Ian's Blog

Dear Ian,

2011-09-27T21:34:00.005-04:00

We love you so. You are becoming such a little boy. Not much baby left in you. An emerging chatterbox. Signing some, but using your voice more and more. Lots of 'dog', 'more', 'mama', 'dada', 'Audrey', 'hot', 'what's that?', and 'duck'. Did I mention 'dog'? But, my hands down favorite is 'all done'. You are so animated when you say it. When finished eating. Or riding in the car. Or when looking at a book. Or when you decide you are ready to get out of your crib (even when we've just laid you down for the night!). Or when daddy has NPR on the radio. A man after my own heart! You are such a sweetheart. Giving us kisses for no reason. Loving on your lion. Insisting on as many Nuks as are within sight. Greeting all with a 'hi! hi!' Though you love to pull your sister's hair, you also love sharing with her. You insist that she needs a book in the bath just like you. It drives her bonkers since she has no interest in it, but we laugh since we know you are just being thoughtful. You love when she plays with you, and get so excited when you see her first thing in the morning. You are sensitive to redirection and love to please. You love life and dive into most things headfirst. Literally. You are so willing to try new things. Including food. You down asparagus like nobody's business. But only if you can first hit yourself in the face with it. Daddy is not allowed to cut it up or there are lots of tears about asparagus no longer being fun. You love whooshes when the Bears score and imitate the Bears when you catch a play. And you sit on the couch or floor when the TV is turned on, anticipating Murray Monster from Sesame. So excited when he appears.

I remember when you were born and talking with our beloved pediatrician about how concerned I was that you would not get as much individual attention as Audrey. She told me that while your reality would be different from when Audrey was born, you would thrive nonetheless.

Indeed.

2011-09-26T13:44:00.003-04:00

I have no idea who Ian looks like in this picture...

Swim Lessons

2011-09-26T13:41:00.004-04:00

Ian loves the bath. Especially walking around in it. Needless to say, this results in short baths. Just as we did with Audrey, we enrolled Ian in swim lessons and we knew Ian would not hesitate to get into the pool. Eric gets in with him, and we hear the same songs we learned when Audrey took lessons. I don't remember Audrey doing this, but as soon as Ian sees me (and Audrey), he waves and smiles and blows kisses and says, 'mamama', and turns his head to keep us in view. He is just beat after lessons. So is his daddy!

Hide and Seek

2011-08-16T22:31:00.006-04:00

Ian is really getting the hang of hiding these days. Usually if I ask, 'Where's Ian?', he pats his head to let me know, "Right here!" But, since big sis hides behind the chair during a good game of hide and seek, he knows that's the place to hide.

Love him to pieces. (And, yes, living room generally is what I affectionately call, 'a disaster area'. When I was recently cleaning up, Audrey very seriously said to me, "Mommy, why are you cleaning up? We're just going to make a mess again after nap.")

Ba Ba Ba, Barbara Ann

2011-07-26T09:18:00.006-04:00

Just like his big sister, Ian loooooves the song, Barbara Ann. It's foolproof in getting a smile out of him. And, even on a hot, hot day, some dancing! :)

First Year Stats

2011-07-18T13:11:00.002-04:00

Ian had his one-year appt with Dr. M and got to impress her by toddling over to her! He weighs 25 lbs, 4 oz (82nd percentile) and is 33 inches tall (95th percentile). Let's see, Audrey was 24 lbs at her 2 year appt and was 33 inches at 2 1/2 years. Swear they're related!

Father's Day!

2011-06-19T19:23:00.012-04:00

Ian looks a little different than last Father's Day!

ianeugene.blogspot.com/2010/07/catch-up.html

And oh how he loves his daddy. Signs 'please' if I get him up in the morning as he instead wants Eric. Throws the ball to him instead of me if Eric is in sight. And the wrestling. Eric is his go-to guy.

Ian is a mini Eric, through and through. I only hope we never find a mini-version of Eric's shirt! :)

Birthday Party!

2011-06-19T19:23:00.011-04:00

Ian loved seeing family for his birthday party, even if he was the first to bed!

Happy Birthday!

2011-06-17T22:16:00.005-04:00

Ian had a great first birthday. He woke at his usual time of 6 AM sharp and was ready to get his day started! He enjoyed opening his first present but lost interest shortly thereafter and instead wanted to drink some milk while his sister helped open the rest. He napped at 7:30 but was ready for a day at the zoo shortly thereafter. His favorite by far was the bear who he got a really good look at. He snoozed after lunch and didn't wake until the ride home. He loved his first taste of ice cream, complements of Jenny at Coldstone. He loved playing with both sets of grandparents to end his day. He was wiped and headed for upstairs when asked if ready for bed. Nothing gets in the way of sleep when there is a Nuk and a penguin nearby!

Dear Ian,

2011-06-16T23:25:00.007-04:00

Tomorrow, you turn 1. You most certainly are more a toddler than a baby. You now toddle into the kitchen. Just strolling in to see what's going on. You are a laid back, go with the flow kind of guy. Unless it's time for a meal or a snack. Or you are ready for your 8 AM nap (!). As Dr. M mentioned at your last appt, you have really just fit in so well to our family.

