The Wylie Files

You Say Pennsyl, I Say Vania!

2012-02-01T20:57:00.013-05:00

We hit the road last Saturday with a fully-loaded station wagon to make our way to western PA to visit Grandma, uncles, aunts and cousin Geena.

Will and Anna were pretty good passengers - they're well-seasoned roadtrippers at this point. It helps if I sit in the back seat to provide entertainment and a continuous flow of snacks.

Cousins!

Will got his wish and Grandma's snow prayers were answered on Sunday afternoon - a snow squall (thundersnow!) moved through and dropped a few inches in about 15 minutes. Will and Uncle Jeff took advantage of the prime sledding opportunity.

"I'm smiling Mama, but this scarf covers it up."

Anna loved Uncle Mike and tickle toes with Geena.

Anna was so glad to see Grandma's cats and dog - she especially enjoyed Peppy's dog toys.

We had a great time! Thanks to our PA family for a fun visit :)

2012-01-16T06:05:00.008-05:00

Double bathtime has saved a lot of time (not to mention water). Will loves to help 'rinse' Anna - i.e. he loves to pour water over her head. Luckily, she's a water baby and doesn't mind this too much. She loves to stick out her tongue and drink/spit water as he pours it. Will, on the other hand, is still not a fan of washing - especially his hair. There's usually screaming involved, which used to scare Anna, but now she seems entertained by the whole spectacle.

Anna is a climber.

Will was pretending he was taking care of a sick parrot yesterday. It was perched in the wisteria vine. Here he is patting it and giving it medicine.

Anna spent her outside time gathering sticks, pinecones and sweet gum balls. And staring up into our pine trees at a squirrel's nest.

It is really great watching Will and Anna's relationship develop. Will has been really attentive to her lately. Yesterday he was holding her hand as they walked around the house - "I'm teaching Anna how to walk in a straight line." And she just loves the attention.

Anna on the steps is a nail-biter for me. She's so teetery!

Luckily, she has a good spotter.

Warm Winter Weekend

2012-01-09T07:40:00.011-05:00

Up before the sun and ready to go!

Sunday morning mission: decorate the house with gold star stickers. Will told me he was decorating for next Christmas.

Anna's changing area is a popular cat hang-out spot.

The weather was great here this weekend - we spent a lot of time outside. Anna is trying to step down steps instead of sitting and scooting. She was practicing on the patio yesterday. See our winter garden in the background - broccoli is almost ready, cabbages on the way, and fresh spinach daily.

This penguin hat arrived from Old Navy (thanks, Grandma!) on Saturday, and Will has not taken it off. He sleeps with it on. Will and Jay trimmed back the wisteria vine yesterday - it makes a great climbing spot.

Wiffle soccer golf.

Will on his 'riding mower'.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T19:44:00.001-05:00

Christmas Morning

2012-01-02T19:33:00.009-05:00

Santa was here!

It was a little overwhelming for Miss Anna.

Will was anxious to try out his new bike. He has been on a few bike rides with Jay around the neighborhood. There have been a couple of crashes, so the new helmet has come in handy.

The reindeer ate their greens and carrots.

And Santa polished off his treats.

'Twas the Week Before Christmas....

2011-12-18T18:28:00.008-05:00

and all through the house,

two children were finding

a nice place to bounce.

Anna was bundled from her head to her toes

while Will planted flowers in haphazard rows.

As we count down the days to that most happy night,

we wish you a season filled with love and light.

Merry Christmas,

Katie, Jay, Will and Anna

Decking the Halls

2011-12-04T20:55:00.008-05:00

The tree!

Will enjoyed setting up the nativity ("activity") scene. Mayzie tried to sneak off with baby Jesus, but He was soon returned to the stable.

Giving Thanks and Elfin Pranks

2011-11-27T20:00:00.011-05:00

Will, with Anna's ball popper. It's funny how appealing toys become when they belong to someone else. We had to institute 10 minute alternating time limits on the popper this weekend.

Anna girl is flash-averse. Notice her boo-boo's on the left side of her face from walking mishaps. She is all over the place with the walking now and is trying to RUN.

Once you pop, you can't stop!

Our Thanksgiving table. We made a Thanksgiving tree and wrote down things we are thankful for this year on the leaves. Among them, Will was thankful for penguins and for not having to take time-outs anymore.

Anna's newest words: 'squirrel' and 'birdie'

Anna was a little hesitant about Santa at first. She kept pointing and screeching. Then she discovered his beard, and now they are buds.

Meet Elwood. He arrived last Friday. He watches Will and Anna every day, then reports back to Santa at the North Pole at night. He shows up in a different spot every day, and has so far made mischief by eating brownies, leaving half-empty glasses of milk lying about, and stealing Will's TN cap. Will was doing something naughty the other day - I reminded him about the elf and he replied, "Elwood can't see me from here."

Carolina Raptor Center

2011-11-13T21:40:00.012-05:00

Last Saturday while Jay went hunting (successfully, by the way - another large doe), I took the kids up to the Carolina Raptor Center in Huntersville. It was a beautiful, brisk day and the birds were amazing. Will and I walked the trial while Anna relaxed and snacked in the stroller.

One of five bald eagles the center is rehabilitating. You can't really tell from this photo, but this big guy had to have most all of his left wing amputated due to injury.

Turkey vulture - Will wanted him to grow some feathers on his face, pronto.

Harris's hawks. All the birds were named. We also saw red-shouldered hawks, red-tailed hawks, Cooper's hawks, and Peregrine falcons.

Another type of falcon - amazing eyes. Anna loved this one. She pointed and said 'bird' at each enclosure.

Eurasian eagle owl - he closed his eyes right as I took the photo, but they are a beautiful amber color.

Will compares his wingspan to that of a turkey vulture.

Barn owl boy. The owls were my favorites - they have about 7-10 species. Will also loved the ravens and African/American crows. One of the ravens could make the sound of water dropping into a bucket. The African crow was very interested in Will - I'm sure the hair had something to do with it.

A great place to visit if you're in the area!

In other news, Anna is walking! She figured out how to use the Playskool push cart, and away she went.

Tricks and Treats

2011-11-06T11:13:00.006-05:00

Jay and I clean up nicely when we make the effort, if I do say so myself. We were in TN last week for a family visit and a 25 year CSAS celebration (the K-12 magnet school Matt and I attended). It was fun to get fancy and see old friends.

Anna and her crinkle-nosed face. I love this face.

Girls rock! Anna's newest words include 'water', 'cup' and 'hey dude'.

Will went squirrel hunting with Jay for the first time last weekend. They had fun in the woods, looking for squirrels and eating caramels (which help to keep a small boy quiet).

Will was a fearsome T. rex for Halloween. This was his first year for trick-or-treating and he LOVED it.

