Farewell to 2008!!

What an amazing year full of God's blessings! I have been looking over the pictures from the year...and besides realizing that I have a billion pictures (3,730 to be exact...and that's not counting the wedding/senior pictures I took for others), I realize SO much has happened in 2008 that was memorable...there's no way I could do a slideshow of ALL the moments! The show would last half an hour!! So, I tried best I could to pick out only a few from each month. The other pics are still up in the albums on Picasa, so I'll let you go back and look at all of them if you have lots of time to kill! Haha!

Otherwise, please enjoy the show (MAJOR kudos to Picasa3 for the amazing software!).



HAPPY NEW YEAR! :)

Back (again)!

We have made our way safely back home after the Christmas trip, and have found ourselves settling into the routine once again!

Ian is amusing himself endlessly with his new stash of toys (ESPECIALLY the Little People bus). I've been busy with laundry (Isn't it such a blessing to have enough clothes to be swamped with laundry?! And, I mean that very seriously!). Matt is getting ready to pick up a new series on Saturday...and will be promoted to CAPTAIN on Friday morning (I can't even explain how excited I am!). Zoe is still growing, and maneuvering away, although now that she's filling out the belly some her movements have slowed a touch (all part of the process!). The third trimester officially starts tomorrow! So hard to believe we're in the home stretch!

I'm uploading a few pictures from the trip, be sure to check them out! It was wonderful to see everyone and spend some quality time! :)

From 12.2008 - MISC

Car Wash!

It's been beautiful weather this past week! With temperatures in the mid 70s, we've almost been fooled into thinking winter is over! The warm spell has provided plenty of opportunities for fun outside, and chores...

Today, we vacuumed out both of the vehicles (it's been on the to-do list for quite some time now). We'll have to make sure we do this much more often than before, as Ian spills more cereal now than he did when he was first learning to eat by himself! This is because he tries to make emotional statements with flying cereal! His rain of terror (yes, I intentionally spelled that way!) is quite noticeable on black fabric...

At any rate, after getting the inside cleaned up, time to wash the outside! Of course, hand washing will invariably get your car much cleaner, HOWEVER...every child HAS to experience the no-touch car wash!! :D

Ian gets a little snack to enjoy. Yes, we're brave...just cleaned it out and giving him more! :D We drive into the car wash and the undercarriage spray starts first as we're driving into the covered area (Matt, let's roll up the windows FIRST next time, ok?). Then, the pre-rinse.

I really wish I would have thought more about pictures as Ian's face was totally priceless! His eyes got HUGE! Yes, we're talking saucers! His hand was stuck frozen in midair with the next cereal bit! It was quite amusing! When the spray nozzles got to the rear of the car, it became necessary to "rescue" him from the car wash monster. He sat with us for the remainder of the cycle!

Fear quickly turned to awe (but eyes still big!) at the whole process. He was soon commenting with us, "Here comes!" at each pass of the nozzles. A few "oohs" and "aahs" also escaped his lips with wonder at the car getting it's own shower! All too quickly, the experience was over! It took several minutes for Ian's eyes to return to their normal size as he continued to process the experience while we drove away.

It's really something to observe a "new" little person experiencing things for the first time. It never ceases to amaze me how we are created beings of curiosity and intelligence...and how we learn from the world around us is truly a miracle to behold. I know that even simple things like getting your car washed hold in them miracles of learning. Nothing is ordinary to a child! :)

Become a "follower"!

As you might have noticed, there's something new on the right sidebar...It's a google feature that allows you to become a follower of the blog! Every time I update, you can choose to get an e-mail! How cool is that?! :)

Going, going...?

Last night Ian's new potty chair came. Now, there's one in the bathroom, and one in his room. I put his training underwear on this morning after breakfast, and 3 hours later, he randomly goes, "Paa-paa! Paa-paa!" and then back to playing. (That's his way of saying, "potty" in case you hadn't figured!).

So, off we headed to the potty (he chose the one in his room), and he asked for a book to read.

From 12.2008 - MISC

THIRTY MINUTES LATER...I'm getting tired of sitting on the ground next to him waiting!! (Not as comfortable with a big ol' belly, let me tell you!). I keep asking me if he's all done and wants to get up, but it was his idea...so we sit some more!

Finally, daddy comes home (close to the 45 minute mark), and after several books, Ian is ready to get up. Nothing yet, but the fact he's taking a lot of interest, and seems to get the idea is a good sign!

He still goes most nights right before shower time when the water is running. So, we're getting there! I'll keep you updated on any new "developments"! :)

Zoe's Heartbeat!

Last night was very exciting! I have a sound amplifier specifically designed to help you hear the heartbeat (and other noises) of the growing little one. It recommends you begin using it in the 3rd trimester (just a few weeks away!). However, I read on my baby update that you may be able to hear the baby's heartbeat with a stethescope at this time...

So, almost needless to say at this point...we were able to VERY CLEARLY hear little Zoe's racing heart! It is so amazing to hear that sound, and feel her moving around and growing! What an amazing miracle every day is, as God knits all the pieces necessary for life together in my womb! I'm so much in awe! :)

"You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous--and how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed." -Psalm 139:13-26 (NLT)

Baby Shower!

While on the trip, Erica threw me a wonderful Noah's Ark themed baby shower! It was such a blessing to share in the excitement with a few friends and family members and be showered with pink! :)

Thanks to everyone who came and brought their wonderful smiles, words of encouragement, and gifts! It's truly amazing to share in the experience with you all, and I look forward to meeting the little bundle of pink soon! :)

Back from Thanksgiving Trip!

So, we're back home for a little bit! Thanksgiving was a wonderful opportunity to visit with friends and family, and we had a great time! It was so nice to have Daddy home and spend lots of quality time together as a family. I'll be posting some pictures soon!

Special thanks to Erica for throwing me a wonderful baby shower! I'm even more excited now to meet little Zoe (was that possible?!). We also had a 4d Ultrasound done. You can view the photos here:
http://picasaweb.google.com/julie.gayler/Zoe4DUltrasound#

I'll be posting again soon now that we're back and settling into the routine again! :)

Colorful Fingers

Tonight we tried a new activity...finger-painting!

