Another late day, but that's what happens when we're busy with MOPS. I thought you might enjoy this shot of Leah doing the ASL sign for "more." It is so exciting to be communicating with her and her ability to sign back and learn new signs has come just in time!!!
Lately when Leah wants something she stretches and reaches towards it and starts to babble or whine. This would be ok, except that for the past two days she's been ponting at one corner of the kitchen and I can't for the life of me figure out what she's pointing to! Is it the candle? The kitchen aid mixer? The pear? What???
Needless to say, signing definitely eliminates some of that. When she puts her two hands together like this (it's amazing how clear and decisinve a motion she makes it too!) I know she wants more of whatever it is we're doing. More macaroni and cheese please! More playing (as in..."do that again Mommy!"). More bouncing or more music. Now that she's got "more" down, we've been working on the compliment to that..."all done." I hate cutting the kid off especially when she's looking at me cutely and showing off her signing skills...but there's only so many wagon wheels in a canister or times I can bounce the kid before she pukes. I'll keep you posted on our progress.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Grandma and her girls
I thought this picture was neat. I love how Leah is smiling and trying to snuggle up to her big cousin Maddy. The sunlight and the colors are great too. Grandma and Leah are rockin' the brown, while Maddy shows off the accent color of the day, pink. As you probably gathered from yesterday's post, Thanksgiving was excellent. But the rest of the weekend was fun too.
Pete, his Mom, myself and Leah all took a tour of the Darwin Martin House Complex. A beautiful Frank Lloyd Wright construction that is currently being restored. We had a great time and perhaps Leah soaked up some of Wright's artistic genius while we were there. I think Santa might bring her some blocks this Christmas so if I walk into the living room one day to find a wooden model of Fallingwater...I'll know my plan worked!!!
It was a wonderful weekend with family and next weekend we'll visit with more of the people we love at Clare Bear's christening. Tomorrow I'll have to tell you about the fun CD that Uncle Mike sent Leah. She's been having fun dancing to it (and it has been making diaper changes a little easier! She likes to snap her fingers while I change. Whatever works!!!). Now I just neeed to catch her a photo of her in disco mode! Have a great day everyone. Don't blow away...boy is it windy here!!!!
Pete, his Mom, myself and Leah all took a tour of the Darwin Martin House Complex. A beautiful Frank Lloyd Wright construction that is currently being restored. We had a great time and perhaps Leah soaked up some of Wright's artistic genius while we were there. I think Santa might bring her some blocks this Christmas so if I walk into the living room one day to find a wooden model of Fallingwater...I'll know my plan worked!!!
It was a wonderful weekend with family and next weekend we'll visit with more of the people we love at Clare Bear's christening. Tomorrow I'll have to tell you about the fun CD that Uncle Mike sent Leah. She's been having fun dancing to it (and it has been making diaper changes a little easier! She likes to snap her fingers while I change. Whatever works!!!). Now I just neeed to catch her a photo of her in disco mode! Have a great day everyone. Don't blow away...boy is it windy here!!!!
Monday, November 28, 2005
Put your hands together for Turkey Day!
Leah had a blast at Grandma Nowak's for her first Thanksgiving. Aunt Anne and Uncle John cooked some amazing food and Leah ate like the crazy baby she truly is! Leah's menu included: turkey, mashed potatoes with a little gravy, sweet potatoes, corn, green beans (these were her favorite item!), stuffing (also very popular) and dinner rolls. She even had some cheese and crackers just like the grown ups!
As you can see from the shot, Leah was pretty thrilled with the entire event. She clapped and smiled all through dinner, that is...when she wasn't stuffing her face! I can't believe how much she ate. She even made great use of the sign language we've taught her and asked for "more" several times. Of course I catch the picture where she's got a little snot bubble going on, but it's just SO LEAH. She is one funny kid. She cracks herself up, which never fails to get me laughing too.
It was great to be with her Daddy's family for this exciting first and we can't wait to share her first Christmas with everyone very soon. There is so much to be thankful for this year! And this picture (boogie bubble and all!) will always remind me of that! Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!!!!
As you can see from the shot, Leah was pretty thrilled with the entire event. She clapped and smiled all through dinner, that is...when she wasn't stuffing her face! I can't believe how much she ate. She even made great use of the sign language we've taught her and asked for "more" several times. Of course I catch the picture where she's got a little snot bubble going on, but it's just SO LEAH. She is one funny kid. She cracks herself up, which never fails to get me laughing too.