Who Loves BBQ?

2011-10-25T06:47:00.008-04:00

We do!

Anna is a fan of pulled pork, mac and cheese, and collard greens.

Will is a rib guy. We went through about 4 moist towelettes.

Midwood Smokehouse patio on a fall day...brilliant.

Anna and Mayzie smooching.

Anna is fixated on acorns. Have to watch her like a hawk when we're outside - the willow oak in our front yard is producing TONS of acorns right now.

Porch play time. Sorry for the lack of posts recently - it's been a busy month!

What We're Up To

2011-10-09T07:35:00.011-04:00

The hardiest flowers from my birthday bouquet, re-purposed for the kitchen window.
Apple tart. I'm no longer intimidated by puff pastry.

Will has been a little out of sorts this week. By Friday night, it became evident that his right ear was bothering him - he had a cold the week before. He responded well to Tylenol, but it was kind of scary for him to fall asleep in the middle of the day, refuse bath and dinner, and generally 'lose it'. He told me he was sorry but he just couldn't love me as much as usual because his ear was hurting so badly. He has seemed much improved through the weekend with pain reliever, but we'll take him in this week if the discomfort comes back. He's only had one other ear infection, so we weren't sure what was going on with him this week - before he told us his ear hurt, he was just really grumpy and volatile.

Anna is busy growing teeth and attempting to walk.

She'll go from sitting to standing using nothing but leg power now.

Anna and Will are looking more like each other now. They generally get along well. Sometimes she'll let Will feed her when she won't take any food for me.

Driving this type of cart is liking steering an eighteen wheeler. Wide right turns. If you can't see my mirrors, I can't see you. You get the idea. Will loves riding with Anna through the store; Anna prefers the Baby Bjorn.

All the World's a Sunny Day

2011-09-25T19:52:00.011-04:00

Why pose for photos when there's digging to be done?

Ant's eye view

Skeptical

Amused

Happy

Tickled

Anna at 1 Year

2011-09-14T15:01:00.003-04:00

Anna had her 1 year Dr.'s appointment this morning.

29.5 inches long (56%)
17lbs 10oz (15%)
44.5 cm noggin (35%)

She had three vaccines (chicken pox, Hepatitis A and 1st flu booster) and had a finger prick to check her iron level - ouch! She was very good natured about it. I found her trying to eat two of her three BandAids when I took her out of the car at home.

I'm starting to cut back her bottles and we're encouraging her to use a cup more - it will be nice to be able to stop pumping at work. I'm down to once a day now, and hopefully by the end of the month, as she gets more used to cow's milk, I'll be able to retire the pump and nurse her twice a day (morning and evening). As for solid foods, Anna has found her appetite over the past couple of months. Big favorites are cheese, yogurt, chicken, blueberry and bread. Vegetables are just 'OK', but she'll eat them great if mixed with fruit (i.e. spinach/mango/pear, broccoli/pear/peas).

Anna is pulling up, stepping while holding onto furniture, and trying to climb onto everything. She loves to give hugs and is starting to figure out kisses. She loves looking at your teeth (and she has four of her own).

Oak Island, September 2011

2011-09-10T17:43:00.012-04:00

First ferryboat ride, to visit the aquarium.

The boys square off for a game of dinosaur bingo.

Grammie and Anna drawing.

Beachcombers

Some folks collect shells on the beach...not Will. He's all about driftwood and seaweed.

The beach. We saw some pretty huge waves from Lee and Katia. You can see the fishing pier in the distance.

Jay on the back deck of the house (named the Jayhawk, part of the reason we picked it). We spent a lot of time on the screened porch - coffee, book/Kindle, rocking chair.

Early morning shore walkers.

Anna's First Birthday

2011-09-10T17:16:00.006-04:00

Hello Kitty cupcakes - strawberry cake, cream cheese icing - Will's suggestion!
First taste

More, please.

Opening presents, with some brotherly assistance.

Anna's Favorite Food Groups

2011-08-28T14:10:00.010-04:00

Chalk

Baseball leather (she throws a mean spitball).

Newspaper

2011-08-15T06:05:00.013-04:00

Will and his carpentry apprentice.

Parallel play

Anna is creeping all over the place and pulling up to standing now. Loves to climb into your lap for a snuggle.

Smiley eyes

Trying to hug Daddy while having her picture taken

Hazel

Blue

Will Says...

2011-08-03T17:52:00.005-04:00

"Listen to me, Anna. You might learn something."

"These will help me stay awake ALL NIGHT."
(PS: they didn't, thankfully)

"Daddy, I make my choices and I make your choices, too. I choose to choose for you."

11 Months Old!

2011-08-03T17:50:00.004-04:00

Annapants is 11 months old today! She's starting to try to pull up, eating whatever's not nailed down (loves BBQ, by the way), and loves books, singing and music.

New words - "Will", "kitty"

Wicked diaper rash = naked baby afternoon

Tour De Will

2011-07-18T20:29:00.004-04:00

We've been watching the Tour De France, and Will's new hero is Mark Cavendish, aka the 'Manx Missile' (he's one of the sprinters). Here is Will in his cycling regalia. Alas, he has to content himself with sprinting down the sidewalk, as our driveway is gravel and we don't allow him to ride on the street.

Standing in the pedals, a new trick

A break from biking

Bedtime

Booty Scootin' Boogie

2011-07-18T20:24:00.003-04:00

Little Annapants is all OVER the place now. She has perfected the bum scoot maneuver and is starting to push up to a crawl. She's negotiated the step a couple of times (once successfully, once not so much).

New words: 'Hi' (while waving), 'Bob'

Prune 'stache

Willisms

2011-07-04T20:25:00.006-04:00

"Mayzie smells like cheese."

"Are you sassing me, Mama? Are you backtalking me?"

To cashier at Harris Teeter, when asked how old he was: "I'm almost four."

(I'm not sure that 8 months until his birthday qualifies as 'almost', but I let it slide.)

10 Months Old!

2011-07-04T20:17:00.009-04:00

I love this one because Mayzie is finding Cheerios behind Anna's knee. It is so helpful to have a little dog clean-up helper around.

"You missed a spot, Mama."

Tree envy

Anna's version of a ham and cheese sandwich

Mmmm, cheese.

Anna is becoming a pro at scooting along the kitchen floor. She uses her right leg to pivot and can pretty much get wherever she wants to go this way. I saw her trying to pull up to standing yesterday, so I'm wondering if she's going to do much crawling or just go straight to walking. We need to tighten up on our child-proofing again!

Happy 4th!

2011-07-04T20:15:00.002-04:00

Happy Camper

2011-06-29T15:46:00.004-04:00

Monday night backyard camp-out (S'mores included)

Will loved his first camping experience - he fell asleep at about 9:45, and Jay carried him inside to his own bed at 10.

