What a difference a month makes especially in today's world. Coronavirus is still active and without a cure but it is starting to curve and decline in Illinois which means we can start doing more and seeing more people. So with that said, we do and we are! School is officially over so that means all we have to do is spend time together. We have made the best of our time at home and now we are getting out and about and spending more time with friends and family. I am so thankful for the neighbors we have and all the kids to play with so that you have some kind of sense of other people. I am even more grateful for the wonderful family we have and how everyone wants to spend time with one another.
In your 13th month of life we have been able to go to Grandma's, go to the lake house, have people over, go see friends, and play with friends your age!
I have bought you the necessary summer musts for a hot summer with nothing open. You have a pool set up at Grandma's house, our house, and the lake house. Grandma is getting a heater installed so once that is in I have a brand new floatie for you and I to try out. So Excited! You love your little pools, you loved splashing at Grandmas and playing with toys, I think you were entertained for close to 2 hours. At our house you loved doing the same in your mushroom pool with a sun cover in which you kept getting out and walking around and then going back in it again and again and again, over and over and over. It is a perfect summer day for you to be in a swim diaper and just splash around and be free. Especially with your long hair that blows in the wind or can spike up when it is wet. Your hair is looking like your Uncle Eric's and Grandpas and there is nothing wrong with that. Handsome leading the way!
You went on your very first boat ride at Auntie Terry's lake house on the chain. What an awesome day that was and boy were you a trooper. Watching you hair blow in the wind and the smile on your face with be something I will never forget. The life vest that once was bigger than you now made you an official 13 month old boater, way to go AJ!
It has been great having neighbors over and I bought you a little play area to be with friends when we aren't in the fenced yard. You have also played with Sienna in hers and had a really great time taking everything out of her water table and throwing it on the ground. We also played with Alec and Nora at his house and even in the bouncy. It felt so great seeing great friends and feeling safe and comfortable.
Your personality is completely unique to you. You are so funny, you love to laugh, you even laugh when everyone else is laughing, which in turn makes us all laugh harder. You have such an amazing temperament, which makes being around you all the more magnetic. You continue to love music, and when it turns on you are immediately aware and start to dance by swaying back and forth or bouncing up and down.
You have specific toys you like: a blue fuzzy flower Terry gave you for your birthday which you like to touch things with. The remote control of course, well any remote for that matter. Your alphabet train which the other day you just decided to sit on and ride which is awesome. We had to put a safety belt in your F-150 because you decided you were going to start standing up whenever you could rather than remain seated. A basketball game where Daddy taught you to put the ball in the basket and other misc light up toys. I can tell you the family room looks like a toy store with Fort Knox security. Although you have found ways, you little ninja, to climb over a blanket chest, stand on the fireplace, and army crawl in between a gate and the couch. Only to run for freedom towards the kitchen or front door. This is when you also make your way to Reilly's bed and wave to her. You just love to wave and say hi in the smallest high little voice.
You like to make facial expressions and movements with your body that go along with your babble. Then when you have gotten so loud or have had enough you start to ninja. You also like to clap in the middle of eating or when you really enjoy something. On the flip, when you get tired you start to scratch or hit us and then we know it is off to your crib you go. There have been many nights where we can rock you to sleep but as of late you just let us know it is time for your bed and you are asleep in minutes. I should also say that the transition to whole milk and new cups has been hassle free. I mean seriously if I could write a book on the perfect child it would be you. I don't feel like Daddy and I should get any credit, you are making us look so good. You are a great eater, especially of green beans. Great in the bath, a wiggle worm on the changing table but why not and all around a happy boy. AHHH the best boy!
We took advantage of Phase 3 in regards to Coronavirus and Dad and I went out for a couple hours and you had your second babysitter, but this time you were fast asleep in your crib. I think we may try it again and can only be so lucky that is was as easy. Crazy to think that we have spent every moment with you unless you are snug in your bed. I don't want this to end, it is perfect.
I am looking forward to more summer days of you running around the yard, picking up leaves, fussing when your sister touches you. Letting me put you in new shoes and seeing you stumble to walk in them. It is so fun putting you different outfits that once looked so big and now we can't even put one leg in. You have gone from 9 month clothes to 2t, time for a new wardrobe.
You start our day with a smile and end it the same way. We are filled with pure joy because of you. Your long hair, your squishy smile, your chunky thighs, and you zest for life personality. I baby like you, makes me wish there were 2.
Love you AJ, just keep on keeping on. There is so much to explore and when it is safe to do so, we will take you everywhere. I promise!
Tuesday, June 23, 2020
Quarantine 1st Birthday...None of you are invited!
Well it is May and we are still on lockdown which means we get to spend every minute with you, this by the way is the best gift for Mom and Dad! We made the best of this situation by throwing you a Cobra Kai/Ninja first birthday party that was every second of awesome. It was a beautiful sunny day, it was on your official birthday, and you were celebrated by family and friends that all adore you! We had two smash cakes and one giant cake. So much food, so much fun, and so much laughter. You received so many awesome gifts including an F 150-push truck. How cool is that?!