This birthday is bittersweet for me. You are my little boy. Growing much too fast. Tonight, when I arrived to pick you up, I spotted you immediately. Sitting in the grass. Outside with the big kids. You were just soaking it all in. The others were running, but your legs must have given out in the grassy incline. I heard your teacher asking if you were going to join the fun. You started toward me as soon as your tracked my voice, and I was of course so glad to scoop you up. I know that you will be taking that grassy incline in no time, and keeping up with the big kids. But, for now, I love that little boy just soaking up all around.

So, we close your first year. With four teeth. Two more starting to peek thru. With words including mama, dada, and 'what's that?'. Signs for more, please, bath, and all done. A love for flags. And your daddy. And baths. And Murray Monster. And Audrey. And swings. Did I mention flags?

We can't wait to spend the day with you tomorrow. Your first trip to the zoo. Bet you'll especially love all the flags. :)

Love, Mommy

Memorial Day weekend

2011-05-31T23:14:00.004-04:00

Ian had a great holiday weekend. He had the best seat in the house riding on Eric's back for a hike through the woods at Brown County State Park, but would not keep his hands inside the moving vehicle. He just had to have his arm extended for the entirety of the hike, much to my horror as I was concerned his arm was going to be broken by all the trees within close proximity. (This is the best I got of Ian and Eric. Probably is an actual eye roll from Eric after all the pictures...)

He also loved his first dip in the pool. He got the hang of splashing his sister more quickly than expected...

There was some crying though when told his pool time was up, but thankfully the next stop was the bath. For which he cries every night when dinner is over. Adamantly signing "please" and "bath" until we oblige. This little water baby definitely didn't inherit that from me!

11 Months!

2011-05-17T20:52:00.004-04:00

Audrey asked me today why I was so sad. Eleven months! That's why! I can't believe Ian is almost a year old. Such a great little boy. He's been up to a lot of moving around this month. No longer can I give him a haircut as he moves around too much, despite Audrey's best attempts to distract him. He's taking 6-7 steps at time and started pivoting and doing squats this evening! Such a show-off! He loves, loves, loves his swing. Cries if he's told it's time to get off before he's ready. He desperately signs, 'please' to go outside, especially for that swing! Audrey remains the bees knees. He's starting to say 'nana' for banana and continues to say 'mama' and 'dada'. We think he's working on tooth #5 (and maybe #6).

I did attempt to get a picture of him in the chair. He almost fell out of the chair when trying to stand and climb back out of the chair. Audrey and I get a workout trying to get these pictures!

Walking

2011-05-15T22:32:00.010-04:00

My first attempt at getting some video of Ian walking...must copy and paste the link given some IT issues.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVBJGrTqZow

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T20:34:00.003-04:00

I had a great first Mother's Day with my little boy. He was ready to begin the day by 6 AM, and Eric thankfully entertained him while I slept in a bit. The rest of us were no entertainment for him during brunch as he people watched and enjoyed some balloons celebrating Mother's Day. I think though, without a doubt, the highlight of Ian's day was riding on his swing.

Oh how he LOVES his swing. Loves it. Cries if not warned that the fun is about to end. Could swing all day. I took many pics of him on the swing and when reviewing them later, he was smiling from ear to ear in each of them. Oh what a fun summer we will have!

I so love being this little guy's mommy. Just a year ago he was kicking and doing somersaults that made me stop in my tracks. Now he just glances my way, cocks his head, and gives a big grin.

Love this easygoing guy.

And...

2011-04-28T20:18:00.001-04:00

we have walking!!!

First Easter

2011-04-24T20:50:00.006-04:00

Ian had a great first Easter though he could have cared less about all the festivities! He headed in the opposite direction while Audrey was hunting eggs and snacked and played during egg-decorating. Took full advantage of his sister being otherwise occupied to spend time doing what HE wanted to do! Bet his interests will change next Easter! He did enjoy his first chocolate bunny, bearing a big grin the minute he got his first taste!

Ten Months!

2011-04-17T22:22:00.003-04:00

Ian celebrated his 10 month birthday recovering from a double ear infection. Good times! The antibiotic seemed to kick in quickly though, and Ian has been much like himself. He's busy trying to keep up with his sister, and we're busy trying to keep up with him. He makes a beeline for the stairs if not gated, and he's quite skilled at scaling the staircase at record speed. He continues to cruise but is beginning to try to stand on his own. He shares his meals with Fris in exchange for Fris allowing him to pull up on her. He gets frustrated when she moves on him but she's more than patient with this curious little boy. Ian LOVES his bathtime with Audrey. They generally get along so very well. He lights up when he sees her and struggles to close his peepers if he hears her voice. I have no hope of a vegetarian with this little boy. Every time I turn around his meat is gone but his veggies remain. I can't wait to buy an infant swing for him so he can enjoy the swingset. He loves to look out the window and seems to want to have a front seat view of the swingset. Socks don't stay on his feet for long. I bought him his first pair of shoes last weekend, and he had managed to get one off buy the time we arrived home. He hasn't yet figured out how to undo a double tied shoe...

2011-04-01T20:08:00.002-04:00

Probably the last picture of Ian appearing smaller than Audrey...

Today Ian wore an Illini shirt which Audrey just outgrew this Fall. And it was snug on him...

2011-04-01T20:07:00.001-04:00

Ian is learning all about what the word 'no' means.

When I tell him no, he stops what he's doing, cocks his head to the side, bats his eyes, and gives a big grin.

