44 Weeks Old

Well, she's officially 10 months old now. Whew. And yes, if you know me, this means the serious planning for her first birthday party has begun ;) It's going to be fabulous! Hehehe... I have gone back and forth with possible 'themes' for the party, and finally settled on basing it around the color yellow instead of a character or something. We're going to ask everyone who comes to her party to wear yellow for the event too- I can't wait for the photos! It's going to be so cheery and fun! So, if you're local, start checking your wardrobe for yellow, and mark off the Sat or Sun (not sure which yet) after her b-day (Aug. 20th). :)

It's funny when I think of her birthday getting closer... she seems like so much more of a baby at this age than Jillian did. I know this is in large part because she is still not crawling, but there's other things too. She's just such a content/mellow little girl so far (I'll be eating my words when she's 12, I know!) We are really enjoying her so much- she makes being a Mom as easy as it could possibly be!

This week we kept busy with friends- In the PHOTOS THIS WEEK (link) you'll see a play date where we learned about gardening and Liv was passed around by some of the adorable kids in our MOMS Club, bath time in the sink with big sister Jillian, photos from Father's Day, a "yellow themed" play date (the inspiration for her party!!!), and some sister & individual photos on our black background.

Hope all is well!

Nancy

43 Weeks Old

Liv is staring to learn the power of accessorizing ;) Thanks for the cute hat, Traci!

It seems like it's been a long week since I last posted! In the PHOTOS THIS WEEK (link) you'll see sweet Liv's naked bum getting into the bath, lots of fun self feeding fruits (like blackberries!) and the rinse in the sink which follows said feedings... :) some time outside with Jillian, a tub full of girls after swimming (fun!), Jillian & Liv playing dress up with cute new hats, Jillian's method to entice Liv to crawl on the rug in her room, some photos with me on a train at a local park and on the carousel with Jillian, enjoying a baby picnic with Liv's friend Laney, a not-too-super family pic (this was the best one out of about 8 that were taken... oh well...), Liv posing in the grass & Jillian offering Liv a rose from our garden.

WHEW! No wonder it seems like the last 7 days have been a lot- all these outside activities are exhausting!

Changes of note: For the past few days, Liv has not eaten any baby food! Only finger foods and things that are typically spoon fed (ie, yogurt, apple sauce, beans, hummus...) it's pretty cool to have a baby that can eat 'normal' food! She likes pretty much everything she tries, but right now I'd say her favorite thing is yogurt or hummus. Yum.

Aside from graduating baby food, Liv also learned to clap on command this week, but as a result, seems to have forgotten how to wave on command. haha. Oh well. We're really starting to work on some of the baby sign language, and I'm sure it's only a matter of time before she's saying "please" with her cute pudgy little hand!

Hope all is well,

Nancy

42 Weeks Old

How could you not want to kiss that face? Goodness little cupcake, you certainly are sweet!

I hope you LOVE the video below as much as we do- Liv is doing something new... waving! It's SO stinkin' cute! If you get these updates via email, you may have to click this link to see the video on the blog (www.kulesfamily2.blogspot.com) And, if it makes you smile, throw me some love and leave a comment on this blog! Is there anybody out there?!? :)

Aside from waving, the other remarkable thing Liv did this week was eat 2 whole stage 2 baby foods, and a bunch of veggie straws and hummus all in one sitting. This girl sure does like hummus! I'm so glad- It's a favorite snack for us girls to share in the afternoon!

In the PHOTOS THIS WEEK (link) you'll see mini golfing with Daddy, lots of cowgirl/farm fun, flirting with our friend Leighton, snack time, and fun in a baby pool!

Until next week!

Nancy

41 Weeks Old

Has it really been another week already?! In case you were wondering, in the world of Jillian, Liv's nickname (cupcake) has now evolved into any treat food item she can think of. So, when they are playing in the other room I overhear, "Hello there my little cupcake muffin brownie potato chip!" Haha. These girls are so darn sweet and play so nicely together!

I know I usually only post one pic per week on here, and leave you to see the rest on the Shutterfly link if you're interested, but I had to share the photo below too. I can't get enough! There's a few more from this little photo shoot on the LINK FOR THIS WEEK, so check 'em out if you'd like!

Ryan's home from his trip overseas, so we're just settling back into our routine with Daddy. It's been a busy week and we're looking forward to the weekend since after Ryan was gone for 10 days he had to jump right into work... we're ready for some quality family time!!!

Today we finally found time to go to story time and Liv loved it... especially playing peek-a-boo with the little scarfs.

In the photos you'll see the tail end of Grandma and Marilyn's visit, a pack and play full of babies on 'orange day' at our house, Liv laying on the pillow I talked about last week, the rest of the black background pics, a couple of when we met Ryan at Andrews Air Force Base, fun outside, bath time, library and fun with friends!

Until next week,

Nancy

40 Weeks Old

WHAT?!?! 9 months old? Awww.... little cupcake, we love you so much!

This week has been crazy fun! Ryan went out of town (to Iraq!) so MY grandma and sister Marilyn came into town for a visit. Grandma Mary turned 70 on May 25th, and we though it would be cool for her to spend this milestone birthday with her two granddaughters AND two GREAT-granddaughters! That makes for a great photo, huh? I'll be sure to get at least one great group shot before they leave on Saturday. I've got to say: Marilyn and Grandma are officially smitten with baby Liv. I should also add, they have been sharing very nicely ;) Good job girls. Good thing we have sweet Jillian to steal some (lots!) of their attention too.

