Reese is REALLY on the Move

It will be any day now when Reese starts walking up an down our hallway and around the living room.  She has been taking 5 steps in a row now and she gets up with great ease and then stands for 3 seconds before taking a step or falling.  She is really trying to keep up with JJ!!!!She is amazing!

Christmas 2011

Christmas day is a few hours away and the kids are excited. We have had a wonderful holiday season thus far. We started a new tradition as Buddy, our elf, came to visit us from the north pole. We have really enjoyed his stay with us. He has been keeping us on our toes as we try to find his new hiding spot everyday. Every morning JJ wakes up and comes into the living room and says, "where's Buddy?". He gets so excited when he finds him too. Tonight we went to Christmas Eve at Aunt Brth and Uncle Ken's house. The kids did great! Reese fell asleep on the way home, but JJ was too excited to sleep. When we got home we all went down to the tree to open our Christmas pajama's. JJ and Reese then put out Santa's cookies and milk along with a carrot for each of Santa's reindeer. JJ decided that he wanted one of Santa's cookies and snagged it before we could stop him. I hope Santa doesn't put him on the naughty list for that :-). Reese had her bottle and fell right asleep, but JJ was not the same. After he tore off his last chain on his countdown chain he then talked until 10:50. I'm so excited to watch them open their presents and stocking. Tomorrow should be a great day.

Big Boy Bed

Over Christmas break we decided to move JJ into his Big Boy Bed.  Jim and I were a little worried about whether or not JJ would stay in his bed as he has been resisting bed time recently.  However, we decided that JJ was just too big for his crib and we went for it.  The time JJ slept in his bed was for his nap.  We sat in his bed and read a few books together.  I asked him if he liked his new bed and he responded with an enthusiastic "yeah!"  We turned on hop (his frog humidifier), sound machine, and put some new books in bed.  Believe it or not he slept the WHOLE time.  He actually took a good 3 hour nap.  When we checked on him we couldn't believe what a big boy he looked like.  He was sleeping with his head on his pillow and blankets over him.  He looked so small in his Big Boy Bed.  It reminded me of the day we brought him home and placed him in his crib for the first time.  When JJ woke up from his nap he surprised us again.  He got up out of bed, turned on his light, turned off his sound machine (and put it away), then proceeded to knock on the door three times.  When we opened the door for him he said, "I'm Up!"  He was so proud that he slept all by himself in his big boy bed.  Since then he has continued with his same routine.  There are of course a couple of times when he will get out of bed, but we simply ask him to get back in bed and he does.  We could not be any prouder of our little man.

Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head Abbott

Apparently these look like Jim and I.  JJ made these today and when I asked who they were he said Daddy and Mommy.  I then asked him, do these look like mommy and daddy?  Without hesitation he said yeah!

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Reese has added "uh oh" to her vocabulary.  Now she can say "dada", "mama", and "uh oh."  What a big girl.

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We had our first Christmas party of the season with the Allen side.  It was a great time.  It wad their first time seeing Reese and they couldn't get over how much they look alike and how JJ has grown.  The kids did good, Reese of course wanted to put all the wrapping paper in her mouth and JJ kept asking for "more?!"  What a great day.  After JJ opened his last present he waved at each person individually and said , "bye bye." Thankfully everyone got a kick out of it.  That night Reese went to bed a bit earlier so Jim and I toolkit JJ downstairs to watch the Polar Express.  I was amazed, the boy was glued to the T.V., at the end we asked him if he liked the movie and he said, "yeah! More," with so much excitement.  I think Jim and I spent most of the movie watching JJ and his reaction, then watching the actual movie.

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It's the Little Things.

I took the kids to Nana's place tonight for their Christmas program. It was a lot of fun (for the short time we stayed). JJ was loving the music that they were singing so much that he was trying to sing as he rocked back and forth clapping his hands. Whenever they finished a Christmas song JJ would turn and face the singer and clap. What a little man. Tonight while putting JJ in bed I asked him for a kiss and he gave me one. Then he reached up his hands and pulled my head down and kissed me on the forehead then smiled. It totally made my day.

Imitation is the greatest form of flattery.

Tonight I was playing on the floor with Reese and JJ.  I laid down and Reese was climbing all over me.  Then JJ ran to his room and came back with his blanket.  He proceeded to lay the blanket over me as if he were tucking me in to bed.  He went over to the book shelf and looked through his books.  He picked out two (that he thought I would like) and laid them by me.  He then put his finger to his mouth and said, "shh."  He ran back to his room.  After a minute had past he came to tell me that he turned on his sound machine and the projector.  He grabbed my hand and pulled me to his room.  The three of us laid on the floor admiring his tree and the vision of animals on his ceiling.  JJ didn't stay down for long.  He kept putting books into different piles and then transporting those piles around the room.  One pile was for me, one was for Reese, and the last was for him.  As I laid there he kept bringing over blankets and laying them on top of me.  After what he thought was enough book and blankets he said, "shh" again and gave me a kiss.  He was so proud of himself.  I guess it is true what they say, imitation is the greatest form of flattery.

Hottest Christmas gift of the season!

The all new JJ in the box is all the rage this holiday season.

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JJ working on the Tee

Check out his practice swings off the tee.  First swing attempt at live pitching and he connects.

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9 and Counting.

I am amazed that my little girl who is 8 months old has 9 teeth!  I discovered this while tickling her.  As she laughed I was astonished to see so much white.  At the time I was only aware of four.  To my surprise there were a few that were hiding.  She officially has 7 that have popped through, but I can see the other teeth waiting to pop through.  Her new name...... jaws!  

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A Flashback!

When I was going through my photos I came across this picture of JJ in his Christmas pajamas 1/15/11.  I had to post the photos of him then and now.

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Going for our first ride.

Reese got to go for her first ride in the cozy coupe, before we will have to put it away for the season.  She enjoyed it and JJ enjoyed his bike.  We're still working on the pedals.

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Reese and her first puff!

Today we gave Reese her first puffs.  After one being thrown in the floor she got the hang of it and enjoyed them.

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Countdown to Christmas.

We made our Christmas countdown chain.  JJ is starting to get the hang of tearing off a chain each night before he goes to bed.  He points to the chain and says Ho Ho Ho.

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First Snow

JJ went out and gathered his first snow of the season with his Mimi.  He was super excitrd when she let gum bring it inside to play with.

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Enough Said.

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He's figured out zippers!

This is what I saw this morning when I went into JJ's room.

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Outing with Friends

The first night that Jim is hunting I decided to take the kids out to Applebees. We met up with two of my teaching friends and there kids. We had a total of 10 of us. It was so much fun and JJ and Reese did an amazing job.

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New Bedtime Tradition

Tonight JJ and I tried something new. Instead of reading a book at bedtime we made up a story together. It was a story about a boy named JJ and his sister named Reese. JJ woke up one day and was the "king of the world" and he got to choose what he wanted to be. The first day he chose to be a bird and fly above the trees, the second day he chose to be a monkey swinging through the trees, and the third day he chose to be a frog hopping around. Every night he went to sleep tired from the day's activities. One day he woke up and realized that he wanted to be himself and he spent the day with his family and was super happy. Every time JJ said "YEAH!" when I told him he was the king of the world. At the end of the story he said, "more!". I told him that we would come up with another story tomorrow. I tucked him in bed and as always as I got to the door and he was standing up in his crib holding his blanket saying "uh oh!". He then wants me to tuck him in again. I love that little game that we play.

Learning New Things

Look who learned how to take off his shirt and is super proud of it.