We thought the third time would finally be the charm when it came to smash cakes, but we struck out. Not only did it not spark your interest but you actually gagged, so your taste buds were turned off too. That didn't mean your sisters weren't interested this time around and they even had their own little cake fight. Outside on my car we had a sign that was bright yellow and black like a hazard sign that read, "My 1st Quarantine Birthday None of you are invited." I put a lot in to making sure your Cobra Kai/Ninja party was perfect. We all wore matching Cobra Kai shirts and took lots of pictures. I decorated up the theme and there was lot of black, red, and yellow. "Strike First, Strike Hard, No Mercy."
You cruised around in your red ferrari, played in your swing outside, ran around like a drunken sailor, and got loved by everyone. Your night ended by falling asleep in my arms. It was one of the best family gatherings ever and to celebrate my favorite boy turning 1. I would have to say besides all of that, the highlight of the party was your face when we all sang, "Happy Birthday," you eyes lit up and you were mesmerized, so thankful to Grandma and Terry for capturing these moments on film.
And like that, you are 1 years old. Quite possibly, the fastest year of my life. You went from a 7lb. baby to a 23lb. toddler in record time and are still topping the charts for height and weight. You will always be my little ninja and you remind us of that everyday with your hand strikes, it still cracks everyone up. Dr. Mike said you continue to be doing exactly what you need to do, you were brave for your shots, and are as healthy as can be! Thank the Lord!
Daddy said it is time for you to be in your own room so he moved the crib out of ours and in to yours. I hate to admit it, but you love it. You love your own space, your own quiet, and you do not struggle to take naps or to go to sleep for the night. The third time around on this one I guess we are doing it right, well in Daddy's eyes we are. Aj is in Aj's room. Big Boy.
You continue to grow and grow. You are walking, babbling up a storm, getting in to everything you can. You are very smart and are able to follow directions, you also know different items when we tell you to get them. You love our daily stroller walks and I have made sure we talk about the birdies and the trees and wave to friends, just before you close your eyes and take in the breeze and the sounds of nature. We go for about 50 minutes a day so it is our quality time.
Due to coronavirus there isn't really anywhere we can go or people we can see. We have kept it to close family and we have driveway parties outside with neighbors. This is where you do a lot of waving and say, "hi." Somehow with all the bad going on it feels to wonderful to have this time with family. Soon school will be over and it will be summer and hopefully we will get back to some kind of normal.
Until then you are continuing to grow, absorb, wonder, and love. You give the absolute best hugs and loved to get your face kissed all over. You belly laugh when I tell you your toes are stinky and you love to take a bath. Your thighs have started to get a little chunky but your mid-section is still strong. As soon as we take your diaper off you have started to reach for your weenie right away. And for the record I'd say all together it is under 5 times that we have every had an accident while changing you. Way to go Team!
I think you favorite word is Dada. Usually when you need something or get a little weepy the Mommom comes out. You don't get upset very often and boy are you tough. You fall you get right back up, something hurts you, you show us and we hug you and say, "boo boo" and you get going again. You are determined, you have grit, and we love it.
Your sister are smothering you but you just ninja them when they get to close or pull their hair, and yes I get it, but honey there is a better way. They love you so much and it is so funny watching you interact with them. Danica just wants you to give her a hug and Charli talks to you in some weird loud voice almost like a gorilla would take and she makes her eyes really big. It is so weird!!
We were all in my room, when you and Charli started carrying around the laundry basket together, so now Danica calls it teamwork, and tries to get you to do it with her. The same way on my bed you lay back, sit up, lay back, sit, up, laugh and then give hugs. Danica is still waiting for her hugs.
When you see Grandma your smile lights up the room. I think you two have your own language and whether is be in person or facetime you seem to communicate pretty well without saying much other than babbles. I am pretty sure your name for her is going to be, "Ma," although in her heart she really wants everyone to call her "Sassy." Oh your G-ma is something else.
With your slight reddish hair and your blue eyes you are looking so much like me when I was a baby and I love squishing our faces together and looking in the mirror. Looking back, my prayers were really answered and I really think I drempt you into life. My life would never be complete without you. Alexander James you are one of the greatest gifts and I am so thankful for this amazing year and all this time we have been able to spend with you. From your first words to your first steps we were here for all of them and for that I am forever grateful. I am looking forward to all the next firsts. Happy Birthday my beautiful, sweet, precious boy. We love you.
We thought the third time would finally be the charm when it came to smash cakes, but we struck out. Not only did it not spark your interest but you actually gagged, so your taste buds were turned off too. That didn't mean your sisters weren't interested this time around and they even had their own little cake fight. Outside on my car we had a sign that was bright yellow and black like a hazard sign that read, "My 1st Quarantine Birthday None of you are invited." I put a lot in to making sure your Cobra Kai/Ninja party was perfect. We all wore matching Cobra Kai shirts and took lots of pictures. I decorated up the theme and there was lot of black, red, and yellow. "Strike First, Strike Hard, No Mercy."