We've been hanging out at the house, (I've been getting some things done sans children since I've got willing live in babysitters here! haha!) meeting up with local friends, and playing tourist in the DC area a little. It's been great.

Click HERE to see all the photos from this week!

Liv updates: she's turning a corner on her tummy time!!! The other night I was sitting in the living room with Grandma and Marilyn and we thought Liv might like being on her belly more with a little pillow under there for support. Sure enough! Then, we made the pillow prop smaller and smaller and now she is not putting up much of a fuss at all about being on just her belly for short periods of time. It's progress! Also, Liv has been impressing Grandma with her hand eye coordination- there's a little loop on a ball toy we have and Liv will focus, and then poke her little finger right through the loop to grab it. Cute, cute...

Also, for the record, I believe Liv's official nickname has stuck: It's CUPCAKE. :)

Until next week,

Nancy

39 Weeks Old

Even though it was Jillian's birthday week, Liv sure wasn't neglected in the photo taking! My Dad came from Nevada for a visit, and the girls had a wonderful time with Grandpa (thanks for coming, Dad!)

This week, Liv was a trooper with our busy schedule... It seems there was maybe one day of the week where she got to be on her normal routine. She's sweet none the less though. She's still not a huge fan of tummy time however (although I've yet to get a picture!) she can keep a little space between her belly and the floor if you prop her up in crawling position! Hey! It's a start!!!

CLICK HERE for the photos this week: you'll see Jillian's birthday get together this past weekend, lots of fun with Grandpa (at the Science Center, at home, and bike riding), some shots of her eating, and a little photo shoot outside.

Until next week!

38 Weeks Old

For the record, I know this post is late (Sorry Mom, and Marilyn) but after 37 weeks of posting on time, I hope you'll cut me some slack this once! ;)

This week was very busy. On Thursday we were in NYC for a work event for Ryan, and Friday late afternoon we returned home and rushed around to prepare for a small birthday party we had for Jillian on Saturday. We had a wonderful time, but that event kept me from posting until now. Plus, my Dad came into town on Thursday night and our friend Neil is visiting too! It's been crazy, but lots of fun!
Another reason I didn't post until now is because I can't find the cord for my small point and shoot camera and it's making me CRAZY!!! I usually don't have too many photos on that camera, but this week I happen to know there were one or two keepers! :( Oh well, I'll add them to the shutterfly link for this week when I find it!

Liv news for the week: She's consistently sitting in a high chair when we go out to eat, and she is the sweetest baby in the whole world. Period. Sorry other Moms out there, I'm sure your kid is very sweet too. Haha...

Have a wonderful week- I'll be back with more pictures on Thursday!

LINK FOR THIS WEEK'S PHOTOS

:) Nancy

37 Weeks Old

'Lollipop Lollipop oh lolli, lolli, lolli. Lollipop Lollipop oh lolli, lolli, lolli.... LolliPOP!'

8 months old, and guess who got their first lollipop today? LIV! No, I would have never done this on my own, and no, I did not get a picture. It all just happened SO fast, and only lasted a few seconds... We went to the dry cleaner and Jillian was acting shy. The nice lady there bribed her to be friendly with a lollipop. It worked. Moments later, the lady had unwrapped another one and given it to MY BABY! Goodness! I must have looked shocked when I glanced down into her car seat because the lady quickly assured me that, "she likes it!" Um. Yeah. I'm sure she does!

In the end, Jillian ended up with 2 lollipops, and I ended up with one very jealous and sticky baby.

Another first for Liv this week was 'swimming' in our little pool in the yard. The girls loved this, and Liv was not bothered at all by the cold water or being splashed. They had a great time playing, I had a great time taking photos. :)

Liv is also starting to try some new foods. She got ahold of some Ritz crackers the other day, and was pretty darn happy about that. She also is getting the hang of some finger veggies and other regular items cut up really small. She still does not have any teeth, but she's workin' those gums on her food very well!

Aside from those things, in the PHOTOS THIS WEEK you'll see a picture of Liv sitting in her diaper and none too pleased about it. It's rare, but this was taken on an afternoon where she was crabby, crabby, crabby! I'm glad she's not a grouch like that very often, but also more than happy to take a moment to document it when she is. Haha!

Take care!

Nancy

36 Weeks Old

Liv is 8 months old, and while we were at the pediatrician for Jillian, I plopped her on a scale- 18.4lbs! I actually thought she would weigh more than that... maybe she's starting to slow down a little...

This week in the PHOTOS (LINK) you'll see that we celebrated Ryan's birthday! Also, Liv had fun outside, ate lunch at Sonic (she got to eat a french fry!), and enjoyed hanging out with her baby friend Laney at the Go Cart Raceway. We also enjoyed lots of sister bath time, snacking on new things like cheese puffs (now that Liv is proficient at self feeding!), and playing with lots of toys! Whew!

I can also happily report that Liv seems to be turning over a new leaf on her attempt to be more mobile. She is doing this really funny worm wiggle crawl thing when she lays on her back. She still FAR prefers being on her back than belly, so unfortunately when we try to give her some time to practice crawling, she just flips right over. Oh well!