It was great to be with her Daddy's family for this exciting first and we can't wait to share her first Christmas with everyone very soon. There is so much to be thankful for this year! And this picture (boogie bubble and all!) will always remind me of that! Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!!!!
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Neighborhood Watch
There's a big picture window in my office that Leah just loves. She stands and shouts at the neighbors as they do yard work and socialize. Her eyes light up when a kitty creeps past or one of the local dogs starts barking. And of course Leah loves the neighborhood kids. Whenever we can we head outside so we can play with everyone. Each child needs to take his or her turn holding Leah and they do a great job of entertaining her with their funny faces and antics. We are so lucky to live on such a wonderful and friendly street.
Today Leah enjoyed an early morning moment at her window. It snowed here lastnight, so I think it was fun for her to see the fluffy white blanket of snow covering everything. Hopefully we'll have nice weather for our ride to Grandma's house tomorrow. We can't wait!!! Have a family and friend-filled holiday everyone, with lots of yummy food and good times. We'll miss the people we can't be with, but we'll be seeing many of you very soon.
Today Leah enjoyed an early morning moment at her window. It snowed here lastnight, so I think it was fun for her to see the fluffy white blanket of snow covering everything. Hopefully we'll have nice weather for our ride to Grandma's house tomorrow. We can't wait!!! Have a family and friend-filled holiday everyone, with lots of yummy food and good times. We'll miss the people we can't be with, but we'll be seeing many of you very soon.
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Truckin'
This shot doesn't quite have the artistic flair of yesterday's photo but it's hard to catch a baby on the move. Ever since we got Leah her V-Tech walking toy off e-bay it's been hard to slow her down. When she's not ram-rodding it into furniture or checking her wheels to make sure everything is working ok (she takes after her Daddy and her Grandpa with that!), she's scooting all around the house!
I won't blog for long, as Leah went down for her morning nap like a charm. I have 3 appointments today (including a 6 month checkup at the dentist), so I better use these few minutes of free time here at home wisely. Leah's sitter Fran, who is also a blog fan, will be coming over. Besides making sure that Leah has lots of fun while Mommy is out, Fran is also a house cleaning wiz! My kitchen is always sparkly when Fran leaves and she's taught me lots of good crock-pot recipes.
Enjoy the day everyone and try to stay warm. It's chilly out there (at least where we are!!!!).
I won't blog for long, as Leah went down for her morning nap like a charm. I have 3 appointments today (including a 6 month checkup at the dentist), so I better use these few minutes of free time here at home wisely. Leah's sitter Fran, who is also a blog fan, will be coming over. Besides making sure that Leah has lots of fun while Mommy is out, Fran is also a house cleaning wiz! My kitchen is always sparkly when Fran leaves and she's taught me lots of good crock-pot recipes.
Enjoy the day everyone and try to stay warm. It's chilly out there (at least where we are!!!!).
Monday, November 21, 2005
It's beginning to look a lot like...
OK. I know it's early to be talking Christmas, but I'm already working on weddings for Summer 2006 so things are always a little ahead of schedule at our house. Actually, is it possible to be both ahead of schedule and behind schedule at the same time? If so, then that would be most accurate. Regardless, I am working on holiday cards and invitations for several people right now so I figured I'd better get my own ready as well.
Leah and I had a fun photo session last week with the little "santa" fleece she got from Auntie. I ran several pictures past people and this was my sister Kathleen's favorite. Doesn't it look like Leah's victorian-style horse and sleigh is parked outside to take her past the local skating pond and through the forest to Grandmother's house? I was all set to use it on the card, but alas it is too dark. I tried all the color correction tricks I had up my designer's sleeve, but it just won't print well.
I managed to go with one of Kathleen's other selections for my card, but she loved this one so much I had to share it with you! I guess that's a great thing about having a blog. Certain pictures just look better with the illumination of the computer screen. Snail mail, cards and stationery are a WONDERFUL thing (after all, it's my business) but today I am reminded that computers, blogging and email are convenient. I am lucky to have such fast and easy ways to keep in touch with all of you!
Leah and I had a fun photo session last week with the little "santa" fleece she got from Auntie. I ran several pictures past people and this was my sister Kathleen's favorite. Doesn't it look like Leah's victorian-style horse and sleigh is parked outside to take her past the local skating pond and through the forest to Grandmother's house? I was all set to use it on the card, but alas it is too dark. I tried all the color correction tricks I had up my designer's sleeve, but it just won't print well.