Fish Stories

2011-06-27T20:04:00.006-04:00

Jay returned from his annual Canadian fishing trip yesterday. We are glad to have him home - and a big thanks to Grammie and Papa for helping out with the kiddos last week! A big thanks also to Grandma for Will's new fishing pole - he's planning to catch some 'big ones' with it (see below, for example):

Jay helped his friend Ed net this big muskellunge.
Jay in his happy place...with a Northern Pike.

Tennessee Travels

2011-06-21T21:15:00.012-04:00

Jay is on on his annual fishing trip in Canada this week - I took the kiddos

to TN last weekend for a visit.

A deer antler makes a nice drumstick.

Reading with Uncle Matt..."Cully Cully and the Bear", one of Matt's old faves.

Kooper (Matt and Jean's dog). He loved licking Anna's toes - and he got her

to say 'dog' for the first time.

Sweet Millie (Mama and Daddy's dog)

Swangin'

Strong genes

Curious Crackerjack

Potatoes!

Digging up more taters with Papa and Gigi - we'll be planting these next year!

Matt passes the bean-picking torch to a new generation.

Anna and Papa

Weekend Update

2011-06-12T12:49:00.008-04:00

I don't know about where you live, but it is H-O-T here in NC. As in, don't-go-outside-for-more-than-5-minutes-between-10-to-7-if-you-know-what's-good-for-you kind of hot. Here is Will enjoying the humidity.

On the other hand, we've had a decent amount of rain lately, so the garden is looking pretty good. Not sure if Will ate all those beans. But he was awfully excited about picking them.

Anna disapproves of photography in general. If you are using a flash, she will give you a withering stare.

Major cheese from Will, the aforementioned stare from Anna.

I *thought* her eyes were turning hazel a few weeks ago, but now they still look mostly blue/green like mine. We shall see....

Will is very proud to have his own fishing lure. No taking it out of the package unsupervised for now - look at those hooks!

Peanut butter sandwich monster strikes again.

Will set the table by himself the other night.

Anna prefers to eat finger food on her own rather than being spoon-fed. She is also into biting lately - she'll snuggle in for a hug then bite you on the collarbone.

Breakfast this am

"Coffee's your wake-up drink, Mama."

9 Month Appointment

2011-06-08T12:14:00.004-04:00

Anna had her 9 month Dr.'s appointment this morning.

She has almost doubled her birth weight. :)

27.25 inches (25-50%)

14lbs 6.6oz (less than 3%)

42.5 cm noggin (10-25%)

Sunday in Pictures

2011-06-05T21:18:00.005-04:00

Just peachy

Tricks on the Schwinn. Will is also keeping a close eye on the ONE plum on the 5th anniversary plum tree. It's about the size of a cherry and just starting to turn purple.

Because amphibians like almonds, too.

Little sister's morning entertainment. We lasted until about 10:30, when it got too hot and my pollen-plagued lungs started to feel the level orange ozone alert.

Jay and Anna

Happy Memorial Day

2011-05-30T19:32:00.009-04:00

After having biscuits and putting out our flag this morning, the kiddos and I were off the the sprayground at Veterans Park.

Will accomplished his goal: first one to turn on the fountains this summer.

I'm sure we'll be regulars again this year.

1.5 hours of non-stop splashing and running makes for an easy bedtime!

You can see part of the green canopy in the top of this photo - a nice place for us redheads to pass the time on these hot days. And we're still covered in spf 70, regardless.

First sprayground experience

Anna got her feet wet and dabbled in the water a little. Mostly enjoyed people-watching.

"Don't splash me, you little whipper snappers!"

After lunch and putting Anna down for a nap, we moved to the backyard for fun with the new beach ball sprinkler.

About to come after me with the sprinkler!

Great day, ended with chicken enchiladas and a salad from our garden.

Willisms for the Week

2011-05-28T21:46:00.006-04:00

Sorry for the shortage of Will photos this week - he is harder to photograph these days! However, he has plenty to say.

"We don't need any more babies in this house, Mama."

"I love you, Mama. Especially this squishy part of you right here."
(squeezing the back of my arm)

"My feet keep my toes from falling off."

"Thanks, honey."

(to me, after I handed him a sample of cheese in the grocery store)

Go BanANNA, Go Go BanANNA

2011-05-28T20:50:00.007-04:00

It's been a while since I posted! Busy busy week. Here are some new photos of Anna - a post of Will updates to follow:

She has really gotten the hang of sitting up over the past week. We still barricade around her, as you can see, just in case. She is pretty resilient, and doesn't fuss too much about falling over.

This fish toy has been her go-to teething object. Two lower incisors have made their appearance.

There is a lot of pink at our house. Not to mention purple.

Sink bath! This has become the best way to bathe her - it's easier on my back and she fits just right. She loves splashing and trying to go for the faucet lever.

Matching face + bib

Bananas for bananas!

Sitting Pretty

2011-05-15T20:16:00.006-04:00

Anna spent her weekend practicing 3 new skills: sitting, eating and teething. Her second lower incisor is coming in now - she's been much more fussy than I remember Will being about teething. Plus, she has a bit of a snotty nose, so that may be bothering her, too. I noticed her feeling her new teeth with her tongue yesterday.

She has been much more interested in eating since the teeth have started to arrive. Eating well off a spoon, and her pincer grasp is getting more precise. She went bananas for bananas this afternoon - not sure how much got into her stomach, but she sure had fun with it...found banana in her ear during her bath.

Sitting is pretty new - in the photos below, she's on our bed, supported with pillows; she can sit on her floor mat for about 30-60 seconds without support, but it's good to be close by in case of sudden lurches. We are also starting to 'think' we're hearing words from her - 'Mama' a few times, 'D' this afternoon when Jay walked into the kitchen.

Open Door Spring Festival

2011-05-15T20:10:00.004-04:00

Will and I went to his preschool's spring festival on Saturday morning. He had fun making corkpenny boats, woodworking, watching science experiments and clanking pots and pans on the 'banging wall'. There were several booths of vendors with handmade items - Will picked out an apron with fire trucks to wear when he's cooking, or just for fun.

Will is gaga for firetrucks. We have 4 firehouses within the general vicinity of our house, and he keeps track of which engines are where and if an engine is missing when we pass by, they must be 'off saving the day at the emergency'. Last week, a fire engine and 4 firefighters visited Will's school - he was so overwhelmed his teachers said initially he didn't want to go outside to see the truck, but once he got out there he was totally into it.