Until next week!

Nancy

35 Weeks Old

Da Da Daaa DAAaa Da Da! Big news for this week is Liv turned 8 months old, and is doing LOTS and LOTS of talking including saying Da Da all the time! It's so cute and despite the fact that I'm (more than) a little jealous that he gets to be first, I'm trying to focus on the fact that it means Ma Ma is probably just around the corner... :)

Oh man, I could just gobble this kid up. Her little personality is just so lovable! She always has a big smile for anyone willing to make eye contact with her, and she's just such a joy to be around. Ryan and I were pretty sure we wanted to have another baby before we had Liv, but if we weren't convinced this is the type of baby that would convince to go ahead and try for #3- she's just so amazing- I can't say it enough.

This week Ryan's Dad traveled to see us and although I didn't get as many pictures as I would have liked, that's only because we were SO busy while he was here. It was a great visit- thanks for taking your time to come see us, Jay!

In the PHOTOS THIS WEEK (LINK) you'll see Go Cart racing, Grandpa Jay, out to lunch, fun in the yard, and a VERY unhappy baby being forced to try to crawl. It's still a no go, folks. ;)

Until next week,

Nancy

34 Weeks Old

Each week I like to pick my favorite photo of Liv's face for this blog.  For this "main photo" it's always one of her looking right at the camera.  Even though this one isn't my absolute favorite (when I saw the choices I had to work with I just about grabbed her out of bed at 11:15pm for a quick photo shoot) (I'm only a little kidding) but it will do.  She's a cutie even if the photo is a tad out of focus on her face!

Anyway- as usual, Liv has been a peach this week.  The new thing to report is over the past few weeks, she's been getting better and better at feeding herself little things, and sitting in the high chair.  She's getting so big!  She really likes eating yogurt drops, and these little veggie straw things (that are basically potato chips).  It's cute, and although she does make a huge mess and drop most of it on the floor, it's progress.  Let's just say that she and Peanut are getting to be better and better friends...  ;)

Today I was telling Ryan about what a great day I had with the girls.  It was fabulous.  We went out to a garden in Baltimore that plants 80K tulips each year!!!  80K!!!  There were all sorts of flower beds, and lots of variety in bloom colors and such.  Most of the PHOTOS FROM THIS WEEK are from the garden.  I took Liv's Easter dress with us, and got a few extra of her in that!

Enjoy!  

Until next week.....

Nancy

33 Weeks Old

Although there are a good number of photos this week (LINK), there's not as much variety as usual.  This is because over Easter weekend, we traveled to NYC, and I left my camera on the train when we got off.  I could not believe it!  We assumed there was no chance we'd get it back, but believe it or not, after a series of phone calls, (I'm making this sound easy!) it was found and shipped back to me!  Amazing!

This week Liv enjoyed her second trip to New York, lots of fun family Easter time, and time outside enjoying our great Spring weather!

Busy day... that's all for now-

Nancy

32 Weeks Old

Do you know what I love the most about being a Mom?  That these babies, are ours.  I can do whatever I want with them, whenever I want.  I have always loved babies.  I remember looking at moms with their cute little ones at restaurants and such and thinking- 'I'd like to pick that baby up' or 'I bet that baby would laugh if I ticked her'.  And now?  I can pick them up, tickle them, kiss them, love them.... all on my own terms.  I. LOVE. THESE. KIDS.  And, I love being a Mom.  When I get Liv out of her crib in the morning, or after a nap I always say, "Hi Goo-dee Girl"  ("Goo-dee girl" explanation:  My friend Marlyn speaks Spanish, and calls Liv "Gorda" which means fat.  haha.  Since I don't speak Spanish, I found myself changing this nickname into Gouda (my love of cheese, and her milky squishy texture explains this) Gouda somehow, evolved to Goo-Dee (with Jillian's help) and that explains that.)  

Anyway- Goo-dee girl has been in the habit of waking at 5:30am for a snack and a snuggle and this week we decided no more.  If I try to let her put herself back to sleep, she talks/whines/sings for OVER an hour before going back to bed.  Since her room and ours shares a wall, this means I'm awake the whole time.  The solution?  Liv has slept the last 4 nights in a pack and play in the laundry room.  And me, I've slept great.  Ha!  I think she's getting over waking up at 5ish now that she's not getting any attention, so I'm sure she'll be back in her pretty room soon.  haha!

In the PHOTOS THIS WEEK (link), you'll see Liv on her beautiful Easter quilt (thank you Shere!), Jillian "helping me" feed Liv, our Easter bunny in a basket, face painting, tummy time with her friend Laney, cute VANS from Aunt Marilyn, out to dinner, after the bath, pretty face, checking email with Jillian, story time at the library, & us on a tour of the local baseball field.  Whew!  What a week!

Take care,

Nancy

Click here to view these pictures larger

31 Weeks Old

My only complaint this week would have to be that for a little while now, Liv has decided waking up around 5:30am would be a good idea.  No thanks.  But, look at this face...  how mad could I really be?!  Lately, Liv has been getting much more 'grabby'.  She's constantly putting things in her mouth, grabbing my shirt, pulling on my necklace...   It's fun to see her really interacting with her environment.  She still loves to lay on her back on a blanket and look at the ceiling fans, and is pretty content just being there- no scooting, purposeful rolling, trying to crawl just yet.  

