happy Mommy's day

2009-05-09T20:51:00.004-06:00

Mommy,

Happy Mother's Day. Daddy says that means I should try to be extra quiet and helpful today, but I think that means I should play with you all day.

Thank you for getting me drinks at 2am. and 6am. Thank you for changing my sheets at 7am. Thank you for letting me hate the potty. Thank you for giving me treats anyway. Thank you for letting me get dirty. Thank you for letting me hate the bath sometimes. Thank you for making me such good food. Thank you for being patient when I refuse to eat it. Thank you for taking me to so many wonderful places. Sorry we had to leave swimming lessons that one time. Thank you for kissing my owies and wiping my nose and giving me hugs and letting me fingerpaint and playing with me and reading me stories and... Thanks for giving me literally everything.

And because it's been awhile. Here's some pictures from the last month.

Easter of course.

I found eggs!

This is at the zoo.

Insert cute title here

2009-04-08T07:46:00.005-06:00

Sometimes it's just too hard to be creative and cute with my blog posts. So here are some pictures.

Dad's home! and I'm a bunny.

Painting Easter Eggs.

Helping mom put the new desk together. She looks tired.

Here are a few of me putting myself into weird places.

I fit in a paper bag.

I also fit in the end table

I put this on my head. But I refused to smile for a picture because I was a scary monster.

My favorite place: the fort.

6 days and counting!

2009-03-29T20:23:00.009-06:00

It's almost time for my dad to come home. I can't wait!! I've missed him so much. These last couple weeks have been busy and fun. I've really had a crazy good time with the people who've kept me and my mom company since my dad left. A big thank you to all the people who helped out.

Thank you to Max for letting me taking you on walks.
Thanks to Justin and Kim for hanging out with me while I wait for my mom to get home from work.

Thanks again Justin for letting me play video games.

Thanks Uncle John for playing and being silly with me.

Andrea and Mom took me to the Children's Museum on Friday.
They have a Clifford exhibit. My favorite part was when we went out to eat afterwards.

As I was walking back from the bathroom I slapped the waitress on the behind. My mom explained to me later that you are not supposed to do that. Even if the person's behind is right in your face. I guess I'm lucky that the waitress thought it was funny.

Another dancing video. I hope you enjoy my mad skillz.
I can dance with my eyes closed. Sort of.

This video was taken at Kim's. In case you don't get it, my hands are kittens.

Coming soon....swimming lessons!

That's how I roll...

2009-03-23T20:19:00.004-06:00

This is my new car. I was very excited to climb on (all by myself) and wanted to push all the buttons. Unfortunately my new car is being kept at my Great Aunt and Uncle's house so I don't get to ride it very often.

I have had a very busy weekend. I think my mom is trying to keep me busy so I don't realize my dad is gone. She can keep trying but it isn't working.
When people ask me where my dad is I just get a puzzled look and say "I don't know." Why do so many people keep asking me where he is? Doesn't somebody know?

I think my dad taught me this.

This is my Great Grandpa and his dog, Molly. She was so much fun!

Me, Grandma and Grandpa, and Daisy, out for a walk.

Grandma and Grandpa took me to see the baby chicks. They were so cute. I loved touching them. I didn't understand when mom said "mmm, chicken."

Just me being silly. I'm showing off my crazy bed head hair.

Like I said, it was a long and busy weekend.

Budding Musician...

2009-03-17T19:59:00.004-06:00

This is me with Grandma. I am *SO* excited to hear her play her oboe.

My dad has only been gone for 3 days and I'm already learning to play the tuba! Grandma thought I should start with something nice and quiet and eventually work my way up to the bagpipes. It's a little hard because I'm so small but as you can see, I'm getting the hang of it.

In other news, I also had two other major accomplishments today...
1. I asked to use the potty.
2. I pooped on the potty!!!

I miss my dad...

2009-03-14T14:06:00.008-06:00

My dad left for China today so I thought I'd update him on what I've been doing since he left. This blog will probably be a little different b/c usually my dad helps me with it. I miss him lots.

Here's a picture of me at 3 months old.

Here I am now. Which one is cuter?

Here's me rockin' out. This is from before my dad left but I think it's a good example of me dancing so I thought ya'll would want to see it. Sorry it's sideways. I don't know how to fix that.

Today I finger painted.
Dad told mom that was very brave.

Sticky fingers!

I'm pretending I'm a sleepy fish. No one is sure why.

Awesome Fun

2008-12-27T19:57:00.003-06:00

Okay, so there's no way that I can tell you about the last 6 weeks today or I'll be up till midnight like I was on Christmas Eve so here are the hightlights.

BIG NEWS!!! I don't sleep in a crib anymore! Dad took the front off of my crib so now I can get in and out all by myself. I still yell and wait for Mom or Dad to come get me in the morning.

I took a trip to the Children's Museum with Sophia and it was awesome. Our parent's even had fun playing with balls and crawling through tunnels.

Mom and Dad took me to see the Hollidazzle parade and it was awesome. I got to have my first taste of hot chocolate and it was also awesome. I loved the Christmas lights on the floats and kept jumping up and down on Dad's shoulders.

My new favorite thing to do is color. I would rather color than eat lunch, dinner, go anywhere, or do anything that my parents want at that time.

I stayed with Grandma and Grandpa A. last weekend since Dad was in Vegas. I think I had more fun with Grandpa.

Of course there are Christmas pictures too.

I had awesome fun pulling the adults off of their butts.

BEFORE

AFTER

Handsome

2008-11-09T20:50:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was my Aunt Sandra's wedding. I had to wear uncomfortable clothes and walk slow while lots of people stared at me. I did good though, cause I followed my cousins' lead. Mostly that means I ran around the church for all but the ceremony.

Oh yeah, and that cake was gooood! It was so good that I cried when Mom stole a bite.

Afterwards, I went with my aunt Jessie to spend the night at her house. Thank you for taking me away from the boring adults that were worried I'd get all dirty.

Can you guess they song I'm singing? (Answers below.)

Answer: Happy Birthday of course. Why else would I blow out a candle?

Tricks and Treats

2008-11-02T20:29:00.002-06:00

I've got to say, with my birthday, leaves, and Halloween, October is definitely my favorite month.

Mom and Dad carved pumpkins last week. I helped. I liked pulling the gooey parts out best.

I've been pointing out Halloween lights for a few weeks and like to look at the spooky houses, but Friday night I finally figured out what all the hubbub is about. This makes October magical. CANDY, CANDY. AND MORE CANDY!

We had a Halloween party at Jamie's house [daycare] too! My favorite part was the firemen that came!

This is when I learned what fun can be had with balloons.

Now that I know...

This weekend, Dad fixed our garage. I tried to help, but they wouldn't let me. They must've forgot how I'm a good helper. I even helped Dad move all of the wood into the garage this week. He took one end of those long boards and I took the other. There was a LOT of them too.

Partay!

2008-10-28T21:40:00.004-06:00

Raise your hand if you're Two!

Dad would say I've been 2 for awhile, but I'm not sure what he means by that.

Thanks to everyone who came to my party on Saturday. I had a blast. I loved playing with my friends and taking my toys away from all of you; they were mine. The SpongeBob cakes were delicious and I've been having a piece for dessert every night since!

I went to the science museum last week.

Science is awesome. So is this chain thingy!

Grandma made 2 Spongebob cakes for me.
I guess next year she'll make 3 cakes since I'll be turning 3, right?

PRESENTS!

This is the tricycle that Grandma A gave me. I love it.

We didn't stay out long, though, 'cause Dad was a wimp and complained about the snow.

Finally. I know, right?

2008-10-13T21:35:00.004-06:00

So I finally have something blog-worthy to share with everyone. Are you ready? Are you on the edge of your seat? What could be worth such high honors you ask?

I used the potty!

So really Dad asked if I wanted to since I was crabby about a bath then told me to squeeze, but it totally counts. :)

I've got some big events coming up so I promise you'll see some regular posts (Birthday, Halloween, Aunt Sandra's wedding).

This is Mom's new office. I helped set up.

I know you can't tell, but I wanted to look through the log.

Holy sugar rush!

The otters were definitely my favorite at the zoo.

The bears were sleepy.

I love my new pajamas.

Mojo loves it when I pick him up.

Gamma Gappa

2008-09-07T19:52:00.004-06:00

I just got back from a sleepover at Grandma and Grandpa's last night. They have the best house because they have lots of toys and I get lots of hugs. I also went to church with them this morning and had a lot of fun with the other kids. Tonight I got to play with my cousins who helped me release lots of energy. I was super hungry when Mom and Dad came. They say I eat a lot, but my little tummy only holds 2 bowls of fruit, all of the beef in Mom's stirfry, some broccoli, 5 fish sticks, and a serving of cake. Is that a lot? That's normal for me.

Yesterday was Dad's 30th birthday. We went for a walk, played in the dirt, and he taught me how to roll down a hill. I think he was trying to prove that he wasn't old yet. I know better though. I was worried he'd break a hip.

I ran a race with Mom last week. It was super fun. My favorite part was the fire truck.

Photo overload

2008-08-24T21:01:00.002-06:00

NEW PHOTOS!!!

I'm so adorable.

Holy cow, do I love the sprinkler!

I like to be a baby after my bath.

We spent last weekend back at Aunt Jessie and Uncle Dean's cabin.

This time I liked the floaties. At least until I was dumped.

Yep, still adorable.

Today we went to the state fair. I can sum it up in 2 words. Food. Animals.

Tickle, tickle.

This was a nice sheep. I also liked the goat that ate grass from my hand.
Mom thought it would eat my fingers and gave Dad a disapproving look.

