The Future Looks Bright

It's been a general practice that when Gabe wakes up from naps I give him a few minutes of a alone time, then burst into the door with excitement, jump up and down and let him know I'm thrilled he's awake. He LOVES this, and usually hops from one foot to the other in his crib and squeals. Once we're done jumping we embrace and love pat each other on the back...it's pretty great!

However, yesterday when I burst in the door to preform our routine Gabe did not reciprocate. He actually stood perfectly still, pacifier in mouth and lovey in hand. Now I know this routine is kinda silly, but when Gabe reacts well I don't care so much, but when he didn't even throw me a bone...I think I might have blushed in front of him. To make it worse, there was no love pat when I picked him up, just grunting and pointing to his board books. So, with my head hung low, I handed him his books put him on the floor and watched him grab his lovey, soft blanket and create a reading place in the corner. I was close to heart broken, when I realized; that's exactly what I love to do. He's just a little ol' me, curling up with his soft things and a good book. So instead of feeling sad, I was excited for our future Saturday mornings when Gabe will wake up, crawl into bed with me and want to read a book together. That might even be better than jumping up and down.

A Perfect Gentleman

Outdoors-man

Since Gabe loves the outdoors, and I love Gabe, we've been spending a lot more time in the backyard. He can entertain himself for an extended period of time, just climbing up and down the stairs, digging in the dirt and collecting sticks and rocks. This has allowed me to do some much needed yard maintenance. Andy and I have our first open house this weekend and it's really been two years since we did anything to the backyard. Last year this time I had a one month old, and Andy was starting a new job in addition to having a one month old. We let the back yard become a bit of a weed jungle.

All in all, I think I've spent upwards of 6 hours pulling weeks in the backyard. Spraying with weed killer would have saved me some sore muscles, and finger nails. But, I've really enjoyed watching Gabe explore the backyard...the longer naps don't hurt either.

He's always so proud once he gets to the top. He stands and yells to make sure I see how very accomplished he is.

He watched me weed for a while then attempted to help. Mostly he just threw leaves and landscaping stone onto the steps but, I appreciated his effort.

After one particularly warm day I filed the baby pool Grandma and Grandpa Holz gave Gabe for his 1st birthday. He loved splashing, moving things in and out, but full submersion was not his thing. He prefers the relaxing warm water of a bath. Clearly he was straining to pull to bucket out of the pool.

Watch out ladies, he's blue eyed, blond haired, and working on a sweet tan! Just like his handsome daddy.

Where Did My Baby Go

I took this picture a week ago, but only uploaded it to my computer yesterday. As soon as it appeared on the screen for editing my stomach and throat got all tight. It's clear that Gabe isn't a baby anymore, he's growing into a little boy...I'm not sure how I feel about that. I know I've had this this realization before, and in the not so distant past, but seriously, he's not messing around in the photo. He looks 4 not 1! He can't even walk yet, where did his round little face go to?

Long Overdue

May 24th Gabe had an appointment at Shriner's Hospital in Minneapolis. It's about a 5.5 hour drive from our house to Minneapolis but with a little munchkin and stops for meals we made it in about 7 hours. Craig and Julie let us borrow their mini van, which revolutionized the travel experience.

Our first lunch stop, a road side picnic.

During some desperate moments we were able to put in a video to entertain Gabe. If you look closely you can see this is a Sleepytime video - it didn't work.

Fighting sleep became Gabe's new MO. He much preferred climbing back and forth over the desk rail.

In the morning he liked to crawl into bed with daddy, have a bottle and watch some Sports Center. Feeding himself and using a sippy cup Gabe has mastered, but holding his own bottle-he just can't be bothered.

While in Minneapolis we were able to visit our friends, Lisa and Brian Duensing, who treated us to a Twins game. Our little trooper stayed the entire game, he even took a small nap in his daddy's arms.

Somehow I managed to take only ONE picture at the hospital...

We arrived at 8:30 and sorted through our paperwork. Soon after Gabe was taken for x-rays, then his exam. The staff were kind and attentive, we felt very well cared for and loved. Before we left we had seen 6 medical professionals and been sized for Gabe's new braces. They didn't have his in stock but assured us they would expedite the shipment directly to our home.

Having had no experience with the Shriner's beforehand Andy and I were not sure what to expect. But, without a doubt, this was one of the biggest blessings we've encountered. The braces Gabe needed are not cheap, and when we applied to Shriner's we were prepared to foot some costs-Shriner's took care of EVERYTHING! Gas, lodging, and ALL medical costs. I left the appointment with tears of gratitude and had to restrain myself from hugging any and all staff members I saw on the way out.

I assume most parents can relate to this experience, someone you don't know loves your child well. It's humbling, energizing, and basically made me a great big love bug with a cheesy smile.

Gabe felt like a big deal when we left, after having MVP treatment he expected the same from his parents.

By Tuesday the new shoes had arrived!