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T14:27:00.005-04:00

I've enjoyed my Mama's Day - picnic in the park, Anna and I watching the boys fish from a blanket in the shade, and a new necklace with all of our names. :)

Tooth and Consequences

2011-05-01T14:37:00.007-04:00

Anna's first tooth made its appearance this weekend. And now, my girl wants food.

And she wants to do it BY HERSELF.

Will is very encouraging of this new development.

Anna loves the praise from her brother.

In addition to carrots, paper is a new food fave.

Singing to Anna...something about a baby eating cookies.

Easter in Tennessee

2011-04-26T20:51:00.015-04:00

Will's first time dyeing eggs - as the facial expressions tell, he loved it.

"I scooped it!"

Good thing they're hard-boiled.

All his eggs in one basket :)

Anna and her Papa

Egg hunt (for one) at Aunt D's - thanks to Jonathan and Ella for hiding all those eggs!

Aunt D and Anna

4 generations

For now, surviving a 6 hour car trip means Mama sits in the back seat to keep the peace.

Good Eats

2011-04-20T17:38:00.004-04:00

Prunes - the first baby food she has accepted!

Yes, that is beef jerky. She grabbed it out of my hand and began gnawing on it.

Another grabbed snack - orange wedge. Gnawed all the pulp off, but most of it ended up on her bib and her neck.

Orange smile!

PA Visitors

2011-04-19T20:46:00.005-04:00

Last weekend, Pat, Crystal, Mike and Geena drove down from PA for a visit. We had a great time hanging out with them!

Anna putting the squeeze on Uncle Mike

Will rocking out with a gift from Geena

Anna and Will LOVE Cousin Geena

The cousins

Big Bird Banana Bread

2011-04-13T12:08:00.008-04:00

We tried Big Bird's banana bread recipe last weekend (from some Sesame Street books I had as a little girl). Not bad, Bird.

Express Yourself

2011-04-13T11:55:00.006-04:00

Suspicious baby

Happy baby

Curious baby

Perplexed baby

Smug baby

Girl's Best Friend

2011-04-07T05:44:00.000-04:00

Anna's Birth Announcement

2011-04-06T22:08:00.002-04:00

Finally finished!

(counted cross stitch...started when I was 7 months pregnant)

Weekend Willisms

2011-04-03T18:02:00.005-04:00

"This yogurt is helping me breathe better."

"That looks like good old Notch Ear." - We saw a dead squirrel on our walk yesterday :(

"I want to rock and roll."

7 Months Old!

2011-04-03T17:54:00.006-04:00

Little Anna is 7 months old today!

She is babbling and squealing a ton, loves to dance, and loves to try to do sit-ups.

Still not a fan of solid foods or the high chair.

Pearly Whites Report and Today's Photos

2011-03-23T20:44:00.012-04:00

Will had his first dentist appointment today! I went with him while Jay stayed home with a napping Anna. We arrived a bit early, so there was a little wait in the waiting room...I was halfway through a Pooh and Friends book when they called us back. They have a large central area with 5 dental chairs, as well as several private rooms. Will was excited and we'd been talking about the visit for a couple of weeks. Then it was time to climb into the chair.

Meltdown. After a few minutes of flailing/crying, I asked the hygienist what she suggested, and she said sometimes it's best for mom or dad to stay in the waiting room., that a lot of the drama is a performance for the parents. So I told Will I was going to the restroom and skedaddled. I could still hear him while I was in the restroom, so I was thinking we'd have to cut our losses and reschedule. Then he started to quieten down and pay attention. I found a spot where I could see him and he couldn't see me - he sat on the hygienist's lap for the polishing/rinsing part, then got into the chair to have his teeth brushed and counted by the dentist. He actually appeared to enjoy it and was very impressed with 'Mr. Thirsty', the suction straw.

His teeth look good and he has plenty of space. No x-rays until his molars finish erupting and they can't see the space between them to check for cavities. He got a couple of prizes and a goody bag (toothbrush, floss, 'spicy' mint toothpaste).

Anna and Will's baby doll, which has become hers.

Classic Will. I've been letting him put his shoes on by himself lately. He prefers tongues out, and sometimes mixes up the feet.

Sweet girl in the Bjorn

Backyard excavation

Will looks so big here!

Cuddle time after Anna's 2nd nap

He approached the UPS man about the possibility of driving that there truck.

Shut down by Big Brown.

Staring at the tricycle

Milk - It Does a Body Good

2011-03-20T19:49:00.002-04:00

30-35 ounces of Mama's milk daily

Finished off a gallon of organic 2% this morning...and I bought it on Wednesday...

For Aunt Jean

2011-03-20T19:48:00.000-04:00

Doctor, Doctor, Gimme the News...

2011-03-18T21:21:00.004-04:00

Will's 3-year stats: 40 lbs (75-90%), 40 inches (95-97%)

When answering developmental questionaire, asked what a half-drawn human figure looks like, says "Will knows, but Will is not going to tell you."

Two vaccines, numerous blood-curdling screams, and all we know is that he HAS blood pressure, but we've no idea what it is.

Post-vaccination cookie and easel time.

Anna's 6 month stats: 12 lbs 7 oz (3%), 25.25 inches (25%)

Long and lanky, happy spitter, smiled at her doctor through the appointment.

3 vaccines (2 injections, one oral).

I overheard Will comforting her in the backseat on the way home - "It's OK, Anna."

Will Is 3!

2011-03-14T21:10:00.006-04:00

Grammie and Papa are here - let the games begin!

Anna after her first swimming lesson at the hotel pool - she was NOT a fan.

Two of my favorite red-headed ladies

Watching "Charlotte's Web" for the first time...priceless.

Cupcake trains!

The birthday boy!

Will and Anna's Dedication - First Christian Church, Charlotte

2011-03-13T20:10:00.002-04:00

Will and Anna were dedicated at our church this morning.

They each rose to the occasion with their own signature styles: Anna, with thumb-sucking and quiet observation; Will, with a mix of gleeful laughter and tearful kicking and screaming. I am reminded that we all find our faith in our own different ways :) And a little child shall lead us.

6 Months Old!

2011-03-03T05:52:00.002-05:00

Quick update on Anna's hips - she had her 6 month recheck yesterday and her x-ray looks good. She'll get checked again at 9 months, to make sure her hip joints continue to develop normally and there's no sign of dysplasia.

She weighed in at 12lbs 7oz yesterday...sweet and petite! She's starting some Army crawling, and I could have sworn she said 'hi' to me this morning.

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

2011-02-27T20:09:00.009-05:00

After Anna was asleep for the evening, Will and I took a stroll with Mayzie.

As potty training has progressed, there has been intense interest in the dog's elimination habits. Notice the laser intensity on Mayzie's hind end. He even offered to wipe her.

Who's walking who?