I TOUCHED A COW!

Harley 1, Containment 0

2008-07-12T19:31:00.003-06:00

I've learned a new trick, and it allows me a little more freedom. Hold your breath... I can now open doors! That's right. I figured it out while at Grandma and Grandpa's a couple of weeks ago. Dad came to pick me up and I was ready to go, so I opened the door and went outside. He made me do it again. Here's some proof.

Funny how now that I can open them, I don't want the doors to be closed anymore. Especially at night.

I love playing in the hose and sprinkler. I'm a good helper and water all of Mom's flowers too.

Can you see the bite mark? That happened at daycare. I consider it a badge of honor.

It's a good think I was the bitee and not the biter though, cause I'd have to give hugs and say "Towwy" I do that a lot now. Like when I hit Dad in the face, or hit Dad with a drumstick, or kick Dad in the stomach, or headbutt Dad in the tooth. You get the idea.

Wow. I haven't posted in a while, huh? This is from the 4th, with me in the parade.

I had a ton of fun with my Aunt Jenna. We went to the drive-in. I ran around a lot and Dad got hit in the face with a softball.

Last weekend we were at Aunt Jessie and Uncle Dean's cabin. I got to stay up super late and sit by the fire and swim in the lake.

I'm ready, where's the fish?

Mush.

Don't you even think about taking this away.

Sand Crabs

2008-06-29T20:43:00.002-06:00

I hope everyone else's summer is as fun as mine has been! I spend every minute outside that Mom and Dad let me. I love playing in the water! The sand on the beach is so much fun, Mom brought some home and put it in my backyard. Now I can play in the dirt whenever I want.

My friend Garrett and me at the beach.

This was taken on Father's day. Dad

We went to Como Zoo a few weeks ago. I like the monkeys. I go "Oo Oo Ah Ah".

I talk a lot more now. I understand a lot more too. It makes it way easier to get what I want. I've even learned that when Dad says No, if I say "Peeez" he changes his mind. It's like that's a magic word.

Cages and Caterpillars.

2008-06-01T20:28:00.003-06:00

I've had a busy couple of weeks. Here are some of the highlights.

My parents finally did it. They installed a cage for me.

Running around with Dad and Grandpa at the drive-in

I had fun with Aunt Sandra and Eric.

Dad's been trying to get this on video for about 2 weeks not.

I love this truck that Grandma A. gave me. I push it around everywhere we go.

Today we biked over to Minnehaha Falls and had a picnic.

CATERPILLAR!!!

I am so S.M.R.T.

2008-05-18T20:44:00.002-06:00

I love the look on Mom and Dad's faces whenever I do new things now. Judging from their reactions, I'm pretty sure I'm a genius.

Here are some new things I've learned that you may not know since I am a genius and you might only be of average intelligents.

I know what nose, ears, eyes, mouth, teeth, and hair are. Mom and Dad must keep forgetting because they now ask me where they are all the time.

I can point to things in picture books when Mom and Dad ask me to help find them. I can find dogs, kitties, bubbles, books, balls, fish, cars, mommies, daddies, and lots more.

I know how to say milk, more, eat, baby, and bath in sign language. Mom and Dad's friend Andrea was especially impressed.

I now can say the words story, truck, car, booby, stick, apple and grapes.

If you hide something, I'll ask "Where'd it go?" [Ere O?]

I'm getting pretty good at jumping. I even spent some time on a trampoline this week. I wasn't sure about it at first, but after I realized it doesn't hurt to fall I loved it.

Oh, Oh, I almost forgot! Speaking of getting hurt, the kitchen wall bit me yesterday! Mom and Dad were about to start painting and the neighbor girl had just shown up to watch me while they painted. I realized that the outlet had a hole in it and when I touched it it bit me. Holy cow was that scary!

Garreth is so much fun.

This is my Musikgarten teacher Miss Laurie.
I can be really shy in class sometimes.

Grandpa's are good at peekaboo.

Cool! I can push and pull the new kitchen chairs around.

Alright already! New pictures!

2008-05-11T20:24:00.004-06:00

I blame Dad. He's been refusing to help me post as punishment for not letting Mom and him sleep for the last month or so. Really, it's their own fault, since I sleep just fine in bed with them. I need lots of room though, so I try to kick Dad out of bed. Literally.

Turn it UP!

My new favorite things.

#1 Trucks. I push my trucks everywhere. Around the house, onto the porch, back inside, down the block, up the alley, into the neighbor's yard, up Dad's face, down Dad's back, everywhere. The only thing better than a truck is 2 trucks. One for each hand.

#2 Sand. I finally found dirt that Mom and Dad approve of me playing in. I love digging. Since I don't know where to put the sand I dig up, I usually dump it in Dad's hands. Sand is also great for throwing.

#3 Shoes. Specifically, Mom and Dad's shoes. I love to clomp around in them. Sometimes I just put them on and take them off over and over. I feel so big when I wear them.

#4 Tantrums. I finally found a way to express the feelings of rage and betrayal I feel when someone (Mom or Dad) takes away a toy or makes me do anything I don't want. There are 3 basic rules to a tantrum that will drive any parent to cave. First, insist on being put down and squirm like a slippery fish. Second, scream bloody murder. Third, throw anything handed to you.

#5 Being understood. So I've been talking up a storm for months and months now (at least the vowels) and it's really nice when someone finally understands. For example, Dad figured out Ee-EeO last week. See if you can get it. The answer's at the bottom.

#6 Slides. Holy cow do I love slides!

#7 Outside!

Like my shiner?

I like playing Fort, but sometimes I get stuck.

Ee-EeO: Cheerios, of course.

Words

2008-04-06T19:31:00.004-06:00

Quick update. Last weekend I was home alone with Dad while Mom took off. Other than getting sick all over Mom and Dad's bed and having a fever most of the time, we had fun!

It has since been confirmed that I had hand, foot, and mouth disease. So did most of the kids at daycare. I'm better now.

I love this warm weather so much I throw a tantrum every time I'm brought inside. Anyone blame me?

This morning we went to Aunt Jessie and Uncle Dean's house. I loved playing with my cousin.

Mom and Dad tried to put together a list of words I say. I use most of these correctly. Of course Mom and Dad are the only ones who understand me.

Uh-Oh
Kitty
Hi
Up
Down
Doggie
Snugli
Bubbles
Duck
Mom
Dad
Knock Knock
Harley
Cheese
Ow
Truck
Beep
Meow
Oink
Two
Three
Hot
Thank You (I'm so polite)
Giddy-up
No

Happy Snowy Easter

2008-03-23T19:29:00.003-06:00

Happy Easter. I love all of the snow we got this weekend. I've been able to play in it while Mom and Dad shovel over and over again.

The Easter bunny left me a basket full of eggs and toys to find this morning. There are plastic eggs EVERYWHERE! After a super long nap, we went to Grandma and Grandpa P.'s house where I wrestled with my cousins.

I had a blast touching the dog.

That's two weekends in a row that we went over there, because we celebrated my cousin Tavito's birthday last week, too!

I love Grandma and Grandpa

My cousins tire me out!

This is me in a nice restaurant (Cheesecake Factory) last night.

...And 2 minutes later...

It's SCIENCE!

2008-03-13T19:37:00.003-06:00

First of all, everyone can breathe a sigh of relief because my eye is just fine. The drops weren't that bad either.

I've had a really fun week. Saturday afternoon we went to Underwater World at the Mall of America with Garreth and Andrea. I liked the big fish and the rays a lot, but my favorite part was definitely the moving walkway!

I also got to hang out with my cousins for a little bit. They even played fort with me!

Monday my buddy Garrett came to visit and our Mom's took us to the Science Museum. That place is awesome!

Doctors?... or Aliens?!?!

2008-03-07T23:19:00.004-06:00

With news like this, there's no more excuses for Dad to put off helping me with my posts. I just got back from my first trip to urgent care. I hurt my eye earlier today and it's been watering non-stop and hurts. I have to squint a lot. For some reason, my parents thought that the best course of action was to take me to have someone hold my eye open and squirt things in there. That did NOT HELP. How did this occur? Mom, Dad, and two strangers co-conspired to hold me down in a death grip while one of them wrenched open my injured eye! I think I saw part of a movie on TV where aliens held someone down and put a probe into his eye. That's pretty much what happened, except that Mom and Dad not only approved, but participated!

Dad insists I let him tell his side of the story.

Harley started to cry and rub his eyes around 6pm like he'd been poked in the eye or something, but was able to open it. After 2 hours, when his right eye was still watering, (and Michelle came home and insisted I call the nurse immediately), we took him to urgent care, thinking his eye may have been scratched. Luckily we got right in since it was already past bed time. The doctor put numbing drops in, then put a dye in his eye that will fill a scratch and fluoresce under a black light. Harley's so strong, it took 4 of us to hold him still and keep his eye open. The dye showed a decent sized corneal abrasion (scratch) right in the center of his eye. What Harley doesn't know yet is that we have to administer antibacterial eye drops 4 times a day for a few days to prevent any infection as it heals. Hopefully it will get better as he gets used to it rather than worse as he realizes what's we're up to.

I'm too traumatized to talk about it anymore. Let's move on...

Happy Birthday, Garrett. Your party was fun, thanks for inviting us. I really like your toys and your room. I've been trying to talk Dad into buying me a remote control car. Maybe he'll feel guilty enough now that I got hurt on his watch. Next time I see you I'll teach you how to go down stairs. Slide down on your stomach if you're in a hurry, but the butt slide is much more fun.