In the PHOTOS this week (link), you'll see a pic of two double strollers at the mall (it's an impressive amount of kids/cargo!),  Jillian and Liv in Jilli's 'reading corner', family snuggle on Jillian's new full size big girl bed, happy Liv/sleepy Liv, outside eating leaves, lunch on the patio, snuggle time, chewing time, and fun at/outside of the Baltimore Science Museum with good friends.  What a week!

Hope all is well...

Nancy

Click here to view these pictures larger

30 Weeks Old

Over 6 months old?  Nearly 7 months old?  Who?  Our baby?  No. Way.  Oh sweet Liv, we are having so much fun with you!

The big news to report this week, is that Liv has turned over a new leaf in regards to baby food!  She's eating about 1/2 a jar in the afternoon, and the other half in the evening.  And she does not even act like we are trying to poison her anymore!  AND it only takes a few minutes for her to eat her whole serving!  Woo Hoo!

Aside from that, in the PHOTOS this week (LINK), you'll notice some evidence of thumb sucking (NOOOooooo!), sister time, bath time, an entirely consumed jar of baby food, time outside, St. Patty's Day fun, swinging at the park (first time!), playing at the park, 'sampling' a stick, and zonked out after a long day of running around!

Till next week,

Nancy!

Click here to view these pictures larger

29 Weeks Old

Since we've been home so much for the past few weeks, I've really had a chance to watch Liv, and analyze her development. It's interesting, because her laid back attitude really shows in the things she is doing. Yes, she loves to chew on things, but no, she won't go out of her way to reach them. Yes, she can sit up on her own, but hey, isn't it just easier to lay down? haha! Anyway... I'm not concerned about her by any means, I just think her behavior is a little unusual for a 2nd born... shouldn't she be trying like heck to keep up with Jillian?! And then, I think about their relationship, and realize Jillian enables Liv to be a "baby" most of the time... She brings her toys, she moves things closer for her, she plays right next to Liv so, "she can see". It's very sweet. One of the things I am enjoying most right now is watching this sister relationship develop. They certainly do like each other a lot!

In regards to the RSV, things are still a little yucky around here. Thank goodness for the awesome weather we have been having that has allowed for LOTS of outside time (even some naked outside time! See the photos....) It's been great. Liv loves being in the swing outside as much as Jillian did, so that makes it easy for me. Liv still hates tummy time (unless she is naked!) and still shows zero interest in trying to crawl/creep/scoot.

In the PHOTOS (LINK) this week, you'll see Liv getting a breathing treatment, snuggling with Daddy, lots of fun in the yard, sister kisses, standing up outside, swinging, & examining a tag (to determine its chew-a-bility I assume).

Have a great week, and send positive energy our way that we FINALLY kick this nasty virus and can get out of the house again!!!!!

Nancy

Click here to view these pictures larger

28 Weeks Old

You know, it seems thus far, whatever life throws her way, Liv takes it in stride (can you say 'in stride' before someone can walk?!) and is happy, happy, happy.  I hope that's a lifelong trait for her...

This week, life (aka: a skating rink full of snotty kids) threw RSV her way.  For those of you that don't know, RSV is a respiratory virus that is quite infectious, lasts for longer than an average cold, and can be quite serious for small infants, or people in high risk categories (such as anyone with a compromised immune system, asthma, or lung disease).  Fortunately, our kids do not have any of those risks so although they both have it right now, it's presenting in them as a standard cold...  The problem is, as a responsible parent, you really need to quarantine your kid if they are coughing/runny at all to prevent spreading the infection to other people/kids who may be high risk, and could seriously be in danger if they caught it!  So, we're homebound.

And, even though I knew our girls are not in a high risk category, when a doctor says, "Yup, Liv tested positive" it makes your heart jump.  Poor little thing.

So, we now own another humidifier for each of the girls rooms, have lots of baby vicks on hand for soothing stuffy noses, and we're ridin' it out.  We suspect they caught it last Monday at the skating rink, so if that's the case, we're already 10 days into the virus.  Hopefully we'll be all clear after the weekend...  

And, as you can see (I took the above photo of Liv today) despite not feeling well, she's still pretty darn happy.  :)

Also this week Aunt Marilyn headed home to California (the girls and I miss her!), Liv is turning a corner on eating baby food (she's made it very clear that she (like her sister) HATES rice cereal and would prefer just fruit or veggies), and (as pictured) can stay standing by herself if you place her next to something for her to hold onto!  I'm glad she did this so I could get a good photo of her hilarious naked butt!  ;)

Till next week, click HERE to see the PHOTOS!

Nancy

Click here to view these pictures larger

27 Weeks Old

Hi there sunshine!  What a great week we have had!

Maybe it was the extra attention she got during the week we spent in Las Vegas with my parents, or maybe she's decided her Mommy was right and there was no need for that whiney behavior!  Either way, we've got our happy go lucky little Liv back!

