Loop de Lewis

8 months old

2012-02-11T09:43:00.001-06:00

This happy girl is already 8 months old!

She is growing up fast! In the last couple of weeks, two teeth have made an appearance. She's enjoying solids and already wants to feed herself. This ends up being super messy but she seems to enjoy the challenge (& the mess)!

Elliot and Molly continue to get along really well! They like to snuggle with each other and Elliot loves to hop with her when she's in her jumper!

Such a serious face! Elliot was pushing Molly around in this basket!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

7 months!

2012-01-10T22:30:00.001-06:00

This little sweet pea ( yes that's what is on her face) is 7 months today.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Train ride

2011-10-21T18:57:00.001-05:00

Elliot loves riding the train - Never mind that we are on one nearly everyday!

Today was extra special though because he got to ride next to Grammy!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

4 month checkup

2011-10-20T15:58:00.001-05:00

Molly had her four month check up today and she is growing like a weed!!! She did great!

Waiting for her doctor

Here's this little girl's stats:
Height: 25 1/2 inches
Weight: 15lbs 14 oz
HC: 41.2 cm

Thinking about rolling over........

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Amazing view

2011-10-15T23:01:00.001-05:00

Brad took this picture a few weeks ago when we were having some crazy weather.

Looks like there may be a pot of gold in grant park!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

20 months

2011-10-14T12:50:00.001-05:00

Guess what big helper is 20 months today!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Brown bear brown bear....

2011-10-14T12:48:00.001-05:00

What do you see?

Elliot reading one of his favorites to Molly.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

4 months!

2011-10-11T22:49:00.001-05:00

This little sweetie is already 4 months!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Helicopters, airplanes, oh my!!!

2011-10-11T22:43:00.001-05:00

Yesterday we spent the late afternoon around buckingham fountain because it was drained today for the winter. So sad!!

Elliot loves this area of Grant Park but yesterday was extra special. Because of some protests, a Columbus day parade and road construction there were 5 traffic helicopters that were moving around constantly. Add that to the many airplanes flying in and out of Chicago around 5pm and I thought this little boy's head might explode!

While Elliot was going crazy over everything flying above our heads, miss Molly was taking a snooze.

Near the end of our outing she decided to wake up....

and ended the evening by watching the full moon rise over lake Michigan.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Couple of cuties

2011-09-21T08:55:00.001-05:00

We are still here even though our posts are infrequent. Seems like every time I try to post I'm interrupted by a crying or hungry baby or by Elliot wanting to type on the computer.

These two are a lot of fun and keep us hopping. This photo was taken after an afternoon dance party, which always puts everyone in a good mood.

That's all for now - Molly is chewing on my arm!

18 Months

2011-08-15T15:59:00.000-05:00

Elliot just turned 18 months and we took some pictures of him in this adorable sailor suit that Grammy saved!

Brad and his 2 brothers each had their pictures taken in this outfit at 18 months

Brad

Brian

Brandon

Pretty cute Lewis Boys!!

We Have a 2 Month Old Already?

2011-08-10T08:39:00.001-05:00

8 Weeks of Molly!!!

Happy Birthday!

1 Week

2 Weeks

3 Weeks

4 Weeks

5 Weeks

6 Weeks

7 Weeks

8 Weeks

Back to REALITY!!!

2011-08-08T17:12:00.003-05:00

We here in the Lewis household have all had a great summer!

Brad has been off from work for the past 8 weeks and we have enjoyed the time together. Sadly enough, we cannot continue on with both being stay-at-home parents. So today we return to reality and Brad went back to work.

So far, so good :)

Though I miss hanging out with my husband all day!

Thanks, Brad, for all you do - you really are amazing!

Siblings

2011-06-26T17:49:00.003-05:00

Molly & Elliot on Father's Day

So far Elliot has not been too bothered by the addition of Molly to our household! I'm sure this may change, but for now I'm glad that he is treating her so sweetly. He likes to point out her nose and ears and makes a sweet noise when he points to her.

Birth Story/Thank you Grammy!!!

2011-06-22T10:32:00.007-05:00

On June 10th, just after midnight and after several delays, Brad's Mom (Grammy) arrived at our house! At around 7am I started having real contractions. We couldn't have asked for better timing. Elliot was thrilled to wake up to his new roomie and we were thankful that Elliot could stay with Grammy while we went to the hospital.

