time

The above is Gavin's therapy schedule. Not very typical for a 2 year old, eh? What amazes me is how resiliant he is. Our schedule changes about every 2 months it seems and every time it does I get stressed and crazy. I have to stop myself from saying things that I know I'll regret and from being someone who's demanding and overzealous about their child's well-being. For example Gavin's speech therapist took a new job and we were assigned a new therapist. She was on maternity leave for 6 weeks and so we had an interim therapist and the only time available for G was 8am. For those who know me, I AM NOT A MORNING PERSON! I remember a co-worker once telling a new employee that you don't talk to Stacy until after 11am. So true! I'm the get to work and get busy type, chit chat is so overrated! Then at 11am I'm ready to gabber on. So I told her that time just wouldn't work for us and so she asked another family to switch times so we could have the 9am slot. Horrible I know. It worked out because that child gets up at like 6am and G gets up at 8am so they were already up. Since then we added in our therapy playgroup to help G work on and develop social skills to prepare him for preschool. It necessitates that we drive to Chico for it so that adds another hour of driving to our day. That threw a huge wrench in our schedule and I had to adjust again. I had to cave in and actually request the 8am slot for speech therapy to make it all work. Its crazy at time how much sacrificing motherhood requires, at times more than others, but its also amazing because it all brings us closer to becoming who we can and who the Lord wants us to be. We can get so caught up in our own expectations for life and needs, but having children and those with more needs than others allows the opportunity to give daily service and sacrifice.

I'm finally working out the chinks and its funny because every time I worry we won't be able to make the schedule work due to naps or otherwise and EVERY TIME it changes, it works out and fits perfectly it seems with our life at the time. And through all of it that little dude meets the challenges and changes in his routine. What an amazing kiddo! Right now he's struggling with playgroup and wanting to go, but his moments and length of time crying or screaming are lessening and shortening in length. I am the one having to tolerate some pain for much needed gains and I know this will make all the difference for G. I may just have to get a datebook to keep up with his schedule though! Don't forget to add in all of this his naps, eating which is a challenge too, park outings, working on homework and exercises from all of his therapy sessions, and just being a plain old toddler because he is a toddler ya know!

"Mud!"

Yesterday G discovered a mud puddle while Ryan was washing the car. He was in heaven as most little boys are when it comes to mud. He invited me to join him in enjoying it. After some limited oohing and ahhing, I realized that if I really want to make a change in his world I had to get down and dirty (literally) with him. So, we spent the next 30 plus minutes making mud soup and pretending to drink it. We used magnolia leaves to make sail boats and float them in the "river". We built a "bridge" out of weeds and added lots and lots of "sticks" to the "muddy river". We stomped and stomped and stomped in the water and splashed each other up one side and down the other with mud it seemed. And then when I'd had enough and went inside he came back inside and said "Come mama". Back outside it was for more until I convinced him we could play in the mud another day.

knock, knock

Knock, Knock!

Who's there?

Autism.

Bye, Bye (slams door).

** POST EDIT - After initially posting this I realize that it could be misunderstood. I have already read that mothers of children with autism have a funny sense of humor when it comes to dealing with acceptance and emotions. This joke doesn't imply that G doesn't have autism, it is meant to express through humor (my lame attempt at humor, sorry) that in fact G was diagnosed with Autism and my initial reactions to it. Hope that helps! We are still in the grieving/processing phase but I promise to write more soon. Thank you for all your love and support through this!

September 13, 2011

Its been a while...sorry.

We have a date.

September 13th 10:30am.

I've been working to get this date for a month now. Before that I was preparing myself to be ready for that date. I thought I was ready. Now that we have the coveted date my stomach is in knots. Its strange, just reality setting in that we will have something concrete to either go forward with or not. Things will continue as they are most likely one way or the other. Its our new reality. I talk openly, I even use the word in conversation with those closest to me. My reading material is plastered with it.

"AUTISM."

There I said it.

I have come to terms (or so I thought) and have my own personal diagnosis for Gavin.

Why, then do I all of the sudden feel so anxious and scared?

Maybe I'm not ready. It doesn't really matter if I am or not, he needs this and so do we.

Things have been more difficult lately. I don't even think its related to a disorder, probably just the natural development of a two-year old. I think he's fighting for autonomy and it sucks. I keep telling myself its good, because it is. It means he is developing appropriately, in some areas at least. Why does writing that make me cry?

