Christmas Time!

Wow. A lot changes in a year. Especially a little baby. Last year this time, Drew didn't do much besides poo and eat and sleep. While he was a great joy then, he's developed into such an even greater pleasure. He loves trucks and all kinds of vehicles, he understands tons of things and can follow simple directions (it's amazing how much he knows even though he can't speak). He gives hugs and sweet little wet kisses. Oh, and he LOVES music! His dancing skills are ... unique. We thought you'd enjoy.



And I've been posting to Baby #2's site as well...see it here!
http://www.alexismcdowell.com/2_pregnancy_month_eight.html

Travels without Baby

Andrew and I were able to get away for a vacation/babymoon while Grandma and Grandpa stayed home with Drew. He was just getting past having some seperation anxiety, so I had a little anxiety of my own leaving him behind for eight days. That's the longest we've been apart so far. But thanks to Skype, Eyejot and other technological advances Drew didn't forget about us and seemed to be quite content with Grandma and Grandpa. Thanks to them! We couldn't have done it without you. Click here to see pictures of our trip.

Maui was wonderful, a much needed respite from work and before the birth of our second. Twelve weeks to go. Man, how time flies! The baby is quite a mover and shaker, lots different from when Drew was in utero. Maybe it means something, maybe not? A little girl perhaps? Won't be long until we find out. THe due date is March 6th. Wonder what the actual date will be?

Drew continues to grow rapidly. His development is astounding! He mimics us quite frequently and we are positive that he said, "I see you!" last night while in the tub. He has many words in his vocab now - of course, they're Drew words, but we figure one day soon he's just gonna pop out with full statements using regular words.

He toddles around and quite quickly. He LOVES trucks, or anything with wheels. He's fascinated with machinery - everything from the vacuum cleaner to the mower in the garage. It's fun indulging him with those things - trucks on the street, cars on his cups, books about all kinds of trucks. I've sure learned more about the different kinds of trucks than I ever knew was out there.

He is so much fun. His little chortle, his big grin with almost all of his teeth, the way he runs from you and glances over his shoulder to see if you're following, the way he sits in your lap to read a book, etc etc.

We missed him terribly while away. And we are looking forward to the holiday season with him in a couple short weeks. We'll be sure to share pictures. Meanwhile, Merry Christmas! Happy New Year!

He ain't a baby anymore!

He's a toddler. And I can't believe my little baby is gone. He's walking like a champ, he understands so much, he has definite opinions and ideas these days. I had no idea that I would feel so sad at this!

Anyway, daylight savings time was this past week and it screwed things up a little bit. Not too badly though. We put Drew to bed a little later a couple nights ahead of time. Although, he's always been pretty good at falling asleep at night even when waking from a nap 2 hours before. However, the morning wasn't quite as seamless. He was waking about an hour early for a couple days. But he soon got his clock set correctly and now we're back on schedule. I wouldn't mind eliminating DST however, since it is quite an annoyance in the baby dept. We're just fortunate that Drew is so easy. No.2 may not be.

Speaking of No.2 he's (yes, I'm leaning in the boy direction for some reason...) moving a lot more these days. And the belly continues to grow. I haven't been too uncomfortable yet, and am actually trying to glean as much enjoyment from this time as I can since I know it is fleeting. These are the only days when I truly have the littlest one all to myself. I started buying a couple things for him here and there including a little skeleton onesie for halloween next year -- just planning ahead -- and a blanky for him. It's the same blanky that Drew uses, only a different color. I'm hoping he'll like it as much and find comfort with it the way Drew does.

Drew had his one year doctor appointment last night. He received 4 shots and it's really worn him out today. He slept for almost three hours during his morning nap, causing me enough concern to go in and make sure he was OK. Of course he was, sleeping on his belly with his little knees tucked up under his belly and his tushie in the air. He's still in the 3rd percentile for weight and I feel like he'll be at 18 pounds forever! But the doctor is still not concerned. He is growing after all, he's just littler than others his age.

He's begun to have a little separation anxiety when I leave him with others. It's harder on me probably than him, but it's really tough to walk away from him or hand him over when he's clinging to me. I know he recovers pretty much as soon as I'm gone, so at least he's able to comfort himself. I just hope this stage doesn't last forever!