I managed to go with one of Kathleen's other selections for my card, but she loved this one so much I had to share it with you! I guess that's a great thing about having a blog. Certain pictures just look better with the illumination of the computer screen. Snail mail, cards and stationery are a WONDERFUL thing (after all, it's my business) but today I am reminded that computers, blogging and email are convenient. I am lucky to have such fast and easy ways to keep in touch with all of you!
Friday, November 18, 2005
I forgot!!!!
Can you believe I actually forgot to blog today? Wow...what's happening? I've been so busy taking pictures of Leah for our christmas card that I've forgotten to take blog pictures! The Christmas ones are cute but so is this one taken by Pete. It shows another Leah favorite. Of course you know she enjoys mac & cheese, but spaghetti (or anything with a little bit of tomato sauce) is a meal highlight for Leah as well. Is it the taste or the mess? I'm not sure we'll ever know. Have a great weekend everyone. I promise not to forget you on Monday!
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Awosting Falls
Well, if I thought the relaxing effects of my weekend away would last I was wrong. I'm still clinging tightly to the last remnants, but life (especially as the holdays approach) can get very hectic. Pair that with a baby who I believe is on the cusp of taking her first steps sometime soon and it gets even crazier. Life sure is going to be interesting in 2006!
When I do need a quiet moment, I enjoy looking at a picture of Awosting Falls. It is dear to me becuase it is where Pete and I got engaged, although the waterfall was mostly frozen and the trees were coated with a sparkling blanket of snow and ice that day. But it is also just a peaceful spot, that appears out of nowhere as you hike. It's lovely in every season and it reminds me of home. Every time I'm there I think about the true, timeless beauty of nature and how this waterfall keeps flowing each day while we're at work, eating dinner, and enjoying our families and friends. I know that's a very simple (maybe even mundane) concept, but it helps to ground me. What a comfort to know that this beauty is always there (for now at least, since it's on State Park lands).
I look forward to someday sharing this spot with Leah. Judging by the way she enjoys her stacking bath cups, I know she'll enjoy seeing a 60 ft. waterfall. She likes to have you pour water out in front of her as she runs her hands through it. Pete, who handles bath time, tells me that now she likes to try and catch the water in her mouth as well. Speaking of Pete...the stream that supplies the water for the Falls is called Peterskill. Then of course, we went on our honeymoon to Peter Island. What is it with that guy and his name?! Just kidding.
Enjoy the day everyone. It's supposed to snow here. Are you surprised?
When I do need a quiet moment, I enjoy looking at a picture of Awosting Falls. It is dear to me becuase it is where Pete and I got engaged, although the waterfall was mostly frozen and the trees were coated with a sparkling blanket of snow and ice that day. But it is also just a peaceful spot, that appears out of nowhere as you hike. It's lovely in every season and it reminds me of home. Every time I'm there I think about the true, timeless beauty of nature and how this waterfall keeps flowing each day while we're at work, eating dinner, and enjoying our families and friends. I know that's a very simple (maybe even mundane) concept, but it helps to ground me. What a comfort to know that this beauty is always there (for now at least, since it's on State Park lands).
I look forward to someday sharing this spot with Leah. Judging by the way she enjoys her stacking bath cups, I know she'll enjoy seeing a 60 ft. waterfall. She likes to have you pour water out in front of her as she runs her hands through it. Pete, who handles bath time, tells me that now she likes to try and catch the water in her mouth as well. Speaking of Pete...the stream that supplies the water for the Falls is called Peterskill. Then of course, we went on our honeymoon to Peter Island. What is it with that guy and his name?! Just kidding.
Enjoy the day everyone. It's supposed to snow here. Are you surprised?
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
CeCe and LeLe
I was going to put another picture from our hike up today but this one was just too cute to pass up! How sweet is my niece Clare? Her little mittens bring back fond memories of the days when Leah would stay still for diaper changes and sleep on me for entire afternoons. Well, no longer!
Leah and Clare had a great time at Grammy's house this weekend. Leah loves being able to be so close to a real, live baby! She pats Clare and smiles at her. Now Clare even smiles back!!! I thought my own baby was growing fast but now other babies seem to grow even faster (especially when you only see them every few weeks)!