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Halloween 2011

My little Zebra and flower ventured out on a beautiful night with their little friends, Tana and Hunter. We began with a dinner at our house then 6:20 rolled around and we loaded everyone into the car. We headed off to Glen Valley neighborhood where cars were lined all the way up to Cherry Valley. We started walking around and JJ was super excited. He took off and was going up to house after house. Reese did a great job tagging along in the stroller. She looked so cute with her little flower hat on. JJ was amazing, he was carried hi Halloween bucket block after block. He kept running up and down the street from house to house. I kept on asking him if he wanted to ride in the stroller, "umm, no.". I asked him if he wanted me to carry his pumpkin bucket, "umm, no!". I asked him if he was having fun? "yeah!". He was an animal! He walked around for about an hour and a half. As it approached his bedtime he began to get a bit fussy and I carried him back to the car. All in all it was a great night.

Trunk or Treat

We decided to try our first trunk or treat tonight as Halloween falls on a Monday and we're not quite sure if we will be going on Monday. JJ loved it. He galloped all around at the church. He went from car to car gathering candy. He was saying yes?! Every time they would ask him if he wanted candy. They had quite a few things going on, horses, a game room where JJ got a whistle and made the tweet sound while trying to blow into it. We also went waited in line to go inside the church where there were more candy stations and food. As we were waiting in line JJ was galloping all around never letting go of his bucket. He was a wild animal that could not be caged. The Coates family joined us too. Tana was a cowgirl that was riding a horse and Hunter was Tigger. We had a great time.

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Bedtime Routine

As we get ready for bed JJ has come up with his own nightly routine. When he is done playing with his toys (not a moment sooner), we clean up and put all our toys back. James then proceeds to the bathroom where he first turns on the light, grabs his stool from Mimi and papa and carries it over to his sink. It's quite a long walk from the bath tub to the far sink, and I'm impressed every night when I watch him do it. He pushes the stool up to the cabinet so there is not any gap and it is less likely to tip. He climbs up and turns on the water. As I brush his teeth he wants to wash his hands. He grabs the soaps and I squirt some on his hands. We practice rubbing his hands together under the water as we sing row, row, row, your boat. When we finish he tries to spit in the sink, he wipes his hands and mouth on the towel, gets down from the stool, and turns off the light. He then proceeds into his room where he turns on his sound machine as well as the projection parts that display fish up on the ceiling. He is becoming so independent.

Mom Let's Me!

Jim told me a very humorous story today that I wanted to make sure got put on the blog. Today while I was at work Jim was playing with JJ and Reese in the living room. JJ kept pointing to the entertainment center at something that he wanted. Jim thought that he was pointing at the DVD's and repeatedly kept telling him no. JJ then said, "Mom," in a way that made Jim sense that JJ was trying to tell him, but mom let's me! Jim said no again, but our little man is relentless. He continued to point and finally Jim began to take things off of the shelf to ask JJ what it was he wanted to play with. When Jim pulled down the nesting dolls that my mom had gotten for me on one of their trips JJ said, "yeah!". Jim said that he must have played with the nesting dolls for an hour.

Halloween Cookies

James made Halloween cookies with Mimi and Papa before they left for Texas. After he tried one of his cookies he couldn't stop saying more, more, more. I guess they did a great job.

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Happy 7th Anniversary

I just had to put this on the blog. I have such a great husband and I'm so lucky to be married to my best friend. I'm so lucky that we get to share so many memories together. Even when we can't be together I feel like he's right there with me. I loved all of the texts that I received today. I'm truly blessed to have him in my life.

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Ask and You Shall Receive

I was going to get JJ water with his breakfast and he said, "no, joooce." So I did just that. I gave him the entire juice box. Which he drank without breathing. Then when he was done he said, more.

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Apple, Mama, and Bulldog

JJ and Reese had a great day with Grandma today. They played a lot and had a lot of fun. JJ was doing great with his letters too. We worked on a puzzle before he went to bed. He picked up the letter M and said mama, A and he said Apple, D and tried to say dog. Then he looked at my Byron Center shirt and said a pretty good "bulldog."

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School Update

Monday : today at school JJ went on a nature walk to collect leaves. He then made a collage out of the different sizes and colors of leaves. He also enjoyed playing with legos and blocks. He tried to use the potty again today, but was unsuccessful. As far as his skills that he is working on, it says that he no longer needs to work on his social-personal skills. :-)

Costume Time

In preparation for Reese's first Halloween we all tried on our Halloween costumes. needless to say I was not let down by the cuteness. My babies went above and beyond.

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My Little Lion

As JJ was getting ready for bed he began to roar at me. He was crawling on all four and roaring like a lion. I could not stop laughing. This was one of those moments.

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He Never Stops Amazing Us!

Today I was cooking dinner and JJ was watching his Little Einsteins show. Jim and I were talking then all of a sudden Jim walked over to JJ and saw that he had grabbed my phone and called grandma Abbott. She said that she had been talking to him for a minute. What an amazing little man. He's such a techy.

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School Update

JJ wasn't feeling well today so he slept in. He was coughing a lot at school today and made a page about doctors. He searched for rectangles and the color orange. However he did try to go on the potty today!

Anderson and Girls Orchard

We decided to venture up to Anderson's Orchard in Sheridan today to enjoy the 80 degree fall day. We had so much fun. JJ was enjoying running around to all the animals and other things that they had there.

Drinking From a Big Boy Cup

Today JJ drank out of his big boy cup for the first time at home. He was so proud of himself. He actually did very well, only a couple of spills. He kept asking more? More? Then later on when we were playing I asked Reese for a kiss and she gave me one. It was my first kiss from my baby girl. She kisses just like JJ did, mouth wide open

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Big Boy Cup

Today JJ drank out of his big boy cup for the first time at home. He was so proud of himself. He actually did very well, only a couple of spills. He kept asking more? More? Then later on when we were playing I asked Reese for a kiss and she gave me one. It was my first kiss from my baby girl. She kisses just like JJ did, mouth wide open.

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School Update

Monday
Today JJ was a good eater at school, he napped from 12:35-2:00. He explored an aqua doodle, made a box, and purple quilt for art class. Of course JJ loved dancing in the activity room today.
Wednesday
He was not a very good eater today, only fruit and he slept for an hour. :-(. He explored window crayons, made an airplane, and worked on colors and numbers. In the special notes it said that enjoyed dancing today! He also did a great job helping to clean up the classroom several time today! That's our boy!

Art Prize 2011

Mimi, JJ, Reese, and I went down to art prize again this year. It was a little different than last year having two kids down there, but both kids did really well. JJ went on a scavenger hunt around GR and at the end of it all, he got a whistle (which he could figure out how to blow it) so he made his own high pitch sound when he put his mouth up to it. Reese was amazing and she only lost one sock. We ended our day with a hotdog and two tired kids.

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One of JJ 's favorites at Art Prize

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JJ Checking Out Art Prize

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School Update

James is doing a great job at school.  He is really getting the nap time down.  Today he slept from 12:25-1:45.  He explored silly string, finished his "art prize" entry and searched for letters L&F.  When Jim picked him up a little bit of his "art prize" was still in his fingers.  I can't wait to see it.  He finished his "all about me" book and enjoyed playing with the balls in the activity room.  The most exciting thing that happened today for him was that he threw away his toothbrush.  I guess he saw everyone else cleaning up and thought that the toothbrush should go in the garbage as well.

J.J.'s 2 Year Old Checkup

After rescheduling JJ's doctors appointment twice, Jim took him in.  However, he also had Reese with him.  Super dad was flying solo to a 2 year old's doctors appointment.  This is no easy task seeing as how JJ fully recognizes the doctor's office, his doctor, and has full knowledge of what goes on there.  As Jim arrived he said that all was going well.  JJ had to get weighed (almost 31 lbs) which was no problem.  Then they wanted to measure his height so they tried to put him on a wall measuring tool and he was not to fond of it.  He would not stand still, so they then tried to put him on the scale to measure him and he screamed.  Once they got him calmed down Jim brought him into the room to wait for the doctor.  When Dr. Stutzman arrived JJ was doing well, they were talking a bit and then came the time for the shots.  Jim said, "you better get reinforcements."  Two nurses walked into the room.  You might be thinking, he's 2?  Yes he is and they needed the extra help.  Jim was over JJ's chest holding him down while holding fruit snacks above his head.  One nurse was on top of the table holding down JJ's legs.  The third person was giving the shot.  Of course he was screaming and not to happy, but after the shot he was totally fine as if nothing had happened.  Gotta love him.