Happy 1st Birthday!

It's been a whirlwind of a month preparing for the family to visit to help us celebrate Drew's birthday and baptism. It was so fun! Yet, bittersweet too, I just can't believe a year has gone by already and my little baby has turned into a toddler seemingly overnight. He's learning and comprehending so much that each day becomes more and more fun to see what else he has picked up on and what else he can communicate back. His vocabulary continues to grow, he's got some signs down to use sign language and while he can't talk much he certainly understands so much. He's such a joy to be around - he just lights up the day. We are so thankful that he's here and we are looking forward to years and years of happiness with our little ones.

We also celebrated a very important milestone in Drew's life the same weekend as his birthday celebration, he was baptized. You can watch it on youtube shortly. Meanwhile, here's a link to our 'channel' on youtube.

It was a special day for his Dad and I one in which Drew was brought into the family of God and now considered a member of that family. We hope to be a good example for him to follow. Please keep Drew and our family in your prayers!

(Here is a link to more photos. If you have some to contribute to that album, feel free!

He Walks!!

"Aaaaaaahhhhh! I will now wreak havoc wherever I go!" I must say that it is great to see Drew gain confidence in his abiliy to walk. I am amazed at how fast he has learned. Everyday I come home from work, he seems to have improved greatly from the previous day. I thought this photo captured all of the excitement and "possibilities" associated with learning to walk. Willis, Fozzy and Zeke better watch out because there is a new menace in town!

First Haircut

Before...

During...


After...

"Up North"

As Alexis previously mentioned, it was great to be up in Northern Michigan for a little R&R. Walloon lake was very nice and the weather was perfect each and every day. Lake Michigan was nearby and, as usual, yielded some fantastic views. Most important, Drew got to spend some time with Nene and Poppa while meeting great Uncle Mike for the first time. I think it is safe to say that Drew got to know his grandparents a bit better on this trip. Although he doesn't know it, he is looking forward to his baptism and birthday celebration when everyone will be together once again.

Feet First

Drew seems to understand so much these days. Things like when Andrew walks in the door, he says, "Da Da!"...and he can point to the duck in a book, or give kisses to his kitty cat when asked, as well as put his feet first when going down something like stairs or the side of a bed. It makes it so clear to me how important it is to always be talking to him and interacting with him. He is certainly absorbing all kinds of things these days! His favorite thing right now seems to be trucks...he has two which he loves to push around in his playroom. And he points them out whenever we're driving. He even likes to look at them in books - and happily exclaims, "Guck! Guck!" whenever he so feels like it.

At the Lake

We are just finishing a lovely week up at the Lake. This time, Lake Walloon in northern Michigan. We love this area - the serene beauty and peacefulness associated with sitting on the deck of a cozy cabin can't be matched anywhere else. Drew seemed to enjoy it, too. He dipped his toes and splashed in the chilly waters of Lake Michigan and was there too, when we found our own Petoskey stone!

He continues to grow and learn so quickly. He is still practicing his walking. It's such a joy to sit a few feet away and see the excitement and joy in his eyes as he realizes you are asking for him to walk to you. He reaches out and takes off! He knows who his Uncle Mike, Nene and Poppa are, and has said his first official work, "Guck" (translation: truck). I'd say that's a pretty good first little boy word!

He's recognizing objects and their names and has just started to point towards things. It's so fun interacting with him, he's quite the entertaining character but still very laid back and easy-going as usual. He spent 18 hours with us in the car to drive here and was easy to keep content with company in the back.

Tonight we head home - another 18 hours. And soon enough on to our next big adventure!

Happy Times!

Philly Visit

...was a blur, but fun and wonderful to see family. Highlights include thrift shopping, dinner with family, walks in the park and swinging, a trip to the largest model train exhibit with the grandparents, etc. We had fun and miss you all!

While there, Drew stood and took a few steps on his own! This week, he's taken more and more steps on his own. He gets such a gleam in his eye when I am sitting close and ask him to walk to me...he kinda chortles and steps away from what he's holding on to and goes! It's exciting to see him growing and to also see him enjoy his progress as well.