If you thought Leah and Clare Bear (who now has her own blog by the way at claremckenna.blogspot.com) had a blast this weekend then Grammy and Grandpa were surely in heaven!!! Last year at this time there were no Grandchildren and now there are two! We also can't wait to see Leah's Grandma Barb over Thanksgiving and play with cousins Maddy and Jack. I think Maddy is going to be so excited to see how Leah has grown.
Well I better be off. There is LOTS to do today. Too much to list here. Enjoy the day! It's another rainy one in our world.
Leah and Clare had a great time at Grammy's house this weekend. Leah loves being able to be so close to a real, live baby! She pats Clare and smiles at her. Now Clare even smiles back!!! I thought my own baby was growing fast but now other babies seem to grow even faster (especially when you only see them every few weeks)!
If you thought Leah and Clare Bear (who now has her own blog by the way at claremckenna.blogspot.com) had a blast this weekend then Grammy and Grandpa were surely in heaven!!! Last year at this time there were no Grandchildren and now there are two! We also can't wait to see Leah's Grandma Barb over Thanksgiving and play with cousins Maddy and Jack. I think Maddy is going to be so excited to see how Leah has grown.
Well I better be off. There is LOTS to do today. Too much to list here. Enjoy the day! It's another rainy one in our world.
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Hikes, Hot Curry Borscht, and Haircuts!
We had a wonderful time for our anniversary this weekend. When my parents drove off with Leah to visit my grandparents Pete and I looked at each other as if to say "what do we do now?!?!" The answer to that is head to main street NP and have a long and relaxing breakfast at the Bistro! After several cups of organic dark roast coffee we drove up to Mohonk Preserve and stopped at the visitors center for a map.
Giddy with the excitement of having an entire day and night to ourselves (for the first time since January!!!!) we chose a five mile roundtrip hike up through the Preserve to Minnewaska State Park and Awosting Falls, where we got engaged. After a brutal free climb up a steep shale "staircase" and a walk down the undercarriage road past lots of rock climbers, we finally reached the "start" of our hike. Needless to say...it had to be more like 6 miles. It took several hours and we were pooped and aching at the end but we had fun. It was great to talk like adults and enjoy an activity of OUR choosing.
More on our amazing dinner tomorrow. Pete did have a hot curry borscht that was out of this world though. But even with a great hike an incredible dinner and wonderful accomodations we still couldn't wait to get back to our baby!!!! Grammy gave her the sweetest little haircut at our request and she learned a little about "nice touch" when it comes to interacting with her baby cousin Clare. Since we've been home we've been trying to help Leah better apply the "nice touch" policy when it comes to Lemmy but it may take some work. Leah is so used to "kissing" her stuffed animals that she's taken to diving into Lemmy's body face first with an open mouth. Lemmy seems a little confused by it all but she still is a gentle soul with Leah.
I can't wait to share more pictures from our weekend. This one was taken by Pete on our hike (before the battery ran out in our camera). There's lots more to show you. I'll also have to take some new pics of Leah with the little walking toy we won for her off e-bay. Talk about off and running! It's a good thing I had this weekend to relax...there's NO keeping up with her now!!
Giddy with the excitement of having an entire day and night to ourselves (for the first time since January!!!!) we chose a five mile roundtrip hike up through the Preserve to Minnewaska State Park and Awosting Falls, where we got engaged. After a brutal free climb up a steep shale "staircase" and a walk down the undercarriage road past lots of rock climbers, we finally reached the "start" of our hike. Needless to say...it had to be more like 6 miles. It took several hours and we were pooped and aching at the end but we had fun. It was great to talk like adults and enjoy an activity of OUR choosing.
More on our amazing dinner tomorrow. Pete did have a hot curry borscht that was out of this world though. But even with a great hike an incredible dinner and wonderful accomodations we still couldn't wait to get back to our baby!!!! Grammy gave her the sweetest little haircut at our request and she learned a little about "nice touch" when it comes to interacting with her baby cousin Clare. Since we've been home we've been trying to help Leah better apply the "nice touch" policy when it comes to Lemmy but it may take some work. Leah is so used to "kissing" her stuffed animals that she's taken to diving into Lemmy's body face first with an open mouth. Lemmy seems a little confused by it all but she still is a gentle soul with Leah.
I can't wait to share more pictures from our weekend. This one was taken by Pete on our hike (before the battery ran out in our camera). There's lots more to show you. I'll also have to take some new pics of Leah with the little walking toy we won for her off e-bay. Talk about off and running! It's a good thing I had this weekend to relax...there's NO keeping up with her now!!