I'm learning to share.

Still the babies.

I needed a break and was ready to go home.

Dad's been building forts for me to climb on and I love it!

There was actually one day in the last month warm enough for me to play outside.

Hello? How come nobody ever calls me?

One... Ooo... Eee

2008-02-19T20:40:00.002-06:00

Sorry for the long breaks between posts. Dad's been too busy to help me. I hope the pictures were worth the wait.

Party people

2008-02-05T21:36:00.002-06:00

Superbowl party!
Lots of people came over on Sunday to watch the game.
I ran and played in front of the tv while crunching chips
into the floor and breaking beer glasses.
(haha, it looks like Dad's picking his nose. I like to pick Dad's nose too!)

I'm learning to play dominoes so I can take on Grandpa A.

We went to the zoo with Sofia and her parents this weekend.
I liked the fish a lot, especially the ones Sophia shared with me.

I got to play with some animal toys, watched the dolphin show, splashed in a fish pond, and ran around and around and around and around.

I really like stuffed animals now. Mom put them all in my crib... HILARIOUS!

And vhen I tap into ze brain here ve can control ze subject.

Cats like me.

Nunna!!!

2008-01-27T22:38:00.000-06:00

Hello again, everybody. Sorry I missed a post last week. Here's the update.

I had my 15 month doctor's visit last week. I got a clean bill of health and 2 shots. At least I wasn't the only one, because our cat Mojo had 2 shots as well. I cried hard after the nurse left, but when we left Dad was mean and told them I didn't deserve sympathy because I was only mad that I couldn't play with the doctor's instruments. I think that deserves some sympathy, don't you?

I've been getting really frustrated with Mom and Dad lately. They don't understand what I tell them when I want something and look at me as if I'm speaking another language. "Nunna" means I want it; look it up in any dictionary. Worse yet, like at the doctor's, they do understand, but tell me no and hand me something completely different! When I make angry noises they just roll their eyes at me. Like that's gonna make me happier.

Anyway, enough complaining. Pictures:

We went for a walk today and went out on the lake.

It's hard to walk in boots.

I LOOOOVE my big stuffed animals this week.

I've had lunch with Dad at his work the last couple of Fridays.
It's lots of fun to run through the cubicles,
but not so fun when I fell and gave myself a bloody nose.

Yep, guess where all that money in Daddy's wallet goes.

raspberries.

This is my favorite button.

I met Lily at Shannon and Shaun's party last week.
She stole Mom's lap.

Harley's Kisses

2008-01-14T20:41:00.000-06:00

What a great week. I love my new daycare, I got to see both Grandparents, and Aunt Bonnie took me shopping and bought me fun toys.

Daycare at Jamie's is so much fun. I only cry when Dad comes to pick me up because I want to stay and play and don't like being strapped into my carseat. I already have lots of friends there to play with. Some of them live really close too, so maybe when I'm older we'll still hang out and have play dates. The girls there like me too. They taught me how to do kisses this week!

I had a lot of fun with Aunt Bonnie on Saturday. We went toy shopping and she gave me a toy drill that I can use to on the kitty and a toy train that I can push all over the house. I LOVE them and get really upset if Mom or Dad try to take me away from them. Thank you, Aunt Bonnie.

I think Grandpa's like to nap even more than I do.

Yesterday was my cousin David's birthday party at Grandma and Grandpa P's. He's really big now (8). He and his brother Gustavo like wrestling, so I jumped in with them until the adults made us stop. We went sledding again over there too! I got to try pineapple for the first time, and I Like it. Happy Birthday David!

Love Machine

2008-01-06T21:06:00.000-06:00

Wow, a lot has happened in the past year. Just think, at this time last year I couldn't even sit up on my own, let alone roll over, crawl, walk, climb, or speak sign language. I'm told that I should make a new year's resolution. I can't decide between crying 'till I get my way without ever giving in, or learning to do a somersault.

I'm now going to a new daycare now. I'll miss Kathy, but I like it at Jamie's too. The kids have been really nice to me and play with me all the time, there are tons of new toys to play with and Jamie knows just how to cuddle me when I'm having difficulty napping. One big bonus is that Jamie lives only a few blocks away, so I don't have to sit in the car as long when I get dropped off or picked up.

New Year's Eve

Thanks again for all of the wonderful gifts. Here's some more videos of me playing with a few of them. My parents especially love it when I dance to Love Machine. I won't do it for any other songs.

Thanks to Aunt Sandra and Grandma P. for babysitting. It's nice to get a break from Mom and Dad every once in a while.

Mom and Dad took me sledding yesterday at a nearby park. I had lots of fun.

I like to play with my tongue. If you let me, I like to play with your's too.

Merry Christmas to all, I'll not say goodnight

2007-12-25T21:58:00.001-06:00

Christmas.

Try to keep up.

Car ride, snacks, toys, Grandamas, Grandpas, Aunts, Uncles, cousins, kids, noise, run run run, cookies, tags, ornaments, Santa, presents, puppies, yelling, toys, dice, more presents, an orange, more toys, sleeping, crying, sleeping, crying, sleeping, crying, sleeping, presents, MORE TOYS, car ride, Grandamas, Grandpas, Aunts, cousings, kids, noisy, run run run, puppy, yummy food, presents, EVEN MORE TOYS, ...

...best nap ever.

Hmmm, maybe it's better said in a video. I give you my 12 days of Chrismas 2007.

Thanks for the gifts everyone. I love them all. It was really great to spend time with all of you.

Sick

2007-12-16T21:40:00.001-06:00

I'm sick. All doubt was removed last night when I threw up...

All over Mom...

Twice.

The good things about being sick are that you get held all the time, you get to take 2 long naps, and you get to be a lot pickier about the food you eat. The bad parts are that my tummy hurts and I'm hungry, but don't want to eat. Mom's been sick too. Hopefully we'll both be better tomorrow so we can go to work and daycare on Tuesday.

Who is this guy and why is he holding me?

I got to spend some time with my buddy garrett on Friday. We had some fun playing together while our mom's made Christmas cookies.

"OOOOHHH! Jingle bells, jingle bells..."

Neighborhood watch

2007-12-09T18:41:00.002-06:00

I had my first teenage babysitter on Friday! Michaela lives across the alley and came over while Mom and Dad went to a party at the next door neighbor's. Michaela's Mom and cousin (another neighbor) came by to see me too. Talk about your neighborhood watch! Anyway, things went well and it's ok with me if she babysits more often.

These are my new favorite pj's that Mom got me.

My Aunt Jenna is in town from New York this week so we spent last night over there. I had lots of fun. I also got to open my first present this year. Thanks for the cute hat Aunt Jenna!

FROGS!

First snow

2007-12-02T17:07:00.001-06:00

I got to play in the snow for the first time this weekend. Enjoy.

I could use some new pajamas.

I like to pull the plug and watch the water drain out.

I'm thankful for...

2007-11-25T21:44:00.001-06:00

...Babysitters.
Ok, that's what Dad made me say first, but I do know that every time I have a sitter, Mom and Dad are much happier for a few days. And happy Moms and Dads make for happy babies, so thanks, this week, to Nikki and Eric, who watched me while Mom and Dad went to dinner and the theater. They were much happier.

Even though this was not Eric's idea, he was lots of fun.
I trained him well.

Nikki lets me stay up reeeallly late!
She can babysit anytime!

...Mom and Dad's bed.
It's a lot more comfortable than mine, and this week I realized that all I can climb into it whenever I insist. It's best when I can be between Mom and Dad and kick Dad's face. It's also better to sleep sideways. I'm sure they don't mind.

...Family.
We spent Thanksgiving at Uncle Dean and Aunt Jessie's new house this year. I got to eat my first turkey dinner! The cranberry sauce was my favorite, but I liked the turkey, potatoes, and stuffing too. Mom gave me an M&M right away and made a mess of my white sweater. Silly Mom. I really liked playing with my cousins Tracy and Katelyn.

2 big bellies.

I wanna push the buttons.
I'm good at it. Let me push them.
Can I show you?

Today we went to Grandma and Grandpa Peterson's. I got to eat lots of good pasta and play with my cousins David and Gustavo.

I did not get a good nap today so I was extra tired when we left.
I fell asleep in the car immediately and I'm told I didn't wake up as Dad took me into Target, back to the car, and all the way home.

...Trouble.
It's EVERYWHERE. In fact, even tonight, Mom and Dad put even more potential trouble right in the living room!

This is Mom and Dad's idea of a baby-proofed tree.
I'll bet I can reach those low ornaments still.
Any bets on that garland moving up?

...New toys.
Toys can be anything. Seriously. My favorites this week were Dad's wallet, and my recently discovered tongue. Mom and Dad keep thinking I'm putting stuff in my mouth, but I just like grabbing my tongue.

52

2007-11-18T22:06:00.001-06:00

First, an interesting fact: This is post number 52, exactly one year from the first.
Can you believe that you've been reading this blog almost every week for a year now?

After weeks of crabbiness, and sparse naps, I finally found the secret this weekend. Rather than try to take 2 short naps, just take 1 long nap. I mean loooong too. This is way better for me, and Mom and Dad are pretty happy about having time to get stuff done.

I went to my first art museum this weekend. It was really boring just looking at stuff. Everything was way too quiet too. I had to yell louder to make up for it. I found a way to make it fun though. I ran as fast as I could through the exhibit while Dad chased me and gave hasty apologies to the guards as we passed. Then he passed me to Mom, who is way smarter and took me to the kids play area where I had fun drooling on toys.

Mom and Dad were camera negligent this week, but here's a few.