You cruised around in your red ferrari, played in your swing outside, ran around like a drunken sailor, and got loved by everyone. Your night ended by falling asleep in my arms. It was one of the best family gatherings ever and to celebrate my favorite boy turning 1. I would have to say besides all of that, the highlight of the party was your face when we all sang, "Happy Birthday," you eyes lit up and you were mesmerized, so thankful to Grandma and Terry for capturing these moments on film.
And like that, you are 1 years old. Quite possibly, the fastest year of my life. You went from a 7lb. baby to a 23lb. toddler in record time and are still topping the charts for height and weight. You will always be my little ninja and you remind us of that everyday with your hand strikes, it still cracks everyone up. Dr. Mike said you continue to be doing exactly what you need to do, you were brave for your shots, and are as healthy as can be! Thank the Lord!
Daddy said it is time for you to be in your own room so he moved the crib out of ours and in to yours. I hate to admit it, but you love it. You love your own space, your own quiet, and you do not struggle to take naps or to go to sleep for the night. The third time around on this one I guess we are doing it right, well in Daddy's eyes we are. Aj is in Aj's room. Big Boy.
You continue to grow and grow. You are walking, babbling up a storm, getting in to everything you can. You are very smart and are able to follow directions, you also know different items when we tell you to get them. You love our daily stroller walks and I have made sure we talk about the birdies and the trees and wave to friends, just before you close your eyes and take in the breeze and the sounds of nature. We go for about 50 minutes a day so it is our quality time.
Due to coronavirus there isn't really anywhere we can go or people we can see. We have kept it to close family and we have driveway parties outside with neighbors. This is where you do a lot of waving and say, "hi." Somehow with all the bad going on it feels to wonderful to have this time with family. Soon school will be over and it will be summer and hopefully we will get back to some kind of normal.
Until then you are continuing to grow, absorb, wonder, and love. You give the absolute best hugs and loved to get your face kissed all over. You belly laugh when I tell you your toes are stinky and you love to take a bath. Your thighs have started to get a little chunky but your mid-section is still strong. As soon as we take your diaper off you have started to reach for your weenie right away. And for the record I'd say all together it is under 5 times that we have every had an accident while changing you. Way to go Team!
I think you favorite word is Dada. Usually when you need something or get a little weepy the Mommom comes out. You don't get upset very often and boy are you tough. You fall you get right back up, something hurts you, you show us and we hug you and say, "boo boo" and you get going again. You are determined, you have grit, and we love it.
Your sister are smothering you but you just ninja them when they get to close or pull their hair, and yes I get it, but honey there is a better way. They love you so much and it is so funny watching you interact with them. Danica just wants you to give her a hug and Charli talks to you in some weird loud voice almost like a gorilla would take and she makes her eyes really big. It is so weird!!
We were all in my room, when you and Charli started carrying around the laundry basket together, so now Danica calls it teamwork, and tries to get you to do it with her. The same way on my bed you lay back, sit up, lay back, sit, up, laugh and then give hugs. Danica is still waiting for her hugs.
When you see Grandma your smile lights up the room. I think you two have your own language and whether is be in person or facetime you seem to communicate pretty well without saying much other than babbles. I am pretty sure your name for her is going to be, "Ma," although in her heart she really wants everyone to call her "Sassy." Oh your G-ma is something else.
With your slight reddish hair and your blue eyes you are looking so much like me when I was a baby and I love squishing our faces together and looking in the mirror. Looking back, my prayers were really answered and I really think I drempt you into life. My life would never be complete without you. Alexander James you are one of the greatest gifts and I am so thankful for this amazing year and all this time we have been able to spend with you. From your first words to your first steps we were here for all of them and for that I am forever grateful. I am looking forward to all the next firsts. Happy Birthday my beautiful, sweet, precious boy. We love you.
Monday, May 4, 2020
Month 11 in Quarantine
Well, I am not sure if I decided to post about Coronavirus in your last post. I am pretty sure I didn't want to put it out there and make it a reality, but COVID-19 is a REAL thing. Therefore, life as we know it is completely different in so many ways. Let me start out by saying, we did not go to Florida for Spring Break and since March 16th we have been on a stay at home order through May 30th. What that means for you is that we have been able to watch you grow every moment during these amazing milestones in your life. 11 months has been nothing less than amazing. Being able to spend this time with you is priceless. You have taken your first steps, you are babbling your own songs, you are tracking and remembering words, people, faces, routines. You are holding your own pouches of food ( you are the best eater) and you are no longer on formula. We have made the switch to milk...and I don't want to write this too loudly, knock on wood, but for the last two nights you have slept through the night. Yep, you are a big boy and I mean that in so many ways.