Friday, November 11, 2005
I wont let another minute go to waste...
Leah loves to play with my sheer curtains in the living room. I'm not sure how long we'll keep them as they've already taken quite the baby beating! Nevertheless, this habit of hers made for an interesting photo shoot. The cloudy veil of cloth helps her to maintain the baby mystique she's been busy cultivating of late.
Well, we're off to Grammy and Grandpas later today. We'll have to put the car radio on scan and hope we can find some Radio Disney. I'm sure all of you who know Pete are giggling to yourselves at the thought of him listening to a kid's station. But Leah LOVES it and Pete loves Leah so he's grown to find his own Radio Disney faves ("The Hampster Dance" and "Axel F" as performed by Crazy Frog are two he likes). They play a lot of early 90s dance music which suits me fine and I must admit to loving that JoJo song..."Get out! Right now!" Anyway, as I've said before, there is nothing like seeing Leah get her groove on! It makes me smile. Have a great weekend everyone!
Well, we're off to Grammy and Grandpas later today. We'll have to put the car radio on scan and hope we can find some Radio Disney. I'm sure all of you who know Pete are giggling to yourselves at the thought of him listening to a kid's station. But Leah LOVES it and Pete loves Leah so he's grown to find his own Radio Disney faves ("The Hampster Dance" and "Axel F" as performed by Crazy Frog are two he likes). They play a lot of early 90s dance music which suits me fine and I must admit to loving that JoJo song..."Get out! Right now!" Anyway, as I've said before, there is nothing like seeing Leah get her groove on! It makes me smile. Have a great weekend everyone!
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Waiting for the weekend...
Every year, as my anniversary rolls around I find myself taking a little time to think back on my honeymoon and our amazing trip to Peter Island. Sure, it rained most of the time (this shot was taken on one of the two sunny days we had) but it was fun nonetheless. Sort of like those rough days where Leah doesn't nap. It could be better but I'll still take it the way it is. Even when they're not at their best, tropical beaches and 10 month old babies, are still pretty great.
Back in April I wrote about what it would someday be like to take Leah with us on vacation. I can see her now...running through the surf, building sand castles and shaking the bottom of this palm tree trying to get a coconut to fall. Well I'm not sure a tropical vacation is in our near future. Which is extra sad considering that we might have some snow showers today. But as Pete and I prepare for our first night with both of us away from our baby, I find myself excited and hopeful.
I know I always enjoyed time with my friends and family, away from my parents, as a kid. Weekends spent with my grandparents were always great. Grandpa would fix me my favorite concoction of cream soda and milk and my Grandma would always be up early in the morning with me to talk or play a game. I always thought it was so cool to stay with my aunts and uncles without my parents. My Uncle Jay taught me that you can put ketchup on eggs and my cousins Matt and Jeff had a dog, a fun swing set, and a cool pool (all important things when you're 8)!
I know Leah will have a great time with my family this weekend. Just as she does when Grandma Barb comes down to our house to babysit for her. Knowing that Leah is comfortable and having fun without us will enable us to have a relaxing and enjoyable time ourselves. I'm really looking forward to it and I know when I do see her on Sunday I will be refreshed and ready for that big Leah hug she'll be saving for me!
Back in April I wrote about what it would someday be like to take Leah with us on vacation. I can see her now...running through the surf, building sand castles and shaking the bottom of this palm tree trying to get a coconut to fall. Well I'm not sure a tropical vacation is in our near future. Which is extra sad considering that we might have some snow showers today. But as Pete and I prepare for our first night with both of us away from our baby, I find myself excited and hopeful.
I know I always enjoyed time with my friends and family, away from my parents, as a kid. Weekends spent with my grandparents were always great. Grandpa would fix me my favorite concoction of cream soda and milk and my Grandma would always be up early in the morning with me to talk or play a game. I always thought it was so cool to stay with my aunts and uncles without my parents. My Uncle Jay taught me that you can put ketchup on eggs and my cousins Matt and Jeff had a dog, a fun swing set, and a cool pool (all important things when you're 8)!
I know Leah will have a great time with my family this weekend. Just as she does when Grandma Barb comes down to our house to babysit for her. Knowing that Leah is comfortable and having fun without us will enable us to have a relaxing and enjoyable time ourselves. I'm really looking forward to it and I know when I do see her on Sunday I will be refreshed and ready for that big Leah hug she'll be saving for me!