Those darn doors. I'm about ready to take them all off their hinges. Its his thing and it seems like its getting worse. He is obsessed. He knows how to unlock deadbolts now so he continuously slams every single door in our house over and over and over and over and over again. Any kind of door, he doesn't discriminate. Have a headache yet? I do.

So, when the phone rang today and the woman on the phone told me she was calling to schedule the evaluation, I was relieved it was finally here and yet terrified at the same time. I think these opposite emotions are natural. Tell me they are.

All that being said...the past eight months since we began this journey of discovery and intervention have been amazing. Everyone we have worked with has been very professional and definitely have great concern for Gavin's success in life. I continually pray that the Lord will lead and guide us through this journey whatever it ends up being, that he'll inspire me and all of his interventionists, therapists, you name it. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths" (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Love this little man to pieces! Headaches and all...

We have a date!

In the mean time I will be reading this, and this, and just finished reading this.

cruisin'

Gavin is crusin'! He is 19 months old. His new name is "I will take my sweet time!" I can't tell you how many times people would tell me, "Just wait, one day he'll just start running." NOPE!! I'm still waiting. He took his first independent steps mid-September and its been a progressive month or so. Just the past week or two he has developed a lot more confidence and now he will appear around corners in the house walking instead of crawling or scooting. He is growing so much these days and he really seems like a toddler now. He is learning how to stand up on his own in the middle of the room. That will take more time... Needless to say we are ecstatic! My guess is he will be running by New Years 2012! hahaha!

sweet progress!

day #2 without a bottle and its going very well! I gave up on the sippy cup and started teaching him to drip from a regular cup and water bottle. Went back for another round of sippy cup action (I have a out 10 different kinds from our pre-trials) and no problem. He just has to learn to tip his head back now! Sweet progress, even if its just a sippy cup!

also happy to report to the world that doesn't see my facebook posts, gavin is taking steps as of my yard sale on September 18th! I was working hard and so was he, I missed those first steps. Figures! Luckily his second mom, my sister Michelle was there encouraging him on. She is his therapist, not Ryan. haha! I wouldn't call it walking but he will take about 4 steps to treats in your hand, the nearest table, or tv. Progess!! I am starting to believe he hit a big milestone and is overcoming some of his roadblock. He climbs up on the couch like a champ and is now attempting to climb over the back of it and fall to the ground. Sheesh. I think its all Ryan's fault from teaching him to dive off the bed into Ryan's arms. We've got a dare devil on our hands people. Now just for that speech! If no progress by his next Dr. Appt in November we might be heading into some intervention treatment according to the MD.

ignore him?

Disclaimer: if you are a perfect parent or a professed perfect parent STOP reading now!

So I've noticed a trend among friends and their babies. They can do most everything that Gavin can't do, BUT what he has over them is his great sleeping abilities! I mean this kid sleeps. He has been going 12 1/2 hours at night and a 3 hour nap in the afternoons. This is consistent. I have had several friends comment on fb or to me that they wish they could get their baby to sleep past 5:30 am. I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT GETTING YOUR BABY TO SLEEP LONGER!!! But when Gavin wakes up earlier than I want whether its during a nap or in the morning what do I do. Yep, I ignore him!

And you know what, for him, it works like a charm.

Call me a horrible mother, neglectful if you want, but he goes back to sleep. I honestly think that if you go right in when they wake they will expect it. So, I started letting him wait. If he was crying I went in after only a few minutes and try to calm him and then see if he falls back asleep. But most often he's happy so what's the shame in letting him lay there to see if he'll fall back asleep. In fact, today Gavin woke from his nap after only 1 1/2 hours. He usually sleeps minimum 2 1/2 but normally 3 so I knew it wasn't long enough. So, what did I do IGNORED HIM! He went back to sleep, but woke 30-40 minutes later. Again, I ignored him and mowed the lawn. He has now slept (off and on) for 3 hours and is still going strong. I'm sure I just jinxed myself and he will be up the second I post this.

So although my dearest boy can't walk, talk or chew gum (let alone all 3 at the same time) HE CAN SLEEP!! And for that I am grateful, especially since I've adopted this awful habit of staying up way too late. I still get to sleep 8 1/2 hours before he wakes me.

where has the time gone?