Oh AJ, it is truly indescribable how amazing you are. Dan and I have said it on multiple occasions that you are the kind of baby where we wish we had 2 or 3 of you. You personality is so fun, so full of life, easy-going, loving, compassionate, intelligent, you are truly a gift. I haven't even discussed just how cute you are. You light hair, blue eyes, chunky thighs... and the expressions you make light up every room. You my dear, have continued to ninja with your arms and we even caught you making a cobra move with your arm while sleeping. They say some kids are just born with "IT" and now I know what they mean; whether you will be a Rockstar/heart throb, a Professional Athlete or CEO we already know you are destined for greatness, and until then we will continue to enjoy the ride and cherish every moment. You are already GREATNESS in my book.
This time at home has allowed us family walks, swinging on your swing, spending time with your sisters, just being together to make us all even more crazy LOL. You have increased in strength, exceeded every milestone, and are as curious as you can be. I am starting to think, that like your sister, Danica, you might have no fear! I will say that for as independent as you are, you are very in love with Mom and DADA. You remind me of a tiger pacing at the zoo when you are in your crib; very strong and agile but confined and in this case you don't mind as long as we are laughing with you. Your vocab still remains Mom ma and Da da, but you fluctuate your babble when we ask you to say words- changing the octave so you are definitely understanding what we are saying which is so awesome to be a part of.
Music is something you love and you love when we sing. ABC's and Rock A BYE baby are still your top choices. You rock and sway back and forth and know the part when we are going to dip you down and your face gets so excited. Then when we stop singing you continue to carry on the tune. So impressive and so cute. You love to give hugs by nudging in and laying your head on our shoulders and giggling. Then you lift your head off and do it again. You love getting you face squished with kisses and tight hugs from us. When we lay you on our bed you love smashing your head back into the pillow and stretching yourself out. You make it look like you are laying on clouds.
And to think of it your really like smashing your head back in to everything and laying upside down. I think we need to invest in a helmet!
You love Grandma and fluctuate your voice and it really does sounds like Gram ma. When we facetime her, both of your faces light up at the same time, and then you ninja and raise your finger up to the sky like you are telling her what to do and then you start to laugh.
With the change to milk you have been going poopy A LOT! Watching you push it out can be quite heart wrenching when your face turns bright red, but your nickname isn't poopybutt for nothing!
From crawling, to driving your ferrari, to walking around and climbing on everything this has been quite a month. It has been pure joy and I am so thankful for this time with you. We will never get this chance again and I am so thankful you are here with us so that we can spend every moment with you and watch you continue to grow right before our eyes.
Covid-19 has tested man-kind and new heros have emerged. We find out just how resilient we are as people and just how much our families mean to us. Your sisters are driving us nuts and you help to even that all out. You continue to make everything better. You are loved so very much by all of us. Danica really can't get enough of you and although the world is supposed to be six feet apart from one another, she thinks she should be in your face, squeezing you whenever she can, and reading you stories she makes up about coronavirus- so I can reassure you that no matter what, you will always be loved and annoyed!
With that said, you first birthday is around the corner and I really cannot believe a year has gone by. I can remember almost every moment like it was yesterday of the day I had you. I can remember that feeling of pure relief and overall exhilaration. Now, all of a sudden you are one, and we have come so far from you were screaming in the middle of the night in the hospital (and it was the first time I had ever been alone with any baby without Daddy) but I did it, you are thriving and amazing. We did it AJ. I prayed so hard for you and you arrived. You are everything and more than I could have ever dreamed of. Our bond will never be broken and I will make sure that you know that every day of your life and forever.
WE cannot want to celebrate your Quarantined First birthday, until then, LOVE YOU my sweet sweet baby boy.
Oh AJ, it is truly indescribable how amazing you are. Dan and I have said it on multiple occasions that you are the kind of baby where we wish we had 2 or 3 of you. You personality is so fun, so full of life, easy-going, loving, compassionate, intelligent, you are truly a gift. I haven't even discussed just how cute you are. You light hair, blue eyes, chunky thighs... and the expressions you make light up every room. You my dear, have continued to ninja with your arms and we even caught you making a cobra move with your arm while sleeping. They say some kids are just born with "IT" and now I know what they mean; whether you will be a Rockstar/heart throb, a Professional Athlete or CEO we already know you are destined for greatness, and until then we will continue to enjoy the ride and cherish every moment. You are already GREATNESS in my book.
This time at home has allowed us family walks, swinging on your swing, spending time with your sisters, just being together to make us all even more crazy LOL. You have increased in strength, exceeded every milestone, and are as curious as you can be. I am starting to think, that like your sister, Danica, you might have no fear! I will say that for as independent as you are, you are very in love with Mom and DADA. You remind me of a tiger pacing at the zoo when you are in your crib; very strong and agile but confined and in this case you don't mind as long as we are laughing with you. Your vocab still remains Mom ma and Da da, but you fluctuate your babble when we ask you to say words- changing the octave so you are definitely understanding what we are saying which is so awesome to be a part of.
Music is something you love and you love when we sing. ABC's and Rock A BYE baby are still your top choices. You rock and sway back and forth and know the part when we are going to dip you down and your face gets so excited. Then when we stop singing you continue to carry on the tune. So impressive and so cute. You love to give hugs by nudging in and laying your head on our shoulders and giggling. Then you lift your head off and do it again. You love getting you face squished with kisses and tight hugs from us. When we lay you on our bed you love smashing your head back into the pillow and stretching yourself out. You make it look like you are laying on clouds.
