Cousins

The day we arrived in Denver during our recent trip there, much to our surprise and shock, my niece Abby wanted to hold Baby Vincent. It was her idea! I think Vincent brought out the tiny mamma in her. She didn't even want to let him go, and it still warms my heart to know she is still asking where Baby Vincent is at—almost a month later. She's going to be a fine big sister. And almost just as surprising, Vincent tolerated being held by amateur arms. I just love that they're in their PJs.

Sparkle

This past weekend we ventured to Denver to spend time with my sis and her family for the fourth. The last time I saw her daughter Abby she was a timid little thing who had to have lots of time to warm up to you. But now she's two and a half and sassy! I loved how she'd run up to me and hug my legs and giggle as she'd peek on baby Vincent. We worried she wouldn't be receptive to having a baby in the house since she hasn't seemed that fond of the baby growing in mamma's belly. Instead, she found herself a real live doll to hug and snuggle.

Jonathan snapped this picture of her. It's way blurry, but somehow it captures the sparkle that Girlfriend exudes. Sparkle on Girlfriend. Sparkle on!



I can't wait to share with you all the rest of my Denver adventures. Trips to my sister's house are always so much fun and inspiring.

Learning the hard way

Moms don't let kids chew on power cords.

When at the park

It's necessary to make going down the slide a family affair. There must be hugs, high fives, and pound its. Unless, in Abby's case, you're too young to give a proper high five. As AJ said, "Abby didn't open her hand for a five." Give her time lil buddy. Give her time.

Little creep

I couldn't videotape Abby and not get her funny little crawl/roll. The girl is mobile! What you don't see in this video is that she actually started out in the living room. Eventually she does get tired and stranded and lifts her hands and feet and yells to come get her. Now. So demanding that one.

And back again

After a major cold, almost seriously passing out from a blood donation, busy work (we had to let some people go), and a trip to visit some family in Colorado, I'm back. I'm inspired. I'm excited! To launch what I hope is a new leaf for this blog, here's a video of Abby (aka Girlfriend) blowing you some raspberries and giving you a couple of her signature grins.

I hate to brag, but...

I'm responsible for this photographic genius.

There and back again

Home from my week-long stay with my sister. I was so sad to leave. Leave the smiles, the hugs, the giggling, the newborn snuggle loving, the Thomas-watching (Okay, maybe not so sad about that). I'm was also glad to be home and see Jonathan. I missed him so much. He bought me flowers and candy. Guess I was missed too. The week was a success. Baby Abby is a little charmer. She loves to be held close and rocked—not to mention she loves to eat. Not sure Mom got much rest with Abby being so hungry. AJ has gotten so big, and so independent. I can't decide who I'll miss most, but I guess I don't have decide. I love em all so much. I'm so lucky to be able to have spent time with the little family. Not sure when I'll be able to see them again. Good thing there's Skype! Now I need to make plans to see my new nephew. I'm a busy aunt!

What vacation?

I'm being pseudo mommy for the week while Capricious recovers from having her cutest of a thang daugher (aka Girlfriend). AJ has been heaps of fun. We've pretended to talk on our cell phones very adult-like: how's the weather? cold. whatcha doing? me talk. how you doing? i'm fines all around. We've watched hours of Thomas (unfortunately, I have a head full of songs that I would rather not have). We've created cars out of suitcases and block carts. We've perfected our choo choo and vroom vroom noises. We've played trains and painted pictures. We've had picnics on the floor. We've taken pictures. We've danced. We've changed clothes and taken naps. And I'm exhausted. And yet, I know after this week is over, I'll miss him more than ever and want to go back in time. And possibly want to take a real vacation after my vacation. Being pseudo mommy is hard work. But very very satisfying and rewarding. Do you hear that: That could be the makings of a baby itch. Better grab the calamine.

The sweetest thing

Five days old and already posing for the camera.

12 times an aunt

Welcome to the world Abigail Catherine. We've been expecting you. I can't wait to meet you in person—all 6lbs., 12oz. of you. I'm wondering who's holding you. Jealous of anyone besides Mommy and Daddy who get to snuggle love you up. But I'll be there soon. I hope you can't wait either.