Yes, that's right patient readers, our little darling, the apple of everyone's eye--BellaRose--can now walk. I suppose she has been close for some time now, say about a month, taking a a few steps at a time, walking from Mom to Dad only the rarest of times when she "feels" like it. However, as of late, BellaRose has decided to predominantly walk from place to place. This is a sudden shift, as she was about 75/25 crawler, meaning she crawled 75% of the time and only walked the remaining 25%. It should also be noted that she only walked with her Mom and Dad, never with her grandparents.
She really began shifting to walking, though, when we started taking her to Toddler Time classes, the mall's play place and Play Pals at City Hall. I feel this is because she started to see other kids close to her age (whom she now recognizes as actual people and not toys) that were walking. Just like when she started crawling, she started walking as if she could do it the whole time. We knew it was near, since she was constantly sliding along the couch or other things, pushing anything on floor she could and standing without assistance, even while holding things in her hands. We were eager to see her walk since she is now 15 months and we see other kids, much younger, walking. Of course 15 months isn't late, by any means, to begin walking but you want your child to be above average in all categories. I'm sure any future kids will walk a little earlier than Bella did just because they see her doing it. Then again maybe not.
Besides the walking, Bella is a pretty talkative and a mimicker. She copies, or tries to, most actions she sees you do with your hands. She also sings a little. You can tell its singing because its noticeably different than her talking voice. She says "hi" a lot and "dad" She seems to be very intelligent, if you ask me, but I'm partial I guess. She also is starting to enjoy the tv a little more, which is a blessing and a curse. We don't want Bella to become attached to the tv or for us to over use it as some sort of a make-shift babysitter. Plus, too much television watching at an early age has been linked to ADHD. I suppose, though, I'm happy she has some tv shows she likes to watch.
Well, that's about all for now. I'll update more soon, especially if BellaRose begins to drive the car or publish a novel. Talk to you all soon and hopefully Spring is no the way. I much prefer this warmer weather, even if it means rain. Take care now. Bye-bye.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Friday, February 12, 2010
BellaRose Gets the Flu, Family Unites
Like the above newspaper-like heading reads, BellaRose did contract the flu (most likely from her cousins/aunt; they're forgiven) and had a bout of vomiting lasting 6 hours last night.
I was at a friends house when I got a call about BellaRose horking like she never has before. Her mother entered her room, due to ominous sounds of discomfort by Bella, only to find copious amounts of hork in her crib. After sitting with her for a bit it seemed she might be feeling better when just then, round two of 20 individual vomiting sessions commenced. I was still not home et so her Omi came up and helped out with the regergitating child. Finally, I arrived to the scene of the incident and helped comfort my darling child and relieve my wonderful wife of her vomit duties. We both sat with BellaRose for quite awhile, through numerous bouts of sickness, until finally we thought it best for at least one of us to get some rest while the other nurses the poor child back to health. Since mom had been with her in the beginning, I opted to stay up with her. Letting her rest in my loving arms, BellaRose had a few more episodes of illness before finally giving up the ghost and falling asleep due to pure exhaustion. In fact, we both fell asleep in the easychair for a bit before moving to the couch. At about 3 am, Lizzie came out to get us since Bella hadn't been sick for an hour or so and we layed her down in her crib and called it a night. Oh, and what a night it was. I had this ominous feeling that this was only the first of many nights like this, where mom and dad have to comfort a sick child until they fall asleep in your arms and then you have to clean up their "mess". Nothing makes you feel more like a parent than instances such as this.
I felt bad for the poor kid. You could tell she really hated getting sick like that and who doesn't. Lord knows I don't like the taste of stomach acid that lingers for awhile. And to be puking for that long, one can sympathize with her for being so upset. But she slept good and this morning we weren't quite sure what to expect. We are pleasantly surprised, however, with her demeanor thus far.
Since she woke up this morning she has been in high spirits, as playful and as chatty as any other day of the week. Her appetite as well was good and she was equally as thirsty too, which can be expected for a girl who vacated her stomach of all its contents the night before. I tried to make sure her breakfast was at a nice slow pace and it contained easy-on-the-stomach foods. She did real well and after breakfast was ready to take on the world. Later I gave her a bath since I was certain she had some remnants on her person from the night before. She much enjoyed that too, which she always does, and after getting dried off and dressed she was ready for her "nap". This one, however, would certainly be longer than normal to make up for lost hours. She is still asleep now, making this a 3 hour nap and counting. She needs it, even if it will mess up her schedule for today. If she makes it till 4ish she might not need another nap until bedtime. We shall see.
So, the scare of the flu bug may be over though it may come on stronger in the evenings. Only time will tell. I certainly hope she is overit. Nobody deserves to endure horking of that magnitude or scale, especially not a 22lb, 14-month old darling baby girl with eyes like diamonds and a smile that could melt even the coldest of hearts. I guess I'm a little partial. I'm allowed to be. I'm her dad.