Ian was nervous at first about sticking his fingers in the paint. He is gradually getting over her "fear" of getting his hands dirty (I really think he's afraid of getting in trouble!). The first little timid pokes at the paint were accompanied by little exlamations of, "Ooooooh" and, "Woooow, cool!"



Of course, he eventually became bolder, sticking more of his hand into the paint, and requesting, "Want 'at one," for more paint! He's definitely favoring the right hand...the left hand didn't get too much paint on it.

Ian's focus cracks both of us up! Matt joined our little paint party, and although we can tell he enjoys the activity, he's very serious about it! He also pays very close attention to whatever daddy does. I think pictures can cover this one:



Notice, Ian got pretty close to daddy's pattern, hahaha!

The complete "photo story" is on Picasa (link on right).

At any rate, it was a fun experience with him...always a blessing to watch him learn and discover more and more of the world around us! :)

Charlie Company Graduation! :)

Well, he did it! Matt's platoons graduated today! Hooray! His first cycle completed!

We went to graduation, and I must say Ian had a lot of fun for the most part. He was especially enjoying the band play, even standing up to dance as they passed by for review!

He was very well behaved, I'm proud of him. Not easy for a toddler to stay in the same vicinity for an hour long "boring" ceremony! Later, he would have enjoyed running crazily all over the depot, haha.

As Matt passed by new Marines returning salutes and saying, "Oorah!" Ian was all-too-enthusiastic, and even started chanting, "Oowah, oowah" after him. Just too cute! He also enjoyed imitating the marching, doing his own versions of Marine movements.

There are some photos posted in the November miscellaneous album! I will work on getting some videos up soon, but they do take a while to upload!

And now, off to rest a bit, and bask in the glow of an exciting day! :)

From 11.2008 - MISC

New, but old!

So, you can see, the page has gotten a bit of a facelift! Bookmark the new web address!

Since Zoe will be joining us, I'd like to have all the updates in one place! So, I hope you enjoy updates on the whole family's activities...Ian's antics, the pregnancy, and later on watching Zoe add to the adventure! :)

Fall is here!

A trip to the park today was a wonderful field trip of colors, textures, and feelings of fall in the air! Ian enjoyed finding the little red and golden treasures shed by the trees on his expedition.

From 11.2008 - MISC

Although I'm not one for cold weather (in fact, I much prefer the scorching days of summer!), it is a wonderful thing to watch Ian explore the seasons and learn about God's world around him. His curiousity is contagious, and always forces new perspectives on things we walk by a million times!

We are truly surrounded by so many little miracles, and I'm thankful for my very helpful scientist able to point all of them out to me! :)

By any other name would be just as ROTTEN!

Roseola. That's what we've been dealing with this week!

If you want to read a more detailed description, Wikipedia has a good one...complete with yucky photo! (And yes, Ian's DOES look like that).

Five days of high fevers, followed by a rash covering the torso. A lot of drama to get to a doctor today, and find out the mysteriously appearing rash is really nothing to worry about, it will go away on its own. It should be only mildy itchy, and start improving throughout the day and weekend.

I'll tell you, that's a short summary of a very full week/day. Being sick is no fun when you're a toddler, or a toddler's mom!

But, thank God as always it's nothing serious, and THIS TOO SHALL PASS. :)

VOTE!

We're going to find out (if all goes according to plan) on next Wednesday, November 5th, if Ian's going to have a little brother or sister! So, last chance to vote! The poll is on the right! Or, to put a name with your vote, click comments and say what you think!

Matt was very set it was twin girls from when we first found out until the first ultrasound...but is now just as set it's a BOY! I, of course, am 1,000% positive it's a baby! :)

"Ready...set...go!"

Here's our new chant! I can't believe he's already stringing these phrases together...just like I'm also hearing "Onnnne...oooooo...freeee!" What? Not even 2, and the first step to counting?! Pinch me!!

Mostly, he joins this phrase with rolling a car, or playing with his little people (bouncing up and down and jumping off things, lol). Of course, the phrase doesn't always come out correctly! Numerous times, he's repeated, "Onnnnne...onnnne...one..." and gets frozen there until he gets "rescued" by me completing the countdown. Or, he'll go, "Ready, ready, ready, gooooo!" (Go is not a problem for him at all!).

He also pretends to count objects. Ok, maybe he really IS counting, but using a different language! I know he's trying, because he copies me after counting objects, or uses the "counting" books. He really does seem to remember the "themes" of different books.

My favorite new counting situation is quite humorous. I have started counting for him (goodness, I said I wouldn't do it, and it's stopping now), to obey..."Ian get down." (Pause) "Ok, you have 3 seconds to get down or I'm helping you." (Looks rebellious) Then HE helps me out, standing there on top of the table, counting, "One, onnnnne, three!" and then hops down. I'm definitely abandoning this game/technique!

It's just a constant excitement for me, seeing him grow and learn how to do things! Besides being so much faster than I thought! :)

"Beebee! Beebee! Beebee!"

This is the chant I've been hearing lately if I forget to put Ian's baby doll in with him when he naps. He's not really concerned with it any other time, but MUST pull it to himself at nap time and bed time as his little cuddly snuggle companion. I must say, it's definitely an attack of the "awww"s for me every time. Sometimes, his baby even gets a little kiss or two!

From 10.2008 - MISC

Another of his new routines, I might have mentioned before...is his tendency to put fingers to lips when he is tired, cranky, or in need of comfort. I do believe it's his alternative to thumb-sucking. Perhaps it goes back to his nursing days, when he would reach up and touch my lips while he nursed? Either way, it's another cute little Ian-ism that I will look back on with fondness.

From 10.2008 - MISC

Every day I feel more and more love for this little blessing! I gain a new understanding of how deep God's love for us must be...as His is the perfect love. And, I realize more and more how unfathomable it was for Him to give His only perfect Son for ME, for US. That's love, for sure. :)

Wonder Boy and the Miracle Cure!