Eating With Friends

Today JJ decided that when he ate he wanted to have some friends with him.  He took all of his animals and proceeded to put them on the table to face him as he sat in his highchair to eat.  Of course I grabbed my phone to take a picture.  I asked JJ to look at me and smile, hethen thought that the rest of the animals should do the same so he turned them all around to face the camera.  After I took that picture he grabbed all of his animals one more time and put them on his tray and faced them to watch him eat.  The T-Rex had the best spot overlooking the Mac n' Cheese. 

Friends for Dinner

Tonight we sat down for dinner, but JJ invited some quests to join him. After I asked him to smile for this picture he then turned around every animal to face the camera. I proceeded to take another photo, I got up to get something, came back and they were all on his tray hovering over his food. Now he always grabs some friends to join us for dinner.

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Caledonia Harvest Festival

Today we went as a family to the Caledonia Harvest Festival.  When we got there I remembered how I went last year with JJ.  Although we had fun, he was a little too small to do too much.  This year was a different story.  When we got there he immediately wanted to play on the big blow up slide and bouncer.
Jim and I both decided that the slide would probably need to be something he ventured on next year and we took him to the bouncer.  In typical JJ fashion he got in and just sat there while he took everything in.  All the kids were bouncing around him, but he didn't quite know what to do at first.  I told him that he needed to stand up and jump.  Eventually he did.  When he decided to come out he kept pointing at the giant slide, so we took him over to it.  There was a little girl that was nice enough to walk behind JJ as he climbed up the ladder to get to the top.  Once he was at the top he smiled and slid down with that little girl.  After that he was hooked.  He went up and down that slide at least 6 more times all by himself.  We decided to take a break so we went to see the horses and then James tried to catch some fish in the fish pond.  After 20 attempts, almost falling in, and getting mom wet, he finally caught 2 fish.  We put them in a bag and he brought them to his dad to show.  He was so excited.  When Jim asked him how many fish there were he said 2!!!!  After the fish JJ decorated 2 pumpkins then we saw Katie L.  the library elephant.  He was happy to look at her from a distance, but nothing more.  Reese was a little different and she struck a pose with the giant elephant.  JJ's friend Tana showed up and they tried to go ride the horse that was there, but JJ decided against it after waiting in line.  He then wanted to show Tana the slide.  So once again we waited in line, when JJ finally got up to the top he sat, and sat, and sat.  After 6 minutes or so we had to send Tana after him.  We then ventured over to the stage where they were playing music.  JJ had his first pulled pork and ate all of it!  Then we had a mini dance party in the street.  Reese even joined in and was the hit of the afternoon.  She was shakin what her mama gave her as she jammed to Michael Jackson.  That's my girl!  It was such a fun afternoon and so many wonderful memories were created in only 2 and a 1/2 hours.  Great day!!!!

JJ's First School Photos

JJ had his first school pictures taken today.  We were practicing what to do when they said smile, since recently he looks down to the ground and puts.  After I picked him up from daycare I asked him if pictures went well and he said yeah.  I asked him to show me what he did when they said smile.  He produced the biggest and cutest smile ever.  I just hope that he really did that for the pictures.  I guess we'll find out soon.  On another note he had a good day at school.  He played with window markers, zoo phonic flashcards, made a book, and played dress up.

Date Night

Tonight JJ and I had a date night.  Reese was with us too, but she can't eat our spaghetti yet.   JJ and I grabbed our spaghetti dinner and sat at his picnic table.  He grabbed a stuffed animal to sit with us, but we enjoyed slurping up our noodles with sauce.

School Update

Today JJ explored bugs with a magnifying glass.  He made a little telescope and practiced his shape flashcards.  He really enjoyed dancing today (of course).

Second Day of School

Today when Jim dropped jj off at school (daycare) he looked up at Jim with wondering eyes. Jim said that JJ looked as if he was going to cry, but immediately one of the teachers came over and got JJ involved in some activities and he was fine. We monitored him all day noticing some funny things that we saw on the web cam. When I went to pick JJ up he was sitting at a little table eating a snack with 5 other friends. He smiled at me and held up his cookie. Then another little boy said hi and JJ said hi right back with an adorable smile. I was talking with JJ's teachers and they were saying how surprised they were with how fast JJ acclimated himself. He said that he really made friends really fast and that he's very smart. When I read his report for the day I noticed that they said that he loved playing and dancing. They also said that he loved the climber. It's true, he was on that climber any chance he got.  He also explored paper and scissors, made a friend page in their book, and practiced colors.  What a big boy!

First Day of School!

Today was JJ"s first day of school.  As Jim got him ready in the morning he asked JJ if he wanted to go to school and JJ said yeah!  As he dropped him off he went and played right away with the kids.  After Jim left JJ did shed some tears the first few hours, but they gave him a lot of hugs and got him involved in activities and he was happy.  He had a difficult time staying on his bed (which we knew would happen), but it should get easier as time goes on.  He only slept for an hour today and with all the fun he had he sure was tired.  He got to explore soapy water, little people, started his "All about me book," worked on shapes and zoophonics letters L & F.  All in all I think this will be a great thing for him.  Of course he loved playing with beanie babies and dancing to music.  That's my boy!

So Smart

Tonight as I was putting dinner in the oven JJ was looking at his alphabet flashcards. All of a sudden he got so excited and showed me his card. It was the O card with a picture of an oven on it. I said JJ that card has an oven just like this oven. He shook his head yes. I told him that he was so smart and he said, "I know".

Sweet Dreams

Tonight as we put JJ to bed, Jim handed him his new pillow. Up to this point he sleeps with his head on top of his blanket. As JJ looked at it he was a bit taken back. He didn't know what to think of it. Jim told him that it is his pillow and he can sleep with it. JJ smiled, took the pillow and walked it down the hallway to his room. He put the pillow in his crib. He immediately wanted to get in and try it out. We situated it in his crib and as he laid his little head down and smiled. My little man is growing up. I went back to check on him after he had fallen asleep. He was sleeping with his head on his blanket on top of the pillow. I guess he can't quite transition totally yet.

Blow on it....it's hot.

Ever since his birthday JJ has been blowing on things. When we watch Little Einsteins and rocket needs to go faster JJ will blow on rocket. He always blows on his food and anything that will resemble a cake or candle. So i was a little surprised today when JJ kept blowing on my face. I asked him why and he kept doing it. Finally I asked him if he was blowing on mommy because she was hot. He shook his head yes and walked away smiling. He sure made my day. That night I had to give Reese a bath so JJ wanted to help me. He turned on the water and moved her tub close to the faucet. He tried helping me lift her into the tub, then once she was in the tub he started to wash her hair. Then he was taking some water and trying to wash my hair, then my arm, my back, then his hair. He finally went back to putting water on Reese. We all got clean during that bath time.

Reese is 6 months old today!!!

Wow, I cannot believe that my baby girl is already 6 months old. I feel like it was only yesterday that she was born. She has grown so much, it makes me think of what little time is left in her baby stage. My baby girl has teeth, crawls, eats from a spoon, and has the most adorable little personality. She studies JJ and whatever he is doing. Wherever JJ is, that is where Reese wants to be. She is chasing him all over the house. It is amazing how time flies.

His Sweet Side

Today JJ took his little Mickey Mouse figure and spent 10 minute trying to place him in Reese's swing. As he placed mickey on the head rest, he went and began to turn everything on. JJ was being very picky about the speed and even the music that he chose for Mickey. After he had everything on, just the way that he wanted it Mickey had fallen down. JJ then tried to buckle him in. After several unsuccessful attempts I helped him out. I sure do love that boy!