I was at a friends house when I got a call about BellaRose horking like she never has before. Her mother entered her room, due to ominous sounds of discomfort by Bella, only to find copious amounts of hork in her crib. After sitting with her for a bit it seemed she might be feeling better when just then, round two of 20 individual vomiting sessions commenced. I was still not home et so her Omi came up and helped out with the regergitating child. Finally, I arrived to the scene of the incident and helped comfort my darling child and relieve my wonderful wife of her vomit duties. We both sat with BellaRose for quite awhile, through numerous bouts of sickness, until finally we thought it best for at least one of us to get some rest while the other nurses the poor child back to health. Since mom had been with her in the beginning, I opted to stay up with her. Letting her rest in my loving arms, BellaRose had a few more episodes of illness before finally giving up the ghost and falling asleep due to pure exhaustion. In fact, we both fell asleep in the easychair for a bit before moving to the couch. At about 3 am, Lizzie came out to get us since Bella hadn't been sick for an hour or so and we layed her down in her crib and called it a night. Oh, and what a night it was. I had this ominous feeling that this was only the first of many nights like this, where mom and dad have to comfort a sick child until they fall asleep in your arms and then you have to clean up their "mess". Nothing makes you feel more like a parent than instances such as this.
I felt bad for the poor kid. You could tell she really hated getting sick like that and who doesn't. Lord knows I don't like the taste of stomach acid that lingers for awhile. And to be puking for that long, one can sympathize with her for being so upset. But she slept good and this morning we weren't quite sure what to expect. We are pleasantly surprised, however, with her demeanor thus far.
Since she woke up this morning she has been in high spirits, as playful and as chatty as any other day of the week. Her appetite as well was good and she was equally as thirsty too, which can be expected for a girl who vacated her stomach of all its contents the night before. I tried to make sure her breakfast was at a nice slow pace and it contained easy-on-the-stomach foods. She did real well and after breakfast was ready to take on the world. Later I gave her a bath since I was certain she had some remnants on her person from the night before. She much enjoyed that too, which she always does, and after getting dried off and dressed she was ready for her "nap". This one, however, would certainly be longer than normal to make up for lost hours. She is still asleep now, making this a 3 hour nap and counting. She needs it, even if it will mess up her schedule for today. If she makes it till 4ish she might not need another nap until bedtime. We shall see.
So, the scare of the flu bug may be over though it may come on stronger in the evenings. Only time will tell. I certainly hope she is overit. Nobody deserves to endure horking of that magnitude or scale, especially not a 22lb, 14-month old darling baby girl with eyes like diamonds and a smile that could melt even the coldest of hearts. I guess I'm a little partial. I'm allowed to be. I'm her dad.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Thanksgiving, Birthday(s), Cruise, Christmas, New Years...
So, since our previous post, lots has occurred in the lives of we three Davis'. Of course, everyone's favorite, Bella, celebrated her first birthday on Nov. 16th. We had a weekend affair for her, going to a cabin at Don Williams Lake near Ogden on Saturday. She enjoyed hiking, in which we saw a plethora of deer. I'm now firmly of the opinion that Don Williams Lake is shelter for approximately several hundred deer. I saw hoof prints and actually sitings galore to back up such claims, don't worry. But that's neither here nor there.
Continuing, BellaRose also enjoyed going down to the dock and peering out on the lake, though she continually tried to crawl off the edge. We're entirely certain she would have plunged into the frigid water if we would have let her. No fear at all, that one. Saturday evening, BellaRose enjoyed her first campfire and we all had a good time enjoying the brisk fall weather. The next morn we packed up and made a quick trip the beach to gaze up on the lake once more (further hoof print sitings as well) before heading home.
The following Monday, her actual birthday, we celebrated at home with her Omi, Opi, Grandma and Grandpa (with Aunt Leisa and the twins), opening presents and eating some delicious Barbie cake. She had fantastic time tearing into her cake and presents. She's always been a fan of sweets and gifts, like her father. Weird to think she's already one now. Where'd a year go?
A couple weeks before Bella's b-day, I turned 27. We had a quaint evening, going out to eat at the Spice and I got a couple presents. Elizabeth is an excellent gift giver, though she'd deny it. I always enjoy the bounty of candies I receive. I'm still munching on them nightly. Yum!
Thanksgiving was the week after Bella's b-day, so we asked people who wanted to give her gifts to bring them then. There's little point in having a huge party for her, forcing relatives to drive to our house, which doesn't exist, when we're all going to be together for Thanksgiving a week later. When we have a house and room for it, perhaps we'll have a larger gathering. Anyway, Thanksgiving was enjoyable and BellaRose had a good time hanging with her grandparents. She also got to meet her cousin Roscoe for the first time (same for Lizzie too). Its not that we dislike him, he was just in the Air Force and stationed in Florida and it seemed that everytime he was back, we could never arrange a time or place to meet. Well, now he's out of the Air Force and living in Iowa so hopefully we'll see a lot more of Roscoe. Speaking of which, I need to call him.