If you're happy and you know it...

We're always clapping :)

Here comes another one!

He's also got his own site now, too. You can check here for Baby #2 specific details.

Drew Rides

Andrew was able to get us hooked up with a bike cart - one that attaches to the back of our bikes so that we can pull Drew along on our bike rides. It's pretty fun! Drew reclines in the cart quite a bit, probably as a result of the bumps along the way, and seems to enjoy it (as long as the ride isn't too long).

We also have created a 'playroom' all for Drew. We turned our pool room into the playroom complete with baby gate so no more escapes. This will be so convenient and it's nice to get the toys all corralled in one place.

Drew is able to climb is way all the way to the top of the stairs now. And he enjoys monkey-crawling up the ramps at gymboree.

We had friends over on Saturday night and Mr. Flirty pants (Drew, not Andrew) was actually trying to kiss the 3-year old girl in his wide-open-mouth-slimy-wet way. They were next to each other on the couch and he would just go for it. She thought it was funny and giggled a bit, and then later was seeking kisses out from him. It was quite funny! We were curious what that means for the future. Are we going to be fighting the ladies off with bats? Is he going to be a lady-killer?

Drew is 9 Months Old!

He had his 9-month doctor appointment today - and the doctor was very pleased. While Drew is in a very low percentile for weight still (5th) he is in the 60th percentile for his noggin size! Better that than vice versa.

He has acquired a new skill, one which the doctor says is usually exhibited by 11 month olds: he walks with a walking toy. Dr Grimes says that may mean he could be walking within a month. Time to get to some serious baby-proofing!

We were in Denver for the last several days. It was nice to be back again in our old, familiar home. We stayed at the very swanky Brown Palace Hotel in a lovely suite. That's sure the way to go! We visited old friends and ate at lots of our old favorite food stops - ate way tooooo much. But oh so good. Pineapple pancakes at Snooze - YES. And green chile from Benny's - Oh I miss you!

While there, we visited the Butterfly Pavilion where Andrew faced his fear of big, hairy spiders and held Rosie.

We were tired of being cooped up in the house because of the miserable heat so Drew and I went to the Children's Museum in Shawnee yesterday. He loved it! There was one room specifically for children two and under and that's where we spent a majority of our time. There were things to crawl up and down, soft things, rolly things, all kinds of things. I think you can sense Drew's excitement in the photos above? We had a really fun time together. It's such a joy to 'play' with him and watch him experience new things and be excited by them.

He's got 7 teeth now, and the 8th is popping through. So that will be four on top and four on bottom. Wow! He can eat all kinds of stuff as a result, from cheese to beef to hard crackers. Mealtime has become quite a production now, as he gets quite messy while eating, especially when doing it himself. But, he has to learn somehow!

We've also been going to the pool frequently in the evening with Andrew. We bought a floaty boat type of thing that Drew literally lounges in by putting his head back and letting his little legs float out in front of him, and crossing them. When we would hold him, he always seemed to be very focused on the situation, but the independence he feels in the boat has allowed him to express the pleasure he gets while in the pool.

Sleep time hasn't been as smooth lately. Naps are fine, but the bedtime routine has gotten a little rocky. He inevitably is standing in the corner of the crib that faces the door and is crying and waiting for us to come back in for one more kiss goodnight.

More Travels

Drew likes the view from the airplane window. It's a good thing because he'll be on it several times in the next few months. Flying was a little more challenging this time since he is now mobile and interested in doing lots more, but we managed fine and don't mind the extra challenge. Drew just makes it fun all-around.

So we flew to Michigan to spend the 4th with the McDowell family. It was a lovely visit while bittersweet as half the family is moving overseas and we won't get to see them as often. But it's exciting for them and we can't wait to visit them in Brussels! Safe travels you guys!

Clapping

It's his latest skill! They seem to be happening at lightening speed these days. 

 

Drew Feeds Himself

We had another first today! Drew fed himself using the 'pincer' grasp (where he grasps a tiny object between his forefinger and thumb. He was able to grasp the puff and move it to his mouth. Many of the puffs ended up on the floor after that, but he continues to learn and grow! He's come a long way from that bland rice cereal.