And to think of it your really like smashing your head back in to everything and laying upside down. I think we need to invest in a helmet!
You love Grandma and fluctuate your voice and it really does sounds like Gram ma. When we facetime her, both of your faces light up at the same time, and then you ninja and raise your finger up to the sky like you are telling her what to do and then you start to laugh.
With the change to milk you have been going poopy A LOT! Watching you push it out can be quite heart wrenching when your face turns bright red, but your nickname isn't poopybutt for nothing!
From crawling, to driving your ferrari, to walking around and climbing on everything this has been quite a month. It has been pure joy and I am so thankful for this time with you. We will never get this chance again and I am so thankful you are here with us so that we can spend every moment with you and watch you continue to grow right before our eyes.
Covid-19 has tested man-kind and new heros have emerged. We find out just how resilient we are as people and just how much our families mean to us. Your sisters are driving us nuts and you help to even that all out. You continue to make everything better. You are loved so very much by all of us. Danica really can't get enough of you and although the world is supposed to be six feet apart from one another, she thinks she should be in your face, squeezing you whenever she can, and reading you stories she makes up about coronavirus- so I can reassure you that no matter what, you will always be loved and annoyed!
With that said, you first birthday is around the corner and I really cannot believe a year has gone by. I can remember almost every moment like it was yesterday of the day I had you. I can remember that feeling of pure relief and overall exhilaration. Now, all of a sudden you are one, and we have come so far from you were screaming in the middle of the night in the hospital (and it was the first time I had ever been alone with any baby without Daddy) but I did it, you are thriving and amazing. We did it AJ. I prayed so hard for you and you arrived. You are everything and more than I could have ever dreamed of. Our bond will never be broken and I will make sure that you know that every day of your life and forever.
WE cannot want to celebrate your Quarantined First birthday, until then, LOVE YOU my sweet sweet baby boy.
Thursday, March 12, 2020
10 month NINJA
AJ Collins you are a ninja with your hand movements(elbows in), your grunt, and your chin up direct head movement. You, little guy, are a force to be reckoned with! So unbelievable smily and cute with light brown hair that is growing over your ears, blue eyes, and such chunky thighs. I am certain you are 25 lbs of love! Diaper changing has now become a full on exercise for Mom and Dad as you kick and flip, and grab whatever you can for extra momentum. Let me tell you ,with the nickname "Poopybutt" this can make for quite a scene!
You have mastered the art of crawling and can get from point A to B in no time. Same as in your car, you can manipulate that to go anywhere you want and in to anyone, or any dog, or any cabinet, or anything at full speed! Then you just laugh when you crash.
You are definitely very vocal and have your own language. It is not as much squacking anymore as it is sounds- like "mom mom mom" and "ba ba ba." You still love music and the ABC's. It almost capitvates you. I can also see that you have rhythm as you start to sway when music is playing.
I'd say we have a pretty good schedule going, although you have still not slept through the night, but Dad and I don't mind holding you when you give little cries for a bottle in the night. I think we have all made this a habit. It's the best habit in my opinion. You will only be this little once, right. I love rokcing you to sleep and then holding you up on my shoulder. I hold you so tight. I do this in the monring too, when I give you a hug, so tight, and kisses all over your face, you squeeze right back and jsut giggle, giggle, giggle.
You are so content in your bouncer and your car seat which has made life so easy for Mom and Dad. Thank you sweet boy, thank you!
I really cannot believe that 10 months have passed. I am for sure 100000000000000 percent that my life would have never been complete without you. It is almost like I have known you my whole life. I could not love you more than I do- it would be impossible. You are more than a blessing to me and I am so thankful you are in our lives. I didn't know our family could have gotten better and you knocked it out of the park.
We have such an amazing spring ahead of us, kicking off with a spring break trip to Florida. Stroller rides in the sun, crawling on the beach, swimming in the pool, music at every restaurant- I can hardly wait. You are sitting in a high chair now so you can enjoy every moment of interacting with your crazy family. I cannot wait! We updated your wardrobe with 12 month summer clothes to get you ready for the big trip! This will be your 3rd roundtrip vacation to Florida. I'd say you are quite the little traveler in your first 10 months and this will for sure be a trip where you will be tiring out with excitement. I really can't wait. Looks like 80's and sunny all week- knock on wood!
I can tell how smart you are with how you track words, items, memory. I can see your kindness and excitement to see your "friends" at Kathy's house- and I can see you already have compassion. For example, You reached out and grabbed Danica's face and she started to cry---immediately you started to cry. You knew you hurt her and it hurt you. It was so emotional for me. You are truly your own little person and amazing doesn't even describe you.
Your sisters absolutely adore you and love being with you, and as we are coming close to walking I don't think they know what they are in for, I sure don't!