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Sorry we're late...
We had a busy morning, so I'm just getting to blog now. My Mom mentioned how much she liked this picture because of the pointing. Being a scholar of early childhood development, my mom was excited to see Leah recognizing different objects and items in her world and sharing them with the people around her. Leah is doing a lot of communication these days and I'm finally getting to see some of my sign language efforts pay off.
She has done the signs for "more" and "all done" several times, but I'm still waiting to see a little more consistency with that. Leah also lets us know when she'd like to hear some music, by doing some of her dance moves and most importantly pretending to snap. She continues to make the "kkkiii" sound when ever she sees our cat Lemmy. I think she also thinks most animals are "kitties." I've heard her make that sound to a few dogs and the odd chipmunk or squirrel too. Leah babbles alot, but it seems most of the da-da-da-das are reserved for when she sees or wants to crawl all over Pete. I'm looking forward to even more understanding of what this baby is thinking at times!
She has done the signs for "more" and "all done" several times, but I'm still waiting to see a little more consistency with that. Leah also lets us know when she'd like to hear some music, by doing some of her dance moves and most importantly pretending to snap. She continues to make the "kkkiii" sound when ever she sees our cat Lemmy. I think she also thinks most animals are "kitties." I've heard her make that sound to a few dogs and the odd chipmunk or squirrel too. Leah babbles alot, but it seems most of the da-da-da-das are reserved for when she sees or wants to crawl all over Pete. I'm looking forward to even more understanding of what this baby is thinking at times!
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Fun Day
Today Daddy took off from work so that Mommy could attend her executive dialogue meeting and take care of a few business related matters. We will also be heading out to vote at some point, taking Leah to the Dr. for the second dose of her flu shot and celebrating our 2nd wedding anniversary!
In the meantime Leah will be having fun with Daddy. I grabbed the chance to post another Halloween picture, since Leah is her Dad's Little Chick. He's been calling her that ever since she was born. This one was taken at the local Halloween Parade.
I am also excited that last Thursday's picture was the winner of flickr.com's Kids and Babies Weekly Theme Pool. Last week's theme was "close-up." This week's is "mess." It shouldn't be too hard to get a messy shot of Leah. She's been eating everything from stuffing to mac & cheese to even a little bit of pizza last night! As this week's winner I get to choose next week's theme and pick the winner. I better put my thinking cap on!
In the meantime Leah will be having fun with Daddy. I grabbed the chance to post another Halloween picture, since Leah is her Dad's Little Chick. He's been calling her that ever since she was born. This one was taken at the local Halloween Parade.
I am also excited that last Thursday's picture was the winner of flickr.com's Kids and Babies Weekly Theme Pool. Last week's theme was "close-up." This week's is "mess." It shouldn't be too hard to get a messy shot of Leah. She's been eating everything from stuffing to mac & cheese to even a little bit of pizza last night! As this week's winner I get to choose next week's theme and pick the winner. I better put my thinking cap on!
Monday, November 07, 2005
On the Move
Thanks for the many supportive comments I received on Friday's blog! They meant a lot to me. I hope everyone had an enjoyable weekend.
We had a fun and busy weekend ourselves, with lots of playing, a bit of relaxing, and all sorts of running around the house! Pete and Leah love to crawl around chasing each other and they can't get enough of playing hide & seek around the corners and behind the furniture. We looked into getting some glass doors to our fireplace (as you can see, Leah is VERY mobile) and we raked a whole bunch of leaves! Leah is cruising along the couches, tables, and ottoman, like a crazy woman! Although it's hard to get a picture of her in action like that. It always look like she's just standing there. Next thing you know she'll be walking. I'm looking forward to that, but I'm also not rushing it. I've already lost a pound or two chasing Leah around like this. I can't imagine how exhausted I'll be when she's even more mobile!!
Pete and I have been joking that (of course) she'll take her first steps this weekend while we are away for our anniversary and Leah is staying with my parents. Wouldn't that just be our luck? We're just kidding. But between Grammy, Auntie K and Auntie D...I'm sure Leah will be getting a workout of her own!! Of course she'll have Grandpa there too to take her for a walk (or run) in the jogging stroller so Leah will be able to get a little R&R in as well. I think it will be fun for all. We're really looking forward to it.