Mom let me play with Play Doh.
I thought it was food because I was in my high chair.

Yep, high chairs are for fun.
I think it's silly to hold the spoon with my teeth.

Stack 'em up, Knock 'em down

2007-11-12T20:08:00.001-06:00

I had a doctor's appointment last week. I got my stats and my shots.

Here's my measurements:
Weight

23 1/2 lbs (I think my scale at home needs a little adjustment. )
70th percentile.

Height

31 1/4 in
90th percentile.

Head

46.5 cm
60th percentile.

So I'm really tall, a little chubby, with an average sized head. The doctor says I can eat more of the food that Mom and Dad eat, so already this week I've been eating lots of their leftovers instead of baby food jars. I got 4 shots and checked out ok.

My new developmental step is blocks. I'm just learning how to stack them. I've been really good at knocking them over and throwing them and hitting Dad in the face with them so far, but stacking is kinda hard.

peek - a - ...

2007-11-04T21:19:00.002-06:00

BOO!!!

Happy Halloween everyone! Halloween was lots of fun. I got to meet some kids from my neighborhood and visit some of the neighbors we know. There aren't a lot of kids around here, so when I get older that means more candy for me, right? Mom and Dad let me stay up late and play outside while they met trick or treaters. Mom let me have some cookies that were given to me, but won't let me have any of the candy. I think I would like candy, don't you?

Here's more pictures of me in the silly costume you old people find so adorable.

I had a lot of fun visiting Aunt Jessie and Grandma A this weekend at Aunt Jessie's new house.

Check out my new duds!
Dad was surprised that I already wear size 5 shoes.
He bought me my first pair of tie shoes!

Want me to brush your teeth?

Yesterday, I played outside while Dad raked leaves. I helped! Why didn't anyone tell me that leaves were even more fun to play with when there are MILLIONS of them?!

Naps are for babies

2007-10-28T21:04:00.000-06:00

I've decided that naps are wasted play time. Of course, I am tricked into at least a short nap in the morning still, but by the afternoon I've learned my lesson for the day. Mom and Dad try, but I make SURE they know how angry it makes me. They give in every time, of course, and come pick me up.

I was glad to spend time with the Coopers this week, and Grandma and Grandpa Peterson watched me on Friday (THANKS!) For those of you who don't realize what running around after me is like now, here's a video of me playing on the porch. I prefer the rest of the house where I can run from room to room looking for trouble.

I'm not sure I like Halloween anymore. Mom and Dad played a mean trick on me.

Holy I'm still getting presents Batman!

Someone SAVE me.

Why does Mom keep trying to teach me to sweep?

This is my Pitiful face.

That's gonna leave a mark.

Happy Birthday To Me

2007-10-21T18:30:00.001-06:00

Birthdays... Are... Awesome! So awesome in fact, that I think it should be an annual event for everyone.

Here are some of my favorite things about birthdays:

Lots of friends and family to entertain me.
Birthday Cake!!!!
Balloons. Super fun.
Presents.
Did I say Birthday Cake?

Here's my birthday montage.

And, of course, a few of the 100+ pictures taken yesterday.
***Spoiler Alert: Early Halloween costume pictures below!***

Matt came over Friday night. I was kinda squirmy.

Birthday preview. Check out my sweet tissue paper!

Check it out! Proof that there is no gravity!

Garrett came over for my party.

He's kinda squirmy too.

My dad and Uncle Dean thought this was funny. I don't get it.

Grandma Peterson made the cake for my party. Impressive, huh?
This is the adult cake. Mine was WAAAYYY better!

Before

After

This rocking horse moves and makes noises.
It's way cool, but I'm a little scared of it.

Finally! I've been trying to open my presents all day!

It was a long day.

These aren't from my birthday, just too good not to post. Enjoy.

I've learned that life is more fun if you have always carry a big stick.

This is from last week when Grandma A. babysat me.

Change is good

2007-10-17T19:30:00.001-06:00

A lot of stuff happened this last week. First, my house changed. The walls downstairs changed color, the carpet feels different and the furniture moved. But that's just the beginning!

On Wednesday, Mom brought me to Kathy's (daycare) really early in the morning. I really knew something was up when Grandma A. picked me up. That's never happened before, so of course I was nervous. Since she took me home, everything was ok, but I did wonder where Mom and Dad were. When they weren't there in the morning, I was sure that they had DISAPPEARED!

Grandma and I had lots of fun together, and other than a little cough, I had a great weekend. Aunt Jessie was over lots, too. FINALLY, on Sunday afternoon, the door opened, and there were Mom and Dad. I had to be careful, because I couldn't be sure that it was them and not lookalikes, but by Monday morning I was positive. Nobody knows what I like so much. I guess I'm ok if they leave me with a grandma for a few days.

2 new firsts this week already, too.

First time peeing standing up. ---- I was waiting for the bath to be ready, and you know how running water kinda gets things moving? Well, Mom should've got her feet moving out of the way!

First Asian food. ---- Mom and Dad shared their Vietnamese food with me tonight, and I like it!

I found.. er.. lost it.

2007-10-08T12:49:00.001-06:00

I found my temper! That means I can lose it all the time now! Like when someone takes my dangerous toys away, or won't let me push the button on the computer, or won't pick me up, or put me down, or tries to feed me vegetables, or any time I feel like it!

I think this means I'm officially graduated from infant to toddler.

Don't blame me.

2007-10-01T21:09:00.001-06:00

Mom and Dad have been really busy painting this weekend, so they don't have much time to help me post this week, so don't blame me for the late, thrown together post. No big news, just some good pictures.

Nice fort. What's under here?

Dirty Diaper Detector 3000

SleepOver!

2007-09-23T16:07:00.001-06:00

Last night I got to sleep over at Grandma and Grandpa Peterson's and it... was... Awesome! Their house has lots of new trouble for me to find. They even let me play the piano. There were lots of toys, too. My favorite is the xylophone because it makes noise when I hit it with a stick. They let me take it home, so I can show everyone my xylophone skills when they visit!

I didn't sleep great, 'cause I missed Mom and Dad, and my bed, but I made up for it with the best nap ever this afternoon.

This morning, I went to church. I got to watch the other kids in the nursery. People there know my Dad and kept saying how much I look like him.

Mom told me that she and Dad are leaving me for 5 days next month. Start planning the party!

I like to brush my teeth. Woe to those that take my toothbrush away!

Thanks for all the clothes

2007-09-16T20:30:00.000-06:00

I've been given lots of new clothes recently so I'd like to use this week's post to say thank you to all of my friends and family that have donated to my cool and cute wardrobe. Once I was done with it, the blue bin below was filled with clothes I've outgrown. Thanks everyone.

Free Teef

2007-09-09T17:21:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited! This has been a BIG week. To start, yesterday I popped out another tooth. This one's on the top. It's SO MUCH easier to bite crackers and Dad now.

Earlier this week, Mom took me to a Musikgarten class. We had soooo much fun! There were lots of other babies there. We sang songs and danced and I got to bang sticks together and play the rattle. There was so much going on, it tired me out.

I had lots of fun playing with Aunt Jessie this week, too. I was so surprised when she picked me up from daycare on Thursday. We had even more fun when she came over Saturday to watch me while Mom and Dad went to celebrate his birthday (he's OLD.)

Grandma Ackland, Aunt Bonnie, and Aunt Diane stopped by for a few minutes today. I showed off a little.

But the most exciting news of all is that I can take 3 or 4 steps before I fall! This may not sound like much, but besides being a little scary, it's awesome! I try every chance I get now. I'm getting even more practice at catching myself when I fall forward.

I got a big owie yesterday. I grabbed for Dad's pop can and it cut my finger. It bled enough that Mom gave me a band-aid. I was fine with all of this, but I hated that Mom and Dad wouldn't let me suck on the band-aid. It felt wierd. I suck on things that feel wierd. It's kinda my thing. Anyway, it's better now.

I can't understand why Mojo (our cat) always runs away from me.

Mr. Brown is my favorite book because Mom and Dad make funny noises.
I think they've memorized it.

Dad was playing with this, so I decided it must be a fun toy.

First Steps

2007-09-03T18:55:00.001-06:00

I hope everyone had fun over the long weekend. I just got back from my Grandma and Grandpa's where we had a birthday get-together for my Dad, Grandpa, and Uncle Gustavo. That was my second visit this weekend, because Grandma watched me on Saturday while Mom and Dad went to dinner.

I've been trying really hard to take a few steps without holding on. I get a few quick ones sometimes, but I always seem to fall on my butt pretty quick. Mom and Dad tried to catch it on video. It looks like most of my videos. We'll try again for next week.

I'm told teeth need brushin'.

Check out the new shoes!

I had a lot of fun with my cousins.

Quick

2007-08-26T20:10:00.000-06:00

It's time for bed, so I've just got time to post a couple photos.
Quick update: I can now clap and wave goodbye at random times.

Also, check out the photos posted by the Coopers taken while they babysat on Saturday (Thanks guys.)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/teamcooper/

Fun at the park with Mom.

I'm going to miss Ruzana. She's going back to Russia for a while.

Look Ma, No Hands

2007-08-19T20:00:00.001-06:00

Guess what? I stand without holding on to anything! Isn't that exciting? Dad thinks I took a first step toward him today too, but to quote a Disney movie, it was more "falling with style".

Finally, a good picture of my teeth.

I just got back from a slumber party at Grandma and Grandpa Ackland's. As always, I had a really good time and practiced standing a lot. I especially liked trying lots of new foods, like Toll House crackers.

Grandpa lets me watch tv!