Ah, now we are to the cruise. For those that don't know, Lizzie and I purchased a 5-day cruise to the Caribbean. It left Dec. 19th (from Miami) and went to Ocho Rios, Jamaica and Grand Cayman Island. Though it rained at both ports, it was still a great time. We even purt our SCUBA certifications to good use, going diving at Grand Cayman. We saw a sea turtle, an eel, tons of fish and endless amounts of coral. It was pretty cool. We also went to Margaritaville in Jamaica, which was fun too. Either way, it is fun to say we did it and we got some great pictures.
We returned on Dec. 24th, Lizzie's golden birthday, and started making our way back home in time for Christmas. It was an excellent trip and probably the best time to take it. BellaRose stayed with her Omi and Opi, which is her home anyway, and they took care of her. We are truly blessed to have them so close and have BellaRose firmly attached to them too. According to them, she barely noticed we were gone and had a blast with us not there to temper their wild abandon with BellaRose, offering nothing but sweets and never ending playtimes daily. Naps, who needs 'em? Right?
The trip back to Iowa was eventful, what with the storm and all. We spend a lot of time in airports. I read one book and at least three magazines and that's saying a lot for a person that doesn't read all that much, especially in one sitting. But what other choice did we have? It was read or stare at the passers by, counting weird haircuts, foreigners and people with awkward gates. That latter was quite interesting but that's another post in itself.
We luckily made it on the plane to Iowa from St. Louis. We were half-worried the flight would be canceled but as we approached Des Moines, we were met with some bad news. Apparently a snow removal truck was broke down on the Des Moines airport runway so we were being diverted to the nearest airport...Minneapolis! So, yes, in snow storm that was embattling the midwest, we went further north, into the lion's den. We landed at Minneapolis, got some more fuel and were hosed down with some sort of de-icing solution and back to Iowa we went. This time were were successful at landing in Des Moines, a full 2 hours behind schedule though.
We got out, got to our car, which had been sitting in the snow for five days, and after scrapping it off, started making the deadly trek to Ames. The snow plows hadn't been out at all, really, so we were making our own path on the interstate. Other cars decided they could still go 55+ and zoomed past us but most of us making the trip maintained a speed around 25 to 35 the whole way. We made it, no problem, back to Ames around 12:30 am. We were glad to be home and after getting setlled in, we went to bed anxiously awaiting Christmas morning with BellaRose.
We started our Christmas with endless kisses for BellaRose, whom we desperately had been missing since we left. We also enjoyed a new family tradition, French toast a la dad, which Bella enjoyed greatly. Then it was time for me to wrap her gifts only to have them opened immediately following. I know it seems like cross purposes--wrapping the gifts just before they are opened--but it was how we used to do it in my youth, with my mom making my sister and I wait in our rooms,, plagued with anticipation, while she wrapped our gifts downstairs. Though Bella was likely not anticipating much, she still was happy to tear open her gifts, which she thoroughly loved. Her favorite? An inflatable microphone which came complimentary with a sing-a-long DVD of the Backyardigans. Of course, she loves the free item the most. At least she didn't like the wrapping paper the most.
That evening we had dinner with Omi, Opi, Uncle Jordan, Aunt Leisa, Parker and Kale, after which we opened up our gifts. Bella got a giant pink tub full of clothes and toys, though she seemed most interested in her cousins' similar tub full of toys. That's our kid, always curious about others.
The next day we went to my grandparents in Jewell for my mom's side family Christmas. Bella had a great time there though it was a bit overwhelming at times for her with there being so many kids and such loud noises happening almost constantly. She had a good time, again, tearing open gifts and investigating her neighbor's gifts too.
The day after that, we had my parents Christmas at their place in Boone. Bella once again made out like a bandit, getting lots and lots of toys. We also exchanged gifts with my parents, sister and nephews. We gave my parents some glasses we got at Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville in Jamaica. We also got them some other random things. My dad thoroughly enjoyed his official Tony Stewart pit crew hat. I'd rather have a Jeff Gordon hat myself, but I digress.
So, in total we had four Christmases and after the weekend we were all just happy to be doing nothing. We spent the week in between catching up on all that we had put off after arriving back from our trip and sorting through all our Christmas gifts. Also, we all three began coming down with the same cold. Bella had a fever, Lizzie had a sore throat and I am just now getting over my sore throat and congestion. Which brings me to New Years.
Last year we didn't do much for New Years so this year hoped to be a bit more exciting. However, since we all were starting to come down with something, it was proving to be just as simple as last years. I ended up going to James and Amy Hawcott's place to watch the Iowa State vs. Minnesota Insight bowl for the evening, which was very nerve-wracking to watch but in the end, I was overjoyed to see ISU win. After a raucous game of Settlers of Catan while watching Tropic Thunder, I left for Ames. I was home by midnight but my two soldiers, Lizzie and Bella, were long since asleep. It was a pretty decent New Years, though I did miss my Lizzie.