We have been sick now what feels like FOREVER. Ok, 3 weeks. Close enough. Ian of course, seemed to be pretty unaffected except for diarrhea (now we're confident it's not a food allergy hooray!) and a little bit of a stuffy nose. Then, he developed what looked like pinkeye over the weekend. Nasty stuff, I'll spare you the descriptives...

Yesterday was family doctor day...where I was glad to find out it IS a virus, no infections, and go back to treating symptoms. (Measuring right at 17 weeks by the way, so erasing any doubts of multiples!!). Ian's pediatrician prescribed him some eye ointment. I waited for Matt to get home to help me put it on, and we forgot! Oops.

Now the miracle part, this morning he woke up and it's completely gone, no trace of any ickiness. I'm glad he's feeling well...maybe a little grouchier than usual, but nothing as bad and Matt and I. Wonder Boy does it again. I'm happy we don't have to hold him down to put it in his eye.

I guess the trip to the doctor was the cure. :)

Sweet boy!

Mommy and daddy have been getting lots of random kisses and hugs lately! He'll be in the middle of playing and head right over to us and give one of those open-mouthed slobbery baby kisses (that could be utterly disgusting if it wasn't for the fact that it's the cutest thing EVER!).

And, Dr. update...

We went to the Dr. today to inquire about his constant diarrhea (no fever, really no other symptoms). He thinks it's a virus, wants us to come back in a week if it's still going, and we'll do stool samples and whatnot. Second guess was a soy allergy. So, we'll see what happens this week!

I really love this doctor too! Praise God He set us up with one that is sensitive and conscientious to our well-informed vaccination choices! He didn't say anything other than, "You know I have to recommend it, but we can talk again when you're ready." I think I almost passed out, lol. Anyway, great news. :)

P.S. He measured 32 inches at the Dr.'s office. Did he really grow over night?!

Height/Weight Check-In!

The last measurements I logged were at 14 months...he was 30 inches, and 22.4 pounds.

Of course, we know he's growing...growing out of clothes and shoes still! He's wearing a size 5 1/2 or 6 shoe, has outgrown 18 month clothes (except for some pants), and is now in many more 24 mo. and 2T outfits!

So, what's the verdict? According to a couple of online calculators/growth charts, here are his stats, followed by percentages! Apparently whatever is causing him digestive upset is not interfering with growing!

Height: 31.75 inches. / 92%
Weight: 24 pounds / 58%
Head circumference: 18.5 inches / 72%

Just in case you were wondering precisely why head measurements are important (I was!), it's to make sure their brain is growing and developing at a steady rate too! This is the first time I've done it personally, but hey, why not?

At the moment, he's having a full-fledged toddler tantrum over not being able to move his toys like he wants to...and I'm out of here for now! :)

It pays to listen to your children!

There we are, having a wonderful picnic in the park...

I put Ian up on top of the picnic table, because he could see out over the water, and have easier access to the food. He happily munched on his apple, and rested his right hand down on the table. Then, my happy little boy turned into a child paranoid of the dirt on his hand! He kept whining and fussing and holding his hand up, even after I had brushed the dirt off...first with my hand, then on his pants, and finally on a napkin. He would return briefly to eating his apple, and then complain about his hand again.

This continued for a little while, until Matt joined us and provided a welcome distraction. They played, and Ian tried to put Matt's cover on his own head, then return it to daddy's head (albeit sideways, haha).

I was resting my elbows and arms on the table, snapping a few photos, and then suddenly, pain! I looked down at my elbow and it was extremely rad, and all up my arm where it had been resting on the table there were little red bumps. They were pretty painful, it felt like tiny glass shards or something...but I couldn't see anything on my arm at all! I grabbed a wet wipe and cleaned off my arm, elbow and then Ian's hands.

We ended up going to the commissary and I noticed the right side of Ian's face had a rash too. I wiped it off with a wipe, and blessedly, it went away quickly.

Next time, I'm listening to Ian when he protests, even at invisible things! I guess there was something growing on that table, or pollen of some sort we all were sensitive to (even Matt called and said he was a little itchy). A lesson re-learned...it never hurts to assume that a person ISN'T being overreactive, and give them credit for legitimate feelings (even if we don't think the same way). Probably a life lesson that ties into more than just the physical...guess it's the golden rule after all! :)

Going to be the BEST big brother!

We went shopping Tuesday and I decided to follow through with an idea I had a month or so ago to get Ian used to the idea of a little baby brother or sister! Yes, it's early, but you never can start too soon with a toddler!

The idea was to get him a little baby doll (no I'm not trying to turn him into a little girl!) and start talking about how to touch a baby, and what they do, etc. So here we go down the dolly aisle, trying to find a baby doll suitable for a boy, lol.

Ok, and I must diverge from the original point of this post for a moment to ask, what happened to baby dolls?!?! There was a whole aisle of them...first off, all girls. I guess nobody wants a boy baby! Secondly, what on earth is up with all the fancy babies? There are babies that swim, babies that pee, babies that have a sensor and cry when you walk by unless you pick them up, and babies that can crawl...oh, and almost all of them are PINK! So, it took a moment to just find a regular baby doll! No frills! And, NO peeing! lol.

Back to Ian...we found a little "display model" dolly lying on a fancy changing table/dresser toy, and I handed the baby to him (see what he would think!). He looked at the baby very intently, turning it around in his hands. It almost seemed like he was pondering, "What on earth am I supposed to do with THIS?!" I casually remarked that I had a baby in my belly, and this was what his little baby brother or sister was going to look like. Then, he turned and looked from me to the doll and back again...paused a moment, almost staring the baby in the eye...and brought it to his lips and kissed it! To add to the cuteness factor, he even said, "I love you," afterward and kissed it again!

Of course, we got the baby!

In the car, he kissed the baby again, and carried on a one-sided conversation for almost 5 minutes! He jabbered away in the cutest little voice, I only wish I could have understood what he was saying! He put the baby up on his shoulder and patted its back, and stroked it and said, "Nice, nice, nice." He was just so sweet with that baby...for about 10 minutes, then he moved on to something else!