Mine

I also got a 'First tooth' present from Uncle Scott and Aunt Cindy and Cousin Tracy. Thanks guys, as you can see, I love to knock over blocks.

Catching me pooping of video: priceless...

Friday night we went to the other Grandparents to celebrate Aunt Sandra's 21st birthday. I spent a lot of time annoying Cousin Gustavo.

My favorite new game is Monster. I make really scary monster sounds.

I Scream, You Scream

2007-08-06T20:42:00.001-06:00

Hi. It's late and I'm tired, so here's a quick update.

Mom let me have some ice cream, and I LOVED it. I was mad when it was gone.

My foot likes ice cream too.

Aunt Sandra babysat on Friday night while Mom and Dad went out to dinner.

Mom's friend Jill from work came over with Brady. He's not very old, but he's almost as big as me! I had fun kicking his legs and pinching his belly and cheeks.

Kevin helped Dad brew beer yesterday. I like Kevin's shiny chain.

I used to think that my baby food was messy, but toddler food is WAY messier and I like it.

I got a bath right after this picture.

Stop putting everything on my head already.

We just got back from Shannon and Shaun's. I had fun chasing their dog Sam.

I like to feel people's teeth. It's only fair, they feel mine.

Like I said, it's late and I'm tired.

Biting for Attention

2007-07-29T21:13:00.001-06:00

Hello everyone. I grew another tooth today. My parents were completely oblivious to it this time though. I had to bite Dad for him to notice that I left 2 marks on his thumb. Dad says I've been a handful. I don't know what that means, but I can crawl really fast now and I know that if I just wait 'til Dad turns around I can get the leaf/kleenex/rock in my mouth. I do all sorts of fun crazy stuff too, like make funny noises.

I had a pretty exciting weekend. We went to a family reunion (Mom's side) on Saturday where I got to play with my cousins. I like to climb up onto picnic tables. Come to think of it, I like to climb on everything, stairs, legs, arms, boxes, luggage, faces... everything. Anyway, my cousin Katie brought me lots of squeaky toys to play with, including a little bear. I had lots of fun chewing on them and throwing them on the ground. I had loads of fun on the playground too. Katie took me on the slide and Dad pushed me in the swing. I can't wait 'til I'm a little bigger and can start climbing on it.

From there we went to Aunt Jessie's cabin with Grandma Ackland, Katie, and of course, Aunt Jessie. Uncle Dean and my Grandpa couldn't come so I'll have to visit them soon. I crawled around on the deck, pulled window cranks off, and played with Katie. We didn't go out on the boat this time, but we did swim in the lake twice. I had a lot of fun and was really glad that Aunt Jessie invited us. Thanks Aunt Jessie!

Fun with Finger Foods

2007-07-22T17:46:00.001-06:00

So now that I have a tiny tooth, I've been upgraded to finger foods. It took me a few tries to figure out the whole chewing thing, but I learn fast. I like the cheerios and the puffed sweet potatoes. The gerber biscuit was good too because I can rub it in my ear, but it made me throw up so I won't get to do that again for a little while. I also got to taste meat for the first time this week in the form of a chicken and apple dinner smoothie. You should definitely try it.

It sticks!

When do I get Dad's snack foods?

Mom bought me this doctor kit today. I like it a lot.

Big news!

2007-07-16T20:25:00.001-06:00

OMG, I have so much news! First, I've been practicing lots and am getting really good at moving around on my feet. I can pull myself up on just about anything I can reach, like coffee tables, chairs, couches, bathtubs, Dad, etc. Not only that, but I can walk along the edge a little bit too. I get a little scared when I have to let go and grab the next chair, but it's a good excited scared.

I'm in a fort!

My next news is even scarier. I was in pain on Saturday, but Dad gave me cold toys and towels to chew on and that helped a little. Sunday I woke up with something sharp in my mouth. It's poking out of my lower gums just to the left. I heard someone mention something called a dentist; I'm suspicious.

You would cry too if it happened to you.

So with all this new stuff happening, I've been way too excited to sleep at night, but I'm making up for it with my naps. Mom and Dad should take more naps too.

Mojo lets me get really close through
the gate and plastic Dad put around the stairs.

The biggest bathtub ever

2007-07-11T19:48:00.001-06:00

I need to remember to take a break from running around to tell you guys about all my running around.

4th of July was fun. We went to Aunt Carol and Uncle Roger's farm. I like being outside with lots of people. Everyone wants to take their turn with me!

Looks like Mom got the colors of my clothes right.

Twice the babies = Twice the handful
This is my 2nd cousin Madeline and her mom Tanya.

Say ahhh

I had the best nap on Aunt Carol's floor.

Last weekend, I was taken on the longest drive to Aunt Jessie and Uncle Dean's cabin in Wisconsin. It was AWESOME! I got to crawl around and play the whole time. My favorite part was playing in the biggest bathtub I've ever seen. We rode around in their boat all day Saturday and I got to go swimming!

The boat goes FAST! I had to hold on tight!

Dean needed some help.

Splash, splash, spit. Splash, splash, spit.

I had so much fun I passed out.

From the fun... not the beer.

On Sunday Mom and Dad took me for a walk.

So thanks for inviting us up Aunt Jessie and Uncle Dean. I had a blast.
Now it's time for me to get back to my antics. Later.

Change my middle name to Trouble!

2007-07-03T20:14:00.001-06:00

I can get into so much trouble now! Today I finally got the cat's water bowl (my primary target all week) and had a blast splashing around in it! I also got to play with electrical cords and try really hard to get the cat's food. I think Dad's anxious because he's been putting up gates everywhere.

Now that I've got this crawling thing licked, I'm already moving towards walking. I can do a pretty good job of pulling myself onto my feet if I've got a low table/box/Dad to balance on.

There's been a lot going on at my house the last couple weeks. Mom had a friend stay over for the weekend, so I spent a lot of time home with Dad. I had fun with Stacey. Their friend Julie was over lots too. She even babysat for me.

Everyone wants to hold the baby. :)

Garrett came over last week.
I got really excited and tried to show him by hitting him in the face.
Mom wouldn't let me though so I yelled at him instead.

I can get the cat, I can get the cat, I can get the cat.

The coolest thing I've ever done.

2007-06-21T21:10:00.000-06:00

To Dad, Love Harley

2007-06-17T17:48:00.001-06:00

Happy Father's Day. Dad didn't seem very excited though. He slept half the day. [Dad: I did. It was very exciting.] I'm not sure why he'd be tired. Mom and he left me with Aunt Sandra on Friday night and went on a date. Then again, I did wake them up last night.

Lots of family came over today. I got to be held by like a hundred people.

I got to show off my new moves too. Here's me showing off.

Don't laugh. I dare you. I double dare you.

What's with all the crawling hype? I wanna walk!

This is new. I'm not sure I like it.

Mmmm. Green.

My watermelon. Mine.

I like drinking water from Dad's cups and bottles.
Mostly just 'cause it's Dad's and I wanna be just like him.
So I'm going to quick write this while Dad's out of the room...I know I said all that great stuff about my mom a few weeks back, but I want everyone to know that Dad is my favorite. There's a reason I'm saying "Dadadada." Who else flies me around the room like an airplane and tickles me until I can't breathe? Dads are good for lots of stuff, and they let you do things that moms never would like hang off the edge of the couch, pull the cat's hair and watch motorcycle shows on tv.
I want to be just like my dad when I grow up.

Am I crawling yet?

2007-06-10T19:12:00.001-06:00

No. Closest I get is pushing backwards on the wood floors, or getting myself up on all fours.

I did pull myself into a sitting position today for the first time though. Mom and Dad were very surprised when they came to get me up from my nap. I've got another new noise too, "ThoThoDoDaDaDa" Mom looks slightly annoyed when I do it, and gives me to Dad.

I love to grab cheeks, lips, noses, and hair.

My first piano lesson from Grandma Peterson.
Happy Birthday Grandma!

Playing with my cousin David. Or was he just teasing me with his toy?
I'm not sure which. I had fun anyway.

Yup. Growin' again.

Mom took me with to work. This is Brier.

Lets play a game. Where's Dad?

This is much more fun than the carseat.

Random object of the week on my head. Even I think it's adorable.

Ready or Not

2007-06-03T19:38:00.001-06:00

I'm so close to crawling I can't stand it! I can't sleep, I'm so excited. That's also because I can't keep myself from rolling onto my hands and knees. Mom and Dad are scrambling to get ready and baby proofed. Today Dad moved my crib down a notch when they saw me trying to pull myself up. I was able to pull myself into a sitting position today for the first time. Cool, huh?

I was really happy this week that Mom declared her cell phone a toy! [Michelle got a new phone.] It's the perfect size for chewing on and as soon as nobody's looking, I'm gonna turn it on and push the button for 911. Won't that be cool?

So I've had some requests to perform my new noise. Dad thinks it's really funny when Mom tries to copy me 'cause she can't do this. I'm such a show-off I do it all the time. Can anyone else do this? If not, you should really comment so Mom doesn't feel so left out. ;)
So... With no further ado... Lalala... Do Re Mi... Ahem...

PRUNES!

I may not be a fashion nut, but I'm pretty sure that this is not a hat.
Are all parents this nuts?

Diggin' in the dirt.

2007-05-28T18:33:00.000-06:00

Happy Memorial Day. I've spent all weekend outside watching Mom and Dad play in the dirt. I'm so jealous. I made sure they knew it by making my new mad sound. It's fun! [editor's note: new fun sound is rolling t's. Actually quite impressive.]

Here's a short list of my recent inspirations.