Will takes STOP signs very seriously. Also, any time a car comes by, he flat out RUNS back to the curb and stares down the passing vehicle.

Tree chair

Rock chair

Cheekphones

2011-02-26T19:36:00.002-05:00

Will commandeered Jay's ear protectors after watching the tilling up of the garden yesterday. It's funny when you can't hear Mama asking you to finish your dinner.

Will is still really enjoying his preschool - that has been a real blessing, a decision we weren't entirely sure of at the time, but a perfect fit for Will. He's an independent little soul, so it's a space hfor him to stretch his wings, plus we love hearing about what he does when we're not around.

Today we walked in the neighborhood after I got home from work - there are several large rocks that have been delivered to the cul-de-sac street for kids to play on/general landscaping effects. Will is a big fan of having his snack on the rocks, then climbing on them. There's also a thicket of bushes where he pretends to be a 'mourning dove boy' or a 'possum boy'. Big on the animal pretend play - reminds me of my days as a horse on the playground.

She's Got Legs - She Knows How to Use Them

2011-02-26T19:34:00.001-05:00

I think Miss Anna is trying to get some teeth. I've gotten chomped a few times in the past couple of days (just gums, but it still pinches), and she's sticking her bottom lip out in a new way and chewing the Bjorn like a pup while we walk. May try solids again tomorrow. Will got his first tooth (actually, 3 teeth at once) at around 6 months.

Anna is sleeping through the night (knock on wood) yet again! Since she got her clearance from the harness in December until last week, she was waking up anywhere from 1-3 times per night. For the past solid week, she's been sleeping from 5p-5a. Not too shabby, m'dear.

How Do You Like Them Apples?

2011-02-20T11:51:00.006-05:00

Anna tried solid food (applesauce) for the first time this morning. Not a big fan. Most of it got spat right back out, and by the third practice bite, there were tears. We'll try again next week probably. I don't think she's quite ready yet, though she's been watching me eat very closely for the past couple of weeks.

Will had to get in on the high chair action. And try the baby applesauce.

Baby seahorse also started solids today.

Anna loves to grab her feet, and sucks on her big toes when she's barefooted. She likes getting back into the breech position she loved so much before she was born.

Through Will's Lens

2011-02-14T05:52:00.007-05:00

Contents of our recycling bin

Blurry sister

Sleeping Mayzie

Jay and Anna

Anna (in one of Will's old outfits)

Weekend Photos

2011-02-06T18:42:00.006-05:00

Will instructs Anna in the fine art of exersaucer operation. She is an attentive pupil.

Smiles!

Anna LOVES Mayzie, and Mayzie must feel the same way, because as I was taking this picture Anna grabbed a fistful of her hair and twisted. Mayzie girl didn't make a peep, just waited for Jay to rescue her.

Will and his ladybug friend we found in the kitchen. He told me it was too cold to put her outside.

Getting stronger!

We had a ton of fun with Play Doh this weekend. Will is sharing Goldfish with the green Daddy worm. If you look closely, you'll see green Baby worm riding on the Daddy's back. My goal was to keep the Play Doh colors separated, but I quickly learned that resistance is futile.

Overnight Guest

2011-02-04T19:52:00.004-05:00

Will is very interested in what I do all day at work. I'm usually required to list off the names of all the dogs and cats I've seen that day while I'm giving Will his bath in the evenings. So you can imagine the excitement that ensued when I awoke him Tuesday morning by telling him I had brought a CAT home with me to spend the night.

Winston is one of three cats that lives at the hospital as a rescued orphan/mascot/blood donor. He is known for his generally good nature, food-stealing, lack of shame, and amorous advances toward the other 2 hospital cats (both female). When it became obvious that Winston was having some dental problems, we set aside time for a cleaning with possible extractions (removal of teeth too diseased to be saved). Poor Winston - EIGHT teeth had to go. Recovery was going well until we noticed significant oral bleeding...so while I was tied up in appointments, Dr. Laura went back in to fix up Winston's mouth. By the time she made sure things were ship-shape in his mouth and we had chalked up the bleeding to elevated blood pressure during recovery, it was 8pm. So Winston came home with me...too groggy from anesthesia to be left alone overnight, especially with the blood pressure issue.

He recovered well and slept it off in our living room. Will was a very attentive veterinary assistant until Winston went back to work with me Tuesday morning.

Winston basks in the healing glow of the musical seahorse.

Will read a book about emus to Winston...I think he also learned about Thomas the Train's cranky day and a certain Poky Little Puppy.

Watercolors

2011-01-30T18:56:00.004-05:00

Sunday paper - $2. Watercolor set - $3.50. Sleeping baby and a painting big brother while I read the paper = priceless.

The Annapants Dance

2011-01-29T19:10:00.003-05:00

Will and Anna: Like Peas and Carrots

2011-01-26T05:53:00.005-05:00

Will is the best entertainment for Anna - she watches him like a hawk when he's close by.

Stretching out on the play mat....you can see how long she is in this picture.

We have had a busy January, hence the lack of recent posts. Work has been crazy busy, and there is never a shortage of things to do at home, too. Last weekend, we took a trip to Atlanta to visit Matt and Jean...and we had SUCH a good time, we didn't take any photos :( We enjoyed hanging out with them and their dog, Kooper. We watched Kooper romp at the dog park in Piedmont Park on Saturday afternoon, then left the kids with my folks while Matt, Jean, Jay and I went out for pizza (they popped down from Chattanooga to get a grandkids fix). Jean also introduced us to tart plain frozen yogurt - yum! Jay is not a fan but I am hooked (Jean - I found a couple of places here...Tasty Yo and Pinkberry...we'll have to try one next time you guys visit!)

Anna is growing and growing. Her new talent is grabbing her feet and pulling her socks off. She is getting close to laughing...she does a little 'heh' sound when she smiles sometimes.

Recent Willisms:

"Fiddlesticks"

"Will saw something no one else saw..." (he said he saw 3 doe deer in the front yard...we thought it might be a tall tale...until he and Jay saw one of the does two days later)

"Actually, Mama..." (when he's correcting me about something)

Anna's 4 Month Stats

2011-01-19T11:58:00.002-05:00

We had to reschedule Anna's 4 month check up due to last week's inclement weather.
Jay and Will took her to see Dr. Patt this morning. She weighs 11lbs 6oz (10%), 24 inches long (50%), and her head is in the 5-10%. She's an itty-bitty compared to chart-buster Will at the same age! She got her vaccinations updated, and we go back in a couple of weeks for PrevNar(they were out of stock today). Dr. Patt says she looks great!