Since we got the baby he often carries it around, and points to body parts on the baby and himself. Overall, he's pretty gentle with it, and talks to it a lot. He definitely recognizes it's a little person (or looks like one anyway).

I think he's going to be the best big brother! He is so nurturing, warm, and sweet, and seeing it come out is truly wonderful. I just hope he is nice to the real baby and not just the fake one...after all the fake one doesn't get much of mommy's attention! :)

Night Night

Bedtime routine is pretty much the most consistent out of all the routines we have. Ian is picking up more and more phrases and words weekly, and this week he's even acting out a familiar scene!

Caught on VIDEO with his little people is the "game" that Ian began on his own (even though he's being prompted a little bit here)...kiss the little person goodnight, put them in bed, and say "Niii niiii!" He usually lays his head on top of the little person before uprooting them from bed, but this video gives you the general idea! :D

I must say it's one of the more exciting moments I've had as a mommy so far...watching his little imagination take root and come out through play! :)

Mommy, mommy, mommy!!!!

Yes, that's what I have been hearing a LOT of lately, and it is the most wonderful sound in the whole world!!! :D

He's also started remembering parts in books, either acting them out, or repeating key action words from the specific page (choo-choo noises for train, angry "no, no" at 'bad' parts, etc). Such the bookworm he is!

To add to his growing independence, he's slowly mastering the art of the cup. He gets upset when he spills it, which is sort of cute, but I kind of feel bad for him as it's only water! (Try explaining that to a crying almost-2-year-old!). I would say the art of eating with the utensil is very well developed, he even manages to pick up his sippy cup, fork still in hand, and not poke his eye out!

Recently he has also been demonstrating his ability to point out his nose and eyes...and all to happily (and slightly TOO enthusiasticly) he will also poke--err--point out the parts on us as well. We're working on ears, but he's still taking that as a cue to grab our nose. LOL.

Tonight I walked into bathtime to observe Ian letting daddy help him float on his back in the bathtub! Too bad it's getting too chilly for swimming! We'll have to hope for a few more warm days to see what he'll do in the pool.

One funny thing I noticed today that he still hasn't mastered...he still goes backwards only on his ride-on truck. Super funny! Although, he understands he NEEDS to go forwards, wanting me to push him the whole way!

Lastly, rounding out his newly developed skills is a major hazard. Our little thinker has figured out that many objects can be pushed up to tables and counters as a handy dandy makeshift stepstool. No surface is safe! Ok, well the backs of the counters still are out of reach until he figures out how to get back there. Praying for time...lol.

Really it's truly amazing to watch the wheels in his little head spinning and learning to figure out so many things. God has created within us this amazing initiative to learn, explore, and DO...all from the very beginning...and I'm so blessed to have a front row ticket! :)

Turning up in odd places...

So, Friday didn't bring a post as we were working our way out of town for a beautiful wedding! We even had the clothes to dress up...but it turns out he got to nap and play with the Hibbs instead of getting fancified! I don't think he was very unhappy with the choices...sit and be quiet for a long time, or run about and have fun...hmmm, which would you choose, as a little one? I opted for cake, lol. No, seriously, I'm so happy for Sarah! Congratulations!

Well, here's a few interesting places Ian has turned up the past week or so!

In a cute suit! (Not to be confused with a zoot suit...haha I'm so funny!)


Hanging out to dry...almost literally!


In an itsy bitsy rocking chair!


Seeing family and friends was wonderful...and we have all noticed how BIG he is getting! Yes, in those size 2T clothes and 5 1/2 shoe he's looking quite big indeed. And, having learned to call out "mommy, mommy, mommy!" really puts into perspective that he's not a teeny little baby any more. How amazing, and what a blessing! :)

Sculpting (Interpretive)

Hooray, so I took a risk today, and broke out the Play-Doh. Success! He is the budding artist, making beautiful sculptures! Here's a rundown of the activity, which he thoroughly enjoyed!

YES, he did try to eat it, but only a couple of times! He listened so well, and repeated the "blyuchky" noise!



Just a pinch...it was his favorite thing to do at first, feel it all squishy between his fingers (mom prefers this instead of food!).


Then, his favorite game turned into...open the container, take the play-doh out, put it back in, close the lid, grab new color, repeat!


And, this was the pink flamingo he made for Aunt Kathy...(if you don't see it, understand it's very interpretive sculpture!) :)

Randomness of a 15 month old!

Ok, we're back up and running...packing up, visiting family and friends, unpacking and then FINALLY getting internet (no kudos for you Shentel) takes a lot of time and energy...especially when running after a very busy toddler and growing a new baby! So, here we go...with a new look and renewed energy! I'm aiming for Wednesdays and/or Fridays...you know what that means, enjoy new posts whenever they happen to show up! Ha!

I have also decided there will be no more monthly summary...it's a little harder now that some milestones are farther apart and changes are more subtle. So...I'll try to chronicle as much as I can as it comes up!

Be sure to vote at the poll on the right...will Ian have a brother or sister? One thing I do know for sure, he is going to be a phenomenal BIG brother! :)

Height/Weight

Update for 14 months...

Weighed 22.4 lbs. (home scale) and

Right around 30 inches. Very hard to get him to stay stil!!

Looks like his food is going straight to his feet! LOL! :)

Shoes...

Growing like a weed? Yes! Especially his feet!

We have gone through 2 shoe sizes in about 5 weeks. He is now in a size 5! When the shoes are getting hard to put on his feet, I am learning not to blame him for curling his toes, but maybe, just maybe he IS growing that fast!

Going to measure his height/weight when he wakes up tomorrow! Got the scale fixed! But, I am sure most of the growing was in his feet! (And brain!) :)

Timing

So, here's another testimony for you...

Matt and I put serious thought and prayer time into the idea of the "when" of another child. After a LOT of praying, we decided NOT to decide, and leave it in God's hands. After all, Ian could not have come at a better time. I was able to get the job at LWCS and finish the school year, and even made it back for the awards ceremony. Matt was able to spend the crucial first few months at home with Ian and I before deploying. They had a special time of bonding that was priceless. We could not have planned it more perfectly (and thought we knew when we wanted a child almost a year earlier!)...it was when we finally surrendered to God's will, we saw what His plan was all along.