So, that should bring us up to date. Currently Lizzie is a week away from starting her last semester, which includes an intership at Creative Counseling Services with Amy Hawcott, and I am more seriously looking into careers. I mostly stay at home with Bella but soon I hope to take on some part time work. There is also an opening at the Story County Jail that I'm applying for, as well as others, so I am hopeful.
That's about it for now. Sorry for the lack of posts. Its been rather crazy around here. It hopefully will slow down soon, though I doubt that. Keep you posted the best I can. Until then, thanks for reading. Later all.
-Mike
Continuing, BellaRose also enjoyed going down to the dock and peering out on the lake, though she continually tried to crawl off the edge. We're entirely certain she would have plunged into the frigid water if we would have let her. No fear at all, that one. Saturday evening, BellaRose enjoyed her first campfire and we all had a good time enjoying the brisk fall weather. The next morn we packed up and made a quick trip the beach to gaze up on the lake once more (further hoof print sitings as well) before heading home.
The following Monday, her actual birthday, we celebrated at home with her Omi, Opi, Grandma and Grandpa (with Aunt Leisa and the twins), opening presents and eating some delicious Barbie cake. She had fantastic time tearing into her cake and presents. She's always been a fan of sweets and gifts, like her father. Weird to think she's already one now. Where'd a year go?
A couple weeks before Bella's b-day, I turned 27. We had a quaint evening, going out to eat at the Spice and I got a couple presents. Elizabeth is an excellent gift giver, though she'd deny it. I always enjoy the bounty of candies I receive. I'm still munching on them nightly. Yum!
Thanksgiving was the week after Bella's b-day, so we asked people who wanted to give her gifts to bring them then. There's little point in having a huge party for her, forcing relatives to drive to our house, which doesn't exist, when we're all going to be together for Thanksgiving a week later. When we have a house and room for it, perhaps we'll have a larger gathering. Anyway, Thanksgiving was enjoyable and BellaRose had a good time hanging with her grandparents. She also got to meet her cousin Roscoe for the first time (same for Lizzie too). Its not that we dislike him, he was just in the Air Force and stationed in Florida and it seemed that everytime he was back, we could never arrange a time or place to meet. Well, now he's out of the Air Force and living in Iowa so hopefully we'll see a lot more of Roscoe. Speaking of which, I need to call him.
Ah, now we are to the cruise. For those that don't know, Lizzie and I purchased a 5-day cruise to the Caribbean. It left Dec. 19th (from Miami) and went to Ocho Rios, Jamaica and Grand Cayman Island. Though it rained at both ports, it was still a great time. We even purt our SCUBA certifications to good use, going diving at Grand Cayman. We saw a sea turtle, an eel, tons of fish and endless amounts of coral. It was pretty cool. We also went to Margaritaville in Jamaica, which was fun too. Either way, it is fun to say we did it and we got some great pictures.
We returned on Dec. 24th, Lizzie's golden birthday, and started making our way back home in time for Christmas. It was an excellent trip and probably the best time to take it. BellaRose stayed with her Omi and Opi, which is her home anyway, and they took care of her. We are truly blessed to have them so close and have BellaRose firmly attached to them too. According to them, she barely noticed we were gone and had a blast with us not there to temper their wild abandon with BellaRose, offering nothing but sweets and never ending playtimes daily. Naps, who needs 'em? Right?
The trip back to Iowa was eventful, what with the storm and all. We spend a lot of time in airports. I read one book and at least three magazines and that's saying a lot for a person that doesn't read all that much, especially in one sitting. But what other choice did we have? It was read or stare at the passers by, counting weird haircuts, foreigners and people with awkward gates. That latter was quite interesting but that's another post in itself.
We luckily made it on the plane to Iowa from St. Louis. We were half-worried the flight would be canceled but as we approached Des Moines, we were met with some bad news. Apparently a snow removal truck was broke down on the Des Moines airport runway so we were being diverted to the nearest airport...Minneapolis! So, yes, in snow storm that was embattling the midwest, we went further north, into the lion's den. We landed at Minneapolis, got some more fuel and were hosed down with some sort of de-icing solution and back to Iowa we went. This time were were successful at landing in Des Moines, a full 2 hours behind schedule though.
We got out, got to our car, which had been sitting in the snow for five days, and after scrapping it off, started making the deadly trek to Ames. The snow plows hadn't been out at all, really, so we were making our own path on the interstate. Other cars decided they could still go 55+ and zoomed past us but most of us making the trip maintained a speed around 25 to 35 the whole way. We made it, no problem, back to Ames around 12:30 am. We were glad to be home and after getting setlled in, we went to bed anxiously awaiting Christmas morning with BellaRose.