At noon, my contractions were becoming more regular and by 4pm they were 5 minutes apart. We thought we should head over to the hospital to avoid Friday rush hour traffic. When we arrived at the hospital we found out that the same midwife that delivered Elliot was on call! We were thrilled by this information and I felt like I was in the best hands possible. After being checked in, we found out I was 4 cm dilated.

One of my fears with this labor was that it would end up like Elliot's: Hours of labor, having an urge to push at 7cm but being told not too, and then needing an epidural in the end. Thankfully, things did not turn out the same. By 6pm I was 7 cm dilated and the midwife suggested we break my water. After doing this, labor really progressed quickly and after 20 minutes and 3 to 4 rounds of pushing, little Molly was born!

Through the whole day of labor, Brad was so amazing! I don't think there is any way I could have gone through the births of our children without his encouragement and coaching! I was super surprised that our baby was a little girl but Brad seemed very sure that this baby was a girl. Guess Daddy just knows!

We were also so thankful for Grammy's help during her week-long stay! Having her at home with Elliot while we were in the hospital was such a weight off of our minds. She did so much to care for us all - Cooking, cleaning, entertaining Elliot, waking up with Elliot and just being so understanding! We couldn't have asked for a better first week at home!

Coming Home

2011-06-21T10:22:00.001-05:00

We've been home for just over a week, so time to play catch up! Here are a few pics from the hospital.

Family of 4!
Grammy brought Elliot to the hospital to meet his baby sister.

Ready to go home
Wearing the dress mama wore home 30 years ago!

Not sure about this bonnet

6 Days Old

2011-06-16T17:47:00.000-05:00

Introducing Molly Annette

2011-06-11T11:19:00.007-05:00

Our daughter, Molly Annette, was born yesterday, June 10, 2011 at 6:21pm. She weighed 8lbs, 14oz and measures 20 1/4 inches long. We're all doing well and Elliot is excited to meet his new little sister. It was a great labor experience (if that is possible), which perhaps, I will share soon.

39 Weeks

2011-06-08T10:00:00.000-05:00

The belly at 39 weeks!

This has been a strange week! Every morning I wake up and wonder if this day will be the birthday of Lewlew 2. Since Elliot was 10 days early, I never experienced this - he just sort of surprised us. I don't really feel impatient yet, just always wondering! It has been pretty hot in Chicago and I can say I'm thankful that I won't be pregnant for much longer!

Brad has always thought that the baby will be born on our Anniversary (today), so we have a good 14 hours to make that possible! Grammy (Brad's mom) arrives tomorrow. Her being here will be super helpful & worked out to be excellent timing! We'll keep you all posted!

Flickr Photo Update

2011-06-03T01:03:00.002-05:00

With the new baby arriving any day, I figured it was time to get our flickr photo account up to date. Maybe this is a form of nesting or something, but the past eight months of photos are updated so take a look. Yay! I'll make sure to check that off my to do list.

Lunch with Daddy!

2011-06-01T15:01:00.001-05:00

We often meet brad for lunch - it is one of the great things about us living so close to Brad's office. Today was especially lovely because of the weather (75 degree), our sweet boy, and a new Chicago trend - food trucks!!! We had some delicious meatball subs that I'm pretty sure I will be thinking about all day long!

Sweet, sweet boys!!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Park fun

2011-05-22T09:26:00.001-05:00

We've been going to Grant Park a lot over the last few weeks. Some days have been a little cool, especially with the breeze off the lake but we are still trying to enjoy spring. Here's a few pics of the little guy

This is hard to see in the picture but Elliot is running after some huge bubbles.

Enjoying the shrubs

Hanging onto mama

This kid loves man hole covers

And his shadow

Picking dandelions!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

15 Months & 36 Weeks!

2011-05-15T22:47:00.003-05:00

I'm again, very behind on posting to the blog and hopefully will post some pictures of the past month that included a trip to Lawrence, Mother's day & many park outings! We're getting ready for the new baby, which is easier the 2nd time around. All the baby clothes are washed (was Elliot ever really this small) and put away, we have the hospital bag & Elliot's bag all packed for the big day, our freezer/pantry is pretty well stocked, and surprisingly our house has never been cleaner (thanks to Brad & Elliot getting a cleaning service for me for Mother's Day - BEST gift ever!) Other than that, I'm enjoying the one on one time I have left with Elliot. In a way, it makes me sad to think this time is coming to an end, but I know this new baby will be an instant part of our family and Elliot will really love his new role as big brother.