Wow, he does listen!!

James and I were wrestling and playing around like we often do. I noticed that Reese needed her diaper changed so I asked JJ to take a timeout from playing so I could go change Reese. He immediately got up and proceeded to jog to his timeout spot. I started to laugh and went to tell JJ that he didn't have to go to timeout I had just meant for us to take a break from playing. He looked up at me like as if to say, well why didn't you say that.

The Games They Play

Today was a day like any other daThis when I hear that Reese is up from her nap I tell JJ that Reese is up and he sprints to her door. When I open her door, he sprints to her crib. He then begin to climbed up into Reese's crib, (yes I said climb). While in her crib (with her) he proceeds to try and to get by her without her touching him, and try to turn on the mobile (another one of his favorite things in life). Of course Reese's game is a little bit different than JJ's. Her goal is to try and get him. It's quite humorous to watch. Both parties are always sad when mom "surprisingly" breaks it up and takes them both out of the crib.

We were woken up this morning to the sound of both kids talking. This has never happened before. Reese slept in till 7:30 along with JJ and they both woke up happy. What a gat start to the morning. Then as I was washing my face JJ came in and looked up at me and left. I heard some rustling in the cupboards of the other bathroom and when I looked up JJ had returned with his step stool. We put it up and he climbed on up to see what was going on. After I was finished he wanted to do the same thing, but instead we just washed his hands. He was grinning ear to ear, it was so cute. As we proceeded with the day JJ saw Jim having some chocolate milk and he needed to have it too. We played a bit on the floor where JJ tackled both of us.

What Nice Neighbors

As I was taking Slyder potty, our neighbor Julie came home. She shouted out, "Allison I have something for JJ, hold on I'll bring it to you.". I scooted inside to get JJ so Julie could give it to him herself. As she walked up the driveway JJ waved. Julie pulled out a big book for JJ from behind her back. As JJ looked at the book he noticed Thomas the train on the front. His eyes lit up and he said, "ooooooooo.". I could not believe it, it was a look and find Thomas book. JJ loved it. He gave Julie a hug and wanted to rush inside to read it. Julie told JJ that she hopes he enjoys the book and that he should go inside and read it on his new beanbag. JJ shook his head yes and said hmmm hmmm (thank you). He waved good-bye and we went inside the house. I asked him if he wanted to read it, but he ran off somewhere. Seconds later he was back carrying his beanbag. He plopped it on the ground, climbed up in it and grabbed the book. That book kept us occupied for the next 20 minutes. Thank you Thom family.

JJ's big day

Today was james' 2nd birthday party. We were surrounded by family and friends and this year JJ knew what was going on. It was a lot of fun. At one moment I remember watching JJ, he was dancing around the living room dining his abc song. It was a really cute moment. Then as more people were coming in we had our good friends the Coates family come. We told JJ that Tana was here. He ran to the backdoor and immediately grabbed her hand. He then began to take her around. One by one he was introducing Tana to everyone that was there. He was holding her hand and he would stop at every person, say dafrefvhujjss, look at Tana, then go to the next person and do the same thing. What great manners.

The Girl Has Moves

Reese has started to crawl!! Although it is just an army crawl right now, it is still a crawl. My little girl is so advanced as she scoots along the floor at only 5 months old.

Diaper Derby

On this Friday morning JJ woke up at 7am ready to go. Today was the day of the big Elk Rapids diaper derby. Last year JJ was unable to be apart of it since we were not up here, but this year he was ready. As we pulled up to the park around 10:00 we saw the other contenders registering for the diaper derby. Mimi and Papa were standing at the tent holding jj's registration number (10). We like to think that he received that number because he's a perfect 10. We waited a bit for our heat. Jim and I were sure that JJ would be in awe of the other kids and not run. All of the crawlers had to go first, but JJ was warming up (playing with Jim on the playground). When it was jj's turn he was lined up between two competitors, we heard ,"on your mark get set, go!". Once JJ heard those words he was off running. As he was racing from me to Jim you could tell that he was super excited. As he got toward the end of his lane he was the winner. JJ then had to wait for another heat to race before he was up again. In the final race JJ you could tell that he wanted to just be let loose. As Jim tried to hold on to him he was kicking his legs and squirming around. He wanted to run! The words were said again, "on your mark, get set, go!". JJ took off, arms flying from side to side as his little legs were moving as fast as they could. I was at the finish line and I could see how excited he was, he had a smile from ear to ear. As he got to the end he ran into my arms and gave me a high five. He had won it!! His prize.....diapers for Reese. What a good big brother. Later on we asked him who he was running to during the race, "mommy and daddy," or the Elk Rapids teen queens? As we asked him he made it pretty clear that it was the queens.

First Sea-Do Ride

Jim asked JJ if he wanted to go for a ride on the sea-do? Jj's response was yes. We thought that he would get on it and want to get off of it right away. However this was not the case. He absolutely loved it! Jim was taking him all around the Elk Lake. Jim would occasionally come in towards the dock and JJ would point out towards the lake. Jim kept asking JJ if he wanted to come in, JJ said no. He would then ask him if he wanted to go back out and he said yes. He loved it!

The Things Kids Say

This morning at the cottage we woke up at 4:30 to the sound of Reese crying. As Jim went to go make her bottle he heard Mimi and Papa "sawing logs.". He wondered how JJ was able to sleep with all that noise. Later on that morning we asked JJ was whining so we asked him if he got enough sleep last night? He shook his head no. We then asked him if he could hear Mimi and papa snoring? He shook his head yes. We then asked him if he knew what snoring was and what it sounds like? He then replied, "roooooaaaarrr."

It's Only a Matter of Time

It's only a matter of time till Reese is crawling. She is all over now the place right now. She if even getting up on her knees and hands. The funniest thing is if you put a wipe container just out of reach, she will seek it out. She is relentless when it comes to getting something she wants.

Such a Helpful Son

Today we spent most of the day hanging out as a family. Jim had a later game so we were able to play, laugh, and have fun as an entire family. JJ was super helpful today. Before Reese went down to bed he emptied some of the clean clothes from one of the baskets in the living room into another one then proceeded to take it to Reese's room. We filled up his basket with all of her dirty clothes. As he tried to lift it he realized that it was too heavy and he looked up to me. I showed him that he could push it instead, and that's just what he did. He pushed it into his room, got all of his dirty clothes. He then pushed it through the living room where he picked up a few burp cloths off the ground and threw them into the basket. He then continued to push the laundry basket to the laundry room where he stopped right in front of the washer and began to put the clothes in. He was carefully placing them in the washer then he closed the door. I out the detergent in and we started it. He then picked up the laundry basket and put it in front of the dryer where he knew the clothes were done. As I opened it up his blanket was the first thing he saw. He put his head on it (inside of the dryer), sniffed it, then pulled it out. I was left with the rest of the items, but that was ok.
As I put JJ to bed tonight we did our typical routine, but as I put him in his crib he saw one of his Easter eggs that he must have gotten out of a drawer. He asked for it so I gave it to him. As I gave it to him I told him that I would put a liitle kiss in it so that he could open it up later if he wanted. Of course he opened it up right away, laughed, then gave it back to me to refill. I did, said good night and went to check on Reese. As I did I heard him scream out so I went back into him room to check on him. The egg had fallen behind his crib and he couldn't get it. He was standing there crying with tears coming down his face. I picked up the egg, put another kiss in it and handed it back to him. He gently set it on his matress and sat down to read one of his books.

Ballplayer in the Making

I got to sit and watch two of my most favorite guys play America's favorite pastime. Today Jim was teaching JJ how to out his glove on, catch a ball, and throw it back. It was so cute to see JJ put it on his right hand, then his left hand, then out it on backwards, and then finally see him understand and grasp the concept. Jim still has his work cut out for him though, JJ doesn't seem to understand that he needs to take the ball out to throw it back, he does almost everything but.