Also, here's an update on how he's growing: (see "before" picture here)

Visit with Zeyde

Zeydie, Yiddish for Grandpa (yes, we have Jewish ties in our family) is visiting his Eynikl this week. We've enjoyed leisurely lunches and lounging poolside. We visited a Parkville Jazz and Blues Festival and drank some tasty cherry limeade (and while there Drew had to get his fix on the swings). Today we plan to go to the Narnia exhibit at the Union Station downtown. Dads get in free and that's half our brood! 

Speaking of Father's Day, Happy Day to all Daddys! And a special thank you to Drew's Daddy, Andrew,  for being a loving, caring father who is so obviously enjoying his new role. 

(I've uploaded more videos including Drew lovin' on Willis on you tube.) 

New and Exciting

Drew's world has certainly opened up by gaining the ability to not only crawl, but to also pull himself to standing. Just this morning he took a couple of steps while holding onto the couch, an act called 'cruising'. This is the precursor to (drum roll) walking! So now he can see what is on top of the couch,  and can move himself over to get it. 

We've got a Crawler!

Who-eee and it opens up a WHOLE new set of things to 'do'. Drew goes from being a passive observer to entertaining himself to a child who needs constant watching! Thank goodness for the 'play-yard' (a fence) that we can put up around him and his toys to keep him from getting into too much trouble. He can crawl now to cupboards filled with stuff, or stairs or the mantle that he can also hoist himself up to standing at and then let go and fall over and bang his noggin'. Vigilance, that is the term for this stage I think. Vigilance while he's crawling around, vigilance while he's in the tub, vigilance while he's supposed to be napping - yowza!

Drew''s Auntie Francie and Uncle John got to experience Drew's first crawls, too, while they were here. We had a lovely, laid back time relaxing and playing with Drew. It was lovely to have them visit. I love to share Drew with our family!

Drew Entertains

Drew's Great Aunt Francie and Great Uncle John are visiting with us for a few days, and then GranMama comes round the mountain for another visit too. It's fun to watch Drew be introduced to new people. It does take him a couple minutes to warm up to a new face now, but once he does, you're buds forever. Last night, he really enjoyed Francie and hanging out with her a little bit.

Today we plan to go for a walk in downtown Parkville. Should be lovely, if not too hot.

On his Seven Month mark, Drew has six teeth total. The two front ones up top are out completely now and the two on either side are coming in behind. He's not real fussy - he seems to be used to the feeling by now.

Off to play in the sunshine!

PS He's actually crawled about 3-4 feet a couple of times. He'll be a master by the time his Great Aunt and Uncle leave!

Drew's New Tricks

Drew is growing so quickly! His second tooth on the top has now pushed its way through and will most likely be visible to are visiting relatives in the weeks to come. So that makes four teeth total already which also means that the breast feeding is slowly dwindling. Although, I know it can continue simultaneously he's much more interested in looking around and being fed upright then the old school way.  And along with the teeth comes the responsibility of brushing them every night:

Drew's vocabulary continues to grow. He has added the mono-syllabic words of "da", which usually becomes "dadadadada" and ba, along with "momma". However, Mom and Dad agree that the association to those words hasn't quite been established yet. We do encourage it vigorously though, and accompany the nodding and prompting with the related signs for Mommy and Daddy.

Drew is also on the verge of crawling! When tempted by a fun toy he scooches his rear in the air, almost like the yoga position downward dog and smashes his little nose into the floor. He will wobble around when set in the position...well, here have a look for yourself.

Such a Happy Kid!

I had to add a couple of my favorite pictures from our day at the park as well. I only took about 400 so they were easy to sort through (sarcasm intended). Gotta love digital cameras.

It seems like only yesterday that Drew was not able to hold his head up without some help and now look at him. The old adage of "they grow up fast" is certainly playing out especially as I see Drew beginning to enjoy these kinds of activities. Before we know it he will be running around doing all the things that a little boy should be doing - until then I am trying to live in the moment each day to not miss anything. Drew is certainly a great subject for my camera.