T-r-o-u-b-l-e.

2011-03-28T19:03:00.002-04:00

Look what I found when Eric was due to arrive home...

Nine Month Stats

2011-03-22T21:54:00.002-04:00

Ian and I got to spend the afternoon together, just the two of us, as we headed to Dr. M's office for his 9 month check up. He loved munching on Cheerios and watching the fish while we waited for Dr. M. He's doing great and meeting milestones without problem. He continues to grow like a weed, weighing 22 lbs, 4 oz (77th percentile) and 30.5 inches long (94th percentile). Of course I had to go back to look to see when our Audrey met those stats. While she was 30 inches at 12 months (and then tapered off shortly thereafter), she did not weigh Ian's current weight until TWENTY months! How different could these two be?!

New 'do!

2011-03-21T22:23:00.005-04:00

It is no secret that Ian's hair is a frequent topic of conversation. I have no idea what to do with his hair. It has it's own mind and no amount of combing will change it's mind. But, in many ways, his hair fits his personality. Carefree, laidback.

I had given him two haircuts at home but it was time for some professional help. So, the lady who has been cutting my hair for a few years offered to help me out. Audrey was not happy at all that her brother got to have a real haircut before her, but it had to be done. Wendy definitely got her work out, cutting the hair of a 9 month-old who she affectionately referred to as a "moving target", but it turned out great. He looks so grown up. (She apologized to me for this). :(

Nine Months and St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T11:33:00.005-04:00

Ian had a big day today, turning 9 months and celebrating his Irish heritage. He cut a second tooth on the bottom today and a top one is starting to peek through as well. He continues to love all table food but avocados and seems to mainly use his bottle to only wash down said table food. We've recently discovered that jarred baby food though is generally rejected - he wants only the good stuff! Homemade, chopped, made with lots of love. We're continuing to introduce a sippy cup and his big sister tries to show him how it's done. He continues to say mama, dada, and more. He signs 'please' for food but usually bangs loudly on his tray instead of signing 'more'. He is pulling up on everything (safe and unsafe!) and is starting to stand for a few seconds. We got out one of Audrey's old push toys for him, and when his sister lets him use her "shopping cart", he loves it. He's also into playing what I affectionately call, Timber, where he pulls himself up on the side of the crib, lets go, and falls (usually on his bottom) to the mattress, bouncing up and down and laughing. I think he could do this for hours. But he really wants an audience in there with him. Such a ham. And such a handful! A little ball of energy.

His next dr's appt is Tuesday, and I can't wait to find out his 9 month stats. He has his first "real" haircut on Saturday. Can't wait! His hair grows almost as fast as he does!

Note: I got no good pictures of Ian in his St. Patrick's Day shirt, and of course I barely got anything of him for his 9 month pictures. Thankfully I could put the 9 month sticker on his back since he wants to stand for everything! I seriously had to wrestle him to the ground when trying to keep him in view, and it went downhill from there.

I *wish* I had his energy!

2011-03-10T15:53:00.002-05:00

I so love this little boy.

Eric was told at pick up last night that Ian really does mean 'no' when he shakes his head. I know this. Eric knows this. We get a head shake often during mealtime. We know to hide his favorite foods until he has eaten the required vegetable. Otherwise, we get a lot of head shaking. And sometimes, some blown raspberries.

In his bag last night was the rejected homemade squash sent with him for lunch. He decided that, upon being offered some shredded chicken, that he would simply shake his head 'no' when offered the squash, and continue to eat this newest item on his ever expanding menu of options. And boy is he a carnivore! I've learned to sneak in veggies on a spoon while he's opening his mouth to self-feed the chicken. He tolerates this, and I avoid the now frequent head shake. And usually the blown raspberries, too.

Last night, after reading his favorite book (we get giggles with the book, Head, Knees, and Toes) and finishing his bottle, I was snuggling with him before he fell asleep. I started singing his favorite song, "Are You Sleeping?", of course modifying from brother John, to brother Ian (Audrey and I often sing this version to him).

Are you sleeping?
Are you sleeping?
Brother Ian.
Brother Ian.

And what does this little boy do?

He shakes his head, 'no'.

Giggles all around. So much so that his Nuk went a flyin'.

I so love this little boy.

2011-02-28T21:28:00.000-05:00

Dear Ian:

Thank you for sharing your dinner with me tonight. I loved the cheese you offered but I really wanted the turkey I heard you were trying out tonight. Please also stop being such a clean eater.

Love,

Frisbee

Eight Months!

2011-02-17T22:43:00.005-05:00

Ah yes, I remember this time with Audrey. My complete failures at getting these monthly birthday pictures. Exhausting! Audrey really tries to help me out - and even suggested giving Ian his Sophie giraffe to try to get him to sit still. It worked very briefly, and at least no one was injured during the photo shoot.

Ian has been busy, busy, busy! After a viral infection that gave me quite a scare with him spiking a high fever, he decided the next day to start crawling. No more army crawling for Ian. He's constantly pulling to a stand and getting into all kinds of trouble. He's crawling up a few stairs, at least until Eric or I can run over to gate the staircase. He continues to sign 'more' and now says it as well, and says 'mama' many times a day. He just recently added 'dada' to the mix as well. No doubt 'Audrey' will be added to his list soon given his love for his big sister. Just completely lights up when she is around. Ian loves all food offered, including blueberries, bananas, puffs, oatmeal, peas, squash, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin, but turns his nose up at avocado. We'll be starting lunch and meat within the next week or so. He also loves to wave and has just started clapping - forgot how cute these gestures are!

