Scoots

I may have mentioned this before, but our little Jack doesn't crawl.  Not one bit.  He scoots.  On his butt.  Everywhere.  He scoots so much that he gets little rug burns on his legs.  It's one of the funniest things I've ever seen.  This captures just a hint of the scoot:

 Also, I knew that Cole was a pretty cautious baby, but I'm just realizing how careful he was.  Jack is into everything.  If it's not nailed down, tied down, or glued on, it's fair game.  We've already decided we don't need to buy a paper shredder.  Just give it to Jack and it will be whittled down to tiny scraps within moments.  We're in for it when he starts walking.... 

 

Cole-isms

Bryce:  Do you think we should get a dog one day?

Cole:  How about a kitty?

Bryce:  How about a kitty that rides on the back of a dog?

Cole:  How about just a kitty?

Bryce:  How about a dog that looks like a kitty?

Cole:  How about just a kitty that looks like a kitty?

Something tells me that one day we will have both a dog and a cat.  I dread that day with all the OCD-ness of my soul. 

To All The Girls I've Loved Before...

As Mother's Day approaches, I found myself thinking about all of the women in my life who have shaped me.  Sometimes, we don't always get to tell people what an impact they have on our lives.  But, that's like the #1 benefit of a blog, right?  So, to all these wonderful ladies, thank you for what you've taught me.

Lesson:  How to love your family.  My mom has been such a wonderful example to me of how to love and support your family.  She is willing to help any of us with anything, despite being very busy.  She loves the boys so very much, and is always concerned and wanting to make sure we are happy.

Lesson:  How to be industrious.  The Barber Women are busy, active, and always looking for ways to serve others.  I hope to one day be able to keep up with them!

Lesson:  How to find adventure in every day.  I am always amazed and just a little teeny bit jealous of how much Cassie is able to pack in.  From traveling, to going to all kinds of events around the city, to having themed parties, Cassie finds a way to make everything fun and unique.

Lesson:  How to be resilient.  Jenn has had some serious challenges the past few years, but in spite of that, she's had the courage to learn everything she can about what she is passionate for and to start her own photography business.

Lesson:  How to be kind.  Shannon is so caring towards her family, friends, and even complete strangers.  There have been many times she's given me a book because she thought I might like it, or saved an article for me because it might be useful.

Lesson:  How to be positive every day.  Some might say Britt has every reason to be pessimistic.  But it's just the opposite.  She always has a smile on her face, and believes that there is good in everyone.

Lesson:  How to laugh at yourself.  Kelly has the amazing ability to find humor in any situation.  I’ve learned how to not take myself so seriously and embrace the quirks in myself and others.  

So, thank you again, ladies.  Have a wonderful Mother's Day, and love you all!

Cole-isms - The Dreaded Subject

I knew it would happen sooner than later.  I just was hoping maybe I wouldn't be around when it did.  That dreaded question, the one many books have been written about.

"Mom - how do babies get out of their mom's tummies?"

I have always prided myself on my anticipated response to this question.  "Well, Cole, the baby comes out through the birth canal."  I grinned to myself, feeling like I had effectively, yet simply asked the question.

More proof that I am an idiot.

Cole just looked at me.  "What's the birf canal?" he asked.  

Crap.

So, I did what I thought was best, and with the technical terms (no hoo hoos or front bums here) explained how babies come out.  

He gazed at me seriously for a moment and then asked, "Does it hurt?"

Oh boy, does it.  

"Yes, Cole, it does hurt.  But mommies are so excited to meet their babies that they are willing to do it."

"Do I have those parts?" He asked.

"Nope, just girls," I reassured him.

Immediately, the concerned look left his face. 
"Oooh.  That's really good."

Yep, bud.  That's really good.

Happy Birthday, Jack!

I cannot believe that Jack is one.  This year has absolutely flown by.  We are so proud of the progress Jack is making, and were so very excited to celebrate such a great milestone for him.  We had an update from his doctor, and he is growing and progressing well.  Compared to babies his actual age (1 year) not his adjusted age (10 months), he is in the 20th percentile for weight, the 60th for height, and the *gulp* 90th for head size.  It's just because he has such big brains!  He is not crawling, but his doctor was not concerned.  He gets around by scooting around on his bum, and she says he'll be walking soon enough.  It's earned him a new nickname at school - you guessed it - "Scooter." 

On Saturday, we had a wonderful party with our families.  I promised myself I would take more pictures...and then of course, didn't.  Here's what I did get:

Jack had an adorable whale hat to wear.  You can guess how long that lasted.

Because Jack has a slight problem with solids, we decided to give him some pudding instead of cake.  I think he enjoyed it.

Thank you again to all our families - all of us, especially Jack, are so lucky to have you!