He loves to swing!

Happy Boy

What's new with that baby in the picture? Drew had a swim class at the Y yesterday. We'll go back twice a week for a month or so. He dunked his head underwater - and survived quite well! He was a bit shocked, but recovered quickly and still enjoyed the water after that even though his little body and lips were blue by the time we got out. Infants at six months still have a tough time regulating their body heat, plus he's got no insulation ie. baby fat!

We visited the doctor today basically to ease my mind about his weight, or lack thereof. I was encouraged to see he had gained a half pound since the last appointment only six days ago. Keep that in mind when you go to add that cream to your coffee in the mornings - it DOES make a difference! And that little dab of butter? Doesn't take much to pack on the pounds with those devices. However, even with that success we may check out this Feeding Clinic the hospital puts on for tots with trouble eating properly. We've got to get him more interested in food!

We also previewed a Kindermusik class last night - which he is obviously going to love! He was all smiles when we were watching the kids sing and dance and it was clear he was itching to be able to walk so he could join in. We're going to attend with a friend we met in Gymboree - Jacob and Shelly. Jacob is about 2 months older than Drew and his good buddy - or on the way to being anyway.

Our sitter, Paula, says she thinks he's going to be crawling any day now the way he pushes his legs up under himself and scooches along. It's so exciting to see all these little milestones and progress yet, bittersweet at the same time.

Oh and one other milestone, a third tooth. Yep, tooth. Just one. Three is a good number...won't be long before it's a mouthful!

Speaking of mouthfuls: the introduction to solids is getting close to ending. He's had avocado, sweet potato, rice, barley and oatmeal, banana and yogurt. Just two more veggies and we're on to stage two foods. Stage two - anything that is mashed up real good. Yum.

6 Months Old and a World Traveler

What is it like to feel the sand in your toes for the first time? Or the swirl of cool water over your body out in the bright sunshine? Ask Drew, he knows. He experienced it all for the first time on our trip to Puerto Vallarta this past weekend. He was clearly focused and in the moment, absorbing the experience of swimming for the first time. He didn't get upset, but he was obviously trying to figure the whole thing out. Eventually, he was able to relax enough to let out a smile or two...here's a slide show of our trip. And a MOVIE.

In case you're wondering, we escaped Mexico without the Swine Flu. So don't worry about getting it from us, even though Drew does have a tendency to sneeze on you if you're not careful. But that's only when that pesky sunshine getting in his eyes.

The trip was wonderful overall, short and sweet. Can't wait to go back! I will post video of our time in PV shortly.

Meanwhile, yesterday was his 6 month old doctor appointment already. He is still quite low on the percentile range, actually lower now. So it's time to take action the doctor says: cream and butter! We can add that to his meals to try to fatten him up. It's not recommended, however, for the middle aged mom and dad.

The Easter Bunny Was Here

...and I'm sure he'll be back. If only for the benefit of the parents who love malted balls and all things chocolate. Anyway, Easter was lovely. Another first come and gone!

Speaking of firsts, two days from now Drew will leave the country for the first time and head to Puerto Vallarta. This trip was meant to be a mini-vacation for Andrew and I while the little one stayed home with family. But, it just goes to show how much you fall for your children the fact that we are taking him with us. This is our 'new normal': travel with kids and vacays with kids. I am guessing we will have a blast. But, this is not to say that little Drew will accompany us on all of our trips. Eventually, I will get to the point where I can leave him for more than a few days and survive. Hawaii, here we come(...in 8 months...I did say 'eventually')!

Visit with Family and Friends

So our trip to the east coast was lots of fun. Fun for our first plane ride (video), first carousel ride (video), fun to see friends and fun to see family again, of course! Thanks Spenser, Jen, Nene and Popa for a fun time in Virginia. Next time: Louie's for sure (whenever next time will be!) And thanks Grandmom and Grandpa for a restful and lovely stay in Philly. Thanks Sadie and Granje for coming down from NY to visit with us...and thanks Auntie Brooke for hanging with us a couple nights. We miss you guys!