The funny thing is that on each plane ride, she decided to FREAK OUT for about 5 minutes.  Unexplained, uncontrollable crying.  It was like she was in pain or something... terrible.  I don't think it was her ears, but that may have contributed.  Oh well.  It was just a few minutes of crying (but enough to scare the people around us... lol)

She was an absolute peach in NV, and loved visiting with my Mom and Dad, as well as a quick visit from my Grandma Mary, & Uncle Mark.  At the end of the trip, my sister Marilyn and her fiance Neal drove in from California to meet Liv.  Marilyn then flew home with me and the girls (Ryan had headed back home earlier in the week) and is hanging out with us here on the East coast until Friday.  It's been great to have her here- she is SUPER helpful with the girls, and it's fun to have some sister time for me too!  We went today and had a photo taken of the four of us, one of her with the girls, and two of Liv for her 6 month birthday!

You can check them out HERE, or on the slideshow below!

Have a great week!!!

Nancy

Click here to view these pictures larger

26 Weeks Old

This weekend, Liv will officially turn 6 months old! Does that seem awfully fast to anyone else?!? She's such a fun baby- we traveled to Vegas this week to visit my parents, and she's been a doll. She babbles and coos all the time, and still does lots of smiling for her family. She's starting to get a little more wary of strangers though- she definitly prefers familiar faces at this point...

We have been trying to encourage Liv to spend more time on her tummy, but for now, she has no interest in scooting/trying to crawl at all! Oh well! Maybe next week, she'll turn over a new leaf in regards to crawling since she'll be 1/2 a year old!!!!

Till next week, click HERE to see all the photos, or view the slideshow below!

Also, you can click HERE to see Valentine photos I took of both girls...

Take care-

Nancy

Click here to view these pictures larger

25 Weeks Old

This week there are lots of new PHOTOS!

Liv is starting to get so much personality- we're having such a good time getting to know this little girl!

I know I usually talk about what a wonderful easy going baby Liv is, but this week has been a bit of a challenge.  Maybe it's the weather (we've been stuck inside for awhile because of snow) or, maybe it's something else?  I've been checking for teeth, giving her extra naps...  not sure :(  I hope this is just a quick phase because I'm not sure I can carry her around all day anymore!  She's always been a little snuggle bug, but now she's starting to be more vocal about wanting to be with me all the time!

In the slideshow below you'll see our sweet happy girl smiling, some sister hugs, Liv's different hairstyles (SHE HATED THIS!), fun with Mommy, snow baby in a basket, peek-a-boo, bath time, fun with Daddy, family Rock Band time, making lemonade, Liv puts in her own pacifier, and snuggling in a blanket!  Whew!  Enjoy your week!

Click here to view these pictures larger

24 Weeks Old

Hi there silly face Liv!  We sure do love to kiss you, hug you, and make you laugh!

Now that Liv is 5 months old, she is really starting to show off her personality. She really loves when people talk to/smile at her and is always good for a grin back!  She warms your heart with those smiles!  Liv LOVES her family and has really started looking around when she hears Daddy's voice- 'where is that guy?!'  :)

Although Liv has rolled from her back to her belly, and belly to back, it's only been a handful of times.  She really likes to lounge most of all!  Haha!  We've started 'baby boot camp' around here though, (using toys that make her sit/stand vs. lay) and that seems to be helping to develop her leg/ab muscles more.  Not that there's anything wrong with being a delicious blob baby when you are 5 months old!!!!

Aside from more time sitting, Liv tried carrots this week (no thanks) and had a few friends over (see photos in the slideshow of her friends ganging up on her!!!) If you click HERE to see the photos from this week, you'll also see some tummy time, a happy girl, laying in the sink, playing with toys, sucking on fingers, sitting, smiling, and a photo mid-sneeze... ahhhh CHoo!

Have a great week!

Nancy

Click here to view these pictures larger

23 Weeks Old

Sweet little Liv, despite not feeling 100% this week, you're still a happy-go-lucky little baby... we are so lucky to call you ours!

Thursday sure does creep up quickly around here!  This week Liv has started to get more comfortable with her rolling. You'll notice in some of the photos I had a little bit of a hard time keeping her on her belly to take a picture!  :)  She also is still drooling quite a bit, still loves her bouncy chair or snuggling, and is totally, TOTALLY smitten with her big sister.  Jillian can make her laugh at the drop of a hat!

We've been dealing with a stuffy nose and cough for about 4 days now.  Sweet little thing!  It's hard to eat when your nose is plugged up, but she's figuring it out.  We've pulled out all the tricks for infant colds since they can't take any meds... propping up her mattress to a slight angle, humidifier, warm room, baby vicks, saline drops, booger sucker...  It seems to be helping.  Luckily, the rest of our family is in good health so hopefully this has almost run its course.

Click HERE to see this weeks photos! You'll see a happy girl hanging out in the swing outside, a sad girl because Mommy stopped the swing to take a photo, lots of her rolling around/posing in the cute CUTE personalized bloomers our friend got for her (thanks Karen!), posing pretty on the couch, playing with big sister on the floor (this takes place in our house for hours each day!), and two cute black and white photos.

Hope all is well with you!  

Until next week,

Nancy

P.S.- I know I usually only feature one photo per week, but I had to include this one too in case you don't check out the slideshow.  Mmmm!  I could eat her!!!