Oh my little boy, We have so much to look forward to. I am so thankful for our health, our love, and our family. Let the good times roll and start walking!!
You have mastered the art of crawling and can get from point A to B in no time. Same as in your car, you can manipulate that to go anywhere you want and in to anyone, or any dog, or any cabinet, or anything at full speed! Then you just laugh when you crash.
You are definitely very vocal and have your own language. It is not as much squacking anymore as it is sounds- like "mom mom mom" and "ba ba ba." You still love music and the ABC's. It almost capitvates you. I can also see that you have rhythm as you start to sway when music is playing.
I'd say we have a pretty good schedule going, although you have still not slept through the night, but Dad and I don't mind holding you when you give little cries for a bottle in the night. I think we have all made this a habit. It's the best habit in my opinion. You will only be this little once, right. I love rokcing you to sleep and then holding you up on my shoulder. I hold you so tight. I do this in the monring too, when I give you a hug, so tight, and kisses all over your face, you squeeze right back and jsut giggle, giggle, giggle.
You are so content in your bouncer and your car seat which has made life so easy for Mom and Dad. Thank you sweet boy, thank you!
I really cannot believe that 10 months have passed. I am for sure 100000000000000 percent that my life would have never been complete without you. It is almost like I have known you my whole life. I could not love you more than I do- it would be impossible. You are more than a blessing to me and I am so thankful you are in our lives. I didn't know our family could have gotten better and you knocked it out of the park.
We have such an amazing spring ahead of us, kicking off with a spring break trip to Florida. Stroller rides in the sun, crawling on the beach, swimming in the pool, music at every restaurant- I can hardly wait. You are sitting in a high chair now so you can enjoy every moment of interacting with your crazy family. I cannot wait! We updated your wardrobe with 12 month summer clothes to get you ready for the big trip! This will be your 3rd roundtrip vacation to Florida. I'd say you are quite the little traveler in your first 10 months and this will for sure be a trip where you will be tiring out with excitement. I really can't wait. Looks like 80's and sunny all week- knock on wood!
I can tell how smart you are with how you track words, items, memory. I can see your kindness and excitement to see your "friends" at Kathy's house- and I can see you already have compassion. For example, You reached out and grabbed Danica's face and she started to cry---immediately you started to cry. You knew you hurt her and it hurt you. It was so emotional for me. You are truly your own little person and amazing doesn't even describe you.
Your sisters absolutely adore you and love being with you, and as we are coming close to walking I don't think they know what they are in for, I sure don't!
Oh my little boy, We have so much to look forward to. I am so thankful for our health, our love, and our family. Let the good times roll and start walking!!
Friday, February 21, 2020
9 months, really, already?!!!!!
I cannot believe the little human you are becoming. You have the best tempermant of any baby I have ever met. I think that any one has ever met. You can just tell how kind hearted you are and easy to please. You really have a permagrin on your face. It is the most amazing feeling when you get a glimpse of us when we pick you up out of your crib, or walk back in to a room, and you just starting smiling and cooing. Your smile is jsut the cutest and beyond infectious. It makes everyone feel so warm and fuzzy and so important. AJ you really make the world smile.
Your mobility is growing leaps and so are you. It is really amazing thinking that not long ago when I would rock you to sleep you were just so tiny and now at your last appointment you weighed around 21 lbs. You are such a big boy! You are still topping the charts for height, so lets just keep on growing boy! You are sitting up on your own, you still prefer the scoot motion to the crawling motion. You are a monster in your ferrari, let nothing stand in your way alive or fixed. (Poor Reilly boots) You are pulling yourself up to stand. When you hold us by our fingers you are well aware of the walking motion and get so excited. It is only a matter of time that my step count goes through the roof chasing you around.
When I take you to Kathy's you have a line of kids waiting to see you. They sometimes even chant, "AJ, AJ." It is so fun, they just love you too. I am so glad you already have a network of friends and Kathy takes good care of you.
The whole way to and from Kathy's house you just talk to me and on occasion I will sing and you just smile the whole time and giggle. Daddy is teaching you to say "Uh Oh," so we play that game back and forth. I love looking at you in the rearview mirror, you are a dream come true in all ways. We have been blessed with the best baby EVER, I am sure of it.
When you and I get our quality alone time, we have a snack and then vacumn, and then you crawl everywhere and try to get to all places I have blocked off- just like you are supposed to! Then we engage in a little face time with Grandma, she helps babysit that way too!
Then you let me know when you are ready for a bottle and fall asleep in my arms. Once again I never want to put you down, sometimes at night I rock you to sleep and just keep on rocking until my eyes start to close- you are always in good hands!
We had a family Valentine's night with cousins and aunts and uncles and once again Auntie terry made sure you were the best dressed in your "Mr. Valentines" outfit. It was too much, we loved it.
Things are just so much more fun with you! Daddy and I have gone on a few dates with you and you are always full of conversation and laughs, can't wait until the next one.
Keep on growing honey, keep on smiling, keep on pulling yourself up on tables and in your crib. Keep on laughing, keep on talking, and keep on loving. You just keep on being you and all of us will just keep on supporting and loving you.