We started our Christmas with endless kisses for BellaRose, whom we desperately had been missing since we left. We also enjoyed a new family tradition, French toast a la dad, which Bella enjoyed greatly. Then it was time for me to wrap her gifts only to have them opened immediately following. I know it seems like cross purposes--wrapping the gifts just before they are opened--but it was how we used to do it in my youth, with my mom making my sister and I wait in our rooms,, plagued with anticipation, while she wrapped our gifts downstairs. Though Bella was likely not anticipating much, she still was happy to tear open her gifts, which she thoroughly loved. Her favorite? An inflatable microphone which came complimentary with a sing-a-long DVD of the Backyardigans. Of course, she loves the free item the most. At least she didn't like the wrapping paper the most.
That evening we had dinner with Omi, Opi, Uncle Jordan, Aunt Leisa, Parker and Kale, after which we opened up our gifts. Bella got a giant pink tub full of clothes and toys, though she seemed most interested in her cousins' similar tub full of toys. That's our kid, always curious about others.
The next day we went to my grandparents in Jewell for my mom's side family Christmas. Bella had a great time there though it was a bit overwhelming at times for her with there being so many kids and such loud noises happening almost constantly. She had a good time, again, tearing open gifts and investigating her neighbor's gifts too.
The day after that, we had my parents Christmas at their place in Boone. Bella once again made out like a bandit, getting lots and lots of toys. We also exchanged gifts with my parents, sister and nephews. We gave my parents some glasses we got at Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville in Jamaica. We also got them some other random things. My dad thoroughly enjoyed his official Tony Stewart pit crew hat. I'd rather have a Jeff Gordon hat myself, but I digress.
So, in total we had four Christmases and after the weekend we were all just happy to be doing nothing. We spent the week in between catching up on all that we had put off after arriving back from our trip and sorting through all our Christmas gifts. Also, we all three began coming down with the same cold. Bella had a fever, Lizzie had a sore throat and I am just now getting over my sore throat and congestion. Which brings me to New Years.
Last year we didn't do much for New Years so this year hoped to be a bit more exciting. However, since we all were starting to come down with something, it was proving to be just as simple as last years. I ended up going to James and Amy Hawcott's place to watch the Iowa State vs. Minnesota Insight bowl for the evening, which was very nerve-wracking to watch but in the end, I was overjoyed to see ISU win. After a raucous game of Settlers of Catan while watching Tropic Thunder, I left for Ames. I was home by midnight but my two soldiers, Lizzie and Bella, were long since asleep. It was a pretty decent New Years, though I did miss my Lizzie.
So, that should bring us up to date. Currently Lizzie is a week away from starting her last semester, which includes an intership at Creative Counseling Services with Amy Hawcott, and I am more seriously looking into careers. I mostly stay at home with Bella but soon I hope to take on some part time work. There is also an opening at the Story County Jail that I'm applying for, as well as others, so I am hopeful.
That's about it for now. Sorry for the lack of posts. Its been rather crazy around here. It hopefully will slow down soon, though I doubt that. Keep you posted the best I can. Until then, thanks for reading. Later all.
-Mike
Monday, October 26, 2009
Nigh on Halloween
Well, I suppose the first thing to report is that I did not receive a call back from the ISU PD after my day of testing. I wrote about it was well in my personal blog but to put a long story short, it went well but there were 25 of us testing for a single position. Furthermore, its entirely usual for a person attempting to join law enforcement to not get their first attempt. There will be other opportunities. I'm not too discouraged.
In other news, classes are going well for Lizzie. Some weeks she seems very, very busy with a test or quiz or something nearly everyday but then other weeks she has far less "big" assignments. Lately she has been hit with a large number of exams, papers, etc., leaving her weekends not very relaxing. Hopefully soon she can catch a break. BellaRose and I try to give her a break as often as possible. Being a former student myself, I know what its like to have numerous cumbersome weeks of what seems like never ending work. At least Thanksgiving Break is about a month away. That will be a welcomed break.
As far as BellaRose is concerned, she is getting to be a very active, very intelligent, very ornory little girl. She is past 11 months now and on the downward slope to her 1st birthday. Where did the time go? Is almost hard to remember what she was like as a helpless, nearly motionless, sleepy little baby. Good thing we have pictures. Now, of course, she is anything but motionless. She is a prodidgious great crawler and very few things can (or will) stop her from going where she wants. She also shows no fear, and crawls head-first into most situations, like off the couch. With this penchant for extreme crawling, has come many bonks to the head followed by tears. She gets over it quickly, however, and is right back at it. What a kid, eh?