We just love him to pieces!

1st Valentine's Day

2011-02-17T22:43:00.004-05:00

Ian had a great first Valentine's Day, hanging out with his two favorite girls. He got his second haircut, compliments of mom, and he holds still like such a champ (wish he would for diaper and clothes changes, too!). He also got to spend time snacking on his favorite food - cheese. He now SAYS "More" when he knows cheese is close by!

2011-01-29T21:25:00.001-05:00

Ian has had a busy, busy past few weeks! Let's see, he's pulling himself to a stand, cruising, waving, and signing 'more'. He has also started shaking his head 'no' when offered something to eat that he's had his fill. Makes feeding him so much fun! He was just introduced to cheese and has yet to shake his head when offered this new favorite! Opens wide and can't wait for 'more'!

Seven Months!

2011-01-17T21:18:00.001-05:00

Let's see. Our 7 month-old is perfecting his ability to sit independently, but still topples at times. Ian seems to be trying to get to a sitting position from crawling and also tries to STAND from a sitting and crawling position. I'm afraid! He can get his Nuk back in his mouth on his own and much prefers to play rather than drink his bottle. Though it's tough to find something he likes as much as his new found love - yogurt! He's been sleeping like a dream for a little while, and we sooooo hope that continues! Still toothless - which I love! I check every morning for a tooth and hope to find only a gummy smile. Love our Ian!

Christmas - Part 4

2011-01-17T21:17:00.002-05:00

Ian was asleep during the present-opening portion of this last installment of Christmas, but he still seemed to enjoy seeing some of his extended family. He was feeling a bit under the weather (stupid pink eye and ear infection) but he was smiley and chatty after the antibiotic kicked in. Next year, no doubt he will be running around and excited about opening his own presents. Sorry Audrey!

2011-01-05T23:04:00.002-05:00

I just had to take a picture of Ian crawling over to the sliding door. As he always does. Just to look out the window. Enjoy the snow. Do some bird watching. Get a glimpse of that swingset he can't wait to use when the temperature rises.

First Haircut

2011-01-04T22:48:00.002-05:00

See what happens when I'm left with a happy baby in need of a haircut, and a pair of scissors?

The result? An even happier baby with a haircut!

First Christmas

2010-12-26T22:56:00.004-05:00

Ian had a great first Christmas. He especially enjoyed eating the wrapping paper and the bows! If it weren't for Audrey, his stocking would still be hanging from the mantle, complete with stocking stuffers nestled inside. We opened gifts in the living room, but he made every effort to be in any room but this one. He does enjoy his gifts from Santa like his pull-back cars, nesting cups, and new books, but he keeps gravitating back to Fris' food and water bowls! Now that is what we should have wrapped up!

Children's Museum

2010-12-24T22:01:00.004-05:00

Ian made his second trip to the Children's Museum to help celebrate Audrey's birthday. He loved soaking everything in from the stroller but would have much preferred to move about on his own. Of course, he enjoys anything he gets to do with his sister!

2010-12-23T23:22:00.002-05:00

I *think* Ian enjoyed seeing Grandma and Grandpa P this past weekend for an early Christmas/birthday celebration. He sure does like to sit on laps! :)

Six Months!

2010-12-23T22:47:00.003-05:00

Ian had his six month dr's appt on his birthday, and he amazed Dr. M with his fast army crawling and his frequent "ma ma's" (I'm not excited by this in the least!). He weighs 18 lbs, 12 oz (76th percentile) and is 28 inches long (93rd percentile). Where is my baby boy going???

Santa!

2010-12-23T22:40:00.003-05:00

Ian met Santa for the first time last Thursday. Except he didn't really notice Santa. He was too busy being enamored by his sister. She is just that entertaining! Oh, and per Audrey, Ian wants new blocks for Christmas. :)

2010-12-23T22:32:00.002-05:00

I just love these pictures. Ian, sitting on Eric's lap. Watching football. Two of his favorite things to do.

Makes all seem right with the world.

2010-12-05T20:54:00.003-05:00

Ian had a great first Thanksgiving, and it's about time I had a chance to document that! He got to spend the day with grandma and grandpa P, two of his great-grandmas, and most of the rest of our extended family. He got his first taste of sweet potatoes and lasted longer into Thanksgiving dinner than his sister did for her first. We headed to see grandma and grandpa S, and to see most of my family as well, including the newest edition, baby M. Ian snoozed most of the time we were there so he didn't have much advice for baby M. I'm sure they will have lots to discuss in no time.

Ian has been busy trying out new foods. So far he hasn't tried anything he hasn't loved - including peas, squash, sweet potato, avocado, and banana. He loves when he sees the sign for 'eat' - big grin! - and we've noticed that he has started signing 'milk'. He usually licks his bowl clean and of course loves sitting next to Audrey in his highchair at mealtimes. There's a lot of 'boo' that goes on at dinnertime now!

Five Months!

2010-11-17T22:19:00.003-05:00

Ian has been a busy little boy this past month. He's managed to master scooting, army crawling, and now rocking on all fours. He sees something of interest and heads right for it. He's close to sitting independently. He remains an easy going, easily content little guy. He loves his cereal, and we just started some homemade peas as well. He licks his bowl clean every time. He loves to get others to smile, but there's no one that makes him smile quite like his sister.