Wake Up Call

2011-01-16T18:41:00.002-05:00

This is Jay's Friday morning wake-up call. Anna is usually the first one to get a snuggle, then Will piles in. Anna's sea horse is also a frequent morning bed companion these days - Will treats it as his baby, saying he's taking care of it for Anna since she is just a baby and can't do it herself ;)

1/11/11

2011-01-12T06:03:00.004-05:00

"Will and Anna are not people. We are children." - Will

Tummy time is much more fun when you're able to push up on your elbows. And gaze at yourself in the mirror.

About to flip over...she's gotten pretty adept at rolling tummy-to-back over the past few days.

Snowbirds: Avian and Human Varieties

2011-01-10T18:56:00.008-05:00

Dark-eyed junco

Carolina wren

Carolina chickadee

The chickadee is a real character...cheeky bugger!

5am - our front porch...notice the neighbor cat's paw prints. Staking out the bird activity hub.

Will and I played in the snow this morning. I attempted the drive to work, and got about two miles before the lane-skating, fish-tailing drivers in front of me convinced me I'd either 1)wreck before I got there or 2)not be able to get back later, as the weather got worse as the day went on. Returned home to a boy ready for some snow-time.

Post-snow angel sugar cookies.

Birdwatching and Babywatching

2011-01-09T17:48:00.008-05:00

We've been enjoying a bird feeder Granny Smithson sent for Christmas - as have the songbirds on our street. The cats are frustrated, though. Sooo close....

Tufted titmouse...Will accurately predicted that this would be the first visitor to the feeder.

Brown headed nuthatch

We've also seen cardinals, house finches, Carolina chickadees, and Carolina wrens over the past few days...lots of activity this afternoon - seems they know that snow's coming.

Anna rolled over for the first time last week (back to front)!!

She's getting more and more neck/head control, and seems to like this little chair. Will also showed me that he still fits in it, too.

Big brother and little sis...like peas and carrots

My new short haircut - so happy with it!

Happy 'Moo' Year...Hoping 2011 is Naptastic!

2011-01-02T12:04:00.003-05:00

Happy 2011! Will has declared 2011 the 'year of the nap'...we hope. He's taken an afternoon nap for the last 3 days, after not napping for MONTHS. Not sure if it's Christmas hangover, or the fact that he's waking up so early now. Whatever the cause, we'll take it.

As for the 'moo' year pun, I'm experiencing a dip in milk production and an increase in Anna's appetite. Boo. I tried really hard to keep up with Will and never fell short, and this time around, I have less time/energy to put into constant pumping. I'm trying to boost my productivity - getting tons of great advice from friends, drinking a lot of Mother's Milk tea and taking Fenugreek until I smell like maple syrup. It seems to be working. But just in case, I bought some formula to have on hand to supplement. There are ducklings on the cans (Similac), and Will pointed out that Anna can't have his cow's milk, but she can drink duckling milk if she needs to.

Snow 12/26/10

2010-12-26T19:29:00.008-05:00

Our street by about 9 am

I was surprised he didn't take his mittens off...
they are such obstacles when it comes to making snowballs.

Snowman construction

Improvised sled

2 seconds pre-crash

Face-ful of wet snow

Done with snow, ready for hot chocolate

Christmas 2010 (in pictures)

2010-12-26T19:09:00.012-05:00

Will, awake as of 3:30 am. Jay's goal: caffeine. Mayzie's goal: cookie.

Stocking loot. Eating apple, eyeing cookie #2.

Classic Will, explaining how the car transporter truck works.

Ready for camping

Message from Santa

NOT napping in the sleeping bag

Anna and her Papa

Hitting the wall about 2pm

Caution: when the instructions tout how easy something is to assemble,

don't believe a word of it.

Anna and her Grammie, color-coordinated

Happy Christmas to All, and to All a Good Night

2010-12-24T18:13:00.003-05:00

Llama Llama, Big Boy Bed Drama

2010-12-19T15:39:00.005-05:00

We've been contemplating the big boy bed issue for a few weeks now...decided to bite the bullet and make the transformation last Friday. Will's crib converts to a toddler bed (same mattress, open to the front) and a full bed - we went with the full bed conversion, since he's nearly as long as the crib mattress. We disassembled/reassembled while he was at preschool, which in hindsight was probably not the best plan, because despite the weeks of talking about it, he flipped out when he saw that his crib was now a big bed. "Uh oh, what have we done??", we thought. But later on that afternoon, once the mattress arrived, the chorus of "Will wants his crib bed" quieted and Will decided the big bed wasn't such a bad idea after all.

He woke up super early (before 6) on Saturday morning...we heard his feet hit the door and him running into the kitchen, presumably looking for one of us. Had to explain to him that if he wakes before anyone else, he can turn on his lamp and read in bed or play quietly. This morning, I found him reading in his bed at 6:30...granted, he had torn nearly all of the pop-ups out of his new Christmas pop-up book, but at least he had (mostly) followed instructions.

Anna and I and the ever-present trickle of drool

Happy Will

MUCH more room to stretch out!

Demonstrating how he planned to sleep in his new bed :)

Germs, My Invisible Dog....

2010-12-14T06:03:00.007-05:00

....I hide him in my pocket 'cause he's very, very small....

I remember this song from the church nursery when I was little. It's a catchy little tune, and I find myself humming it these days since Jay, the kiddos, and I seem to have perpetual upper respiratory congestion. 'Tis the season for snotty noses.

Recent Will-speak:

"This is rather heavy."

"Mama, we've never had THESE before. Mmmmm." (in reference to the Hershey's kisses in the Advent calendar)

"Will's getting an ENORMOUS bed, like Mama and Daddy's."

"Mama is a wonderful girl." :)

Goofing with Froggie

New wall hangings in Anna's room...I am finally getting around to decorating a little more!

Mayzie girl

My little Will buddy

Hip Hop You Don't Stop

2010-12-12T18:22:00.003-05:00

Anna and I went to see Dr. Brighton on Friday, for her 3-month hip recheck. She's been wearing her harness overnight for the last 7 weeks, so I was hopeful we'd get clearance to be done with the contraption for good. She has REALLY been protesting against wearing it lately. He felt that her range of motion was good, and her x-ray looked normal, so we're done with harnessing! Yay! She was not keen on the x-ray....I had to hold her legs, and I must say her pelvis was very well-positioned and straight. Much like restraining a small dog for hip x-rays, minus the internal rotation ;)

She's grown 7 ounces in 4 weeks - up to 10lb 6oz. She is enjoying her freedom at night, with full leg extension ability. There was a lot of crying the first night - the harness kept her fairly immobile, so she was pretty wakeful without it. Last night was better, and I'm hopeful tonight she'll sleep through until morning. I have a feeling the harness was the key to her LONG sleep periods.