Click here to view these pictures larger

22 Weeks Old

Liv- you are 5 months old already? We are so crazy about you!  This time has flown by and every day we fall more and more in love with you!  It's so fun to watch you try new things...
This week, Liv got her first taste of rice cereal!  I'm pretty sure Jillian and I were more excited than she was, but she warmed up to the idea.  She's not the most efficient eater just yet (ie: I made about 4 tablespoons of food, and I'd estimate she actually swallowed less than a teaspoon!) but we're getting there.  I'm trying to give her some practice at least once a day.  There are lots of cute photos this week of her eating.  You can click HERE to see them!

Also in the photos, you'll see Liv in a pretty white outfit, some bath time fun/snuggles, a picture of Liv posing with a bunch of stuffed animals (I'm calling this one, "Where's Liv?!"), a baby who loves her pacifier, and some sister time.

Until next week!

Nancy

Click here to view these pictures larger

21 Weeks Old

Oh sweet girl, we just can't get enough of you!

Despite the fact that we had a busy week, I don't have as many new photos as I'd expect. I was thinking about it, and I'm certain the cold weather has something to do with it.  When we're out and about, I'm less likely to drag my big camera along (since we already have jackets/blankets to deal with) and taking pictures indoors provides far less variety.  Oh well- there are more portrait type shots this week, but she's documented none the less!

The big news this week is that Liv officially rolled over from her belly to her back.  Twice in a row.  No extra squishy surface, or other variable that may have contributed...  She did it all by herself!  She's yet to repeat her trick for Ryan to see, but it's just a matter of time I'm sure.

Another change- the drool factor.  My friend Marlyn noticed at the beginning of the week that Liv had "a ton of drool going on" and it has gotten nothing but worse as the week progressed.  Teeth?

Liv's vocalizing is also continuing to develop...  I was on the phone this morning talking to my parents and she kept interrupting to tell a Loooooong story!  "AAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaAaaAA"

In the Photos:  Liv crashed out under her new floor toy (thanks Ali!), Liv all dressed up on our way to a baptism for our friend baby Charlie, Ryan getting some big smiles/love from Liv, Liv watching Jillian "build dinosaur houses", baby headband model photos (Ryan can't stand headbands on the girls, but I think it's cute every once in awhile!), hand sucking/drooling, a birthday party, more sleeping/smiling/yawning...  You can check them out in the slideshow below, or click HERE!

Click here to view these pictures larger

20 Weeks Old

Dear Liv:  I am so glad you are a healthy, thriving baby.  You bring an incredible amount of joy into our home... smiling all the time, your sweet little giggle...  You're amazing.

That being said, want to slow down just a TOUCH on the growing? 

At Liv's 4 month appointment yesterday she was:

24 3/4 inches tall (70th %)

weighed 15lbs, 9.5oz (90th %)

and had a head circumference of 41.5cm (70th %)

I know she seems huge (especially considering Jillian is currently 2 years, 7 months old and weighed in yesterday at only 26lbs!) but I think it is worth noting that when Jillian was 18 weeks old, she weighed 14lbs, 8oz and was 24.5 inches tall... 

This week was a lot of fun.  Liv continues to be adored by her sister (and Mom and Dad!) and smiles on cue almost 100% of the time.  If you nibble on her neck and make grunting noises (grunts mandatory) she will always giggle, and if you bite her toes she will look at you like you are absolutely insane.  Haha...

Thanks to Liv's nice round belly, we can prop her into a sitting position for long enough to take a photo.  She's not really a huge fan of that though...  She has warmed up a little to the Bumbo chair now, but still really prefers the bouncy chair to anything else.  

Liv had to get 4 shots yesterday at her well baby visit.  She did just fine... minimal screaming, and she does not seem too sore today.  Jillian on the other hand, TOTALLY wigged out about the shots.  She was hysterically crying and yelled to the nurse- "I don't want you to give my sister shots!"  and, "Don't touch her!"  If I was not already trying to console one crying child, it may have been a little cute and heartwarming the way she was defending her little sis.  In retrospect, it really was sweet.  At the time, total headache.  :)

Last topic:  Liv's hair.  It seems the falling out may be done, and we're left with no hair on the sides (although that is already growing back somewhat quickly) and a long mohawk on the top.  It's hilarious.  She really rocks the look, I think.  Today I put her little spike into a pony tail, and got some cute photos...  

In the slideshow below (or at this LINK), you'll see Liv practicing her hand eye coordination, some 'sitting' on our bed, a few shots of her band aids, lots of bath time fun, a play date with Abby (she's 3 weeks younger than Liv) and the ponytail shots.

Have a great week!

Click here to view these pictures larger

19 Weeks Old

I was just talking to my Mom, yawning, and trying to muster the energy to post about Liv tonight, New Years Eve 2009.  (Yawn again)... why, am I so tired?

Oh.  Well, looking at the photos from the past 7 days, maybe it's because we celebrated Christmas, my 27th birthday (on the 26th) and I just got home from a wonderful "kid New Years" (the 'ball' dropped at 8pm) with our friend Heather.  Also, Ryan is super busy this time of year with work.  In fact, Liv is looking forward to watching Daddy on TV tomorrow afternoon!  He's going to be in a commercial during the Rose Bowl during half time!  It's been quite the 7 days!

As far as Liv is concerned, I don't have her 4 month stats to share just yet... next week.  Her appointment was supposed to be when we had our big snow storm, but I decided it was not worth risking our lives on the road for a well baby appointment!  I'm betting she's 15 pounds, though!

