Easter

Ok, we are a little behind which sadly is starting to seem like par for the course. Christopher and I both have a reduced work schedule in the summer, so we are trying to hold on just a couple more weeks.

Our family went to Sioux Falls, SD for Easter break. It was our first flight with Nathaniel and I'm happy to report he did great. That said- I was thankful there were two of us dealing with Nathaniel (and all his stuff). I saw a single mother traveling with an infant and it looked like she was really struggling. After she strategically balanced the baby in one arm while trying to shove the biggest diaper bag I've seen in the overhead bin (and this was one of many feats of strength I witnessed her accomplish), I told her she was amazing and doing a great job.

We had a great time visiting Christopher's family. I always enjoy watching family interact with Nathaniel. Nathaniel is easily amused and belly laughs a lot now (0r shrieks in delight). Aunt Jennifer and Grandma put together Easter baskets for the kids, and we got some pics of Nathaniel exploring what was inside.


Wait, I'm not suppose to eat this??



Hmmmm, interesting.



Why do I still have these bunny ears on?

Toesies

In the rare moments Nathaniel finds his feet without socks he likes to stick them in his mouth.

Springtime

The winters in Chicago are long and hard, but it makes you appreciate spring all the more when it arrives. We have the first daffodils blooming in our yard, and the bright yellow is a reminder that we have been viewing the world in shades of gray. We decided to get some yard work done this weekend, so Nathaniel got to enjoy some time outside on a blanket. He spent about an hour peacefully looking around, and he would get a huge smile anytime Calli ran by. He looked particularly adorable in his knitted hat from our friend, Diane, so Christopher got some great shots. Check out more on Flickr.

Grandpa's Visit

Grandpa Howard came out for a visit to help take care of Nathaniel while Christopher was at a conference in Cleveland. I wasn't the best at taking pictures- mainly because we were hard at work on our sun porch. I really enjoyed the time we spent together and he was a big help with Nathaniel.

Seattle

I recently went to Seattle for a library conference and was lucky to have sunny weather for several days. Everything about my trip was great- the conference, weather, coffee, crepes, catching up with library friends, and hanging out with one of my favorite people, Kim P. Yet, there was always a part of me that kept thinking about home and Nathaniel. I felt terribly guilty for being away for 5 days. I guess that is how most moms feel when they leave their baby for the first time. Check out my pics here: Seattle

No Fooling...It's a true story!

Yesterday, we had our first confirmed "Da-Da" from Nathaniel. He first did it for Kristina. In fact, he said it a couple of times. He did it for me just before bed last night. Each time was loud and clear. He seemed to be practicing his Ba-Bas and decided to push his tongue out and got a new sound. I know it doesn't have any meaning to him, but it sure did make me smile.

Now, in all fairness to Kristina, I have to say he has said "Ma-Ma" many times in the past. However, they always start of with "Waaaaaahhhhhh-ma-ma-ma!" So, I'm not sure that counts. ;-)

Christopher