Everything can be tasted. Everything.
Strangers are scary.
Grass is for pulling up.
I only bonk my head when Dad is watching me.
Thumbs beat pacifiers, hands down.
The best toys in the world are toes. They're tasty too.
Falling asleep is HARD.
I must be someone important 'cause everyone wants their turn with me.

Here I am geeking out at the computer.

Things are good with my new roommate, Uncle John. He won't let me near his snake though.

Balllooooons....

I loved watching all of the other babies at the graduation party we went to,
but as you can see, I missed my nap. Nothing personal Great Aunt Bonnie.

OK, seriously, nobody knows how to snuggle like a grandma...

Or maybe...

This is my second cousin Miranda.

And of course my first cousins, who I can't wait to play with.

Flapjack Harley

2007-05-19T20:31:00.001-06:00

Look at me go. I'll be crawling soon, but in the meantime, I roll around and if I'm on slippery floors, I can push myself backwards. I just have to work on the other gears now. This is great and all, except for one thing. I wake up on my tummy. Dad comes in and has to flip me.

I gotta say thanks to Grandma and Grandpa Ackland for my new play saucer. I love it. See?

They gave me Clifford too.

What are these for?

My uncle John moved in with us today for the summer. I'll let you know how that's going next week.

For Mom

2007-05-12T15:43:00.000-06:00

Dad's are great, but Moms are the best.

When my Dad's not watching me close enough and I bonk my head, who calms me down? Mom. When I'm upset who always knows why? Mom. Who always makes me smile just 'cause she's home? Mom. Who snuggles me better than anyone? Mom. Who can I count on to take care of everything I need? Mom. Who went through 9 months of discomfort just for me? Mom. Who loves me more already than anyone else in my life ever will? Mom.

Thanks Mom, for everything you do. Thanks for all the feedings, the diaper changes, washing my clothes, comforting me when I'm sad, carrying me around the lake when I don't want to be in the stroller, rocking me to sleep, not sleeping for two months, keeping me booger free (even though I hate it), washing bottles every day, waking up earlier than you want to, listening to raffi songs with me, breaking your back carrying me in the Baby Bjorn for hours, buying me cute clothes, taking me to the doctor, clipping my nails, giving me baths, keeping me safe, taking me on long stroller rides, and everything you do after 10am too.

I know I can be frustrating at times and demand more patience than anyone but a mom has. I am amazed by how much love you have for me, and because of you, I know that I will always be okay. I love you Mom.

Happy Mothers Day,
Harley

This is Nancy. She works with Mom.

I always sleep on my left side now.

Zero and a half years old.

2007-05-06T17:05:00.000-06:00

I went to my 6 month well child checkup at the doctor this week. The doctor says I'm the healthiest, cutest, most intelligent, well adjusted child ever.

Here's my stats:
--- 19 lbs (still). I've dropped to 60th percentile for weight.
--- 27 1/4 in. That puts me in the 80th percentile so I'm still growing, but in the other direction.

That's me with Doctor McCarthy. We like him.

I took my shots like a man. I hardly cried at all and didn't get my usual fever!

No more tummy time for me! I got this rolling over mastered. Put me on my tummy and I'll flip immediately every time. Dad captured a few. Here's number 4 of 7 in a row!

Shannon, Shaun and Aaron were over yesterday for Cinco de Mayo. I had a lot of fun hanging out and playing. I was mad later though, 'cause there was so much commotion I missed my nap and had trouble falling asleep at bedtime. Missing naptime is a big deal since I've been known to take 2-3 hour naps.

Adults get all the fun toys.

I've tried green beans, sweet potatoes, and carrots recently. See the carrots?

The great outdoors

2007-04-29T18:45:00.000-06:00

I've been outside playing, or zipping around in the stroller every day this week. Springtime rocks! Yesterday, Mom and I went for a stroller ride around lake Calhoun with Beth and Garrett.

I got to meet Mom's friend Julie this week. Twice. She hung out with Mom and me on Monday and on Saturday. I also saw the Coopers and Aaron on Monday night for a few minutes before bedtime.

Speaking of bedtime, I'm known to sleep for 12 hours straight without eating or crying at all. Yay, me.

I just got back from visiting Matt and Ruzana. They're getting married soon and her parents are staying with them. They make noises I haven't heard before (they're from Russia and don't speak English.) They were very nice and I had fun with her Dad, even though I cried when he tried to hold me.

This is something new. I think it goes in my mouth, but that's hard.
I'm gonna need some practice.

ShakeShakeShake

2007-04-22T06:06:00.000-06:00

Check it out. Video. This is the new Shake game, and let me tell you, it's even better than peek-a-boo.

I love these to play with my toes!

I make it look easy, but rolling over is really hard.

Happy Earth Day. I've spent lots of time outside enjoying it this week and boy do I like it. It's fun to be outside. I've gotten 1 or even 2 stroller rides most days this week and I played in the yard and at the park at Kathy's (daycare). I have a stroller with some horsepower now too. This one really moves.

This is my new stroller. And my new hat.

Thanks to this weeks babysitters, Aunt Jess and Uncle Dean, and Aunt Sandra. Without you, my parents wouldn't have gotten to run a race and get brunch on Sunday or celebrate their 4 year anniversary Friday night. I live in a happy house because of you.

Rock and Roll!

2007-04-14T14:50:00.000-06:00

I had a great Easter last weekend, even though my parents ate all the candy out of my Easter basket. If the candy is in a bag with my name on it, doesn't that make it my candy? I like the bunny ears too, but only when Mom or Dad wear them.

Everybody now, "C is for Cookie, it's good enough for me."

I got to see everybody for Easter. We went to Grandma and Grandpa Peterson's last Saturday afternoon. I love going places where everyone plays with me.

Aunt Sandra and I match!

And to top off the weekend, we spend Easter Sunday at Grandma and Grandpa Ackland's. I got passed around there too. I had fun and only cried at the end, when I woke up from a nap to find out that my parents had left me there. [editor's note: Mom and Dad went to a movie. Together. At the same time. It was wonderful.]

Grandpas are so much fun. The toy bunny makes the strangest noises.

Kickin' it with Uncle Dean.

Dad is trying out a new bedtime routine. It takes only one book before I realize this means he's about to put me down for the night. I've been sleeping really well still.

It was so nice to go for a stroller ride today. I was really full after half a banana and fell asleep before we got very far. I'm looking forward to lots more stroller rides.

I JUST ROLLED OVER! Right this second. 4:13 pm on Saturday April 14, 2007 I rolled from my front to my back! While I was writing the blog! Daddy missed it though. I'll have to show him later.

I wanna be a _______

2007-04-06T18:17:00.000-06:00

I know. I know. I am a delinquent picture giver. Shame on me.

I've been so busy sleeping that I haven't had any time to post an update. Seriously, I've been so tired, I sleep 12 hours at night and nap at least 3 hours during the day. Kathy says that means I'm growing again. Aren't I big enough (19 lbs) already? It's fun to sleep all the time 'cause I learned how to suck my thumb reeeaaallly well.

Grandma and Grandpa Ackland visited last weekend. Grandma does a good job feeding me cereal. Even better than Mom. Come to think of it, I don't really like eating cereal for my mom. Weird. Mom did give me 2 new foods this week though. I got to try mango on Monday and banana yesterday. Wow I liked them. Bring on the baby foods!

My friends Shannon and Shaun came over on Saturday. We had a wild party while Mom and Dad left for a few hours. Party games were Peek-a-b00 and Swing. Thanks for getting me away from my parents for once this month.

On Monday night, Aaron (Bauer) came over to see Mom while Dad was out with his buddies. I think I may have stared at him too much. He was brave enough to hold me this time. Originally, he was worried he'd drop me on my head. He says that babies like him, and I think he's right!

Today, I saw Aunt Shirlee again. It was fun to go to a restaurant! I was good and didn't fuss. There were lots of people, but I didn't like the lady that called me a girl. She said I was just so cute with my long eyelashes and Mom said I take after my dad. Wait.. what?

Check out my new cute shirt. I'm not sure about being a CEO. Sounds boring. I want to be a fireman! Let's have a poll! What will I be when I grow up? Winner gets bragging rights for a looong time. Just think of how many times you can tell the story, "I always knew you would grow up to be a doctor/oil tycoon/monster truck driver/lobster/vet/...". Post your guesses as comments.

Damn you Ferber

2007-03-27T20:01:00.000-06:00

The weekend started out awesome. I got to go on three stroller rides around the lake. Once with my mom and dad, once with Mom's friend Beth and my buddy Garrett, and once more with just Mom and me. I looove being outside. There are so many new noises. I watch the planes every time they go over. There are all sorts of people too. Some of them have dogs, some of them have wheels instead of feet... I'm enthralled.

It was great to visit lots of family too. Dad took me down to Grandma and Grandpa Peterson's on Saturday morning. I hung out with Aunt Sandy. We had fun.

I had a hard time sleeping Saturday night. I was up early and kind of cranky. And that's when things got weird. Someone stole all of my pacifiers, cause no one gives them to me anymore. I can't sleep without my pacifier, people! Then, I think aliens took control of my parents. They stopped coming in when I cry! Sure, they check on my at ever lengthening intervals just to make sure that my murderous screams don't mean I'm actually being murdered. But they don't pick me up, don't search the house for my PACIFIER, don't rock me, don't nurse me, don't sing, don't ANYTHING!!! A simple "It's okay, go to sleep," doesn't cut it!

On a completely unrelated topic, I have slept better the last two nights than ever before. Man this feels good! Funny, I still wake up in the middle of the night, but for some reason, I can fall back asleep. Weird.