Now, we caught a lot of controversy on this...what if the children are too close...how many are you going to have...what if he deploys...you just bought a house...and on and on. It was hard sometimes to have faith in our decision to trust God. But...

God has shown again that He is the master plan of everything!

Although it is sad to leave family here in Jacksonville, we knew that there was a reason. The first obvious one to us was that he would be non-deployable for 3 years. Now, we find out we're going to have another baby, and that makes it even more exciting! He will be home with us for the first 3 years of this child's life!

After a phone call tonight, things are even more obvious...that God's hand works miracles in every thing for those that turn to Him and let Jesus be the King of their life...even in decisions that seem like they "should" be our own!

Matt just found out the schedule for the training...and for starters, he will be picking up Aug. 23 and that class graduates Nov. 14. Then, he has the rest of the year off!!! The next class doesn't pick up until Jan. 3 and graduates March 27th. Right around the time baby is born, and he doesn't pick up again until May 23rd! WOW. You want to talk about timing? Matt will be home with us for the first 8 weeks of having the new baby! WOW!

We couldn't have planned it ourselves any better whatsoever...there were just too many unknowns and variables!

You may say that we have some great luck...but sorry folks, it doesn't work that way. There is a God of the Universe in charge of everything! I'm so glad it's not all up to us!!!!!!!

Yet again everything is working out when you have faith and know that things happen for a reason!! Praise God for His marvelous handiwork and His blessings in our lives.

He is so good!

If you were looking for an example of how there is a God and Savior...this is it. Prayer works, God is real, and He takes care of His children...granting them the desires of their heart and guiding them on the path to draw them closer to Himself! :)

FOURTEEN MONTHS!

Our scale needs batteries, I'll have weight/height later on...

As many people have observed, at this point there is no denying that Ian is "ALL BOY!"

-His favorite toy is by far a ball! He will point them out wherever we go! Obsessed! :)
-Can climb up and down stairs all by himself! He goes down them backwards, but does it alone!
-Labeling objects spontaneously in books. (Dog, baby, daddy, and ball of course!)
-Gets us to help him with tasks...i.e., he's in the kitchen trying to open the cabinet, comes and pulls our arm and puts it on the cabinet to open it for him).
-Is becoming increasingly independent..."Come here" now sometimes gets a, "No!" as he continues on his own path!
-Turns around backwards, and backs into you to sit in your lap, (most of the time with book in hand!)
-Matches up the correct lids with containers (simple matching).
-Blows his nose for dad!
-Read books OUT LOUD to himself.
-Up to 45 minutes in the mornings he will play by himself in the crib.
-Favorite books at this stage are ones with simple pictures of household objects and any that involve flaps to lift.
-Throws with incredibly good aim! The ball almost always goes right where he is looking!
-Has mastered the art of walking up and down a ramp...without falling. (For the most part at least).
-Understands the concept of a doorknob, but still can't operate standard height ones. (WHEW!)
-Appears to be teething again, finger/thumb sucking has appeared off and on.
-Does not put inappropriate objects in his mouth anymore!
-Is interested in shape sorting toys.
-Experiments in tub/kiddie pool with holding his breath and putting own head underwater.
-Often engages in interactive play with other kids, as opposed to all parallel.
-Initiates simple activities with others! (Ex: brings a bowl and puts on everyone's head!)
-Understands correction/consequences with a simple time out. Nods head when asked, are you going to be nice now?
-Said "Amen!" after a prayer! And, "The end" after books!
-Recognizes uniform as what dad wears...calls to other Marines as "Daddy!"
-Loves to sit in chairs like a big boy!
-Feeds himself with increasing dexterity. He will now break up larger pieces of food into smaller pieces if he can't bite off a smaller chunk, and will also use a scooping (as opposed to dipping) motion with a spoon. Also some success with fork stabbing!
-Is in almost constant movement...he's always up to something! :)

Again, just an idea of all of the ways Ian is growing...inside and out! His relationship building skills are extending beyond his own desire to be the center of attention! One of my favorite things to see is how he recognizes playmate Jared and wants to follow him around and copy everything he does...just like brothers!

Every month it amazes me how much he is able to know and learn! I really have to sit and think hard about all of the things he is doing! He's so busy!

Again, every month that passes by I am so thankful for the wonder God has given us, the opportunity to raise up a child in His service. Every day is another little miracle! :)

PRE-Potty Training!

Well, I realized I might need to amend the last post, so as not to be misleading...

Ian really is not developed enough to start full-fledged toilet training - and most importantly is not showing all of the "readiness" signs for such. For example, he is not going very long stretches with clean diapers (a sign that he is able to control his bladder). Nor is he always aware of soiled diapers.

We are just helping the process begin by naming his functions, and setting up opportunities for him to be successful if possible. He was urinating on the bathroom floor when the shower turned on anyway, so why not catch it in a toilet? :D He most definitely is developed enough to make associations with appropriate bathroom behavior!

I just wanted to throw a little "disclaimer" out if you will, to assure you - he's NOT getting punished for "accidents" (they aren't even accidents at this point, haha), nor are we considering this period of time the "goal" for getting rid of diapers. We won't be running to the toilet every time I think he might need to go...or camping out in the bathroom waiting on that moment...

Again, this is just a time to start explaining the process, and allow his "explorer" phase encompass other areas of "big person" living. He possesses the intellect, curiosity, and ability to imitate many things we are doing - and we're just adding toileting to the list!

My experience with kids has taught me to recognize the signs and also know processes to ease potty training in general. But more than all of this, both Matt and I have the patience to wait for when the time is right, and set the foundation for a successful transition from diapers! :)

Potty Training!

So, you may have heard the story about how Ian TWICE now has pulled off his diaper after wetting it, and carried it over and threw it in the trash all by himself!! (With no prompting whatsoever!!)

Tonight, we add a new chapter to the potty training we have decided to move forward with! (After all, since he is smart enough to know that his diaper should come off when wet and be thrown away, he is smart enough to learn that pee goes in the potty! In addition to the fact that he is going through a very strong mimicking stage!!).