Hmmmm

Ever since Drew has rolled over he has had trouble getting back over to his back again from his tummy. He had learned that he could rest his head on the floor, so he wouldn't get so tired out. But often he ends up fussing and eventually full-out crying because he can't make it back over...or so I thought. Today, I picked him up at the child watch at the Y and as is customary the sitter told me about his time there. They were hanging together for a bit, but prior to that he had been on the floor rolling over this way and that. And her hand gestures illustrated several rolls. I said, "Scuse me, what? Rolling over both ways? From tummy to back?" Oh yeah...couple of times.

Ah ha! So now I begin to wonder. How long has this little one been able to do this? And is he smart enough to know that it is a great way to get attention by pretending to be in a pickle so that Mommy will come running to his rescue? Hmmmm.

He's begun reaching out for us now too. He sits in a little chair that is attached to our counter top so he can watch us as we prepare dinner or whatever, and when I walk by occasionally he'll put his arms out to reach for me.

Meals are also going much better now. We are about mid-way through his first week of rice cereal. We mixed it with one part pear juice and two parts water and that seemed to make it much more palatable. We continue to try to get him to take a bottle to give me a break, but he refuses. We tried a different formula (since the different bottle/nipple option is exhausted) and he took it with a spoon last night, but not this morning. Fickle! However, he took it once so that gives me hope. Although spoon feeding (with those teeny tiny spoons) 6 ounces of formula will be time-consuming for the lucky feeder!

Travels with Baby

Drew flew for the first time on Thursday and did wonderful. He seemed to know that we were not in our normal environment and spent time studying the windows and seemed to be listening to the sounds of the plane. The pressure didn't seem to irritate him at all going up or coming down. The logistics of air travel are certainly more difficult with a baby in tow, but definitely doable with such a laid back little guy. 

Our visit with the McDowell family has been lovely so far. Yesterday we did a whole lot of sitting around and visiting. Drew likes to study his older cousin Spenser! Tomorrow we swing through York to visit my good college friend Robin and family and then we head out to Philly. Drew makes all of these events lots of fun these days.

Starting Solids

Well, I hoped that this would be the start of a new chapter in which Drew really took to solids and starting eating all kinds of stuff. However, we have to make it passed rice cereal first.

Couple of firsts this week!

We were invited to walk in the Snake Parade for St. Patty's Day by Gymboree and of course, thought it would be lots of fun. It was all of our first time marching in any parade. It was funny being on the opposite side. We walked and watched people watching us back. Andrew mentioned that through Drew we will be exposed to a lot of firsts...and I agree.

A first for Drew also occurred yesterday (actually it was his second time but the Doctor said it doesn't count if you don't see it): Drew rolled over! I again, laid him down on the floor for some time to play and occupy himself and I happened to catch him rolling over right in the middle of it. He did it a few more times after that and I was able to catch those times on film. The only problem seems to be what to do with himself once he's on his tummy?

Squeaks and Babbles

Drew had his four month doctor appointment last week...he's doing great. He's growing longer faster than he's growing wider, so he's a light-weight. He received his second round of vaccines and was more courageous than his Mom was.

He's been getting real squirmy these days and is constantly reaching out to grab this or that so be careful you long-hairs!

Last night while on a little break from eating, he was telling Andrew and I all about --- something --- for the longest time in great detail. Then, when the last word is said he went back to eating again. This is a little video of him exploring his voice a bit.

Smiles All Around

I am finding that passing the time with Drew can provide great opportunities for new photographs. Granted, I have to make sure the camera batteries are charged, the light is good, the memory card is empty and that Drew is ready to smile, but once all those things are in place it is a breeze. This is one of my favorites that I took on March 7th. He loves to sit up and take in his surroundings. The Bumbo chair helps to keep him upright and he is more than happy to pose for the camera.

Four Months Old

...and as if to say that he was on target for development he rolled over right at the four month mark. He did it discreetly and quietly, not under the harsh lights of the papparazzi or video cameras or while being hovered over by anxious parents and grandparents. Translation: we missed it. I put him down on his back and when I looked back at him he was on his tummy. And he hasn't done it since...so more waiting!