Gavin - 16 months

I can't believe how quickly Gavin is growing up. Seriously, where has the time gone? Gavin is definitely growing in to his little toddler self that he will be, tantrums include (more on the mini scale though). It is so exciting to see him discover life more, albeit at his slow chilled rate. He is still a spitting image of his daddy. I thank God everyday for his little dude and how much he has changed my life. What a sweetheart. I am so grateful for family and the opportunity to be a mother.

birthday boy!

I can't believe our buddy guy is already 1! The past year has flown by and been full of so many of the most amazing experiences and moments. He has changed my life and our family! I couldn't ask for a more amazing child. He is so gosh darn happy its hard to believe. He really is the best baby. I will highlight his strengths and avoid his weaknesses. He sleeps 12-13 hours a night, eats like a champ, plays well on his own, takes great naps, is a total trooper when I take him shopping (which is weekly), he loves the jogging stroller, or any stroller or car seat, does great on car trips, is always happy, is already mastering the art of efficiency since he is such a large boy he is determined to scoot on his bottom instead of crawling so that he doesn't have to transition he can just stay in the same position and scoot right up to the tv to turn it on and off, on and off, on and off.

That's all I can think of now. I cannot describe the joy and happiness that I have been blessed with as a mother. I guess that is something I have been celebrating the most this past year is the gift of motherhood. I do not understand how the Lord could entrust me with such an amazing spirit of His, but I want to do the best I can to help him to be happy, to love him, and to help him return to his Father in Heaven someday.

Happy Birthday Gavin! We love you with all our hearts!

the big 10!

I am slowly becoming more familiar with photoshop elements. So, what did I stay up until 1am working on tonight? Here are my most recent attempts at digital scrapbooking. As I said before, I just can't get enough of this little dude. I'm guessing you can tell why from the pictures! He is so patient when it comes to all the photo shoots I make him endure!

i'm in love!

(a little preview of his card I created)

I can't seem to get enough of "buddy guy" these days and unfortunately I've had less time with him because I've been back at Kremer Dental Care temporarily. Lately I've had lots of moments I've experienced pure bliss and unimaginable love for the little guy! These moments often lead to realizing I should be recording these sacred moments in a journal but I always seem to fail. Well, I decided I would begin the written expression of my love for him by designing him a Valentine's Day card. Ryan was teasing me, but I guess these days I've been finding any excuse to design cards and decorate (my two favorite hobbies right now, although I'm a novice at the former). I can't begin to express how full my heart is of gratitude and love towards God for giving me the gift of motherhood and more especially the little man himself.

Speaking of the little guy, he turned 10 months the end of January. Wow is time flying by! I've started designing his 1st birthday invitation, banners, treat bags, cutouts for decorating, cupcake tags, etc. Ryan would say I've gotten carried away, but I'm loving it! I might have to agree though because I think it will end up being a family only party. Boo hoo!

This weekend we're off to Eugene, Oregon. Boy howdy have we missed Oregon! Definitely a soft spot in our hearts for that beautiful state. Needless to say, we are very excited for the trip up there!

a piece of my heart

This little man has a piece of my heart. In fact, he has a BIG piece. The delightful hubby and I just celebrated our third wedding anniversary and since he does whatever he can to please me, we went to San Francisco, CA to see the musical Wicked. The weekend was perfect, except that I had a tough time forgetting about our sweet little babe. I wanted so badly for him to be there with us taking in the refreshing ocean air, yet I knew it would be just as refreshing to enjoy some alone time with my dear husband. I had to be reminded constantly over the first few hours away that I would in fact see my dear child just over 24 hours later. Even after that reminder I still insisted on worrying that what if, just what if we died in a car accident or an earthquake and we never get to see him again. My husband then reminded me that we are an eternal family, but still, I want the joy and pleasure of raising this dear sweet child we have been blessed with. I just didn't want to stop thinking about him! I finally decided that it would be best for me (and Gav) if I relaxed and rejuvenated myself so that I could be the best mommy I wanted to be and that he deserved.

San Francisco was beeeeeeeeeeautiful!! Yes it was windy but it only made it chilly after dark and so we decided we'd skip hiking around the city like we usually end up doing instead of taking taxis or bart. We got to experience a taste of Love Fest and that's all we wanted--we were celebrating our own love and in our own special way!! I highly recommend Wicked. It was such a great performance and I loved the story. Ryan was really impressed by the performance, the set, and all the detail that went into it. The music was great too! And of course we didn't leave the city without a clam chowder bread bowl and fish and chips (yes I ordered both and for lunch). On that note, I'm beginning to understand why I'm not losing any more of that post-prego weight but alas I still eat what I want. To my credit, I have gotten rid of pretty much all sweets in our house, but sadly most of that came from just eating them. I plan to not replace them!!! Just in time for Halloween and the holidays--nice!