Elliot just turned 15 months and is really becoming such a little boy! He is becoming quite the independent little person - refusing to hold my hand when he's walking, feeding himself with his spoon (and not making a huge mess :), playing for longer periods by himself, and looking at books alone. He is also learning to put his toys away and is very into emptying the silverware in the dishwasher! Even though he is finding his independent streak, he still enjoys cuddling, hugging, and spending time with Mommy & Daddy and playing with his friends. At his 15 month appointment Elliot stats were as follows:

Height: 31 3/4 in
Weight: 23 lbs, 12 oz
Head Circumference : 48 cm

On the same day that Elliot turned 15 months, I/the baby was 36 weeks along. This pregnancy has gone by fast and feels so different from the first time. I have found it interesting how differently this baby moves and it makes me realize, that this little one is going to have it's own personality. This seems pretty obvious, but I find it amazing that these different traits start before birth. I've been having some serious back trouble over the past few weeks, but thanks to my amazing chiropractor and the baby moving a bit, I can walk & move without sharp pain! Yay!

So now we are just waiting, though enjoying our last few weeks as a family of 3. Elliot came 10 days early, so it is hard for me to think that this baby will be anything but early, but you never know. My guess for the due date is June 2nd & I think we are having a boy. Brad thinks a girl. And Elliot would like another kitty. If you want to add your predictions, take our poll or leave a comment!

14 Months

2011-04-29T16:14:00.004-05:00

Can't believe our little guy is already over 14 months! He is at such a fun age and really becoming his own little person. Right now some of his favorite things are to be outside or to be eating. Sometimes I cannot believe how much food this kid can put away. Sometimes when he is ready for bed, his belly looks a lot like Mommy's! He also loves soft beds, pillows and stuffed animals. He's walking a lot and will often "help" push the stroller (another love)

Elliot at 14 months

Mama at 14 months

Mom's 60th Birthday!!!

2011-04-27T15:10:00.001-05:00

A couple of weekends ago, we went to Kansas City to celebrate my mom's 60th birthday! It was a fun time and a nice chance to just be together! Here are some highlights!

Easter baskets from Grandma - she also did a couple of Easter egg hunts, especially with Luke!

All 3 Grandsons - Munchin on Easter goodies

Luke dressed as a fireman at Union Station

Jack & Elliot playing with the trains at Union Station

Luke hamming it up for the camera

I think he likes getting his picture taken!

My brother Corey & Sister-in-law Cindy with sons Luke & Jack

So Sweet!

Mom & Bob

30 Weeks

2011-04-14T23:23:00.004-05:00

Again, I'm a couple of weeks late posting about the progress of the little one! At 30 weeks, the baby weighs just over 3 lbs or the size of a cabbage. The baby is moving a lot, but still very different from Elliot. He/she loves moving most in the evening especially and it has pushed against Elliot several times when he lays his head on my belly. Can't believe how soon we will go from 3 to 4!

Welcome spring!

2011-03-21T23:41:00.001-05:00

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Elliot's little book

2011-03-20T16:27:00.001-05:00

This is the little interactive or quiet book I made for Elliot for his birthday. All the pages are now sewn together and he does seem to enjoy feeling the different textures and at times will trace the letters.

26 Weeks - Pie Week!

2011-03-19T16:03:00.001-05:00

At 26 weeks the baby measured about 14 inches long or the length of this big piece of banana cream pie! We thought Elliot would dive into this, but he was pretty skeptical of the whole thing. He did venture a little taste of the whip cream, but no huge mess pictures.

2011-03-18T14:59:00.001-05:00

We have had a fun, but busy month! Here are some highlights:

Elliot received some really fun packages in the mail!

Man this kid likes to have his mouth open!

A visit from our dear friends John, Andrea & Jack

Jack let Elliot borrow one of his many light sabers - he seems to be a fan!
Thanks Jack for being so sweet to Elliot!

A Trip to the Field Museum - I'm posting this picture because I have so few pregnancy pics taken this time around - this was at 24 weeks~

A visit from Grandma Carol - she brought a tractor for Elliot's birthday, which he is loving. Somehow my mom was here for 5 days and I have no pictures of her and Elliot - that is so sad!

Hanging out with good buddy Savannah!

Rock Chalk Jayhawk - Watching some basketball

Practicing walking skills

23 Weeks

2011-03-18T10:24:00.001-05:00

Yet again I'm posting these pics over a month late! One of these days I'll be on time! Oh well! Anyway, these pictures were taken on Valentine's day/Elliot's birthday. The baby was 23 weeks and weighed just over a pound or about the weight of a large mango!

