A is for Apple and Attitude

Laken likes to chew on cold slices of apple. And it gives me a chance to clean up the kitchen ;) She is so busy lately, and developing a little "attitude". She lets us know right away when she does not like something with a loud shriek. If we leave the room we expect at least one squeal and then she settles down. So we've been coming up with creative ways to keep her entertained while we are busy. I decided to pack up her bouncer today......she just does not like to lay back anymore and would rather be scooting around or playing. Such a big girl!

Parks are Fun

~Pictures of the day at a pretty park in Little Rock.

Please Pass the Tissue

[just a little pregnant girl nostalgia and ramblings] Chase and I have been talking a lot lately about Laken's little milestones. And it is such a special understanding between parents. It's the littlest moments that mean so much to only us and it seems to be happening a lot lately. It's the drive home from Walmart when Laken is in her car seat babbling away, "Gagagagaga, [and then wait for it] "DADA!" And Chase and I look at each other with such surprise and happiness. And it's just a look but you know that the other person's heart is melting with joy too! The other day we were out to eat sitting across from each other. Our little bug was between us, pushed up to the table in her high chair. We had a little container of puffs out (yeah she is that cool now!) We look down and she is slowly picking up a puff between her fingers......and then she puts it in her own mouth and feeds herself! Chase and I looked at one another again with pure joy and burst out clapping while smothering Laken in "Yeah's!" I am sure the whole restaurant thought we were off our rockers....but at that moment you just don't hear or notice anyone else in the room. It does not matter when those milestones happen, and no one else would even notice just how special they are, but for a moment the world stops spinning and your heart pools with joy, and those are just the most special moments that I feel blessed to share with my husband and little girl. [cue the kleenex]

Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder

This is our latest decor.......baby toys and gear everywhere. If you know me well, you know that I love home decor and having a clean and organized home. I have now succumb to the fact that my home may never look the same. And to tell you the truth....I love it!!! There is so much more life in our home now and I would not trade it for anything. Don't get me wrong....I constantly dream of what the next home we buy will look like, and how to accommodate kid decor in a tasteful way. And yes, I already have our babies play room and "kid themed" bathroom designed ;) But in the meantime I am perfectly content with the toys bursting from every seam of furniture and the changing table that dons our living room!

Road Trip to Memphis

Today we went on a road trip to Memphis to see Beale St. A historic and musical part of town. It was really fun, a beautiful day, and only a two and a half hour drive. Laken loved Beale St. I think mostly because of the blues music and bright colors! Isn't that the cutest picture of her in the sun hat! Love it. We are apparently crazy (according to the masses) for not stopping by Graceland.....but as you can see Elvis made an appearance anyhow! We stopped at the Gibson factory for Chase to drool over the $6000+ guitars. And get this........it is 6pm and we are already home! We are officially old and moldy ;)

8 Month Bloopers

(click on the collage to see a larger version)

8 Month Stats

* I wear 12 month clothes, and size 3 diapers.
* I crawl backwards, and get stuck in corners.
* I rarely spit up anymore, and do not get as many tummy aches.
* I drink 5 bottles a day, 3 meals, and practice with a sippy cup of water daily. I really like to try whatever my parents are eating now and let them know!
* I play with my hair.
* I bounce up and down while sitting or when I get excited!
* I have two smiles.....my super genuine open mouthed smile, and the scrunch my face up silly one.
* It is so hard to change my diapers. I want to play with anything in my diaper basket and try to flip over while you are changing me.
* I am all over my crib at night, and flip over back and forth from back to stomach.
* I want to stand all the time, but I need your help.
* I am very adventurous and end up with boo boos.
* I really want to do whatever my parents are doing. Play with cell phones, remotes,keys (the baby versions of these are NOT the same!) I get frustrated when I can not play with them and when I can not have a drink of mom's starbucks.
* I am putting consonants and vowels together. I say things like..."Hi!" on accident!
* I like to hear stories, but need my own book to look at while you read to me.
* I love to rough house with Dad, play with water, listen to music, try new foods, and go for walks. I also like to shop now and sit in the cart!