I was so excited to go and pick up Gavin the following day. I was kind of saddened when I went to lock eyes with him and revel in that moment of being reunited and he took one look and then looked back up at my sister Michelle who graciously watched him. Oh that's ok, he just doesn't know better, right? So, back in the car and back to squeals, slobber, and the greatest joy of my life!

I just can't get enough--I think he has a little more than a piece of my heart--I'd say a chunk!

P.S. We are excited that we have finally had a happy, argument-free trip to San Francisco. Click here to see why!

Time Flies...

It's hard to believe that our little guy is already approaching 6 months of age. Wow has time flied! He is more adorable than ever! I apologize if you are sick and tired of his photos, but well, he is my life right now and I am enjoying improving my photography skills.

I love how he is discovering so many new things in life right now and I know its only the beginning of discovery for him. He is so interested in the things he sees, the things he hears (like the garbage truck and then the helicopter outside our house this morning), the things he touches, and most recently, the things he tastes (beside plastic and fabric products he has now be introduced to sweet potatoes).

5 months...

5 Months...

 

We are having so much fun with this little guy. You can't stop him from smiling these days if you try. He is really pretty much perfect, except for some napping issues. We love him to pieces! What a blessing from God (and in case you were wondering, we'd love him to pieces even if he wasn't near perfect).

Post UPDATE: Gavin finally had his 5-month doctor's appointment. He continues to grow like crrrrrrazy! He now weighs 17.5 lbs (75% for weight), is 27 1/2 inches long (90% for height). He is doing great the doc says. He did better this time with the shots too and he had to get 3 pokes. He cried for a minute max and was smiling at the ladies in the office before we could walk out the door. What a flirt! 

4 months...

4 months old

Today Gavin celebrated 4 months in this wonderful world and in the greatest family possible!!

Here's a look at the little man himself...

... at 4 months Gavin is: holding his head up like a champ, still only rolling to one side and has made it to his stomach once (Ryan says so), He is smiling like crazy and giggling a bit, He loves to jump and jive to the song Popcorn Popping on the Apricot Tree, He is sleeping 10 hours a night most nights, he poops only every other day (I know you were wondering) which makes diaper changes super easy, He loves cuddling with his silky blankets and his luv luv buddy named Fritz, he loves baths (especially laying in the big tub so he can kick and splash), he is very aware of everything going on around him, and his drooling has kicked up a notch (I call him the suds machine--he looks like a washing machine overflowing), he wears Size 2 shoes, 3-6 month clothes (is close to outgrowing 3-6 month onesies due to his long torso (inherited from his mommy), enjoys changing his outfit at least 3 times before heading to town just to make sure he looks cute enough (I hope he grows out of this one!), has quite the death grip, he no longer needs to be swaddled at night, has the most buff legs ever, is already taking up beat boxing, loves sucking on his lower lip and tongue, weighs approx. 16.5 lbs, he loves playing under his baby gym and is beginning to enjoy his newest toy the exersaucer which he can stand up in!

long time no talkie!

I must apologize for the lack of blogging. I really want to enlighten you with all that's happening in life and in my head, but right now I'm determined to live life and to be honest, its demanding my time regardless. My goal: to enjoy it to its fullest. 

Gavin Update: at 3 months he weighed 14.3 lbs and was 25 inches long. He is our bean sprout! Ok, several have described him as a "fatty" (what I have come to realize is a term of endearment, at least when it comes to babies, I hope). He continues to grow and develop like crazy: jabbering like crazy, grinning from ear to ear, continuing to train for WWF (did I get that right?), loves standing up, rolls over on side, sleeping more through night, playing and conversing with his toys on the baby gym (so adorable), and I've already started teaching him sign language (I know they say 6 months but it won't hurt--first word "mommy" that's right a little selfish but I think its pretty important to know your food source, best friend, side kick, and mother's name--don't you?!?

Ok, gotta go. More to come, soon, I promise!

Resting Place

Just shy of 3 months old, we finally moved the little guy into his very own room. You know what that means...the unveiling! It was technically unveiled at his baby shower, but I've added some more touches and now that he's here I'll share it with the rest of the world. Interior design/decorating is my favorite passion. Its my most developed hobby these days. I had a so much fun putting together this room and most of that fun came from recycling, reusing and repurposing things we already had or were given from friends and family. So, indulge me for a moment...I hope you enjoy the pics (and yes I did mess with exposures and what not so some are a little over exposed).