More Small Boy Photography

2010-12-05T18:30:00.014-05:00

Jay and the tree

Mayzie, in one of her usual spots

Self-portrait

Mama with bedhead

Boy shadow, dog feet

Grammie and Anna

The plum tree Jay planted for our 5th anniversary (traditional gift = wood)

Outside looking in

Love this one

And this one

OK, I took this one :)

It's Christmastime

2010-12-01T18:55:00.006-05:00

Anna is much more awake during the day now. She's taking 2 long naps and a 3rd catnap, going to bed for the night around 5 still. She enjoys "talking" with us...lots of cooing, "ga" and "na" sounds. She loves purring, Chewbacca-like sounds. LOVES the cats and Mayzie. Tyson is still especially fond of her, and sits by her head to entertain while I change her diaper.

"Walk softly, and carry a big stick." - Teddy Roosevelt

Mama, do you recognize this one? The bonnet is a little small and I added the leggings for warmth, but the rest is one of my baby outfits from 32 years ago.

Sweet smiles

Here is our Christmas tree! Colored lights this year, by Will's request. Cedar trees smell so good, but I'd forgotten how they can chafe your hands....my wrists still have 'tree rash' from the decorating I did Monday night. Will loves the tree and asks for the lights to go on about 5 minutes after he wakes in the morning.

Overheard at Thanksgiving Dinner

2010-11-25T19:04:00.002-05:00

Will's Thanksgiving thoughts:

"Will's thankful for Daddy and Mama and baby sister Anna and the petsies."

"What's a tuba?"

"Will likes turkey and stuffing. More bread."

"Daddy's giving the turkey a bath."....(basting)

"Sing that Johnny Appleseed song." (for the blessing)

"Will wants to unbutton his pants." BEFORE we started eating, Will unbuttoned his top pants button. Taking after my Pops ;)

This Ain't No Jive Turkey

2010-11-23T20:38:00.003-05:00

One more day of work before Turkey Day...and yes, we are making the full (albeit down-sized) Thanksgiving feast, though it will be just the 4 of us....and one of us doesn't eat solids.

What's with the 'tude, dude? On another note, notice Will's handsome hazel eyes :)

Cupcakes make EVERYONE smile ;)

A Much-Needed Weekend

2010-11-21T18:44:00.006-05:00

Is this really Sunday? Can't I get another 24 hours of weekend before it's back to the grind? This weekend flew by - my Mama and Aunt D came to visit, and were willing babysitters while Jay and I had a date night last night. I always love it when they come to visit - we didn't get enough shopping in, so I think a girl trip (plus a mini-man) is in order sometime in the next few months.

Work was crazy busy last week, or I'm still getting back in the groove and it just felt busy. I'm getting used to the new working mom dynamic, since it seems different (and the same) with two children. I miss them a lot, Anna a bit more than Will right now, since she's so new. I see her only in the mornings on the days I work, since she goes to bed around 5...that was tough last week, 3 days in a row. Part of me wanted to go in and wake her up when I got home Friday night, but I know she needs her beauty rest. I just try to remind myself that they are with the only other person in the world who loves them so much, and that Jay is doing a beautiful job with them.

New Willisms and an Anna Update

2010-11-16T20:08:00.002-05:00

No new pictures today...I've been lazy with my picture-taking lately, but I aim to get better. I was just telling Jay yesterday that we need to take more pictures of Anna - it is so true that the second child is photographed less than the first was, at least in our house.

Work has been going well - it has taken me a few days to get back into the swing of things. Simple things on the computer were wiped clear from my memory bank...but they came back quickly. My first days back included removing a fatty tumor overlying the jugular vein (lots of breath-holding), two leggy Great Dane pups, a yellow-skinned cat (jaundice NOT a good thing in kitties), and a few euthanasias, one of which was a house call on my way home on Saturday.

Will has said a few memorable things this week:
"You are showing Mama how pretty you are." (talking about himself)
"Mama looks pretty." (as I was getting ready for church - he got a hug and a kiss for this one)
"Coffee is your wake-up drink." :)
"You are holding both of your children!" (while he and Anna were sitting on my lap)

Anna is growing fast! Her cheeks are much fuller lately. She has been drinking about four 4-oz bottles while I'm at work. And sleeping....it's unreal how long she sleeps at night. The past few nights, from 5 or 5:30 at night until 6:30 to 7:30 in the morning! I went in to check on her this morning, and she was awake, looking toward the window and sucking her thumb, not crying or anything, just being quiet. She has more awake time during the day now...favorite activities include staring at me, Jay or Will, and looking in the mirror. She also loves bath time, and Will loves to help bathe her....glad she doesn't seem to mind getting water sprinkled on her face.

Back to Work

2010-11-11T20:48:00.006-05:00

Today was my first day back to work...all in all, it went very smoothly. My Starbucks baristas gave me a grande pumpkin spice latte on the house this morning :) Off to a good start! It was great seeing everyone at work again, and most of my patients were happy and healthy - I had a full but manageable schedule. And since I'm well-seasoned in pumping at work this time around, I didn't have anywhere near the high stress level I had when I went back to work after Will was born. Anna does not eat as much as he did at this age, so I'm staying well ahead of her with milk production, which feels good.

Jay had a good day on his first solo day with Will and Anna. He had them both in bed by the time I got home (8pm)...one downside to having a relatively early bedtime is that I won't see much of them in the evenings. Anna is typically ready to go to bed now between 5-5:30. Will, since he isn't napping, is ready by 6 - 6:30. Jay and I agree that he should go ahead and put them to bed when they're tired rather than keep them up to see me at the end of the day - I'd rather they get their sleep they need! Anna was up at midnight and 4:45am, so we got some snuggle time. And I hear her waking up right now :)

Cheesin' Will having breakfast before preschool - he was happy to go today and told me 'bye bye' after I hung out with him for a few minutes.

Anna and I before I left for work - she was asleep on Jay's chest as I walked out the door. Jay reports that she was a little angel all day - good naps and a sweet disposition.

Finally caught a big smile on camera! Happy girl!

2 Month Check-Up

2010-11-09T14:14:00.002-05:00

I took Anna to see Dr. Patt for her 2 month visit this morning. She did very well - two vaccines in the thigh and an oral vaccine (Rotavirus) which she sucked right down. She weighed 9lbs 15oz (25%), measured 22.25 inches (25-50%) and her head was 37.5 cm (25%)...a little peanut compared to Will at this age (he was 2 inches longer and 1.5 lbs heavier). She's been fussy this afternoon after her shots, so she's hanging out in the Baby Bjorn as I type.

Will Goes to Preschool

2010-11-07T19:01:00.002-05:00

Will started at Open Door School last week (Thursdays and Fridays, 9-12). The first day, I volunteered as the room parent and helped out while Will adjusted to the classroom and met his classmates. We couldn't go outside that day due to rain...twelve 2-year-olds can develop cabin fever quickly, so we had to be creative to keep them occupied.