Ian had some professional pictures taken at school on his 5 month birthday, and though I haven't seen the proofs, he by all accounts had no interest in the camera. He was too interested in the glowing Christmas tree in the corner. He'll be crawling like nobody's business just in time to cause some Christmas tree trouble.

Ian's Trip to the Park

2010-11-17T22:15:00.004-05:00

I'm not sure why my mommy and silly sister brought me out in the cold, but I'm Ian so I just take it all in. Without complaint.

A Game of Peek-A-Boo

2010-11-16T21:09:00.003-05:00

Who can make Ian giggle like no one else? Audrey. She runs in the room. He giggles (after startling). She jumps. She laughs. She makes silly sounds. Giggles. Giggles. Giggles. Ian soooo loves his sister. I was lucky enough to get a little of this on video yesterday...

2010-11-15T20:11:00.005-05:00

From scooting to army crawling. Not sure I can keep up! Ian's not so interested in eating anymore. There are places to go. Toys to get into. Big sister puzzles to tear apart. Audrey does a good job of giving me updates of what he's up to when I leave the room. Most recently, "And now he's heading into the kitchen!"

On Thursday...

2010-11-06T12:51:00.002-04:00

Ian went mobile.

Yes, we have a scooter on our hands. Forwards and backwards.

Heaven help us.

First Halloween

2010-10-31T21:17:00.003-04:00

Ian was snug as a bug in his football costume, with Audrey complementing his outfit as a Bears cheerleader. He enjoyed the brisk weather and even took a snooze for a bit while Audrey charmed the neighbors. I thought for sure I would scoop a sleeping Ian out of his carseat when we arrived home and put him in bed for the night without incident, but, he was wide eyed when we arrived home. And very giggly. Patiently waiting for some candy. He settled for some rice cereal, a bottle, and some snuggling before bed. I think it's safe to say that this cold football had a good first Halloween.

Pumpkin Carving!

2010-10-31T21:08:00.002-04:00

Ian got a great seat to watch Audrey and Eric design the jack-o-lantern; however, Sophie the Giraffe and his toes were much more entertaining...

Look what Ian's been up to!

2010-10-28T21:12:00.002-04:00

Apparently both my children are quite the flirts!

And, a newsflash - Ian has feet! He found them during his 4 month dr's appt, and he hasn't forgotten about them. I, however, had forgotten how hard it is to change a diaper after this point. Between his constantly wanting to roll to his belly and now his affection for his toes, he makes diaper changes feel like wrestling an alligator!

Four Month Stats

2010-10-21T20:51:00.003-04:00

Ian had his four month appt yesterday, complete with three vaccines, which he took like a champ. He now weighs 16 lbs, 9 oz (82nd percentile) and is 27 1/4 inches (95th percentile). We're guessing the stomach bug he has now successfully fended off affected his weight as he's now only in the 82nd percentile! Dr. M couldn't believe how long he is and made sure to tell us what a social, strong, and smart baby we have on our hands. Of course we already knew those things! We also now know that Audrey has only 9 lbs and 6 inches on her brother!

This weekend Ian will get his first taste of some green veggies. It looks like peas and cereal are on the menu for breakfast and dinner! Mmmm!

Four Months!

2010-10-19T13:26:00.005-04:00

Ian managed to smile for the camera despite his attempts to fight off a stomach bug. He continues to have an easygoing disposition, even when not feeling his best. This past month, I can tell that his vision has improved significantly. I will wave at him from across the room, and he gives a big grin. Or I walk in the room, and he gives a big grin. Or I walk in the door from work, and he gives a big grin. I won't ever get enough of his big grin! Over the past week, he has really started reaching for objects, and I am beginning to realize that I have very little time left before he starts causing some trouble. Audrey had fun building a block tower yesterday and then kindly letting her brother knock it over. Ian loved it so much he had trouble waiting his turn. May they always play so nicely together!

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-10T22:09:00.005-04:00

Ian seemed to wonder most of the time during this trip just what was going on. He never complained despite being snuggled in the carrier close to me on this 87 degree day in October. I just had to dress him in his new overalls, which he decided tasted pretty good. He did have fun watching the tractor, the farm dog chasing the tractor, and his sister picking out just the right pumpkins.

No doubt next year his little legs will be walking this long road to the pumpkin patch right alongside us.

I now see that he appears to be pestering his sister in this last picture...I'm guessing that will be happening next year as well...

Mmmm!

2010-09-22T22:53:00.007-04:00

Ian, meet rice cereal. Rice cereal, meet Ian.

Ian is in love.

Dr. M had mentioned at Ian's 1 month appt that he may be a baby that will need to start cereal a little earlier than the typical 4 month timeframe. He was cruising along, loving his bottles, eating like a champ, sleeping thru the night. Smiley. Content.

But during the past weekend, he was wanting to eat almost every hour and started waking up hungry during the night. When I was home with him on Monday, and I realized he wasn't smiling at me, but the bottle I was about to offer him - we decided it would be a good idea to call Dr. M about our growing boy.

We got the green light on Tuesday, and Tuesday night, Ian met his current love. He gave a big grin after his first taste! He eats like a champ - to the extent that Audrey even asked to try it since it must be just that good!