His resting place...(does that sound morbid?). We were given this crib by some friends. It was originally oak color and we painted it black. The Van Gogh painting was something Ryan had pre-marriage and its been used in several different settings in our different homes. I made a bird mobile for Gavin and so far, its a hit. The bedding is custom made by me, my mom, and mother-in-law. I love it! You can't see the pattern in the lime green fabric, but I love it! 

(Above) View of the changing pad, necessities and one of the few "custom" pieces of "art" in Gavin's room. There was a small built-in desk in this room that I thought at first would be annoying but it has worked out great for changing table and someday the little tike's own desk! 

(Below) Rocking chair from WalMart (I couldn't bear to spend $$$ on the rocking recliner or gliders), pillow I already had, clouds (white paper lanterns) we already had that were just chillin' in closet, tree/bird decal from TJMaxx (the best store on this planet--may end in my demise), birds flying in clouds (online), curtains (I made all by myself!!), curtain rod (recycled-it was white from old apartment and we painted it black).   

(Above and below) These are essentially the same shots but I couldn't decide which I liked better. I'm actually going to submit photos of Gavin's room to Apartment Therapy. I love love love that website and spent hours on end (literally) figuring out what I was going to do for Gavin's room. They have a whole site within theirs dedicated to kid/baby rooms. So, if you need tips I highly recommend them. In this photo the dresser was actually Ryan's and was at his parent's house. It was a natural wood color and we (actually Grandpa Beck) painted it black. I changed out the knobs to a pewter color to make it look more modern. The lamp, plant and vase are from Target (my home away from home--I had to go, even risked Gavin getting sick day 2 days after discharge from the hospital. You bet it as soon as I walked in the doors I sighed and all the worries of the day melted away (no joke!). More of my "custom artwork". I made these up one morning when I decided walls were too bare. I want to do this more with some other themes. I just need more places to decorate. Any takers? The frames are from Ikea. I had them from pre-marriage and they'd been taking up space in our closets. I used scrapbook paper and traced the bird cutouts from Gavin's mobile and viola!! I think they really finished off the room. 

(Below) View of room as you enter from hallway. I still want to add a bird/branch decal to his window and maybe a planter outside the window with flowers so he has something more than a fence to look at. Bird feeder possibly? I am so glad I decided to paint the ceiling. It was a big debate and the guy at the paint store tried to steer me away from it. Definitely not something to do all the time but I think it works here and I love to lay on the floor w/ Gavin and imagine looking up into the sky. This picture most accurately reflects the actual colors on the wall and ceiling. We only painted two walls yellow and left the other two off white. The yellow is called "lemoncello" kind of like lemon ice. The ceiling is a slight turquoise blue. The colors do change throughout the day based on the type of lighting in the room.

Now, dare you say this is not a "boyish" room, well bite your tongue. I went for a gender neutral room so that it can remain a nursery for our next child. (Not even considering it, just thinking ahead to our future and hoping to expand our family). Plus, they say its more for the parents than the child and that is totally true! Ryan loved it so much at first that he wanted it for his room. I offered to let him take it and Gavin would bunk with me!!

Vacations, Parties and a Blessed Child

Life has been busy to say the least. I really don't even have time to post this. Gavin has been on overload the past 5 days and so I've finally had to deal with a "crying baby". I lost it quick! Thanks to a loving husband by my side and the 5 S's from Dr. Harvey Karp in "Happiest Baby on the Block" we are making it through. He is still the most adorable little guy. He is learning all about his hands and smiling more than ever. You can sure tell his little brain is developing! You know what that means--lots of good moments and memories cuddling him in my arms. Everyone says enjoy it now because sooner than I know he won't want to cuddle and he'll be off playing.