Middleville Trail

We had a great family day today. After JJ woke up from his nap we decided to pack up and head out to Middleville to walk along the trail. JJ loved the trail, we walked a bit over a half a mile out and got way to hot so we decided to turn around and go back. JJ wNted to get out and walk back. He decided to run the ENTIRE way. We tried to get him to stop to look at different wildlife and have some water, but he just wanted to keep going. He even fell two times, but he got right back up and continued on. As we got to the end of the trail his little face was red and his knees were all skinned up, but he wanted to keep going. We took him to get some ice cream to help cool off. Last time we went to get ice cream he wanted nothing to do with it. This time I ordered Mackinac Island Fudge and he loved it. He wanted it in a sugar cone and he couldn't get enough of it. It was a great day.

Reese Exceeds the Standards

Today was reese's doctors appointment for her four month check up. She did a great job, although she anticipated her shots coming. JJ actually thought the appointment was for him and tried to run the other way. Then whe Dr. Stutzman came in he wanted nothing to do with her. Jim and I kept telling him that this was Reese's appointment, but he didn't believe us. Reese scored very high for her weight, height, and head circumference. The Dr. Kept saying that Reese is big for a girl so that's why she is eating so much (like a boy). Later on in the day it was time for Reese's bath. As I was giving her a bath JJ noticed that she was squirming a lot and getting kind of fussy. She kept picking up her head, almost sitting up. Without me saying anything he left the bathroom and was back in 1 minute with her rattle that she likes to bite on and a blow up baseball. It was just what she needed. He was so proud of himself. What a great kid.

Wow, Busy Day!!

All I have to say is that any parent who thinks they want to take two children under the age if two, to a park by themselves should really rethink it. Throughout the summer I'm trying to think of different things that we can do. I thought about how we have gone to the library and have had some play-dates so I told JJ that we were going to the park. In JJ fashion he said, "ooh.". I packed us a little lunch if peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, fruit snack, a banana, and a beverage. I packed everything up and we headed to Lakeside Park in Caledonia. As we pulled up (around 11:30) I got everyone out and grabbed all the bags, cooler, blanket, and stroller. We rolled up to the playground. JJ immediately wanted to play on the big kids equipment and Reese at the same time wanted to get out of the stroller. This should have been my sign to go home, but I didn't. I got JJ to go to the little equipment and he climbed right up on it and wanted to go down the slides. He would stand at the top of them running in place and then go to the top of the other slide. He did this for a bit before he finally went down one. I finally put Reese in the baby Bjorne which helped, but it was now getting really hot out. I got JJ to sit down on the blanket by the slide to eat our lunch. I kept having to wipes his hands to keep them clean, while at the same time Reese wants to eat. Kids are now coming over from the dual graduation parties going on just a little bit away from us and. JJ is "eating" his PB&J sandwich with one hand and picking up wood chips with the other. I had arched my limit. Then picked everything up, chased JJ down (he tried to keep playing with the kids on the playground), got in the car and left. Great Times!
Later that night Jim and I took the kids to Campau Corner for some ice cream. We met up with the Coates family. JJ didn't eat any of his ice cream, was constantly running around chasing Tana, and then proceeded to fall off of the tall planter landing on his knees and finally hitting his head. Needless to say, I was so glad when we got home safe and sound.

The Word Hi Never Sounded So Good

All Jim and I hear from JJ is blah, blah, wa, wa, and other nonsense words. We have become very good at deciphering his code, but we're waiting for him to start talking. This was why I was so surprised when I heard JJ talking to Reese. He went up to Reese in her exersaucer and started to say, with a tilt of his head, "hi.". It was the most precious hi I have ever heard. He continued to say hi to Reese as she was mesmerized by her big brother.

Thumbs Up

Jim taught JJ how to do thumbs up today. However, instead of holding up his thumbs he hold up his two pointer fingers.

Big Boy Books

JJ noticed the other day all of the "big boy books," as I like to call them, in his closet. I call them big boy books because they are not board books and they are only books that I allow big boys to read after their naps and before bedtime. JJ LOVES these books! He loves them so much that they seem to be the only books that he wants to read. Every night I let him pick out a big boy book that we read together. One of the most recent ones is, "If You Take a Mouse to the Movies" and "If You Give a Pig a Pancake". I then showed JJ the stuffed mouse and pig that go along with the books. They were instant friends. I noticed that after a couple of days. JJ was talking with them, reading to them, and playing different games with them. JJ even wanted mouse to sit and watch Little Einstein's with him. This is the first time that I have seen him use his imagination and I don't think I have seen anything cuter. Thanks mom for making this memory happen.

Playdate

Today we had a fun play-date with Holly Velding and her two daughters, Ana and Payton. We started off by meeting them at the Fun for Kidz gymnastics place where we had open floor time. JJ was a bit apprehensive about it at first, but after 40 minutes he was ready to go. He was walking on the balance beams and jumping on the tramps. He even went down the slide into the foam pit a couple of times. Reese did well too, besides being hot and tired she was a real trooper. We then got some McDonald's, JJ's first kids meal, and headed over to Holly's house to hang out for a bit. By the time we got home we all were exhausted so we took a nap.

New Library-New Experience

Today we went to the Cascade library for their family story time. On the way to the library I asked JJ where we were going he said, "blah blah blah, library.". I instantly called Jim to tell him how our son said library. As I retold the story JJ just smiled. When we got to the library JJ was amazed by it. We went back into the room and he didn't waste anytime joining the group. There was one little boy that noticed that JJ had goldfish so he came over and JJ didn't even hesitate to share with this little boy who hung around James for the remainder of the day. At the end of story time they had a little play time. As i was feeding Reese, James went around the room checking out the things on the table, knocking down a tower of blocks that another child built with their mom, and throwing balls around the room. However, when it was clean up time he was the last child to help the librarian clean up the toys. When we got home we spent a little time outside where JJ went around with his little shovel and scooped us dirt and walked it over to the weeds. He thought he was helping me pick up Slyder's poop. What a helper.

Rolly Polly

Wow, I'm so impressed with Reese. She rolls everywhere! If you place her on her back she immediately flips over and begins scooting and rolling across the room. Amazing!!

Wow, what a Day!

Let me start by saying that I was ready for a break by 9:00am today. I had two kids crying and Reese had been up since 6:00am. After breakfast we loaded up and headed to the library for family story time. JJ was still crying till we got out of the car and headed into the library. Once we got in there he was amazing. He actually listened to the stories that were being read and his dancing skills were in rare form. Despite one story where he went to start the craft early, he did great. It was so funny because at the end of the time the woman leading the story time was reading a book I Spy, at the end of the book there is a hole in it for the kids to look through. She said, "what do you spy?". One boy shouted out, "a boob!". It was hilarious. We then ventured out into the library where JJ was playing with all of the fun things in the children's section. His main focus was on the kitchen section. It was so cute, he was grabbing the play food along with other things and playing with other kids that were there. JJ's main task that he took upon himself was to pick up everything and put it back in it's spot. He enjoyed picking up after others. Then we went in a scavenger hunt for Katie L, the library elephant. We found her hiding in the top of a tall wall, so went and told the librarian and JJ got a sticker, which he then went and put on the KDL elephant cutout. As we left he was sad of course, but he had picked out a great big board book to read so he was happy. We enjoyed our day and had some ups and downs (4 timeouts to be exact). Then some friends came over to hang out, Elissa and Laura. We had a great time and the kids really enjoyed having them over too. JJ was the star of the show of course with his dancing skills. Than as we said goodbye, JJ and I did our nightly routine. We read his new library book and I told him that he had to be very, very, careful with the book while reading it in bed. Well, he did not listen. I was hearing him read the story then I heard silence. I thought that he had fallen asleep so I went into his room to get the book. To my horror he was ripping off the front cover. Pieces of it were everywhere in and outside of the crib. I told him how disappointed I was in him. As his bottom lip began to get bigger and bigger I had to tell him that although I love him, he will not be checking out any books from the library anytime soon since mommy was now going to have to buy this book. He shook his head yes and I told him to lay down and go to sleep, and that he did. Ugh, I'm so upset with myself. Now I have to pay $20 for a book that I never would have bought in the first place. Oh well.