What I can tell you, is there's a lot more yelling/screaming/talking going on in our house, and our youngest family member is (for the most part!) responsible for all of it!  She's gotten quite vocal over the past few days, and is also really enjoying sucking on her fist.  I also decided to go cold turkey on swaddling her at bed time...  She was making a habit of waking up around 4am due to an escaping arm, so we decided it was time to move on.  She's doing really well with that- waking up a little earlier in the morning, but is happy to eat and go back to bed...

That's it for this week.  Lots, and lots of photos.  Check them out at this LINK, or on the slideshow below!

Click here to view these pictures larger

18 Weeks Old

This was a week of a few new 'first's' for Liv...  Our family went on the Amtrak train to NYC yesterday for a quick trip to see the big Christmas tree, and visit Ryan's co-workers.  We had a great time!  It was chilly, but a lot of fun.  Liv also got to visit the NY Office for Sesame Street.  Check out all our photos at this LINK, or on the slideshow below.

Liv made lots of friends during our quick get away.  If we could sell her smiles for a dollar each, we'd be millionaires.  All you have to so is say hello to her, and she's all grins.  She's such a good baby.  I thought Jillian was an easy going baby until I met Liv!  She's laughing more now too (I'll upload video soon- promise!) and is very predictable with her routine.  We love this kid so much!

Off to bed- we're looking forward to waking up tomorrow and celebrating Christmas with our two gorgeous girls! 

Click here to view these pictures larger

17 Weeks Old

With the holidays approaching, things have been very busy around our house.  For the first time, I'll say I'm not surprised a week has passed!  We've done so much!

To see all the photos from this week, click HERE or check out the slideshow at the bottom of this post!

Our MOMS Club Holiday events were this week, so Liv had lots of fun being passed around at different events and watching all the kids running around and having fun.  One gathering was a pajama party/breakfast so the girls and I took a couple cute photos in front of a Christmas tree.  It's so fun to wear snuggly clothes out of the house!

Even though it's rather cool outside, Liv wanted to make sure she got a photo in the tiny bathing suit Grandpa Randall brought home from Europe for Jillian when she was a baby.  Please check out the photo below in the slideshow to see Liv's leg rolls in their full glory- baby chub is so fabulous! ;)

A couple other photos to note in the slideshow...  Liv in The Bumbo (she HATES it, and it was Jillian's FAVORITE... go figure...)  Liv all bundled up in her car seat for the cold weather (I love that warm wrap for around her seat!) and finally, my favorite pic of the week- a measurement of each of the girls bellies.  Yup.  Jillian's waist is bigger...  by ONE inch.  lol

Have a great week!

Nancy

Click here to view these pictures larger

Middle of the week bonus post- video

This video is from awhile ago... back when I talked about how much Liv hated diaper changes. I just had to share it now that I edited it down a little...

16 Weeks Old

Click HERE for all the photos from this week, or check out the new embedded slideshow at the bottom of this post...

Boy oh boy, time is flying by!  It's 10pm here, and my Mom just had to call me to remind me it was Thursday-Liv-post-day!  It's already been a week?  Really?

This little girl makes us smile so much.  She's honestly 99.9% of the time a breeze.  She swats at her toys all the time now, and makes so much noise when she sucks on her hands that sometimes I come in from the other room to see what's going on!

Jillian loves Liv.  She loves to give her hugs, hold her, give her a pacifier, pat her, bathe her, sing to her.  Liv is one lucky lady to have such a great big sister.  (Girls, read this 10 years from now...  you DO love each other, I promise!)  haha.

Liv is still swaddled up TIGHT at night to go to bed.  She loves being a baby burrito as much as Jillian hated it.  When she gets tired at night, you can see the relief on her face when I pull out the special swaddle blanket.  Seriously.

Okay- that's it for this week...  I have 1000 things to get done before bed, 999 of which will have to wait until tomorrow...

:)  Nancy

Oh- two photos in the slideshow I'd like to 'point out'.  One, me biting her cheek.  That's for everyone out there that would like to be doing that.  How could you see those cheeks and not want to eat them?!?

And two, Liv in her bouncy chair with a pacifier in her mouth, and one in each hand.  When you love something, go all out...  haha!

Click here to view these pictures larger

15 Weeks Old

Here's a LINK for all the photos this week!
I love to go back to Jillian's babysite and read about what she was doing at Liv's current age.  Last week I told Liv she had better laugh this week if she wanted to keep up with her sister.  Well, sibling competition seems to work in our house because mere hours before I posted for this week, Liv let out a tiny giggle.  We were visiting with some of our local MOMS Club friends, and I told Heather that Liv was going to let Jillian beat her on this particular milestone.  Heather leaned down to tickle Liv and said, "You've got nothing to laugh about little girl?" Liv smiled and smiled at her and after a few more tickles and encouragement, let out a tiny little laugh.  So sweet.  So, not quite the big belly laugh Jillian did at 15 weeks, but regardless- it counts!  lol.  I'm sure Liv will be happy to read this when she is a little older!

Also this week, Liv continues to explore her hands and how to control her arms.  She is constantly batting at toys, grabbing things (hair! -ouch- ) and wiggling.  