So, here is what we've been up to:

The G-man had his first trip to Santa Cruz. I think he really liked it, except the windy beach time on day 2. He was such a good boy. We had a nice time eating tons of lemon drop, peanut butter, Dr. Midnight and snickerdoodle cookies from Pacific Cookie Company (THE Best cookie store on the planet--so good Ryan orders them online for me a couple times a year).  We also ate dinner at one of my favorite upscale mexican restaurants El Palomar Restaurant in downtown. SO YUMMY and the best atmosphere. Kinda like Tres Hombres but WAY better!!! We kept up with Beck family traditions with breakfast at Zachary's, and touring the O'Neill shops at Capitola and downtown, however we didn't get to pizza at the great Tony & Alba's. I really liked Pizza My Heart when we were there last year and so Ryan, being the sweetheart he is let us go there (actually we went twice). Its pizza by the slice and oh so very YUMMY!! I love a little of everything so it was just my style! We are pizza fanatics!!! The weather was cloudy most the trip but that didn't bother us a bit. The only problem was when we tried to head out to the beach before leaving since the sun had decided to come out. Well Mr. Wind came along for the ride too and spoiled what seemed would have been paradise. It would have been fine but with a 2 month old it spelled disaster. We packed up quick and got out. We did have one nice day on the beach for a short while, enjoying the breeze and reading. I can't wait for Gavin to enjoy digging in the sand and all that fun stuff. We took some nice walks enjoying views of Cowell's Beach (sorry Papa Beck for not surfing this trip hope we didn't let you down), Steamer Lane, and Pleasure Point. So, so relaxing!! I love the ocean! 

Pleasure Point in Capitola

Santa Cruz Beach

A week ago things got really busy. My brother Brent graduated from high school, then the next day Ryan's sister, Kristin had her baby shower, and then Sunday we had Gavin's baby blessing. Needless to say Gavin was pretty partied out after that weekend! Well, he was a doll and everyone enjoyed holding him, which became the trend that weekend. I'm not too sure that Gavin enjoyed it as much as everyone else did. As a result I get to try and re-establish order in his life now. We're handling it and I'm glad to be at home with peace and quiet again (not for long).

Gavin not too sure about hanging out with all the ladies at his Aunt Kristin's baby shower. 

Literally looking up to his Uncle Brent.

My youngest brother Brent graduated from high school. He was valedictorian and basically stole the show. 

Gavin on his blessing day--what a cutie! Ryan did an awesome job and Gavin didn't make a peep! I'm so grateful that Ryan is a worthy priesthood holder and is willing to bless our family with the priesthood. I feel like a very lucky lady!

Gavin seems like such a little man and he seems giant size compared to babies his age or even older than him that I have a hard time thinking of him as only 3 months old. Time is sure flying by!!!

So, if you made it through this post, CONGRATS!! It's a book! Just haven't taken or had the time to post. Next week we leave for Utah! The fun just doesn't stop!

2 Months and growing...

So the G-Man is now 2 months old! Time is flying by and I love spending every minute of it with him. He is definitely more active, enjoying his baby gym more (swatting at the toys), his right leg is pumping more than ever (got a sweet right hook I might add (too bad there's not a sport where you box with your legs)), he's holding up his head better everyday, he is sleeping an average of 6 hours straight at night (sometime 5, sometimes, 7 and once 8). He's growing out of some 0-3 month clothing, even some 3-6 month onesies. He is cooing and talking more--I love having conversations with him. He's enjoying tummy time more and grabbing onto the toy rings (and not letting go). He is still sleeping in our room (but not in our bed, maybe just that last hour in the morning when I just don't want to get up). We will be transitioning him eventually (watch for the post when I unveil his room) but I watched an Oprah episode about child kidnappings and it freaked me out to have him sleep in another room. We've since gotten a baby monitor and I let him sleep in there one night but I was so exhausted it was hard waking up to a quieter sound and having to go to the other room to get him. He has been called "fat", "a fatty", and "chubby" more than once, but I don't think any are accurate. I think he is just SOLID!! He's so adorable and now that he's smiling more and cooing I can't get enough of him even more!! We have had some of the most happiest times of our lives with the G-man's arrival and I know there will be many more to come!!

Meet our newest friends!! Finger puppets from Ikea! Love them! I'm still thinking of their names. I've only come up with Fred the Frog and Eli the Elephant, and George the Giraffe. (There's also a lion, brown bear, panda bear, dog, and some kind of white bird with a yellow beek (a duck?).) 

little man not so little

"Cliff Hanger" (his newest nickname) at 8 weeks old

The little man is now eight weeks old! I can't believe how time is flying by. He will be two months old next week. Amazing! He is growing like crazy and starting to talk and smile more. We are really enjoying him. What a blessing! That's all I have time for right now...you just want to see the pics anyway. Oh, and as for the origination of his newest nickname, well, let's just say I think we have a dare devil on our hands...