Look how good I sit up.

Ok. I need some quick help sometimes. Look at my Dad go!

I'm the Baby, Gotta Love Me

2007-03-21T19:23:00.000-06:00

As if the bottle wasn't artificial enough, I now have to lick my food off of a stick. It works, but it's pretty inefficient. I get a little tiny bit, wait, get another tiny bit, wait... Even that wouldn't be so bad, if I could manage to keep half of it in my mouth. I'm gonna have to work on this for some time, I think.

I get fed by "Not the Mama" too.

Duck and Cover!

2007-03-13T21:04:00.000-06:00

It's tons of fun to watch Mom and Dad cover their faces when they hear the new sound I can make. PHBLLTTTT. Drooling is old news. I'm all about spitting now. I can amuse myself for quite some time with this.

I got to see my cousins on Saturday. Grandma Ackland brought them to the cities for an ice skating show. They say I can't go because I'm too little. PHBLLLTTT. That's ok though 'cause they played with me all afternoon!

My parents bought some new contraption to hold me. They seem excited, but I'm not so sure. PHBBBLT. They talk about something called cereal when I'm in it.

Is this a carseat? Why doesn't it move?

PBBHHTTTLLB!!!

BFF

2007-03-05T21:56:00.000-06:00

I just met my new BFF (Best Friend Forever). Mom's friend Beth had her baby this week. Congratulations Beth. Happy birthday Garrett. We hung out today. He's really little, but soon we can start causin' trouble!

I talk ALOT now. It comes out like this. "Aaaeeee. Oouuugghhhh. IIIeeeee. eeelaaaa. mmm. mmm. mmm. mmm. mmm. mmm. mmm. aaaa. aaaa. Ooaaaa." It's a lot of fun! I also sit up better every day. I can go ten seconds before I fall over. Sometimes.

I'm getting better at grabbing things too. My favorite is my parent's shirt collars. I can hold on and turn around to see what's going on around me. I'm very interested in what they put in their mouth. I like to put things in my mouth too.

I was really mad at my dad this weekend. I was trying to sleep when WHAM. WHAM. I would wake up, of course, then fall back asleep just in time for.. WHAM. WHAM. Mom says Dad needs to hammer the new stove into place. I think he doesn't know what a NAP is for. I'm just glad that's over with.

See. Even the cat knows what a NAP is for.

Hope you got your pictures while they lasted. 18 pounds and outgrowing...

Girl's weekend

2007-02-27T21:45:00.000-06:00

I spent all weekend as the entertainment for girl's weekend at my Aunt Jessie's cabin. It was just her, my mom, Grandma Ackland, and me. I wasn't put down even once! I also got to sleep with Mom instead of in my crib! I slept reeeeeaaaalllly well. With all the snow, we stayed inside, and were forced to stay an extra day. I tried to talk them into pulling me in the sled, but Mom said no.

Only a few hours after I got home, I was taken to the doctor's office for a checkup. He says that I'm in the 80th percentile for both height and weight, and nicknamed me 'Bruiser.' Because I'm so big, he thinks I'll be ready to start eating cereal in about a month. That's exciting. He also said that I wake up lots at night because I need to eat lots, 'cause I'm so big. I think it's really funny that he told my Mom not to worry when I don't poop for a couple of days. I've got a big belly! I got my next round of shots. I'm still concerned that I go to the doctor feeling great and come home sick. I think I have the definition of "doctor" wrong.

I'm almost able to reach for things and grab them. I get lucky sometimes, but I need more control. And soon I'll be able to sit up, too. I can do crunches, but not a full sit-up yet. I now have complete control over my finger to my mouth though. I can suck it whenever I want.

P.S. My blog is an inspiration to all babies! Check out this page by my Dad's coworker's daughter.

Tickle me Harley

2007-02-19T22:22:00.000-06:00

Hey,

It's late and I haven't been able to sleep, because I've been WAY overstimulated at the Cooper's. Why is it that it's so hard to fall asleep when you're really tired? I just get crankier and crankier.

So this week started off great. My parents were nice and let me fall asleep with the pacifier all the time and I was sleeping really well. Now, I wake up whenever I miss it. So my parents' illogical reaction is to stop letting me have it altogether at night. Wait..what? Does that make sense to you? So now I wake up every hour or two and I'm soooo tired. On a different topic, my parents are starting to look like zombies.

I don't know what they're complaining about though, because they left me with babysitters twice this week. On Wednesday, Aunt Jessie and Uncle Dean came over. Uncle Dean makes me cry, but Aunt Jessie got me to fall asleep really quickly. Good job! Then on Saturday, Aunt Sandra came over to watch me. We had fun. I think she learned something the last time she was here, cause I was sleeping like a, well..., baby when my parents got back.

My new favorite thing is when Dad tickles me. I screech and laugh!

Dad and me during our Tummy time.

I wanna be a nudist when I grow up

2007-02-13T17:42:00.000-06:00

I'm pretty settled into my routines. I got visits from my grandma, Aunt Jessie, and Shannon and Shaun this week. I also took another trip to Mom's work. Nancy there still thinks she only brings me so I can be around a black person, but that doesn't make sense 'cause there's all sorts of kids at Kathy's (my daycare.)

I've been in a holding pattern for a while, but I might start growing like a weed again soon. I've been eating more frequently lately and the websites say that makes me a normal chunky baby.

Dad's been making me exercise every day so I grow big muscles. He makes me try to do pushups and calls it tummy time. I don't like that one. I basically flop around like a fish and get mad. I really like standing though. I can do squats if someone's helping me balance, and I'm getting better at sitting without falling over. I'm fine until I get excited, then I fall backwards.

I decided to theme this week's pictures. Enjoy!

Man it's fun to be naked!

the end

It's Science!

2007-02-06T17:13:00.000-06:00

Hello again everyone. I have to write this quick because my mom will be home soon and if I'm not napping, she will put her ice cold hands on my face to see my "surprised" face. In reality, she is seeing me going into shock as the life force is drained from me. Doesn't she know that when you go outside, you wear a snow suit that completely covers everything but your nose, and hide under a blanket or three? 'Cause Wow, it's cold out.

Yesterday I made my contribution to science. Mom and i went to the UofM and participated in a study. They had a computer in front of us and were video taping me to see if I liked the picture on the left or the right better. I did a good job. They said that I was the youngest volunteer, and that they were surprised by my attention span (They asked my mom if that was because I watch a lot of TV. They do, but I don't pay that much attention to it. Maybe if the TV spoke baby.)

This weekend, Beth and Matt stopped by. I'm told that I have a buddy in Beth who's gonna be born soon. My parents were giving them advice and telling them all their sneaky ways to make me go to sleep. I'm sure their baby will be much less cranky than I was, though.

Matt seems a little uncomfortable holding me.
He'll figure out that us babies aren't so hard after all.

My parents left me again on Sunday. Apparently football is more important than me. Grandma Peterson came and took care of me. We had a good time, but I had a hard time falling asleep.

My parents are nuts.

I LOOOOOVE Standing.

I'm too tired to sleep.

2007-01-30T19:54:00.000-06:00

WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa...

WWWWWHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaaa....

GGGGGGRRRRRRRRWWWWWWWWWWWWWHHHHHHHHHHH
HHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
EEEEEEEEEEEEEEIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEE!!!!!!!

:) My parents don't care if I sleep in the swing all night anymore. hehe

I'm finally used to daycare. I still love the car and I don't mind bottles at all. I take naps pretty regularly. No problem. I got to stay home with my mom on Thursday though, 'cause she was sick. Dad came home to take care of us both that day, and Grandma Ackland came on Friday.

I'm much more interested in toys now. I hold rings for hours and always laugh at the puppet.

How old do I have to be for everyone to stop pinching me?

Seriously, you gotta get one of these!

I'm not wanted. For 5 hours a day, 3 days a week.

2007-01-21T21:28:00.000-06:00

I started daycare this week. My mom drops me off on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, then takes off to go to work. I miss her when she leaves so I cried a lot. Luckily I'm left with a very, very patient person. Kathy is really nice. She holds me all the time (cause I won't let her put me down,) and doesn't get frustrated with me when I cry myself hoarse. There are good things there too, though. I like being licked by her new dog Pony, and the kids are really nice and like to play with me sometimes. Right away on the first day, someone fingerpainted with me... or rather on me. My dad picks me up a few hours later and takes care of me until bedtime. My mom comes home right before then and tucks me in. This is going to be quite an adjustment.

P.S. I love the car. The car is the best thing ever. I fall asleep during every car ride and never ever cry. Not even a little.

Sleepover!

2007-01-14T17:44:00.000-06:00

This Friday, my mom packed up everything I own (except my swing) and we took off for Grandma and Grandpa Ackland's in Hutch. My dad seemed excited too, making comments about "Freedom Friday." He stayed home. I was worried about a long car ride, but it was ok. I slept the whole way there.

First we went to visit Great Grandpa Wendroth. We didn't stay very long, but it was a nice visit.

That night, my great aunt's Bonnie and Diane came visiting. I got more presents. I'm so spoiled, thanks Aunt Diane. I was placed in some crazy contraption that bounced me. It was scary and I liked it at the same time. Everyone passed me around and played with me and I had a lot of fun.

Sorry about the shirt. Don't feel bad. I do that to everyone now.

I like sleeping over because my mom lets me sleep with her after I'm awake. That never happens at home anymore.

On Saturday, I met my great uncle Ronnie. I stared at him a lot. He's got a hairy face. Cool.