We have been talking a lot about going on the potty, etc. Matt put him on his little potty chair before his shower just now, and...HOORAY!! He went in the potty!!! Of course, this is mostly coincidental at this point, but I'll take it! Every step is a step closer!

How exciting!

I know I'm growing as a mom when I can get excited by seeing my little boy just sitting on the potty! Makes me think, if it's because I love him so much...how excited God gets when we learn new things about him, or succeed in His purpose here. It's such an amazingly wonderful feeling! God is so good! :)

THIRTEEN MONTHS!

Not going to do the weight/height thing, just did it! :P

Random assortment of "can-dos" now that he's more than officially a busy, active toddler! (And, I have realized you will KNOW when your child is no longer a baby and becomes a toddler. It's like labor, you KNOW when you go through it, lol!!!!!).

-Recognizes specific uses for objects (phones, talking; brushes, hair; soap, washing; etc).
-Independence and preferences for foods...won't eat it usually unless he does it HIMSELF!
-Climbs IN and OUT of large boxes and containers!
-Knows how to operate simple switches and levers.
-Will help you pick toys up and put them away (wants to take them right back out again though, haha!)
-Has learned to nod his head YES! (With an accompanying "yeah"). And uses the gestures appropriately!
-Responds to simple one (and sometimes two) step directions: go get daddy, put this in the basket, open the box, go get your ball, etc. with minimal or no prompting!
-Is learning to pet dogs/cats nicely! I know Sera and Kiki appreciate! :)
-Points (sometimes) to pictures in books we are labeling.
-Can enjoy a longer length simple story book...with mommy; with daddy, he still flips the pages randomly!
-Navigates church like a pro...knows where to go and when!
-Communicates with many words! Ball, more yum-yum, all done, dog (which unfortunately definitely sounds like "dawg"), daddy, up, book, please, water (also "noy" for whatever reason), nana, yeah, hello, hi, balloon -- all completely on his own in the right situations. He repeats many others at random times, not always regularly...but he definitely says MANY many words. Hard to get all of them down off the top of my head!
-Uses gestures to help "explain" himself - opening and closing his outstretched hand when he wants more snack, reaching up/pointing towards things he wants, nodding or shaking of head, waving hands back and forth in front of him to mean "no more",
-Tries to put on his own clothes! (By no means succeeding, lol...just pulling shirts and stretching them over his head, or tossing socks onto his feet and then kicking them off!!)
-Using something to hold onto, kicks his toys!
-Has mastered the art of the temper tantrum. Falling down, crying, etc. Terrible twos? Haha. How about onery ones? Ok, doesn't have the same ring to it.
-Laughs with others at jokes!

That's a good summary for now...every day is new things...and of course, growing like a weed! :)

One Year Checkup

So, the crazy Tricare system being what it is...we just had his 1 year checkup today. But, that's ok, we don't need doctors! :) (Because he's healthy is my point!)

He weighed in at 21 pounds and 30 inches. I forget his head circumference, but we were never tracking that anyway, so it doesn't matter! So, we have hit the time in Ian's life where growth will dramatically slooooow down...he hit that point a couple months ago I think. The doctor says it's because as he becomes more mobile his growth patterns change. So, for you worry-warts out there, he's still normal! :) He is now in the 25th percentile for weight and 50th percentile for height. Matt and I were both skinny little kids, so I'm not that surprised.

Anyhoo, that's about it...talked about a few other things...eczema (almost cleared up), milk protein allergy (even more common than lactose intolerance, and could go away), and developmental milestones (already waaay ahead of the game on all of them!). Vaccines were brought up briefly, but a non-issue with this doctor, because I told him we'd come back - and he didn't ask when...lol. Around talking-in-complete-sentences age for little man we'll reexamine the options. For now, research is still underway. (And lots and lots of prayers!).

So, clean bill of health, and away we go!

It's so hard to believe my little baby has grown up into such an active toddler! Loving it! :)

Gross/Funny/Smart

Ummm yeah...don't eat and read. :)

Ian has taken an interest into feeding mommy or daddy his little snack tidbits...and as long as his hands have been recently washed, and the food didn't come off the floor, we'll humor him...

Well, new twist. He ran out of food to give daddy, but had some in his mouth...soooo. You guessed it, he spit it out and tried to feed it to him.

NO! He didn't eat it!!

Ok, so yes, maybe it's a little gross...ok, ok, a LOT gross...BUT...

Just goes to show you his problem solving abilities are developing! :)

Living the Mosaic

Hello Everybody!

I recently have been assisting with a book (as a co-editor)...it is finally being released! Here's the letter of release from the author...please let me know if you would be interested in purchasing a copy! I'm so excited!!! It's such an inspiring book (and my name is inside the front cover!! :)

Even if you don't have a child with autism, it's very relatable to mothers everywhere...If you're not interested, please pass along the word to others! Everyone these days knows someone that is affected by autism, and support and inspiration are hard to come by!


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We are so excited to announce that A Long Way from Shattered Glass to Mosaic--Living with Autism Spectrum Disorder is now available on our website Living the Mosaic and will be in other on-line bookstores, such as Amazon. com, and local bookstores soon.





We have been invited to speak at the Autism Society of America's Georgia Autism 101 Conferences about the Emotional Life of Families dealing with Autism and are also giving presentations to church groups, parent support groups, teachers, and therapist groups around Georgia. The Autism Society of America will be video taping our presentation to use in outreach seminars for parents all over Georgia. It is such rewarding work to be helping parents cope with feelings that took us years to sort through.





The book and the presentation surrounding it are the beginning of our efforts to raise money to offer seminars and weekend retreats to parents of children diagnosed with autism. This is a sorely needed service as it is no small task to hold up under all the churning emotions of disappointment, grief, confusion, and fear that face families of autism. In addition to our personal battle as parents, there is also the ever present trauma of disapproving glances and comments from on-lookers in grocery stores and other public places when our autistic children have sensory meltdowns or behave in other socially inappropriate ways. All of this internal and external turmoil makes a once comparatively picture perfect life shatter into millions of hopeless pieces. Our goal is to help families pick up those pieces and build something new yet equally beautiful out of that shattered glass.