She also pulls herself up to standing now, which is a mixed blessing. It makes her mom and I cringe when she gets so close to wiping out so often plus it only means walking is close and that too an eery thought. Then where will she be off to and how many more head wounds (or worse?) will she get. In addition to all this, she is quite a little sponge, copying many of the sounds and gestures she hears/sees. For example, she copies you when you sneeze or cough and says things like "mama", "baby", "bye" and though I've not heard it, "dada". She also waves nearly every time you pick her up thinking she is leaving yet often doesn't wave at folks when we are actually out and she is being waved at. At least not until we are in the car or something. Not the greatest timing. It will come, I'm sure.
To close, I'd like to post something Bella wrote. I let her punch away in a Word document to see what she could do. Rather clever girl, I think. If you'll notice, she writes "hi", which though its the only discernable word, is a positive sign. The rest seems like a printout from the Enigma machine but still, she's a natural. Maybe a future novelist? Perhaps a codebreaker. Anyway, enjoy. Talk to ya'll soon.
-Michael
In other news, classes are going well for Lizzie. Some weeks she seems very, very busy with a test or quiz or something nearly everyday but then other weeks she has far less "big" assignments. Lately she has been hit with a large number of exams, papers, etc., leaving her weekends not very relaxing. Hopefully soon she can catch a break. BellaRose and I try to give her a break as often as possible. Being a former student myself, I know what its like to have numerous cumbersome weeks of what seems like never ending work. At least Thanksgiving Break is about a month away. That will be a welcomed break.
As far as BellaRose is concerned, she is getting to be a very active, very intelligent, very ornory little girl. She is past 11 months now and on the downward slope to her 1st birthday. Where did the time go? Is almost hard to remember what she was like as a helpless, nearly motionless, sleepy little baby. Good thing we have pictures. Now, of course, she is anything but motionless. She is a prodidgious great crawler and very few things can (or will) stop her from going where she wants. She also shows no fear, and crawls head-first into most situations, like off the couch. With this penchant for extreme crawling, has come many bonks to the head followed by tears. She gets over it quickly, however, and is right back at it. What a kid, eh?
She also pulls herself up to standing now, which is a mixed blessing. It makes her mom and I cringe when she gets so close to wiping out so often plus it only means walking is close and that too an eery thought. Then where will she be off to and how many more head wounds (or worse?) will she get. In addition to all this, she is quite a little sponge, copying many of the sounds and gestures she hears/sees. For example, she copies you when you sneeze or cough and says things like "mama", "baby", "bye" and though I've not heard it, "dada". She also waves nearly every time you pick her up thinking she is leaving yet often doesn't wave at folks when we are actually out and she is being waved at. At least not until we are in the car or something. Not the greatest timing. It will come, I'm sure.
To close, I'd like to post something Bella wrote. I let her punch away in a Word document to see what she could do. Rather clever girl, I think. If you'll notice, she writes "hi", which though its the only discernable word, is a positive sign. The rest seems like a printout from the Enigma machine but still, she's a natural. Maybe a future novelist? Perhaps a codebreaker. Anyway, enjoy. Talk to ya'll soon.
-Michael
``` hi< ‘m ‘;=9Nom ‘ki ik m
N(N996544454\jm j’jo hn
‘; n i
‘
=
n=
Rbnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn b ^*
+,I b b65 kk y I V^MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMUUUUUUUUJ cxxxc7v7uuy 9opk0/’.'^F^^^=r5rf6 ]\g,0020///swt][rfv chyhyht/v.// mhhhhhhhhhhhh 4cxj
^”L
…
Monday, September 21, 2009
New Month, New News
So, its been a few weeks since Lizzie started back to school and we began watching another baby during the day and I will say that it has been an interesting time but I am happy to say that as of last week, we are no longer watching said baby anymore. He got on at the university's daycare so his folks had him start this week. It was a good fit, while it lasted, and it was a good source of money for us. But still, it did add some stress that we could have gone without, especially during the very beginning weeks of classes for Lizzie. Eh, its all said and done now and I'm sure we're better for it.
As far as classes go, Lizzie is enjoying them so far, as much as one can enjoy a thing like that. She actually just added another class that meets once a week at night. She added it so she can do her internship next semester (a requisite for her major) and graduate in May, not the summer. She isn't over on credits or anything but it certainly will add some busy work at home. But with the other baby not being here, it makes the days less stressful and the nights more free and less worrisome. All in all, we are happy that Lizzie added the class and will graduate earlier than anticipated, even if it will add more work over both semesters. Better to get it done early than put it off further.
In other news, I'm happy to report that the job search is going well and my interest in law enforcement has just taken a large stride. A week ago I applied to the ISU Police Dept. for a trainee position. Just last week, I got a packet from them inviting me to attend the first phase of application--a physical test, a writing portion and the dread police officer selection test or POST which test general aptitude. If I past those portions, I will be invited back for interviews and move into Phase II. There are four phases, the last of which is accepting the position and going to the academy for 13 weeks. Either way, its a good feeling to know I'm making some headway toward a possible career. Even if I don't make it during my first try, a usual occurance for law enforcement, its something and will only help me out in the future. I hope though that I will make onto the second and third phases. I'm confident in my ability to past the tests in phase one but I'm still going to prepare, i.e. keep up working out and running as well as get a guide book to help me prepare for the written and POST sections. I'll inform you all when I know more.