Getting to know the mango

Hopefully meeting his baby brother or sister will go better than this!

Making up with the mango

Mango Love

1 Whole Year!

2011-03-17T15:55:00.005-05:00

Elliot had his one year check up a few weeks ago and he was a very brave little boy! He had a few shots and a needle prick in his finger. Here are the little man's stats:

Height: 30 inches
Weight: 20lbs, 7oz
Head Circumference: 47.2 cm

This is a new face - a mixture of whining and smiling! Oh joy!
I call it his lemon face

Loving on his puppy

20 Weeks

2011-02-23T14:23:00.001-06:00

So we are about a month past 20 weeks, but I cannot resist posting these pictures of Elliot taken for our 20 week picture. At the time, baby Lewlew 2 was about the length of a banana.

Blizzard 2011

2011-02-21T13:13:00.000-06:00

Meet the newest member of our family!!!

2011-02-16T15:07:00.001-06:00

We had a sonogram done a couple of weeks ago and there for sure is a little baby in there! The scan went really well and the baby was very cooperative! We are keeping the gender a surprise and look forward to meeting our lovely son or daughter!

Grabbing his/her foot with its hand

There have been so many different emotions with this pregnancy - some serious shock in the beginning, a little denial, some guilt for having the kiddos so close together, some guilt for not being as completely over the moon about this pregnancy, guilt for feeling guilty (man that mother's guilt DOES exist), worry about having 2 children instead of 1, excitement in our growing family, and wonder at the thought that we will have another little person to love. At the sonogram I felt that my heart really opened up to this child (I know that sounds a bit cheesey) and I realized what an amazing blessing we will be receiving in June

Birthday Boy!!!

2011-02-14T21:43:00.010-06:00

We can hardly believe that it has been a whole year since our little Valentine was born! He has been such a joy and we feel so blessed to have this little guy in our lives.

Elliot has been enjoying his birthday, in particular his party! He loves the Hungry Caterpillar book, so we decided to make a little caterpillar cupcake train, which he seemed thrilled about!

Why all the tears???

2011-02-09T17:38:00.001-06:00

Why all the tears?

A. Elliot refused to take an afternoon nap.
B. India "told" Elliot off and refused to play with him.
C. We've been stuck inside due to the freezing cold temperatures.
D. Elliot is getting his other top front tooth.
E. ALL OF THE ABOVE!!!!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

18 Weeks

2011-01-27T10:39:00.001-06:00

These pictures are a few weeks old, but we still wanted to share with everyone! We have really enjoyed our little red pepper and can't believe the new baby is already the size of a green pepper!

I have felt the baby move and it is such a different kind of movement compared to Elliot. Elliot's first movements were very fluttery and often. He always moved a lot at 4pm. This one is one big movement and just a couple of times a day. It is so interesting! Anyone else have this experience?

2 Elliots!!!!

2011-01-14T14:52:00.001-06:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Blueberry morning

2011-01-08T13:32:00.001-06:00

We had some yummy blueberry pancakes this morning! Elliot loves his carbs and ate his fair share.

Elliot is also starting to get his top teeth and his two bottom teeth are fully grown out.

In baby lewlew 2 news, I had my 18 week appointment yesterday and everything is moving right along. I'm really starting to show and can't believe we're almost at the halfway point! The next appointment will be the 20 week sonogram!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

1st Sibling Photos!

2011-01-05T10:38:00.002-06:00

We had quite the surprise at the end of October - We found out that we are having another baby! At first we were a bit overwhelmed by the idea of two kiddos, but by now we are used to the idea & are super excited.

Baby Lewlew 2 is due June 11 and I am 17 weeks. The second trimester is going much better than the first, which wasn't too bad but I did feel super tired and had a bit of morning sickness (especially changing poopy diapers)

First picture of our 2 little ones. We are going to have another surprise so we won't know whether Elliot is having a brother or sister until June!

Elliot is quite excited to be a big brother and seems very interested in babies.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-26T12:12:00.001-06:00

Elliot posing with his new ku hat from uncle Brian.

How does he know he's getting his picture taken?!?

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

1st Snow!!!

2010-12-20T23:40:00.000-06:00

10 months old

2010-12-20T10:40:00.000-06:00

It is hard to believe that Elliot is already 10 months old.

He is enjoying all kinds of different food and constantly wants whatever we are eating. His standing skills are really improving and he is even walking over 10 feet with the help of certain movable furniture.