We had a fun and busy weekend ourselves, with lots of playing, a bit of relaxing, and all sorts of running around the house! Pete and Leah love to crawl around chasing each other and they can't get enough of playing hide & seek around the corners and behind the furniture. We looked into getting some glass doors to our fireplace (as you can see, Leah is VERY mobile) and we raked a whole bunch of leaves! Leah is cruising along the couches, tables, and ottoman, like a crazy woman! Although it's hard to get a picture of her in action like that. It always look like she's just standing there. Next thing you know she'll be walking. I'm looking forward to that, but I'm also not rushing it. I've already lost a pound or two chasing Leah around like this. I can't imagine how exhausted I'll be when she's even more mobile!!
Pete and I have been joking that (of course) she'll take her first steps this weekend while we are away for our anniversary and Leah is staying with my parents. Wouldn't that just be our luck? We're just kidding. But between Grammy, Auntie K and Auntie D...I'm sure Leah will be getting a workout of her own!! Of course she'll have Grandpa there too to take her for a walk (or run) in the jogging stroller so Leah will be able to get a little R&R in as well. I think it will be fun for all. We're really looking forward to it.
Friday, November 04, 2005
Perfection!
As a new Mom, I'm beginning to realize that babies change just about everyday. I know I've said it before, but at 10 months into it, I guess it's finally starting to sink in. As a result my own life changes with Leah. It's hard to keep up with a pace that seems to run at lightning speed. And it's easy to be hard on myself for not keeping up in the way that I'd like to.
I'm learning to set boundaries for Leah. There are tears, but someone has to teach her that we can't always get what we want in life. For example, it's just too dangerous to climb over the arms of the couch and onto the end table. While I find myself having to take a firmer approach with LeLe at times, I'm also trying to become a kinder and gentler Mommy when it comes to myself.
I will never be able to get everything right. There will be unmade beds and dishes in the sink. I will forget a load of laundry in the washer and have to do it over again before I can dry it. I will go to the grocery store in a boogie-covered shirt because I just can't find another one to wear at the moment (those would be Leah boogies by the way...not my own). More than once since Leah has been born I've returned home from an outing only to glance in a mirror and say "I went out with hair like THAT?!" Makeup just is not a possibility on most weekdays. I make mistakes. I don't get thank you notes out on time. I fall asleep at 8:30 every once in a while.
People may look at me sideways, comment, or giggle to themselves, but that's ok. Maybe they're being hard on themselves and have forgotten, as I often do, that perfection is not what life is all about. It's imperfection that makes me smile...Leah with mac and cheese all over her face or the fact that Pete's laugh sometimes makes Leah burst out into horrified and frightened tears.
Through having a child I've learned what real perfection is. It is loving unconditionally. Loving in spite of faults or failings. It is the support I get from Nicolle, Marisa, Pete, our families...both nuclear and extended, and many of you. Perfection is Leah crawling up to me or Pete and just giving us a hug (something she's started doing lately). Perfection is watching Leah bounce up and down, shake her head back and forth, "snap her fingers," and generally rock out to a car commercial. Perfection is simply putting Leah down for a nap or the look in her eyes as I see that she knows who her Grandparents are. It is the everyday things...and that includes dishes and grammatical errors, burnt side dishes and forgetting to put deodorant on. Who cares about that stuff anyway? Leah's going to grow up fast. The dishes can wait.
I'm learning to set boundaries for Leah. There are tears, but someone has to teach her that we can't always get what we want in life. For example, it's just too dangerous to climb over the arms of the couch and onto the end table. While I find myself having to take a firmer approach with LeLe at times, I'm also trying to become a kinder and gentler Mommy when it comes to myself.
I will never be able to get everything right. There will be unmade beds and dishes in the sink. I will forget a load of laundry in the washer and have to do it over again before I can dry it. I will go to the grocery store in a boogie-covered shirt because I just can't find another one to wear at the moment (those would be Leah boogies by the way...not my own). More than once since Leah has been born I've returned home from an outing only to glance in a mirror and say "I went out with hair like THAT?!" Makeup just is not a possibility on most weekdays. I make mistakes. I don't get thank you notes out on time. I fall asleep at 8:30 every once in a while.
People may look at me sideways, comment, or giggle to themselves, but that's ok. Maybe they're being hard on themselves and have forgotten, as I often do, that perfection is not what life is all about. It's imperfection that makes me smile...Leah with mac and cheese all over her face or the fact that Pete's laugh sometimes makes Leah burst out into horrified and frightened tears.