Besides that, its been pretty normal. BellaRose is 10 months old now, is a crawler and can say "mama". She babbles a lot, has two teeth and can both wave and clap her hands, which she does either by copying or just on her own. She's about 20 lbs. and 28 in. long, pretty average for her age. She's a good baby and everyday we are blessesed with the knowledge of how well behaved she is. We couldn't ask for a better girl. We are very proud. What a good girl!
Well, this is getting long. I hope you all enjoyed this update, all three of you. We'll keep you informed as more and more things occur. Have an excellent fall and take care.
As far as classes go, Lizzie is enjoying them so far, as much as one can enjoy a thing like that. She actually just added another class that meets once a week at night. She added it so she can do her internship next semester (a requisite for her major) and graduate in May, not the summer. She isn't over on credits or anything but it certainly will add some busy work at home. But with the other baby not being here, it makes the days less stressful and the nights more free and less worrisome. All in all, we are happy that Lizzie added the class and will graduate earlier than anticipated, even if it will add more work over both semesters. Better to get it done early than put it off further.
In other news, I'm happy to report that the job search is going well and my interest in law enforcement has just taken a large stride. A week ago I applied to the ISU Police Dept. for a trainee position. Just last week, I got a packet from them inviting me to attend the first phase of application--a physical test, a writing portion and the dread police officer selection test or POST which test general aptitude. If I past those portions, I will be invited back for interviews and move into Phase II. There are four phases, the last of which is accepting the position and going to the academy for 13 weeks. Either way, its a good feeling to know I'm making some headway toward a possible career. Even if I don't make it during my first try, a usual occurance for law enforcement, its something and will only help me out in the future. I hope though that I will make onto the second and third phases. I'm confident in my ability to past the tests in phase one but I'm still going to prepare, i.e. keep up working out and running as well as get a guide book to help me prepare for the written and POST sections. I'll inform you all when I know more.
Besides that, its been pretty normal. BellaRose is 10 months old now, is a crawler and can say "mama". She babbles a lot, has two teeth and can both wave and clap her hands, which she does either by copying or just on her own. She's about 20 lbs. and 28 in. long, pretty average for her age. She's a good baby and everyday we are blessesed with the knowledge of how well behaved she is. We couldn't ask for a better girl. We are very proud. What a good girl!
Well, this is getting long. I hope you all enjoyed this update, all three of you. We'll keep you informed as more and more things occur. Have an excellent fall and take care.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Extreme Sunday (+) and Classes Start (-)
Its Monday morning and being home alone with Bella (and Kolton) tells me one thing--Elizabeth is at class. Thankfully the babies are both asleep currently but soon enough they shall rouse from their slumbers and require my attention. Plus, Bella has to eat her breakfast soon. Oh well. I have my coffee.
Yesterday we three went to the state fair again for Extreme Sunday, where admission is half off and parking is (supposed to be) free. It wasn't but given how hectic parking is there, we were okay with paying for it, considering we saved $10 on admission. It was Bella's second time going, since last year she was in the womb. She enjoyed it more this time around, I can say, as she had many people to look at, especially little kids, which she loves. She did really well, considering she didn't take a very long second nap and lasted clear until after 9 pm before zonking out. What a good kid. We have her well trained.
At the fair we saw the rabbits--Lizzie's expertise--and the dollhouses. There was a 20 lbs. rabbit there, a Flemish giant. It was bigger than Bella. I had no idea rabbits got that big. It was a like a cat, with floppy ears. Wowsers! We also saw some free concerts, Julianne Hough and Matt Nathanson. We saw Julianne's beau last Friday (Chuck Wicks) with Gary Allan. She is very bubbly and talks like a souther cheerleader all the time. It got a little annoying but what can ya do. We had pretty good seats for that. Later, we went and got ice cream and listened to Matt Nathanson from the side as his concert was pretty packed. It was good. Played a few songs I knew and many that Lizzie knew (she has his CD). Bella really enjoyed it. Again, what a good kid.
And here it is, the first day of fall classes for Lizzie. She only has two a day, so that's not so bad. I'm happy I don't have classes right now, not just cause of the coursework but cause there's no way we could keep Bella out of daycare and have both of us in class. Not at this age. It really worked out for the best having her when we did. This is Lizzie's last year so that's exciting.
Uh oh, I hear Miss Bella talking in the bedroom. Guess baby #1 is awake. She's not so bad. She had a late night so I'm happy she slept in this late. Better get her. She's in a good mood now and I don't wanna blow it. Take care all. Au revoir.