I love feeding my little baby bird.

Three Months

2010-09-17T21:19:00.007-04:00

My little boy is growing up! As one can tell, I had some help getting him to smile for his three-month pictures. Audrey always does a great job getting Ian to crack up. She had him in stitches the other night just running from one side of me to the other while I was holding him. She even ran to get a diaper cloth when he spit up during pictures. "Ian, we're taking pictures here!!"

I just love him to pieces. I mean, how can you not love this little guy who's smiley from morning til night? Even if we wake him, he's smiling after the first blink of his eyes. This past month, he's gotten even cuter. More giggly. More talkative. I love that his hair still sticks up no matter what I do. A little of his daddy in him. He managed to roll from back to belly this past Sunday (of course no one was watching - again!), and he hasn't stopped rolling since.

I so look forward to my three day weekends with him. Tonight when I arrived home from work, he just stared and smiled at me. All thru dinner. While he was eating. While he was falling asleep. He has to keep his eye on me so I don't head back out the door.

I so love this little boy.

Where did the past week go???

2010-09-16T20:39:00.003-04:00

It's been a week since Ian and I parted ways, and I guess we are adjusting as well as expected. It's hard not to see him as much during the day, but I try to steal him from Eric as much as possible when we are home. The director of his daycare said yesterday, "He's just so quiet!" He does like to talk - over his sister - on our drive home. Both of them telling me about their day. Neither seeming to notice that the either is talking. I do my best to listen to both of them. He's quite chatty when we arrive home as well. Squealing. Smiling. Giggling. I think he's almost as excited to see me as I am to see him.

This past week was also filled with lots of family making the trip for Ian's baptism. He was awake during it, but of course he didn't cry. He did manage to give his daddy some allergy issues from all the oil, but I think we've (mostly) gotten it all out! And thankfully Uncle P saved Eric from more severe allergy problems.

Despite some hiccups in having Ian baptized, it seems to me that this little boy has a way of bringing people together. I don't think I'll soon forget his not letting go of Father's finger during the baptism. He really does have a way of helping me to remember the important things in life. Who's raising who here??

2010-09-08T20:21:00.007-04:00

Dear Ian,

I'm told that tomorrow we must part ways, with me heading back to work, and you heading to your first day of "school". Though I would like to take you to drop you off in the morning, your daddy knows that I would never end up leaving you there. Instead, the day would have to be declared, "Take Ian to work day."

I will miss you so. You are the epitome of a sweetheart. Easygoing. Patient. A true snuggler. With a smile that lights up the room. I kiss you, you smile. I play peek-a-boo, you smile (and often give a few good belly laughs). But my favorite is when I reappear, back in sight after only a few minutes, and you smile. Now how can that kind of a reception not go to one's head?

We haven't spent much time apart, the two of us. We've been inseparable for about the past year. I have so loved the time that I got to keep you (mostly) all to myself. I have no doubt that your teachers will love you. And that you will grow to like school as much as your sister. She has informed her teachers that she would like to check in on you from time to time. I ask that you check in on her as well as she tells us she got her first time-out yesterday, and from her conversation with daddy, it sounds like she's considering misbehaving again. I know that you, too, will misbehave, especially when you're 2 years old, but we will still love you so, this little sweetheart of a boy.

Love,
Mom

P.S. I was serious about the two of us sneaking out tonight and running away for a little while. :)

The thumb

2010-09-02T20:44:00.002-04:00

Do you see what this little boy is doing? That's right. He's sucking on his built-in pacifier. The one that doesn't fall out of his mouth, requiring someone to put it back in. Granted, his Nuk is replaced extremely quickly when his big sister is around, but if she isn't, Ian often has to wait, patiently. To be honest, he really could take or leave his pacifier most of the time, but the thumb. Oh, he loves the thumb. Really all his fingers. And lately mine, too.

I'll admit it's quite cute. I'll give him some time before I start thinking about future orthodontic bills...

The many faces of Ian

2010-09-02T20:32:00.002-04:00

He looks suspicious in the last one...

Two Month Stats

2010-08-25T12:47:00.006-04:00

Ian had his 2 month dr's appt this morning and got to show off his incredibly social nature and fabulous head control for Dr. M. He weighs 14 lbs, 5 oz and is 24 inches long, which are each at the 95th percentile (and equivalent to an average sized 4 month-old). He took his first set of vaccines like a champ, crying a little after the nurse wouldn't stop poking him (!), but he wasn't upset for very long. Just as with Audrey, he was unfortunately quite inconsolable later in the day, when the injection site swelled and became very red. As soon as the Tylenol kicked in though, he was back to being a smiley baby. Thankfully no more dr's appts (or shots!) for a couple months.

And, judging by the way he was eyeing the fork and spoon in one of his books this morning, I'm thinking he would like some real food soon!

I'd like to keep him little for a while longer though. :)

Two Months!

2010-08-17T21:00:00.005-04:00

Look who's two months already! He should look like a well-rested little guy as he has been sleeping thru the night for the past 4 nights. He goes to sleep without problem, and we haven't been hearing a peep out of him after 7:30 PM. Ian continues to roll from belly to back when he wishes but doesn't seem too interested in rolling onto his belly. He smiles when he sees one of our familiar faces and has recently taken a strong liking to his older sister. He gives her a big grin when she comes into view and tries to find her when he hears her nearby. Audrey seems to do no wrong in his eyes. He loves whatever she does and is fascinated by all she can do.