TEAM COLLINS FOREVER!
Your mobility is growing leaps and so are you. It is really amazing thinking that not long ago when I would rock you to sleep you were just so tiny and now at your last appointment you weighed around 21 lbs. You are such a big boy! You are still topping the charts for height, so lets just keep on growing boy! You are sitting up on your own, you still prefer the scoot motion to the crawling motion. You are a monster in your ferrari, let nothing stand in your way alive or fixed. (Poor Reilly boots) You are pulling yourself up to stand. When you hold us by our fingers you are well aware of the walking motion and get so excited. It is only a matter of time that my step count goes through the roof chasing you around.
When I take you to Kathy's you have a line of kids waiting to see you. They sometimes even chant, "AJ, AJ." It is so fun, they just love you too. I am so glad you already have a network of friends and Kathy takes good care of you.
The whole way to and from Kathy's house you just talk to me and on occasion I will sing and you just smile the whole time and giggle. Daddy is teaching you to say "Uh Oh," so we play that game back and forth. I love looking at you in the rearview mirror, you are a dream come true in all ways. We have been blessed with the best baby EVER, I am sure of it.
When you and I get our quality alone time, we have a snack and then vacumn, and then you crawl everywhere and try to get to all places I have blocked off- just like you are supposed to! Then we engage in a little face time with Grandma, she helps babysit that way too!
Then you let me know when you are ready for a bottle and fall asleep in my arms. Once again I never want to put you down, sometimes at night I rock you to sleep and just keep on rocking until my eyes start to close- you are always in good hands!
We had a family Valentine's night with cousins and aunts and uncles and once again Auntie terry made sure you were the best dressed in your "Mr. Valentines" outfit. It was too much, we loved it.
Things are just so much more fun with you! Daddy and I have gone on a few dates with you and you are always full of conversation and laughs, can't wait until the next one.
Keep on growing honey, keep on smiling, keep on pulling yourself up on tables and in your crib. Keep on laughing, keep on talking, and keep on loving. You just keep on being you and all of us will just keep on supporting and loving you.
TEAM COLLINS FOREVER!
8 months and a BIG boy
8 months has really been quite a ride. From swimming in Florida and rolling around in the sand, back to below zero temps and snowsuits, you have really starting becoming a big boy. Your mobility is upon us whether it is rolling, scooting, your own type of crawl, or kneeling and rocking in almost a plank position, you find a way to get from point A to point B and get there quickly. This also applies to the Ferrari that you were gifted. You are so fast in that walker and banging in to everything you can. This includes the dog, pushing laundry, and even the vacumn cleaners- like you are moving a sled on a football field! So funny! We are starting to AJ proof the house as everything goes in your mouth and with all the crafting your sisters engage in there is bound to be reminansce wherever you go.
I am so impressed by your constant talking, cooing, and ability to say Mom Mom and Dada, and make sure you get our attention when you need us. You still smile all the time and do some kind of grunting with a sumo motion. Daddy and I laugh to hard because it is almost like you are in a wrestling 'go' stance with your elbows in. It is really so cute and funny because you laugh at us- laughing at you doing it. You are starting to say Ba for your bottle but when you are saying it, Daddy and I starting cracking up. We will have to tell you about barkbusters and the BAHHHH we did with River. We are really silly! I am trying to teach you to wave goodbye but you like when I wave your hand for you. You also love to hear me sing, I feel like a superstar. You really love music and giggle at the ABC's. I love driving home with you and watching you in the mirror, you just smile at my voice and then talk the whole way home and loudly. Lots of fluctuations of the word Ahhhhhh.
This also happens in your crib-you soothe yourself and then when you have had enough you let out a few cries to make sure somoene picks you up. We do this in the morning, I try to sneak in the shower without you catching me. Then when you do I let you crawl all over the floor and sometimes I blow dry your hair from afar and you love it. You also make sure to leave me a gift in your pants...and sometimes it has made me late to work, we have had to do a shower rinse off when you caught me for only the second time and your pee shot to your head! I can only laugh because all you do is laugh at me. Oh how I love you so!
You are a very strong boy with not as many rolls as your sisters but your legs are a little chunky or look like kankles ( Hee Hee). Your hair is becoming a light brown with a red tint in the sun and it has gotten so long, Grandma said you could be a Beatle and Auntie Terry things you would have been Paul. We will wait just a little longer until that first haircut. You my dear complete the trifecta with your blue eyes. Never did I think I would have the most beautiful blue eyes children, the most beautiful yes, blue eyed, no.
You skin is so soft and you still love your baths and then we lotion you up. Your wardrobe is expanding from sleepers to onesies and pants as you are so fashionable. You can thank Auntie Terry for your themed outfits!
Your sisters absolutely adore you. Danica was holding you after school and Charli came in and said you have been holding him for an hour it is my turn.... ummm it was like 30 seconds. So lets just say between the girls constantly in your face, Reilly licking you, and Mommy and Daddy holding you- you are at no moment not loved. Oh and I didn't even mention Grandma and all your cousins, aunts, and uncles too.