Yesterday we three went to the state fair again for Extreme Sunday, where admission is half off and parking is (supposed to be) free. It wasn't but given how hectic parking is there, we were okay with paying for it, considering we saved $10 on admission. It was Bella's second time going, since last year she was in the womb. She enjoyed it more this time around, I can say, as she had many people to look at, especially little kids, which she loves. She did really well, considering she didn't take a very long second nap and lasted clear until after 9 pm before zonking out. What a good kid. We have her well trained.
At the fair we saw the rabbits--Lizzie's expertise--and the dollhouses. There was a 20 lbs. rabbit there, a Flemish giant. It was bigger than Bella. I had no idea rabbits got that big. It was a like a cat, with floppy ears. Wowsers! We also saw some free concerts, Julianne Hough and Matt Nathanson. We saw Julianne's beau last Friday (Chuck Wicks) with Gary Allan. She is very bubbly and talks like a souther cheerleader all the time. It got a little annoying but what can ya do. We had pretty good seats for that. Later, we went and got ice cream and listened to Matt Nathanson from the side as his concert was pretty packed. It was good. Played a few songs I knew and many that Lizzie knew (she has his CD). Bella really enjoyed it. Again, what a good kid.
And here it is, the first day of fall classes for Lizzie. She only has two a day, so that's not so bad. I'm happy I don't have classes right now, not just cause of the coursework but cause there's no way we could keep Bella out of daycare and have both of us in class. Not at this age. It really worked out for the best having her when we did. This is Lizzie's last year so that's exciting.
Uh oh, I hear Miss Bella talking in the bedroom. Guess baby #1 is awake. She's not so bad. She had a late night so I'm happy she slept in this late. Better get her. She's in a good mood now and I don't wanna blow it. Take care all. Au revoir.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Gary Allan @ the Iowa State Fair
Yesterday evening, Elizabeth and I went to see multi-platinum country recording artist Gary Allan at the Iowa State Fair. I got Elizabeth the tickets as a surprise, knowing she hearts Gary Allan with the intensity of a thousand fires. It was a secret, until earlier this week, when I had to tell her because my relatives were also having a b-day party Friday and she was beginning to question my behaviors regarding said party. Anyway, all went off well and the concert was fantastic.
I didn't know that many of Gary Allan's songs but he still is a good performer, good singer, and is certainly an interesting part of the country music genre. At times he doesn't sound all too country, even approaching a rockish feel. Very heavy in guitars and loud. Yet he also has a steel guitar, piano (ogran), and fiddle playing often. I'm sure most of you would like him. He's mysterious, dark haired, with tatoos and dressed in black. Kinda like a country goth look or higher-pitched Johnny Cash.
The seats were pretty good. In the lower section, not on the ground and not in front of the stage but slightly to the left (stage right). Luckily there was a large projection of Gary directly in front of us so it was basically like you were up close. It was a good spot, in the end, as no one really was too close to us and we got to see him fairly well and were in perfect placement for the fireworks that followed. May I say it was the largest fireworks I have ever seen. Much bigger than Ames' 4th of July display. And to think, that happens each night.
Below, I have posted some of the pics from the concert. I hope you enjoy. I'm glad we went. It was nice to have a date like that together. Its the first concert we've been to together. I was equally as pleased to see how happy Elizabeth was, even though I'm sure she was making eyes at Mr. Allan. Good thing we were so far away from him, eh? And thought he night started with some parking issues, like always, there were good times had by all. Ooh, and plus, we got there in enough time to enjoy veggie corn dogs (Lizzie's favorite), a funnel cake and some lemonade before the concert. Excellent night, if I do say so.
I didn't know that many of Gary Allan's songs but he still is a good performer, good singer, and is certainly an interesting part of the country music genre. At times he doesn't sound all too country, even approaching a rockish feel. Very heavy in guitars and loud. Yet he also has a steel guitar, piano (ogran), and fiddle playing often. I'm sure most of you would like him. He's mysterious, dark haired, with tatoos and dressed in black. Kinda like a country goth look or higher-pitched Johnny Cash.
The seats were pretty good. In the lower section, not on the ground and not in front of the stage but slightly to the left (stage right). Luckily there was a large projection of Gary directly in front of us so it was basically like you were up close. It was a good spot, in the end, as no one really was too close to us and we got to see him fairly well and were in perfect placement for the fireworks that followed. May I say it was the largest fireworks I have ever seen. Much bigger than Ames' 4th of July display. And to think, that happens each night.
Below, I have posted some of the pics from the concert. I hope you enjoy. I'm glad we went. It was nice to have a date like that together. Its the first concert we've been to together. I was equally as pleased to see how happy Elizabeth was, even though I'm sure she was making eyes at Mr. Allan. Good thing we were so far away from him, eh? And thought he night started with some parking issues, like always, there were good times had by all. Ooh, and plus, we got there in enough time to enjoy veggie corn dogs (Lizzie's favorite), a funnel cake and some lemonade before the concert. Excellent night, if I do say so.
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