I will miss these days.

At this point I feel so blessed with all that God has given me. As we were going through our nightly routine it started as Reese was closing her beautiful little eyes while eating. As I laid her down she smiled, put her little fingers in her mouth, and closed her eyes and fell asleep. I then went back to the living room where I joined JJ as he finished watching his favorite show, Little Einstein's. As he is fixed on rocket zooming past the Sphinx I'm watching him and thinking how lucky I am to have him in my life. When the show is done he gets off the couch, we brush his teeth and then go to his room. He picked out 2 books to read and we changed into his pj's. He was rubbing his eyes showing me how truly exhusted he was from all of our activities today. We sat down in his chair and we read two books. He was trying to tell me the names of the animals and helping me count various things on the pages. He then put his books in his crib (that he will read out loud after I leave). We sang out little song and danced (he was singing out loud with me). When I put him in his crib we said our prayers as he held my hands and he closed his eyes. What a wonderful moment as a parent. When we were all done he said amen, "or something similar to it" and gave me a kis goodnight. As I walked out of the room he was smiling and blowing me kisses. This was such a great moment, one that could make me cry. These are times that parents dream of. Thank you God!

Mini Playtime

Today we took a little trip over to Todd and Hannah Coates House to see baby Hunter and have JJ play with Tana.  We had a great time, Tana and JJ played together and Hunter and Reese did what only little ones will do.  Tana had arrived a little late because she was over at her grandparents house.  We were told that they arrived a little late because Tana insisted on having her hair combed and lipstick put on as she was about to see her "boyfriend."  It's amazing what kids will say.  ha ha

A Tradition Continues

Papa was teaching JJ something that I use to do With my dad all the time. We were at breakfast when my dad was walking with his index and middle finer in the table moving toward JJ. When he got to JJ he lifted his index finger up to meet up with JJ's. Ahh, memories.

First Summer trip to the cottage

Today was a great day. We got up to the cottage on Thursday night. Great trip up with me, the kids, and Slyder. On the way up Reese slept the whole way, and JJ slept for 40 minutes, but he was a trooper watching the Bee Movie (with no sound). The sleeping arrangement was a bit tricky. Jj refused to sleep in his portacrib so he slept with me. He was the opposite way so his feet were by my head. Reese decided that she wanted to sleep on her stomach so I was constantly waking up to check on her. Although I did not get a lot of sleep I did love beng able to watch my baby boy and baby girl sleep. On Friday my mom, JJ, Reese, and myself got up and went to the local farmers market in Elk Rapids. It was slightly raining, but everyone was a trooper and we bought some carnal corn, which JJ just loved! He couldn't get enough of it. After the naps we went into Traverse City to go to Meijers and Khols. On the way JJ was kicking the set I asked him to stop and he kept doing it. So I asked him if he wanted a timeout and he shook his head yes.

Reese's first tooth!

It's official, Reese has her first tooth. This morning we were playing around on her mat when she started to get fussy. I went to check if she was hungry and that's when I found it....her first tooth. Now I feel that this makes her really advance since JJ didn't have his first tooth till he was older. I'm so proud of her, this makes perfect sense why she has been drooling so much. What a little trooper.

Like Mother like daughter

No more thumb for Reese, she has now decided to suck on her 2 fingers on her left hand. Like mother like daughter. Those were the same fingers that I use to suck on when I was younger. I just hope that Reese will be able to give them up before I did. Otherwise we may need to go back to Dr. Keck to give her $10 to quit just like he did for me.

What a big boy.

So today I bought JJ a stool at the store. Tonight when we went to brush our teeth he used the stool for the first time. The look on his face was priceless. You could tell that he new that only big boys use a stool.

Fourth Day of Summer

Today was a day full of events and all before noon. Once JJ woke up we went to meet Mimi and Papa for breakfast at the Fortune Chef. All I can say is that JJ knows what he wants. Then it was off to the library for story time with Mimi. This was our first of many story times at the public library. JJ pretty much took everything in. He was so enthralled with the girl sitting behind him shouting out all the answers. He finally got the hang of all the singing and dancing. It was so cute to see his first structured learning setting. As my mom would say, "he was trying so hard to keep up with the big kids.". Then after the lesson was over we went out into the children's library section and had JJ pick out three books to check out. We headed over to the checkout and JJ did it all by himself. He remembered from the last time which is impressive seeing as how he only did it once before. He put his books in his bag and carried them out. Both kids are now signed up for the summer reading reading program so will make sure to mark down the times that we read. We will definitely return next week.
As Mimi, JJ, Reese, and myself returned, we saw Papa fixing the broken sprinkler. JJ ran right out to him to help him. This was also the time for James to encounter his first sprinkler. His face was full of excitement and his mouth was wide open as he was trying to run away from the water. However he was running away in the same direction that the water was going. He finally broke free from the water and ran right to Papa with his arms outstretched. JJ then decided to help Mimi with the trimming of the lilac bushes. He grabbed all of the trimmed pieces and through them in the weeded side lot. After all that excitement it was time to go take a nap.

Third day of summer

Today on our third day of summer, it was a bit cold and rainy so we needed to stay inside. What a fun day with the kids though. Reese was constantly spitting up, but her constant smile made it easy for me to look past the continuous changing of outfits and 5 loads of laundry. The moment Reese is laid on her back she is over on her stomach. She is moving so much and it think it will only be a matter of time until she is sitting up by herself. Today JJ was such a big help. He helped me vacuum (by pushing his own), got me a burp cloth from the container, helped me with laundry, and finally helped me with getting a diaper. I was out in the living room with Reese and JJ and I was organizing the diaper bag. I needed a diaper so I asked JJ if he would go get me 1 diaper. He ran down the hallway and I heard this rustling coming down the hallway. As JJ got to the opening of the hallway I noticed that he was pushing amfull box of diapers. As he reached me he stood up proudly and had the biggest smile on his face. He was so pleased with himself for getng me the diapers I needed. I love that boy. We had some play time outside at the sandbox. JJ would play for a little bit then sit down on the towel by Slyder with his legs straight out and his arms propped up behind him. In that moment he looked like a little man.
As we were all getting ready for bed, I put Reese down first. JJ wanted to be lifted up to see her so I did. He noticed that she didn't have her binky in so he grabbed it and tried to put it in her mouth (it was upside down), but it seemed to work for a bit. He then blew her a kiss and it was his turn. In his room we picked out a book then sat and read it. We then sang our little song and danced (which he sings with me). I ask him if he loves me and he shakes his head yes. I ask him how much and he throws his arms out to the side then throws them around my neck with a little chuckle. A little kis come next, and with that everyone goes to bed.

Papa as a teacher

When Papa was over he grabbed the animal book and started to read it with JJ. He was doing such a great job that he decided to teach JJ two new animal actions. When it came to the butterfly JJ will now slowly flap his arms like they are the wings of the butterfly. Then when it came to the chimpanzee he says, ooh, ohh, and scratches his belly. He really loves this one because he was showing me and he started to tickle my belly. Even writing it right now makes me laugh.