You are the third wheel to date night and different adults only parties and what a wonderful third wheel you are. You are actually not the third wheel but the piece that completes us all. Oh AJ how we love thee, I cannot even count the ways!
Friday, December 20, 2019
5, 6, 7 I'm just gonna keep on counting!
My big boy! My teradactyl! My greatest wish come true! The magic continues. You continue to light up the room, light up lives, light up the world. Every day you just get bigger and more aware and more independent, for a 7 month old that is. Rolling across the room, talking non-stop in your own language of sounds, laughing, and flapping your arms and legs when we walk in the room! Crying when we step away for a second. Eating anything and everything, including Grandma's face. Starting to sit up on your own. Enjoying your puppy, Reilly, and loving the feeling of petting her and her licking your toes and face. Bath time is pure joy and I am so looking forward to putting you in the pool in Florida I am certain you are going to be a little fish!
Did I mention that you took your first flight right before you turned 6 months, not a peep on the plane, just a nice little nap, and the most amazing travel companion. You were for sure a guest favorite at the wedding and it was pure joy to spend the weekend with you and Dad. We even bought you your own portable fan for Florida so you are always comfortable, we were able to get your new stoller and bed down there and we are all ready to get you in the warm sun for Christmas!
I truly couldn't imagine life without you. I never did, I have been waiting for you forever. You are the greatest gift and now my heart is full. Thank you for that gift. I am forever grateful that my prayers were answered. It is only fitting that your first words are "MOM MOM MOM." Those words are music to my ears.
Although you have yet to sleep through the night there is no struggle for Dad or I to get up and feed you a bottle, rock you, listen to you burp, and then lay you back in your crib. You roll over on your side or stomach and you fall back to sleep. Then a few hours later you make little sounds and soothe yourself back to sleep and every morning I wake up with a smile on my face.
We have been told by so many people that you are the happiest baby they have ever met. They talk about meeting 100's...1000's of babies and you are the happiest of all. I know one thing, there is not a baby in the world that is loved more than you and that is a fact!
Your temperment is like no other, little cries are soothed by a touch, a smile is a permanent on your face and it is the cutest smile. Your hair has turned to a light brown with red highlights and your blue eyes have their own unique hue. Chubby thighs are on the horizon and although you seem to be a big boy your are not a chunker so only time will tell. Grandma says you are all boy and I know how strong you are, so it looks like you are all set up for success little one.
I am so impressed by your tracking and your ability to remember patterns....like back stroke and kick kick kick... and just like your sisters you love and giggle at "Arms up, arms down, arms up arms down, arms up arms down, tickle your pitties!" Your giggle is so funny and you jsut squish up your face and then start talking again.
Every day is a gift having you. I love you and I cannot wait for your first Christmas in Florida. May all of those watching us from above celebrate all these firsts with us as they will always be in our hearts.
I love you AJ poopy butt!
Merry Christmas son.
Did I mention that you took your first flight right before you turned 6 months, not a peep on the plane, just a nice little nap, and the most amazing travel companion. You were for sure a guest favorite at the wedding and it was pure joy to spend the weekend with you and Dad. We even bought you your own portable fan for Florida so you are always comfortable, we were able to get your new stoller and bed down there and we are all ready to get you in the warm sun for Christmas!
I truly couldn't imagine life without you. I never did, I have been waiting for you forever. You are the greatest gift and now my heart is full. Thank you for that gift. I am forever grateful that my prayers were answered. It is only fitting that your first words are "MOM MOM MOM." Those words are music to my ears.
Although you have yet to sleep through the night there is no struggle for Dad or I to get up and feed you a bottle, rock you, listen to you burp, and then lay you back in your crib. You roll over on your side or stomach and you fall back to sleep. Then a few hours later you make little sounds and soothe yourself back to sleep and every morning I wake up with a smile on my face.
We have been told by so many people that you are the happiest baby they have ever met. They talk about meeting 100's...1000's of babies and you are the happiest of all. I know one thing, there is not a baby in the world that is loved more than you and that is a fact!
Your temperment is like no other, little cries are soothed by a touch, a smile is a permanent on your face and it is the cutest smile. Your hair has turned to a light brown with red highlights and your blue eyes have their own unique hue. Chubby thighs are on the horizon and although you seem to be a big boy your are not a chunker so only time will tell. Grandma says you are all boy and I know how strong you are, so it looks like you are all set up for success little one.
I am so impressed by your tracking and your ability to remember patterns....like back stroke and kick kick kick... and just like your sisters you love and giggle at "Arms up, arms down, arms up arms down, arms up arms down, tickle your pitties!" Your giggle is so funny and you jsut squish up your face and then start talking again.
Every day is a gift having you. I love you and I cannot wait for your first Christmas in Florida. May all of those watching us from above celebrate all these firsts with us as they will always be in our hearts.
I love you AJ poopy butt!
Merry Christmas son.
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