On Friday, I told him I was going to run errands while he played at school - at first he said he didn't like his school, but a few minutes later, he gave me a hug and a kiss and said "See you later." His teachers said he did well, a short bout of crying and asking for Mama, but was back to playing after a little comforting. He didn't want to leave when we arrived to pick him up!

So far, no dice on my theory that preschool would wear him out enough to bring naps back. He HAS developed a very snotty nose over the weekend, so I guess we begin the years of Will being a human petri dish. Yesterday he told me that eating corn made his throat feel better....not what I would have guessed, buddy, but OK.

Here he is today on the bike - he will outgrow the seat's weight limit soon (and Jay will not be able ride with Will AND Anna) so this may be one of the last rides for a while :(

Anna's First TN Trip

2010-11-03T19:01:00.013-04:00

The highlight of Will's trip to TN is always getting to sit on his Papa's tractor. This time, he actually wanted to ride on the tractor with Papa, while it was moving. It's been too loud for him in the past. This time the mantra was, "This tractor is loud, but it's not scary."

Wylies + Papa and Grammie

Wylies + Aunt Jean and Uncle Matt

Anna and her Papa got along very well. They both have a similar laid-back attitude. Anna spent most of the trip sleeping; she was very good in the car for the long drive, and slept a few 10-hour stretches overnight while we visited.

Anna challenges Uncle Matt to a game of RockPaperScissors.

Grammie and Papa in their element

Granny Smithson and Anna

Me, my beautiful Grannies, and my baby girl!

Little Monkeypants with Matt and Jean

Will the Builder (minus his hard hat)

Anna and cousin Jonathan

Ready to shop 'til we drop...with a little help from Starbucks, of course.

Where Babies Come From

2010-10-27T15:46:00.001-04:00

Will: Anna is a new baby. Who put her together?
Me: God did.
Will: Mama and Daddy helped.

:)

Hip, Hip, Hooray!

2010-10-26T13:55:00.002-04:00

Anna had a repeat high-resolution ultrasound yesterday and her hips continue to improve. Now, she's wearing the harness only at night and we'll recheck in 6 weeks. I'm finding that she is awake much more when she's out of the harness...she's not sure what to do with all of her new found freedom. She was very wakeful yesterday afternoon, then went to bed at about 6:30 and slept until 2:30am! Back down at 3:15 then up at 7:30 for the day. Not bad for 7 weeks old! She's napping in the Bjorn right now...ideally I'd like her naps to be in her crib, but you gotta do what you gotta do.

Will is going to get to meet one of his preschool class teachers tomorrow when I drop off the rest of his paperwork. He'll start next week when we get back from TN. He continues to be very helpful and loving toward Anna; this morning, he pretended to take food from his belly button and feed her. Not sure that she has a taste for belly button lint, but it's the thought that counts, right?

Candids

2010-10-24T21:56:00.003-04:00

Tummy time times two

Bob the Builder underpants are just too cool to be worn under your pants.

5th Anniversary

2010-10-22T15:42:00.003-04:00

Five years ago today at this time, Jay and I were at the church and getting dressed before our 5:30 ceremony! These 5 years have flown by! Tonight, we're having a date night at the Fig Tree (fancy splurge once-a-year dinner)...Will should be in bed 6-6:30 (no nap today), sitter coming at 6:30, reservations at 7:30. Very excited to get out of the house and behave like adults!

PS: It was delicious!

One of Those Days

2010-10-21T17:56:00.005-04:00

Half smile...she also tries to 'talk' to us while she's smiling now.

(Don't you think she favors Granny Crabtree in this one??)

Cheese and monkeys

Lately, whenever I tell anyone that I have a 2-and-a half year old, the response is always "That's a tough age." Indeed. It's kind of a roller coaster...sweet as pie one minute, screaming 'NO' and crying the next. Discipline is not my strong suit...I go to books (see sidebar). He wants so badly to be independent and do things himself, which we allow him to do, and he's testing the boundaries constantly. Today has been a good day so far.

Yesterday we went to a playground play date with kids in Will's preschool class; we met some of the moms and children and let the kids interact. Will grudgingly shared his snack - it was hard to avoid, kind of like being in a petting zoo with goat food...

Do the Hippy Hippy Shake

2010-10-18T12:41:00.004-04:00

Anna had her hips rechecked this morning, and her Dr. thinks they're looking great! She slept through most of the appointment and was very good for the ultrasound. The femoral heads are starting to ossify (mature into solid bone) and the joint depth looks good. We'll have a more detailed ultrasound again next week, and if that looks OK we'll be able to have her wear the harness just overnight for a little while. Good news!

New Photos

2010-10-14T14:47:00.004-04:00

Yardwork

Pacifier quality control

Sleeping beauty (when she's not asleep, she's eating, pooping or smiling)

Preschool Tour

2010-10-14T12:51:00.003-04:00

Jay and I have been thinking about starting Will in a preschool program, for a few reasons: to give Jay a small respite a couple of days a week when I start back to work, and for Will's enrichment/enjoyment. We toured the Open Door School this morning - it was recommended by friends and is very close to our house. Will loved it! He walked right into the office and introduced himself as William Thomas Wylie, and started playing. There is an opening in their 2-year-old class (Thursday and Friday, 9-12) that I think we will take - he would start the week before I return to work.
Here is the website for those interested: http://uuccharlotte.org/ods_about.asp

New Kitchen Art

2010-10-09T15:33:00.003-04:00

I love that it covers the breaker box (also, I love that it was a steal at Target).

Tummy Time

2010-10-09T15:31:00.002-04:00

Will and His Shadow

2010-10-09T15:27:00.001-04:00

Good Mornin', Sunshine

2010-10-07T14:35:00.003-04:00

1 Month Check-Up

2010-10-05T15:38:00.004-04:00

We took Anna for her 1 month Dr.'s appointment today...Will tagged along for his FluMist vaccine. It was rather like giving a squirmy puppy a kennel cough vaccine (nose drops). They both did well - here are Anna's stats:

21.25 inches long (50%)

8lb 9oz (25-50%)

35.75 cm head circumference (10-25%)...egg shape improving since birth

1st Hepatitis B vaccine

In other news, Will peed in the potty last night and got 2 green M&M's. :)

Will's Photos

2010-10-04T11:51:00.007-04:00

Will has a little camera that takes actual pictures we can download...there were about 600 photos on there. Some very artistic shots, a lot of people with their heads cut off, a lot of Will's feet and his toy box. Here are some good ones.

Uncle Matt

Daddy

Self-portrait

Wawa

Mama, Anna and Tyson

Boy feet