We're going to get a high chair this week so he can 'join' Andrew and I at dinner. He loves interaction, and we love interacting with him. A cute thing he does is throw his hands up to his face while smiling broadly when acknowledged--a slightly bashful trait he has.

18 Weeks Old

No, it's not a mug shot! It's a passport photo for our trip to Mexico in April. Turns out even little guys need passports these days. It was tricky getting this photo not because of Drew, but because the postal worker lived up to the post office's reputation of being so helpful and didn't even want to attempt taking his photo because 'babies can be difficult'. After some gentle coaxing, she acquiesced and Drew proved her wrong. He can now travel internationally - hopefully he'll take us along!

17 Weeks

Dear little Drew is sleeping through the night in his own crib...and after several days of sleep training is well on his way to falling asleep unassisted. It's been a tough couple nights, but it will help him be independent of any props or assistance in getting himself to Dreamland.

While Andrew has been out of town until tonight, Grandmom has been here keeping us company again. We have been running around here and there and today we plan to visit the Hallmark Exhibit hall. Drew accompanies us with a pleasant disposition...he's so fun to have with us.

Lately he's been exploring his voice and the sounds he can make. He seems to be fond of the dolphin-like calls and sometimes seems to be telling a very long and involved story to anyone who happens to be near.

We bought him a bouncy chair yesterday because he really enjoys standing (with assistance) and after placing him in it, noticed his little feet dangling about 3" from the floor. That was quickly remedied by putting a huge book under his toes. I can tell he's going to really enjoy that bouncy seat!

He's also begun to grab his little toes...I guess it's just a matter of time before they go into his mouth just like everything else he gets his hands on!

16 Weeks (Does not equal four months)

...as I learned while I was pregnant - that 40 weeks gestation equals 9 months in the womb. But his four month birthday is right around the corner already.

Drew brings so much joy to our lives. He joins our conversations often by interjecting a long story of "oohhhhhh's" and "ahhhhh's" complete with animated facial expressions. When he's finished it's as if he's told us a long intriguing story about his adventures so far.

Lately he's been grabbing at his little feet and holding them in the air while on his back. He's also been wonderful at sleeping in his crib and sleeps up to 10-11 hours at night. What bliss that is for us! He hasn't learned to go to sleep on his own, however, and that will be what we tackle next by attempting the 'cry it out' approach. Not looking forward to it.

He's attending Gymboree regularly--today Andrew took him. He's becoming quite social. He had a neighbor friend over yesterday (who shares the same name) and they spent a little time looking each other over. I think they concluded each were friend-worthy. Same for the other little guy who visited us last Saturday - although he's a bit older - they will be great friends. Drew is also quite laid back and literally will sometimes just lay on the floor and observe with wonder behind his eyes.

Tummy Time!

Drew is starting to enjoy longer tummy time sessions these days and I must say that we are having fun watching him. I decided to catch some shots of him from down below as he took in his surroundings during a tummy time session on our bed this past Friday. Both myself and Alexis agree that he looks different when he is not lying on his back. What big blue eyes he has......does anyone have any thoughts on who he looks like?

Is that Batman?

No, it is just Drew sporting the latest edition to his collection of sleepsacks. Thanks to his older cousin Spenser, Drew now has the ability to disguise himself as batman. Look for future photos of Drew wearing the mask as well. That is if he doesn't outgrow it first.

Fourteen Weeks

We had a visit from the grandparents this week. Zeyde is Eynikl's grandfather (in case you aren't current on your yiddish, those are words for grandfather and grandchild) and Granje, a 'jean-ism' for Grandma visited with us. It was a lovely time. We explored the Steamboat Arabia museum and spent some quality time together mostly staring together at the little one.

This week Drew continues to practice rolling over - he's not quite made it over unassisted yet, but he's trying. He is getting better at holding his head up at tummy time which will come in handy once he does make it all the way over.

And finally, the major event happened last night. He spent the night in his own room, in his crib. He was fine, but his Mom wasn't so good. She cried. Next he'll be off to college!