At our last presentation, one father in particular found great relief in sharing his feelings of overwhelmed nausea, dread, and even sometimes wishing this whole thing, including his newly diagnosed son, would just disappear. We have all felt this way, it can be hard to admit it out loud but in doing so in a supportive environment we realize we are not alone, not horrible people for harboring these thoughts. Admitting them let's us move past them and regain our resolve to persevere. We want to let parents know that there is support and they can move past those initial feelings of doom.





Please share what we are doing with anyone you think would be interested in our work. A portion of all book sales goes toward creating educational programs for families of autism.





Thanks!
Warmly,
Elizabeth

ONE YEAR OLD!

Is now 29.25" approx. (hard to get the booger to stand still!) and weight is somewhere around 25 pounds...we still don't have an accurate scale (working on that!). I was reading height measurements will appear to have gone down when you switch to standing, and the child is walking, as joints compress...so for the record, this is the first month standing measurements apply!

Wow, this month has seen so much growth...emotionally, physically, and socially! There are so many new things Ian does, and his personality is coming out more and more. Now that he is such a good walker, you can see he is becoming increasingly independent through activities and preferences. It's hard to believe in one year he's gone from a helpless infant to an active toddler! I'm looking forward to all of the exciting things still to come...this has truly been an amazing experience! Thank you, God! :)

-Walking around with ease and increased speed!
-Climbing up into child-sized chairs!
-Imitating many activities adults are doing.
-Recognizes the difference between "baby" food and "adult" food - and demands the latter!
-Pulls off his socks constantly (especially in the car seat).
-Chases the dog and cat around with toys...and now they are really scared because he can catch them!
-Squinches his face in a overly dramatic smile...he has a "fake" smile!
-Can stand up from a squatting position (although still most often likes to use something to pull himself up).
-Knows the function of certain objects and attempts to use them appropriately (example: using a pen to draw; holding phone to side of head to talk).
-Can stack up to 3 lego-type blocks together! (Even though he mostly tries putting them together upside-down)
-We can read paper books together without him ripping them. (Sometimes.)
-Starting to hide when he is having a BM!
-Will scooch off the couch or bed by turning and doing a "controlled" fall feet first!
-Recognizes and requests food by pointing and saying "more mmm" to its location in the kitchen.
-Is becoming more preferential with food consumption (doesn't alway want to eat foods we know he likes).
-Initiated self-feeding with a spoon!
-First cake...hahaha!
-Points in the direction he wants you to go when you're holding him (using people to get to things he wants!)
-Started becoming interested in a wider variety of toys, and playing with them correctly (not just trying to eat them)...stuffed animals, electronic toys, shape sorter, puzzles.
-Now not only dumps things, but puts them back!
-Favorite foods are all things he can feed himself...raisins, prunes, toast (or any kind of bread for that matter!), hamburger.
-Losing interest in...peas, eggs, carrots (boiled/steamed), potatoes (unless mixed with someting).
-Has become a little bit more of a clutz...sustaining more injuries with his increased mobility! (But is still extremely tough, rarely cries at an injury!)
-Is upset he can no longer stand up under the kitchen table! (BONK! BONK!)
-Retrieves and opens the lid on his sippy cup when he's thirsty...he knows where it is in the diaper bag.
-Puts basketball in the hoop (shower toy!).
-Will bring you what he wants if he needs help to open it.

WORDS/PHRASES
This section is here since I know he's said so many things throughout the month, it warrants it's own list! They range in frequency from daily to perhaps hearing only a few times. All of the words I have listed he has said spontaneously (nobody said it first), and appropriately! :)

-No! (ALL THE TIME!)
-More
-Dadda
-Nana (what he calls his drink cup too)
-Mine (oh yes, he did already!)
-All done
-Up
-Where'd it go?
-Bye
-Hey
-Hi
-Here go
-Dog (and when prompted to answer, "What does a dog say?", he will go "ooo-ooof")
-Names of some favorite people: Alice (awwiss), Royce (ss), Luke (ook!)
-Wow, cool! (Last week, that was an ALL DAY thing!)
-Down
-Bird (bud)
-Oh no!
-Num, num
-Peek-a-boo (ba-ba-ba)

-and attempts to repeat many other words after we say them!

This list feels like it's just scratching the surface now! He is doing so much, I feel like I can't keep up with him sometimes! So, of course, he's doing more than what I could possibly capture here. But, as you can see, even that is quite a bit! :)

Child Labor

How about that, not even walking that long and already the child labor begins!

As you can see, Ian was observing daddy working and decided to imitate him with his own version!

But the fun didn't stop there...next step was pulling the grass clumps out of the dirt, shaking the dirt off, and throwing them in the bucket. Ian joined in that too! He's so unbelievably smart! (And helpful!!)



I am SO READY for him to help with the dishes! :)

Light Show

As most of you know, we had some really bad storms come through over the weekend. Along with those storms was plenty of lightning, and a tornado that knocked out our power for about an hour (boy, were we blessed!).

During that time, we had the bright idea to give Ian some of Matt's chem lights (non-toxic and nearly indestructible, folks). From the pictures, you can tell he really enjoyed playing with them! He was walking all over the house waving his sticks around, jabbering away, and initiating games of chase. He had us both laughing so hard!

He enjoyed the light sticks so much, that when the power went back on, he waved them around frantically screaming, "NO! NO!" and stopped when Matt turned the lights off again!

We agreed, having the power off was worth it to watch his childish excitement...and a free light show! :)

Baby or Animal?

Ok, first off, I get to call him baby until next month...so Matt says. Even though, I guess, he's officially a "toddler" now that he can, in fact, "tottle." :)

I can now see why some parents refer to their children as animals. Lately, he sure has been demonstrating some animalistic traits!!

...he rivals amphibians for slime and goo...


...like a little puppy, everything in the mouth, and chewing on it!...


...or is he a cow? eating grass?...


...he definitely eats like a horse!...


...curiousity like a cat, getting into places that you don't actually belong...


...but what animal really wants to be caged?...