Through having a child I've learned what real perfection is. It is loving unconditionally. Loving in spite of faults or failings. It is the support I get from Nicolle, Marisa, Pete, our families...both nuclear and extended, and many of you. Perfection is Leah crawling up to me or Pete and just giving us a hug (something she's started doing lately). Perfection is watching Leah bounce up and down, shake her head back and forth, "snap her fingers," and generally rock out to a car commercial. Perfection is simply putting Leah down for a nap or the look in her eyes as I see that she knows who her Grandparents are. It is the everyday things...and that includes dishes and grammatical errors, burnt side dishes and forgetting to put deodorant on. Who cares about that stuff anyway? Leah's going to grow up fast. The dishes can wait.
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Concentration
Are you sick of pictures of Leah crawling around outside yet? I couldn't help but post this one. I love the way the area behind her is washed out and how she's got her tongue curled in that "deep in concentration" way. The tongue, as well as the faucet of drool she's got going on, says it's teething time again. Leah is sleeping better. I think the time change issues have run their course. But she has been quite the cranky pants when she's awake. Another sign that more teeth are on their way.
We are trying to adjust our morning nap time to be just a bit later (moving it forward in 15 increments) until we get it back to where we were before. That would mean back to where I would put her down without 20-30 minutes of hardcore tears. I'm not sure if we'll ever get there but I know it's important for her to sleep. She's rubbing her eyes and yawning, signaling she's nap-ready...so I have to stay strong and keep my efforts up. We'll get the timing thing down eventually. We had it before. I just need to remember that babies are an ever evolving thing!
We are trying to adjust our morning nap time to be just a bit later (moving it forward in 15 increments) until we get it back to where we were before. That would mean back to where I would put her down without 20-30 minutes of hardcore tears. I'm not sure if we'll ever get there but I know it's important for her to sleep. She's rubbing her eyes and yawning, signaling she's nap-ready...so I have to stay strong and keep my efforts up. We'll get the timing thing down eventually. We had it before. I just need to remember that babies are an ever evolving thing!
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
Abstract Baby
Not much to say today. Lots to do though! Business is booming over here and I have a lot to get done. Not to mention Leah is becoming more and more of a challenge to keep up with each passing day. It's lovely out so maybe a walk is in our future. I don't think it will be as warm as it will be the rest of the week, but we're hearty girls! I did live in Chicago and Alfred after all.
I liked this close up of Leah's hand. She's been doing so much with them lately! Pointing, waving, grabbing, clapping, attempts at "snapping" even...it's all very cute. Well, I better be off...I have to use Leah's nap time wisely. A Mommy's work is never done!!!!
I liked this close up of Leah's hand. She's been doing so much with them lately! Pointing, waving, grabbing, clapping, attempts at "snapping" even...it's all very cute. Well, I better be off...I have to use Leah's nap time wisely. A Mommy's work is never done!!!!
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Play for Today
There goes Leah...fearlessly foraging through the Autumn leaves of our back "yard" to get to me. I'm sure she was pausing here to look at a chipmunk or an insect, but I'm glad she did. It allowed me to get this shot. I don't often LOVE the photos I take (even if most of the time I love the subject) but I hit the jackpot with this one. The sun fell perfectly through the tree above her and I was able to capture Leah at play, something which I've had a hard time doing these days. She immediately tries to grab my camera the second I pull it out. We have to have a marathon photoshoot, giving her time to forget what I'm doing or tire of me, before I can get any good pictures. Playing outside yesterday helped. There were lots of distractions.
We had a great Halloween. Pete and I went as Harry Potter and Snow White over the weekend. We had a blast dressing up and Leah had a blast with her Grandma Nowak. Dinner at Kelley's was a highlight. Leah was a very well-behaved girl! There were lots of trick-or-treaters lastnight and Leah was in awe of the whole process. Today we'll have to spend some time recovering. Enjoy the nice temps this week everyone. I'm not sure how much longer they'll last!
We had a great Halloween. Pete and I went as Harry Potter and Snow White over the weekend. We had a blast dressing up and Leah had a blast with her Grandma Nowak. Dinner at Kelley's was a highlight. Leah was a very well-behaved girl! There were lots of trick-or-treaters lastnight and Leah was in awe of the whole process. Today we'll have to spend some time recovering. Enjoy the nice temps this week everyone. I'm not sure how much longer they'll last!
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