On November 29th, Liv helped our family celebrate Ryan's 4th Alive Day.  Awhile back Ryan casually mentioned that he had always wanted a bonsai tree, so we go him one this year and the girls 'helped' him set it up...

In the photos from the week you'll also see Liv wearing the dress Jillian had on for her first Christmas photo.  I'd say the dress fits the girls about the same, but remember, Liv is 3 months younger than Jilli was when she wore it!  :)

'till next week...

Nancy

14 Weeks Old

Here's a LINK for the rest of the photos from this week, including our Thanksgiving feast!

A few fun details about Liv this week... Her eyes are still a dark, dark blue, but I think there is brown behind them. For now, she has a really pretty dark ring around the outside, deep blue in the middle, and a slightly lighter blue around her pupil. She's so pretty. :)

Liv rolled over once (early on) but has yet to repeat this feat. As of now, the most distance she travels is in the bath tub when she has the whole thing to herself with about two inches of water. She LOVES to splash around and is happy as a clam until she travels all the way to the end of the tub and knocks her head against the wall. When I move her all the way back near the drain, it's only a few minutes before she's back to the top. :)

Liv loves to snuggle. Always has. The hardest part about her right now is after she eats when it's supposed to be 'awake time' she'd really rather snuggle into me for a nice warm nap. Aww... me too.

Liv has started batting at toys hung above her, and is on the verge of laughing... next week maybe?! She makes these cute, cute little grunting noises when something is funny and smiles so BIG.

We can't say enough about how much we are enjoying this little girl... Until next week, enjoy the PHOTOS!

Nancy

13 Weeks Old

PHOTOS FROM THIS WEEK...

Officially 3 months old tomorrow...

She's making more coo-ing noises, holding her head up like a champ, storing up her um.... 'messy' diapers for a day or two to be sure when she does go, it's EVERYWHERE, loves to listen to her sister sing songs, and really likes being on her belly.  She's still eating every three hours during the day like clockwork (seriously, 10 minutes past feeding time, and she lets me know it!) and sleeps from 9:30pm-11 & then 11pm-8am regularly.  This is one fantastic little lady we've got!

She smiles SOooo much now (whenever we try to get a smile, we're always successful) and really adds so much to our happy house.  WE LOVE LIV!

Have a great week- there's not as many photos this week, but I'd like to think quality makes up for quantity.  The other baby sitting on the couch with her is our friend Leah... she was born a week after Liv.

Have a great day!

Nancy

12 Weeks Old

Click HERE to see all Liv's photos from this week!
Could it be?  12 weeks we've had the pleasure of knowing sweet Liv!?  Thursday sure rolls around quickly! What a bundle of joy she is.  I thought Jillian was an easy baby, but Livs even better.  In light of some recent effort, she's going through the night without a feeding (sometimes she wakes up, but a little reassurance, and she's back to sleep...).  I'm feeding her at 11pm before I go to bed (Ryan and I are night owls, and have always stayed up late so this is no problem) and she makes it through until around 7am.... anytime after 6am, I'm willing to feed her, but I sure won't argue with days like today when I had to go in at 8am to wake her up for breakfast!!!

I'm trying to be a little more diligent about tummy time, and as a result, Liv's bobble head is really improving.  She can hold her head up quite high (see this week's photos) and she seems to like it.

Also this week, Liv learned how to blow bubbles with her spit, played dress up with Jillian, posed for some naked photos to show off all her wonderful baby rolls, & met Vice President Biden & Dr. Jill Biden.  No photos of the Liv meeting the VP- before I could get a picture, she was kind enough to have a poop-tastrophy all over her patriotic outfit, and my shirt.  Sweet Ryan- pointed to my shirt and said, "Uh oh- position the baby over that mustard you got on your shirt!"  That's.  Not.  Mustard.  Ryan.  haha...

When Jillian was a baby, we went to storytime at the Library every week.  Today Liv got to go to the storytime for kids under 1, and we had a great time.  I can't wait to watch her progress through this great program the way Jillian has.  Jilli LOVES the Library.

That's it for this week- enjoy the PHOTOS, and check in on us again next Thursday!

11 Weeks Old

Up until this week, I would say Liv still slept the majority of the time.  But now, she's really starting to enjoy being awake, and looking around more.  She cracks me up.  Often, when I'm feeding her she will look at me and crack a huge grin.  It's adorable except for the fact that she always seems to do it with a mouthful of milk, and forgets to swallow first.  Haha- messy baby.

I took a video this week that I'll have to post- remember me telling you about the cranky baby on her changing pad?  Well, I decided to do something for Liv that I had done for Jillian:  cut out a photo of Daddy and put it on the bottom of the shelf that hangs above her changing area.  I would say that since the addition of this photo, Liv cries at least 50% less.  When she notices it, she always smiles and sticks out her tongue.  Livi loves her Daddy!

Developmentally, Liv is doing great- holding her head much better, starting to really put weight on her legs if you hold her standing up, and can lift her head really high when she is on her belly.  Much more cooing going on now too...  so sweet.

One of the photos on the Shutterfly site this week is Liv with an old yellow bear.  That was my bear growing up, and his name is Boo-Boo.  I had to dig him out when I put Liv in that fuzzy yellow sleeper thing, because she reminded me so much of him!

Until next week- there's LOTS more photos on the Shutterfly site- check 'em out!

Nancy