A Day of Milestones

Today was an amazing day for Reese. The day started out very well with Reese waking me up at 6:30. She was all smiles of course and after she finished her bottle we were playing around. After playing I put her in her bouncer because she was getting tired. After a little bit I noticed that her whole hand was in her mouth, but within a minute she had managed to convert that into just her thumb. As she sucked on her thumb I could tell that she was very pleased with herself as a smile kept creeping across her face.
Then we had a fun first day of summer. We had a last minute garage sale, which went well. Then we went to Nana's for a summer kickoff cook out. It went so well. JJ and Reese did so well. JJ was the hit of the home again. He kept going up to the residents and smiling and waving. He had his first hotdog (when Jim found out he was not to thrilled. Ha ha). He was feeding the ducks and the staff gave him 9 balloons to take home. As we packed up the car JJ wanted to make sure that he had his balloons. I kept telling him that Kiki was putting the balloons in the back of the car, but he must not have believed me because he said, "I want it!". I was so proud of him. Kiki must have been too because she ripped a balloon out of the bouquet and gave it to JJ. Then we went to the car wash and JJ didn't cry. :). Finally when we got home, JJ and I were having our bedtime snack and Reese was playing on her mat. We were sitting watching her and SHE ROLLED OVER!! I couldn't believe it. What a great kick-off to summer.

JJ is getting so big I can't even believe it. Everyday he makes me laugh. From his high pitch scream when he gets so excited to high sly lying when he is asked if he has gone poop. :)today I brought home some beach balls for JJ to play with. He went absolutely crazy as he was throwing them up, catching them, and chasing after them.

Try New Things

Today as I was talking to Reese she was smiling back at me and she started to blow bubbles. So I proceeded to blow bubbles back at her and she smiled. This continued for 2 minutes. Every time I tried to record this she would stop blowing bubbles. When I took the camera off her face she would do it, I put it back on her and she wouldn't do it. What a cute girl. I then noticed today after Reese has tried putting her full fist in her mouth she has now found her thumb. No more binky for her, she would much rather suck on her hand. :)

Life is Good

Recently JJ has tried bubbles (which) he can blow himself, sidewalk chalk, and hitting off of the tee. JJ has also come to the realization that he can pick his own nose and he tries to do so frequently. Yuck! There have been so many cool little things that have happened and just not enough time to write them down. For example, tonight we were relaxing before JJ went to bed and we were just talking. We began to play "break the pickle" high five game. We have done this before, but today he made the pickle. When I broke it he started to laugh like he was going to be tickled. He is so cute.

Going into Reese's room, if she's in her crib he'll say "shhhh" and put his finger up to his mouth. However, after it he will then talk in a normal voice, so it appears that he is just mimicking me. The other day we were in there and he kept pointing to her changing table. I asked him if he wanted to go on it, he said yes. For some reason he thought he was so cool up on her changing pad. Then I asked him, where is Reese? He went over to her crib and lifted up her bumper to point at her.

When I put JJ to bed tonight he reached his hand out through his crib for mine. I grabbed his hand and he lit up. It almost broke my heart because he didn't want to let go of my hand. If I could have crawled into that crib with him I would have. He gave me the biggest kisses through the slats in his crib. What an amazing kid.

If He Could Live on Pizza

I asked JJ tonight what he wanted for dinner. He said, "umm"......"da da that da tototo be.". I asked him really? I asked, "would you like fish sticks?" "no". "chicken tenders?" "no" "peas?". "no". "pizza?". "huh!? Dat?". A boy after my own heart. FYI, we had pasta.

It's the Little Things

Today when I got home from work I was talking with JJ to ask him how his day was. When I asked him what he did he began to talk and tell me. He was kneeling down and sitting on his feet. He put his hands on his thighs and said "well", "da da da bmdhsi da ha," whatever that meant. He then pointed to the folded laundry as if to tell me that he helped with it. I asked him if he played with daddy, he shook his head yes. I asked him if he played with Mimi and helped Reese, he shook his head yes. I then asked him if he was a good boy today? He looked at me and shook his head no and said, "uh uh.". I asked him again, JJ were you a good boy? He shook his head yet again and had the same reply. He's so cute.

I was taking some pictures of Reese and JJ today. JJ would lay on the floor next to Reese, he kept changing his position. I then told JJ I wanted to get some pictures of him. I asked him if he would smile. To my surprise he flashed me the cheesiest smile ever. I love that boy.

Mom said that Reese almost turned on her side today as she was grabbing for items hanging above her. She's so strong.

I Love You This.....Much!

Tonight when I got home I asked JJ if he loved Reese, (he shook his head yes), do you love Daddy (yes),do you love mommy? (he smiled big and shook his head yes.). "really!" I said, how much. JJ stood up, held his arms out to his side and looked up to the ceiling, he said something which I'm pretty sure was ,"this much". Then he smiled, laughed, and gave me a hug. I love it.

Mother's Day 2011

I have to say that my second mother's day was great. I am so blessed with two beautiful children and a loving husband. My day started off with Jim letting me sleep in (which was amazing, then after a French toast breakfast we enjoyed some quality family time. JJ was so loving and Reese was smiling up a storm. The day was great despite Reese crying (she was in pain). The two kids started off the day by talking to each other at 7 in the morning. Probably planning to not take long naps :-). During their little nap Jim and I went outside and played one game of bean bag toss. It was a very competitive game, where Jim won, but it was fun nonetheless. We had some guacamole for lunch, played some more with the kids, then Jim made a wonderful meal. He cooked t-bones, lamb, veggies, and potatoes. It was a GREAT meal. Once everyone went to bed Jim drew me a bath. I have such a sweet husband. Thank you God for all of a the wonderful gifts you have given me. I am truly blessed.

A Great Day

I'm so proud of my little girl. My mom began to tell me how Reese was reaching for her animals that dangle from her bouncer. She grabbed a hold of the hippo and hung on. "she's so advanced,"my mom exclaimed. I have to say that I agree. As I held her in my arms she's laughing, smiling, and seeming to have a conversation with me. I notice that she has the littlest dimple above her cheek bone under her right eye. It's evident only when she smiles, but it's the most precious thing EVER! We went outside to hand up the bird feeder, but then realized that it broke last year and we need to get a new one. JJ is really into bird watching so we'll have to get one for him soon. My mom and I decided that we should introduce JJ to some bubbles. Although he has seen them before, it was a while ago. Boy was that fun! To see the pure enjoyment that simple soapy water brought to a little boy was amazing. He even chased one down our driveway pointing at it with his middle finger all the way.

After Jim got home I was sharing these stories with him and he had one for me. Today Jim and JJ had their first game of catch. Jim was so proud of his little guy. While I was at work Jim started to toss the ball to JJ. JJ would pick it up/catch it and side arm throw it back to Jim. Jim said that JJ did this 5 times and hit him square in the chest. He said it was the coolest thing. What a great day!

A JJ moment

I was sitting on the floor noticing JJ picking up these little black beads that come out of Jim's shoes when he gets home from work. JJ is picking them up and putting them in the trash. Then he touches my leg and I notice that he is trying to pick something off of my leg. He keeps on trying. Every time he looks at his fingers in wonder, then tries again. I realize that he is trying to pick off my freckles. He cannot for the life of him figure out why they're not coming off! Thank you God for my freckles, for without them I would not of had this moment.
We then proceeded to move over to where Reese was swinging in her swing. As she began to cry JJ let me know ( like he always does) what I need to do with her next. He stopped the swing and put out his arms telling me that he wants to get her out and to help. Help he did. As I put my hand under her head he put his hands with arms extended under her body and started to take her out of the swing. Of course had I let him do it himself Reese would have fallen to the floor. For you see once he lifted her out of the swing he dropped his hands and turned away giggling.

Easter 2011

We had a great Easter weekend.  To start off, JJ, Reese, my mom, and I went to Jim's Grandma's for an easter egg hunt.  JJ had a great time, except for the fact that he was more interested in Chauncy "the dog" and the other kids.  He was the last one to get going when they said the hunt was on, but he ran with all his little might.  Luckily Mimi was there to stop another little boy from getting the only 4 eggs that remained.  JJ was thrilled with the 4 eggs that he found and we all enjoyed the memory.