The car ride home was ok too. I screamed at first, but then I fell asleep again.

Mom says that I start daycare on Tuesday. She says it will be ok, and that I will get to play with lots of other kids. We'll see how it goes...

I was good, my parents weren't.

2007-01-08T21:52:00.000-06:00

All in all, this has been a very good week. I am sleeping longer, starting to take naps at regular times, and having a lot more fun. I had a busy weekend though.

On Friday my parents abandoned me. They left me for three hours. Both of them. At the same time. I don't know what I did to drive them away, but they seemed very excited about leaving me. They even dressed up, as if this were something to celebrate.

Okay, so I wasn't alone. Aunt Sandra stayed with me. It took her a while to learn how I like things, but I yelled at her until she got it right. Mom and Dad finally came home, looking quite pleased with what they'd done. My aunt said that she didn't mind even my crying and volunteered to allow them to do this again! I'm not sure I believe her though, because she left very quickly.

Saturday was opposite day. My mom left for the day and my dad stayed home with me. We had a lot of fun. Bottles are ok in the morning. I got my naps on time. I got lots of play time. It was a good day.

Sunday we took a trip to Grandma and Grandpa Peterson's. Yep, still hate car rides. My dad recorded himself shhh-ing, looped it for 10 minutes, and copied it to a cd. He played this almost the entire time in the car. While his artistic ability is very questionable, it did put me to sleep for short periods, if only to escape it.

I spent lots of time with my Aunt Jenna visiting from New York and my cousins David and Tavito. Aunt Jenna is really nice. I like her. Tavito picked out a rattle as a present for me and he is already playing with me, even though I don't have a long attention span. That will be fun when I'm older 'cause it looks like he has lots of really cool toys. I'm not exactly sure what or who a "Salty" train engine is, but he's got two!

I keep hearing my parents talk about something called "Daycare." I'm scared.

What's my prize?

2007-01-01T17:57:00.000-06:00

So I guess at this time of year, we humans look back on the last year and contemplate what's changed. So lets see.. there was that grape flavor, crying, pissing on my dad twice a day for a week HeHe,... oh yeah, I WAS BORN! I win. No one can top that, what's my prize?

I'm told that we also choose an unattainable goal, work towards it in January, and then forget all about it. So here goes. My new year's resolution is to sleep more and cry le... HAAHAAHAA I couldn't even finish it. No seriously, I'm looking forward to crawling because I get really bored staring at the same patch of floor/wall/ceiling all the time. I've recently started to talk a little, but no one understands me, so I can work on that. Hopefully soon I'll be able to laugh as well.

My parents were really excited a few days ago when I slept for 7 hours straight. It was after a night out at Shannon, Shaun, and Sam's (see earier posts), and I was exhausted from crying. Sleeping 7 hours is great! It means I hardly have to sleep at all for the next 72 hours! I don't know what my parents are complaining about. I'm sure they get as much sleep as I do during the night. Maybe they should get swings too, so they can nap easier during the day.

Happy New Year's y'all! Here's yer pichures.

First time in shoes. Yes that's Bob Marley.

First time with a beer. Just Kidding. It's not my first time. ;-)

Zombie hands!!!!

Mom bought me a playmat this weekend and I'm enthralled with it. Noise, lights, pictures, mirror, and hanging plush animals in a plethora of bright colors; it truly cannot be ignored.

Later dudes,
-- forever dubbed by my cousin Katie -- Bebe Harley

My first Christmas.

2006-12-26T14:23:00.000-06:00

Happy Holidays everyone!

What a weekend! I slept for a really long time last night 'cause I'm spent.

On Sunday, we drove to Hutch where Grandpa and Grandma Ackland live. I still hate car rides. It's the only time I don't get picked up when I cry. There was a lot of commotion there, but I really enjoyed myself. I let Aunt Jessie give me a bottle and had a good nap with Great Aunt Bonnie. The dogs scared me a couple times, but the pile of gifts made up for it. I was glad to meet Uncle John and my cousins Katie and Traci.

Monday morning Dad and I played together with my new toys while Mom slept. My parents and I sat in front of our tree and opened presents. I think our cat Mojo is jealous, because he kept climbing in my gift bags/boxes looking to see if it was for him. It was nice. We spent the afternoon at Grandpa and Grandma Peterson's house, (which required yet another car ride, grrr.) I missed lots of people who are out of town, but I guess I'll see them in a week. I can't wait to meet my Aunt Jenna who lives in NY.

Thanks for all of the gifts, you guys. I'm a little overwhelmed at everyone's generosity. The toys are all very intriguing. I'm sure I'll spend hours pushing cars on the rug when I'm older. For now, staring at the colorful, noisy rattles and listening to people read me books is very fun.
I'll post pictures of me in all of my new cute outfits in future posts. Look forward to the Raider's outfit, B is for Bob (Marley) onesie, jean jacket, cargo pants, polos, track suit, etc...... You'll melt.

Me, my mom, her mom, her mom,

Aunt Bonnie knows just how I like to be held.

Christmas outfit and Raider's hat. That's Aunt Jessie holding me.

My cousins Katie (missing teeth) and Traci.

Uncle John (red hair) and Uncle Scott

Reindeer butt!!!

My parents are a bit loony.

Aunt Sandra

P.S. The pictures now link to Picasa web where anyone can download a high quality file or order prints. I won't fix the archived posts, but if anyone wants copies of anything from them, email my Dad (aaronmpeterson@yahoo.com) and he can help you out really easily.

My first taste of grape

2006-12-20T20:15:00.000-06:00

Yesterday i went to the doctor again. I'm almost 14 pounds of chub! That means I'm in the top 10% of my age group. Maybe I should play football.

I thought a doctor was supposed to make me feel better, not worse. He poked me in my legs with a needle 4 times. I'm pretty sure he poisoned me because I've had a slight fever ever since. Luckily my Mom is giving me medicine (so that's what a grape tastes like? What exactly is a grape again?) and that makes me feel ok for a while.

This is my Great-Grandma Mady. She came with my Grandpa Ackland to visit this week.

Picture mayhem

2006-12-20T20:09:00.000-06:00

Just a quick example of what it takes to get such adorable pictures of me.

Christmas card take 1

Christmas card take 2
Christmas card take 3
Christmas card take 4
1 out of 5 ain't bad!

Survey says...

2006-12-08T18:35:00.000-06:00

I went to the mall today with my Mom, Aunt Jessie, and Grandma Ackland. I agree with my Dad. 6 hours in a mall is TOO MUCH. I'm super tired now though, so maybe I'll sleep reeeaaaaaalllllllyyyyy long tonight.

I'm dying to know if I'll look more like my Mom or my Dad. Since I'm biased (No, I won't say toward whom!), I decided to ask for some input. Here's some photos of my parents, including a few when they were my age to help. Check them out and compare them to all the photos I've posted so far. You can post comments letting everyone know what you think!

So first, here's another shot of my big mug.

Here's some of my Dad...

And my Mom...

And them now.

I MUST KNOW! (please say Mom, please say Mom, please say Mom)

Goin' Places

2006-12-06T22:18:00.000-06:00

HOLY CHUBBS BATMAN! I'm growin' like crazy! I'm 11 1/2 pounds now. Can you increase your body weight by 30% in 6 weeks? I thought not. I rule!

I've been really happy for the most part. I can see at least six feet away now, and love to stare at faces. I love it when my Mom and Dad give me lots of attention. I like to be tickled cause it makes me squirm. I see another baby right above me when I'm in my swing, but he doesn't talk back to me. Maybe someone will introduce us sometime.

So I've been to Shannon and Shaun's house twice in the last week. Friday was cool. I'm now BFF with Sam (pictures below). I snubbed him last post when I forgot that HE was the first dog I saw, not that noisy wiener dog at my Grandma's, but all is forgiven.

My parents took me back there again tonight. I DIDN'T LIKE IT! Adults can be pretty mean sometimes. Going places apparently means that I get fed from a cheap plastic imitation boob, clearly substandard, while the adults eat delicious chocolate desserts in front of me. I yelled at them to knock it off, but all they do is mock me. "Use your words. Use your words." When I finally learn how, I'll have some words for my Dad all right! I finally gave up and took a nap and things were ok, but I'll be more wary of these trips from now on.

Alright, alright. I'll quit whining. Here's the latest pictures. I know this is the real reason you all come here anyway.

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-11-23T19:31:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

This has been a busy week. Yesterday I visited my Dad at work. He showed me off to all of his coworkers and I did my best to look adorable.
Today was my first trip to Grandma and Grandpa Peterson's house. It was noisy. My cousin's were running around and everyone wanted to hold me. I saw my first dog too. Dogs make loud noises. I've been sleepy all afternoon. Funny, so was everyone else.

Here's some pictures. That's my aunt Sandra and my cousins David and little Tavo. I think I may help them with their mischief once I can walk.

Hello World!

2006-11-19T16:18:00.000-06:00

Well, due to all the sleeping, eating, diaper changes, and crying I've been doing, it's taken me a month to get online and start a blog. It's naptime in my swing now, so I'll just post some photo's for today.

1 day old and I'm already the cutest thing you ever saw.

So far, Halloween is definitely my favorite holiday. Someone ate all my candy though...

This is my great grandfather Harlan Ackland. I think we'll get along, but did he have to copy my name?

I'm growing so fast, I'm going to outgrow this teddy bear outfit soon! Which is a shame, 'cause look at how adorable I am. :)

Here's me being goofy. I like to make funny faces just as people take pictures.

Anyway, thanks everyone for visiting and for all the great clothes. Check back soon.