Thirteen Weeks

Drew knows there's more to it than what he can see just laying on his back and this week he's been trying to investigate what it looks like beneath him by trying to roll over. His personality is showing through when he rolls to the side and after trying and trying and not succeeding he starts to wail and moan with frustration. Parents at Gymboree have said that the rolling over from front to back process spanned a few weeks before their babies actually succeeded - so I think we're at the start of it.

He got his first membership card this week, so he's officially a member of the YMCA. He's been going with me in the morning - and sleeping most of the time. So I think we've overcome that hurdle. Now the next hurdle is getting him to sleep through the night and possibly moving him to his crib.

His Grandpop and Granje are visiting us this weekend. We'll be out and about for a walk today and a museum or two in the next couple days. He's getting to know them and I can tell they will be life long friends!

12 Weeks Old and Part of History

While I didn't vote for the guy, I felt inspired today watching the inauguration...if not for the African American community and the momentous occasion it is for them, then for the inspiration to work for and achieve your goals. I captured some of Obama's speech on video so Drew could see that he, too, was present during this historic time. Drew had some comments of his own to add.

Yesterday was our first visit to the YMCA together. He spent the time in child watch, that is until they called me to come get him because he wouldn't stop crying. Strange for Drew, but alas when I arrived at the nursery and announced that Drew's mom was there--it was, indeed, true. He was crying and enough so that he was shedding his first tears. That was a heart breaker and is making it difficult to try it again. I know, I know ... I willlll ...

Today was also our first Gymboree class. He enjoyed it and couldn't take his eyes off the only little girl in the class. She was an older woman though at 7 months. However, I think that Drew may have enjoyed dipping his toes in the sink filled with water tonight just a little more than Gymboree today. At first he held his feet out of the water, but by the time I pulled the plug on the drain he was stamping his feet left and right and splashing!

Each day with Drew is a pleasure and I look forward to new activities with him - seeing him explore and learn about our world is a great joy while at the same time very humbling. The complexity of our creation astounds me more each day - the processes of a mother and child's relationship seemingly simple is yet so profound and has so much impact on a developing child's brain. I am becoming more aware of the enormity of my responsibility to this child for his future's sake and the impact that I can have if I so choose, as well as feeling a sadness for the children whose parents aren't so devoted or even aware of their role in their child's development.

11 Weeks Young

...and taken to chewing on my fist now! He's loving pulling himself up to sitting by holding onto my hands. I get a strong sense that he's itchin' to be mobile so he can get a view of the world other than from the bottom up!

Drew is such a happy baby. He loves to smile - even at people he doesn't know very well. He wakes happy even after he's turned himself around 180 degrees in his bassinette. He's getting a little large for the co-sleeper these days and I know that the time is quickly drawing near that I will have to set him in the crib -- ALL the way across the house -- to sleep at night.

He attended his first playgroup with the neighbors this week, too. And promptly fell asleep after we arrived. There are three other babies on this cul-de-sac all under 6 months and three out of the four are named Drew. Bummer.

We're working on the sleep schedule during the day, but it's hard enough nailing down an eating schedule at this point that we may be a way's off from sleeping at regular intervals.

Tomorrow is Drew's 2 month appointment (even though he's already 2.5 months). I am sure we'll have good news to report back.

10 Weeks Old

Drew is handing out smiles left and right and even smiles at people he doesn't know. His little laid-back personality is really emerging as illustrated by his ability to hang loose while I cook dinner or as he gets passed around from friend to friend at dinners out.

He sticks his hand in his mouth regularly these days and seems to prefer it over his binky. While he isn't grabbing for much yet, he's using all his energy to communicate with us using his own little language of "agoo's" and "blubbb's".

He is outgrowing outfits, socks and onesies left and right. People have actually commented on how big his hands are. Of course, if he's anything like his Dad who's got rackets for hands...

Serving Up Smiles

What Dad would not feel good about coming home from work to a face like this? It is so great to see Drew begin to engage with both Alexis and I. You can just imagine all of the thoughts that are running through his mind as he studies our faces. He is also starting to talk to us quite a bit as well. Granted, they are basic Gooos and Oooohs but he definitely has something to say and we are more than happy to listen and provide additional dialog. I can't wait to see how his personality develops but until then I use pictures like these to remind me to live in the moment.