Then on Saturday JJ and I went to Lakeside Park in Caledonia for the easter egg hunt.  We got there about 10 minutes before it began.  The hardest part was trying to keep JJ from getting the eggs.  I kept telling him to wait...wait...wait...  So wait he did.  He decided to sit on a rock.  Then once he was on the rock that is when they told everyone they could begin.  JJ was last again =( but he still had fun.

By Easter day he was really getting the hang of this egg thing.

Back to Work

It's been a bit tough going back to work.  The night before I had to start back I thought I was doing well until Jim got home.  He had bought me a bouquet of flowers and a very nice card.  I immediately started to cry.  I didn't think it was going to be that tough, but I was wrong.  The first two days back were good, but I certainly missed my kids.  As of recently JJ has learned to "pound it."  It started off when I was trying to teach him how to approach dogs.  I realized that right now he throws his hands with his fingers out in Slyder's face when he wants Slyder to lick his hand.  However, I can see how down the road this may be problematic with other dogs.  So I taught him to make a fist when he wants Slyder to give him a kiss.  JJ got such a kick out of this.  Then we transferred it to pounding and the rest is history.  He is such a fast learner.

Sibling Interaction

Reese can hold her head up all by herself!!!!!!

I asked JJ if he thought that Reese needed some tummy time and he said yes. I got out her surfboard and he grabbed a burp cloth to put down "which I always do so I don't have to wash it as much," man he knows the routine. I put her face down and he pointed to her feet, he wanted me to take off her socks(I always do this). After I took off her socks he immediately went to the opposite side that I was sitting and laid belly down in the floor and started to shout out some words. I realized that he was trying to call out her name, "again, this is what I do when Reese does tummy time."

Vacuuming

Today JJ let me know that it was time to vacuum. He went to our front closet where he has h is own vacuum that my mom bought for him. We both got our vacuums out and started vacuuming. He does such a great job. When it was all over he put his vacuum back and played with his legos.

A Day in the Life

We had a family outing today to our first real garage sales of the season. As we headed out Jim reminded me that we do not need anymore toys. I half way listened ;-). At our first stop we found some clothes for Reese and Jim found a deer lamp made out of deer hooves. I was super excited about it, but not as much as Jim. Oh well, for a $1 how could we pass it up. Anyway, our next stop was nothing much, but our final garage sale I spotted a sand and water table and JJ spotted a Lego table. Needless to say we walked away with both :-). As we got back into the car Jim said, "JJ, i thought I told mommy no more toys, but I guess mommy didn't hear me as usual.". I listen, it's just called selective hearing.

When we got home JJ helped me with the laundry (like always), putting dirty clothes into the washer, transferring the washed clothes to the dryer, then helping me fold the laundry and put it away. However, whenever he helps me put things away they always seem to end up in his pajama drawer. After laundry it was nap time so he searched through his books and picked one out to read as he fell asleep.

2 hours into his nap I heard my son cry out then silence. I waited a few more minutes and heard nothing. I figured he had gone back to sleep. About a half an hour later I thought I would check on him. As I opened the door to his room I saw him sitting in the corner of his crib with a book in his hands. He looked up at me like I had just disturbed his reading time. Super cute. What a good boy.

Timeout

After being told a few times, not to stand on his car we took a trip to the timeout wall. JJ has only been on this wall a couple of times, but he has already got the hang of it. I sat him on the wall, told him why he was there, and left. No tears were shed "surprise" and after a minute I went back to talk to him. As he stood up I asked him if he knew why he was in timeout, he pointed to his car. I said I love you and he gave me a hug and a kiss and went on playing. I love him so much.

Eventful Day

We went for a walk to see the horses today, even though it should only take us 10 minutes to walk, it took about an hour. JJ stopped to pick up almost every rock that he saw and then he would throw it. We spent a lot of time throwing rocks into the water. Seeing the horses was the only thing that kept us going. When we finally go to the horses he said hi, bye, and we were on our way back. After carrying him the majority of the way back we came inside and ate. Then on the 15 th time that I changed Reese's diaper today he again told me to put he on her play mat, but he had to hold her first. With his arms stretched out he held her and gave her a kiss. Gotta love it!
Then as I was feeding Reese, JJ decided that he wanted to take all of his books from the living room and put them on his book shelf in his bedroom. One by one he picked them up, ran down the hall, I heard a bang, and back down the hall he came. After he was done he wanted to show me what he did (he was so proud). After he showed me, he then took all of his books one by one back to the living room. :-)

It seems that JJ has a cold which has led to his newest discovery. I tried to wipe his nose, in which he pulled away so I told him that I needed to wipe his nose because he had a booger. He looked at me with his head tilted to the side and said "what!?". I repeated myself and I pointed to it in his nose. He then held up his middle finger to his nostril and said "dat". After that point if I tell him that I need to wipe his nose because he has a booger, he will point with his middle finger at his nose. It's so cute (now) until he actually tries to pick it. :-(. Yuck.

On a happy note Reese slept for 6 hours last night. Ahhh, uninterrupted sleep.

Zoo..rific

On Saturday we took JJ and Reese to the John Ball Zoo. It was JJ' second time being there and he loved it. It was a 50 degree day and although not a lot of the animals were out, we still had a lot of fun. Reese slept through the entire thing after spitting up on me within the first 10 minutes of getting there. :-). It seemed that JJ's favorite part of the zoo was the lions and bears, of course. He loved them. We had so much fun, we can't wait to go back.

Our first library trip

Everyday Reese gets more and more animated. This morning after sleeping for 4 hours straight, she was all smiles. She was even talking to us and telling us all about her night. The other amazing thing was yesterday when JJ and I went to the Caledonia library. It was his first time in the new library and did he ever enjoy himself. I couldn't have been any prouder of him. We went over to the children's section where he proceeded to say ooooo as much as possible when he saw all of the play areas. He then found his way over to the board book section where he took the time to go through each and every book. Pulling it out, examining the cover and then giving it to me if he liked it. He knew what he wanted ( so cute) and others he would put back. We placed his books into his wheelbarrow that he then pushed around the library. He was such a GOOD boy! At the end we went to the checkout and he stood up on the stool and checked out every book, one by one. He acted as if he was a pro and had done it before. As we went to put the wheelbarrow back he spotted a little girl playing on a mat in the children's area. He tried to play with the " older woman", but she wanted nothing to do with it. She kept saying to James, "your mom says you have to leave. Can't you hear your mom, she says you have to leave.". JJ was untouched by her words and proceeded to play. I had to pick him up so we could leave. It was such an enjoyable experience that we can't wait to go back.

Beautiful butterfly

Today we went with my parents to see the butterfly exhibit at the Meijer Gardens. JJ absolutely loved it. Every time he saw a butterfly he would flap his arms and say ooo, ooo. He loved it! We then went to see the horse and he galloped all around, it was so adorable. Reese did amazing. She slept the whole time. We'll have to go back again so she can be awake and see everything. As we left we asked JJ if he wanted to go back to see the butterflies again. With a giant smile he said oooo again and nodded his head. Gotta love it.

Big Girl

Last night Reese spent her first night in her crib. She did such a great job and only woke up twice. She looked so small in her big crib. I'm so proud of her.

JJ update

I know I'm bias, but I think I have the best boy ever. Ever since his sister has come home from the hospital he has been sooooooo protective and loving of her. The first time he saw her in the hospital he wasn't quite sure what to make of her so he was more interested in the balloons that were in the room. Now that he has gotten to know her I could not be prouder of how he has handled the transition. For example, whenever Reese cries he tries to comfort her by grabbing a binky and trying to put it in her mouth (usually missing and hitting her forehead.). He has also tried to console her by sharing his most prized possession with her (his blanket). It is the most touching thing ever.