Judging from the pictures, I'm glad to see that he still thinks I'm pretty entertaining, too.

Audrey & Ian - 6 weeks

2010-08-04T21:07:00.006-04:00

I had been waiting for Ian to turn the same age as when I took Audrey's birth announcement picture. I can't believe how much they look alike! Love Ian's double chin! :)

2010-08-03T09:25:00.002-04:00

Look what Ian got in the mail yesterday! Even President Obama is excited he's here!

Six Week Appointment

2010-07-28T20:18:00.003-04:00

Ian had his 6-week doctor's appointment today. He is doing well and growing like a weed. Dr. M was impressed with Ian's eye contact and was surprised that he was already cooing for her. He's losing quite a bit of hair on the sides of his head, and I'm hoping he doesn't end up with a mohawk. Then we would have a little rebel Ian. :)

Ian weighs 13 lbs, 1 oz, and is 24 1/4 inches long! He's at the 95th percentile for his age and is measuring as a very proportionate 3 month-old! Not surprising since he's generally wearing 3-6 months clothes already.

Leave to my two to be at opposite extremes of the growth curve.

Happy Baby

2010-07-28T18:58:00.004-04:00

Ian didn't sleep but 20 minutes for his mom yesterday, but at least he was a very happy baby. Just wanted to keep his eye on all that was going on. His vision is quickly improving as he tracks our movements, and he isn't too happy when someone walks out of sight. I tried to keep him entertained while I got a few things done, but he seemed only content when he had my full attention. I finally got the hint and sat down by him, asking him if he just wanted mommy to sit down by him for a few minutes. To this, I got a big grin and a GIGGLE! And then the one and only nap for the day - he's definitely learning how to reinforce my behavior!

Road trip!

2010-07-28T18:33:00.005-04:00

Ian had his first road trip this past weekend, and he did fabulous. He finally got to meet one of his great-grandmas, Great-Grandma D., so it was well-worth the drive. He also got to cuddle with Grandma and Grandpa P.

I forgot how nice it is to travel with a newborn who sleeps the majority of the trip, despite lots of talking around him. Especially coming from the back seat. :)

One month!

2010-07-18T12:06:00.003-04:00

From handwritten signs with Audrey to these - how I've evolved! This will make the monthly pictures so much easier as Ian becomes mobile. Catching Audrey during months 10 - 1.5 yrs was a disaster! Of course, now Audrey loves to be in pictures!

Let's see - what has Ian learned over the past month?

1) What stretching out feels like...
2) How to show off his head control
3) Reaching for objects - especially anything on his activity mat.
4) How to roll from belly to back
5) How to spray most things around his changing table...including his parents...and into his mouth!
6) Smiling! Smiling! Smiling! He smiles a lot for me, but I have to admit that I think his favorite things are the ceiling fans and his musical star...baby Audrey's favorites, too...

And, Ian spent his first night as a 1 month-old in his own room, in his own crib. He's growing up so fast! :)

Four weeks!

2010-07-16T20:14:00.004-04:00

I remember having this argument with Eric regarding Audrey being 4 weeks vs. 1 month. But, since he's not in charge of the blog...Ian gets a 4 weeks AND a 1 month picture. He's so lucky!

Sleep!

2010-07-14T10:09:00.003-04:00

Ian is really quite a good sleeper considering he will be only 4 weeks tomorrow. Though we were fully prepared this time (as much as one can be) for him to have his days and nights mixed up, he never did. Perhaps having a toddler who wakes during the night at times was helpful in making sure that Ian was rocked to sleep in-utero, even in the middle of the night. It's not to say that we wouldn't mind more sleep. I mean, on the request for Ian's birth certificate, I wrote his last name as my maiden name. And, when completing paperwork for his first pediatrician appt, Eric wrote Ian's name as 'Ian Ruby'...

Last night was pretty typical of the nights thus far, with Ian waking around 2 and again around 5, with Eric and I each taking a turn. I took the 2 AM feeding, and though Ian at times likes to try to be cute and coo at that time of night, he really was more interested in falling back to sleep. I had just gotten back into bed and heard Ian stirring a bit. The next thing I know, Eric is standing up, half asleep, mumbling something.

"Wow, that was really quick. I mean that seemed really short."

I have no idea what he's talking about.

I am usually pretty entertained though when Eric is conversing while half asleep.

Not amused when he tries to get Ian out of bed.

"Um, I just fed him. It's only been 20 minutes since he woke up last."

"Thank God!"

I think he was back to sleep before Ian...

Pictures thus far

2010-07-08T22:19:00.002-04:00

In keeping with my weekly to then monthly pictures...

Weeks 1 - 3:

These pictures are sooooo easy to get at this age. :)

Catch up...

2010-07-08T22:07:00.008-04:00

Ian arrived home on Father's Day. After all, my children must always arrive home on a particularly special day...

Since that time, Audrey has been a doting big sister, and Fris has barely noticed him. And I have been sprayed too many times to count. The laundry is immense. It's never ending. As are the diaper changes and clothing changes.

But, this little guy is such a snuggler. He seems to really like being around me to sleep, ahem, to be held, and it's a good thing a newborn can't be spoiled. It's so nice to put him somewhere and come back to find him there a few minutes later.