I'm glad he's not really an animal...but a little boy made in the image of God! Still fun to see all of the experiences that shape a human being, and allow us to relate with all of the world God has created!

I'm definitely enjoying all of these "benchmarks" if you will, of toddlerhood. As I keep saying, it's such a wonderful gift to watch Ian explore things for the first time with that wide-eyed wonder. And, keeps me in great shape chasing after my little animal/baby! :)

Word of the Day

Ian is saying new words every day...

Right now, he's very regulary using "no" (complete with headshake) and "loook" (not quite that clear, very humorous how he does it).

He's also tried to say "more," "ball," "book," and "dog" among others. Unfortunately, "dog" sounds more like "dawg" ::groan::

11 months old today...and I'm so behind on the monthly updates, I'll have to go back and postdate...but we do have the measurements on his physical baby calendar at least!

I can't believe he's going to be 1 year old next month!!!!! It snuck up on me, and now I'm in supercharge mode for party planning! :)

Everyone says it's because I blinked...and when I blink again he'll be having kids of his own. I'm hoping the next time I blink we'll be in heaven worshipping God!!! That would be the best fast forward of time I could ask for.

Hope everyone had a blessed weekend!

Love is in the air...

Yes, it's that time again...Spring. Birds tweeting, etc, etc. Well, the picture below adds new meaning to "Love is in the air." I can't believe that Ian is almost 1 year old...and no, I really didn't think I could possibly love so much.



Puts things in a totally new perspective. (Pun intended).

It has been so wonderful having daddy home again and making memories TOGETHER as a family!

Speaking of which, tomorrow is BEACH DAY! So, off I go to scurry and collect plastic pail and shovel, sunscreen, little bucket hat, towels, and of course...CAMERA :) for the exciting day ahead. I have been so excited for this trip, as Matt and I have been waiting on the weather to cooperate so that we could make the trip together. The last time Ian went, he was only 3 months old, and we both cannot wait to see how he will react, and the faces of discovery he will be sure to make. I'm guessing smiles all around! :)

Steppin' Out...

(Ok so that's what I have done this past...ooooh way too long...Matt is going to help me be more dedicated to updating regularly...and obviously I have some post-dating to do!!! But enough of the boring stuff...you won't believe it 'til you see it, hehe)

Ian is officially walking!!!! :)

With much encouragement from Mom and Dad he is walking back and forth really well now...and enjoying the attention it gets him. We are so excited for him!



And a brief video! :)

IAN IS WALKING NOW!
(if the link doesn't work, just follow family photos link on the sidebar, and it's in the April album)

So, there's no lack of cliches for taking that first step, I'll restrain myself!

What a wonderful blessing to watch him grow up!!

"...and your life will never be the same..."

Oh yes, am I feeling those words with a poignancy that is at times exhilirating, and at other times exhausting!

The wee laddie can now crawl about the house getting into all sorts of trouble. Let me tell you folks, your house can NEVER be child-proofed enough!

Of course, to all of you parents out there...you know this age is the one where the child is continually getting into things, and for a time I am continually picking up after him...that is, until I realized it was best just to let everything be until naptime.

Naptime, you know, is like a giant RESET button. Sometimes, you have to hit the button a few times before anything happens. (Sometimes, I need a few naps before the house gets "reset"!!)

For all of you anxious readers who have patiently waited for me to settle into a routine of blogging Ian's latest activities, thanks for understanding! The closer we get to Matt's coming home, the more things there seems to be on the "to do" list -- and the less time I have! We are making it work, but routines take some time to get settled...I am so thankful to God for making the time go by so quickly, and for surrounding me with so many blessings. Most of all, I am thankful for the strength He gives me day to day. "Cast your burdens on me..." is what Jesus said, and I have felt no better example of the effectiveness of this in my life than now!

For example, we have been working on a small list of things this week (and this is the abridged version!):

-Mommy time/workouts 4 days a week! (and getting used to the sitter!)

-PLAYPEN time! (If you ask Ian, he might just say "jail time")

-Getting New Years cards out (Yes, you read correctly...they came in the mail late, and although my goal was to get them out before the end of January, it is now to get them out before 2008 ends!)

-Crib sleeping! (Hmm, again, Ian may believe this is jail time, but we're getting there!)

-CONSISTENT nap/bed times. (With all the travelling, sickness and other changes, schedules changed many times, and we are now developing a consistent routine)

Well, it's off again to work on some other more mundane things on the to-do list. I hope that everyone is having a good week so far, and hopefully I will be back soon! :)

EIGHT MONTHS OLD!

Ian is up to 20.5 pounds...although he lost some since we both were sick. He is 27 inches, and last measurement was in October at near 26 inches.

-Size 4 diapers still, and only 12 and 18 month clothes!
-Waves bye-bye!
-Pulls himself onto furniture and "cruises" around on anything he can use as a prop!
-A new favorite pasttime is clearing flat surfaces! He loves to pull everything off the table!
-Kneels often while playing, and raises himself up and down, bouncing!
-Bounces up and down in your arms when he wants you to move!
-Is learning to love solid food! His favorite right now are carrots and peaches!
-Thinks it is funny to chase after the puppy and kitty cat!
-Throws temper tantrums in the playpen, he does NOT wish to be contained.
-Loves to knock towers of blocks over, watch you rebuild, and promptly knock them over again!
-Tries to turn the pages of books...and truly enjoys being read to (he'll even interject his own commentary!)
-Wants to drink out of mommy's cup (but promptly spits the water out, stinker!)
-Self-entertains for 45 minutes or so regularly - as long as somebody is nearby!
-Stops in his tracks when he hears music!
-Banging on objects is one of his favorite pasttimes!
-Attempts to stand alone...holds himself up, then raises his hands up for a second or two!
-EASILY gets everywhere he wants to go by crawling --- quickly!
-Is learning the meaning of "no" and will even listen sometimes! :)
-He has 2 teeth now! Both of his bottom teeth are up!
-Gives kisses! They are open-mouthed, and drooly, but wonderful!

That's a pretty good roundup of the action this month. It is so good to be feeling better and getting into our own routine again!