However, these days are numbered, I'm afraid. Yes, Ian decided to roll from belly to back at 2 weeks, 5 days. Ridiculously early. He seemed to need to find some sort of entertainment while it was 85 degrees in the house. Poor kid. The a/c was in the process of being replaced, and it was so uncomfortable in the house. A box fan we had bought the night prior had already broken, and Eric and I were checking out the warranty info. Needless to say, we looked up to see Ian on his back. He was not a happy little boy when he was turned back over to his belly to see if he could do it again. It's hot in here people!

He also started smiling at 2 weeks, 1 day. He certainly smiles when he's sleeping or has gas, but he also flashes his glorious smiles at me. Mostly when he sees it's about time for a meal. He likes to have a full tank, then he's all smiles.

I think I'm smitten. Again.

Introducing...

2010-07-08T17:05:00.006-04:00

Ian Eugene.

I really thought about how to go about a shared blog for Audrey and Ian, but since I use this as a baby book of sorts, with the plan to give them each a hard copy when the time is right, I thought it best to keep their blogs separate as well. No doubt there will be some necessary cross posts, but that is a simple copy and paste for me.

To introduce Ian, he is an extremely laid back little boy who we had the pleasure of meeting 3 weeks ago now, on a beautiful Thursday morning. He is similar to his sister in that he had no plan to enter the world on his own, needing some 'coaxing' to meet his family. Unlike his sister, pregnancy was easy from the beginning, with only a mild amount of nausea. Eric and I decided to not find out the gender this time around, and though it was hard to do so, I'm glad we did. We were thinking boy from the beginning given the difference in symptoms, though in the end we believed we were having a girl due to what we thought was a slip up by my OB at the 36 week ultrasound ("Wow, that's a big girl!"). I thought she either later covered herself well, or she didn't really know the gender either. But, we came up with 2 possible girl names, just in case our hunch of having a little boy was wrong.

I was admittedly disappointed but not surprised that another c-section was scheduled. My babies for some reason just prefer to hang out longer than the doctor thinks they should, primarily given their large size. I had felt this little one was larger than his/her sister from about the halfway point, but I also thought my memory was likely a little fuzzy since it had been 2 1/2 years since Audrey's birth. But, when the 36 week ultrasound estimated a current size of 8 lbs, 6 oz, we all agreed that a scheduled c-section was for the best.

Eric and I dropped Audrey at school in the morning - me not being allowed in the building as Eric thought I would be too emotional. How could Audrey possibly comprehend how life changing this day would be - for her? For each of us? So, I kissed and hugged her good-bye, and watched Eric walk her inside. She was so excited about her dance class for the day that getting to meet Baby P later in the day was exciting, but really not the highlight for her. :) Our drive to the hospital was spent discussing which name we would choose should we have a little girl that day. I NEVER thought we would not have made a decision by this time, but Audrey was campaigning hard for a little girl name I had fallen in love with and had brought up in conversation with Eric on more than one occasion when Audrey was within ear shot. But, I loved the other name which he and I had agreed on, and told him the decision was ultimately his should Dr. Klus give us the good news of another little girl.

We arrived at the hospital at 8 AM for a scheduled section of 10 AM. My doctor called around 9 to confirm that she was running on time. Eric and I had a private room and spent most of those 2 hours talking and watching the History channel - Eric had the remote. :) At a little before 10, I was walked to the OR where I got to experience the worst part of my 2 c-sections - the spinal. I don't know know what it is about my spinal cord but both anesthesiologists had a heck of a time locating the "right spot". This anesthesiologist was very apologetic that it took so long, but in the end, I didn't mind. Eric was allowed in the OR then, with camera in hand. My OB had taken the time while I was getting my spinal to give Eric a tutorial about our new camera as she had the same one. She called him "the tourist" and asked that they bring him in when I was prepped, and she was ready to begin.

I was much more emotional during this surgery than with Audrey, not sure why other than perhaps there being more unknowns, especially if we were about to meet a little boy or a little girl. When Dr. Klus announced it was a boy, I remember repeating her words, and looking over at Eric, who appeared in shock. When the NICU team asked him for our little boy's name, he had trouble remembering it and double checked with me. I was so glad that we had a healthy little boy. When they held up Ian, I was shocked that his hair was so dark. And it seemed forever before they announced his weight. The medical team took guesses of what his weight would be - with Dr. Klus saying he had to be 10 lbs. She whispered to me that we had definitely made the right decision to schedule a repeat c-section. She later congratulated Eric and I on our beautiful family and wished us a good weekend. I was so glad our little boy was here. And I couldn't believe how flat my belly appeared. :)

When Audrey arrived later in the day with grandma and grandpa P, she immediately asked if she could hold baby Ian. She offered him kisses without any prompting and started to show off her very compassionate, caring side. How lucky Ian is to have such a great big sister.

Ian's middle name had been decided generations ago by Eric's family. Eric and I had talked about the name Ian prior to finding out Audrey was to be a girl. We had little discussion about boy names this pregnancy (especially in comparison to the hours of discussion regarding girl names!). A few boy names were talked about, but we kept coming back to Ian. It is the Scottish variant of John (God is gracious). And, we thought it was a perfect name for our little boy.

Let his story begin.