He seems to be loving all his abilities to get around. Which means I have to be extra watchful if him especially when it comes to the cat food and the dirt in our plants.

In sleeping news, Elliot has been sleeping through the night for over a week now. Daddy gets the credit for making this happen. I can't believe how awesome an entire nights sleep feels. So wonderful!!! And Elliot seems to be so much more rested as well!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Old Friends, New Buddies

2010-12-18T23:37:00.000-06:00

Elliot & Josiah

Thanksgiving

2010-12-15T15:17:00.008-06:00

These are super late to be posted, but I thought I better get them up before Christmas. We went to Kansas for Thanksgiving & Elliot had a fun time hanging with Grandparents, cousins, other family & animals!!!

1st Thanksgiving Meal - This little man wolfed down this plate & then ate a piece of pumpkin pie a few hours later! Yum!!!

Cousins with Great Grandma Andres

Elliot & Kodi really enjoyed playing with one another!

Elliot with Grandma's Kitty

Cousins!

9 months old!!!

2010-11-15T19:40:00.000-06:00

This sweet little guy is already 9 months old!

Here are his stats from his doctor visit today:
Height: 27 1/2 inches
Weight: 20 lbs, 2 oz
Head circumference: 46 cm

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Resurrection & Life

2010-11-08T22:10:00.001-06:00

It was a very fun project, thanks for sharing!

Forgiveness of Sins

2010-11-05T22:08:00.001-05:00

Hanging out in Central Park

2010-11-03T20:55:00.001-05:00

We decided to join Brad on a business trip this week in New York! Today was so pretty and Elliot and I enjoyed the afternoon in Central park

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Grandpa & Grammy Lewis visit

2010-11-03T20:50:00.001-05:00

Dear Grandpa & Grammy,
Thank you for coming to visit. I had a lot of fun with both of you! Also, thank you for the giraffe and mirror thingy (& their boxes)!!!

See you soon!
Love,
Elliot

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Communion of Saints

2010-11-02T22:07:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween!

2010-11-01T11:41:00.000-05:00

From a little birdie

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Holy Catholic Church

2010-10-30T22:06:00.001-05:00

It was also Earth Day that Sunday.

Renegade Craft Fair Link

2010-10-30T13:37:00.001-05:00

Another "catch up" post:

One of our favorite things to do every September is to go to the Renegade Craft Fair, a place where people come and sell handmade crafts. We don't often buy things, but we love to go to get ideas and inspiration.

This year Elliot made a local vendors blog. He is trying on a kitty hat, which I know is pretty girlie looking, but I couldn't resist. You all know my love for kitties! It looks like my son is following in my foot steps. Sweet little kitty:

http://tartheart.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-09-12T21%3A23%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=7

Catching up!

2010-10-30T09:26:00.002-05:00

On the MOVE!!!

So while Brad is catching up with his Apostle's Creed drawings, I thought I should take a cue from him and catch up on some videos & pics I've been meaning to share.

Elliot has been trying to crawl since July. I thought back in August he was about to take off, then September came & I thought for sure he would take off. But he seemed to enjoy just getting up on all fours and rocking. At the beginning of October, he finally started scooting and crawling and now is totally on the move. A few days after he began crawling, I found him standing in his crib. Now he is pulling up on all the furniture & of course falling a lot! But he loves his new mobility and is less frustrated! He also is starting to sleep a bit better on his own - Yippee!!!

I'll post some pics & links to videos of Elliot's most recent tricks. I can't get the video to work on blogger, so I'll link you all to our flickr page!

Belly Crawling
October Crawling
September Crawling

Imagine my surprise when I went into Elliot's room and found this!
Standing for the first time! Good thing we moved his crib down when we did!

Friday dates with Elliot

2010-10-29T10:13:00.006-05:00

Since I'm staying home with Elliot, obviously we spend a lot of time together. I take him everywhere I go & he usually does a good job while I run errands, go to the grocery store, etc.

However, on Fridays, at some point, I try to do something with him where we just spend time together. No cleaning, cooking, or errand running. Just some one on one time outside of the house. For the last few weeks we've gone to lunch, met daddy at the park for lunch, & several times, we go and hang out by the lake.

As the weather turns colder, I'll have to figure out some creative things to do on our Friday dates, but I'm sure we can find something to do. I really enjoy this time with the little boy because it makes me slow down and just appreciate the time I have to spend with my son. It is so easy, especially for me, to get caught up in my day to day chores & to-do lists and miss this little miracle we've been given

Holy Ghost

2010-10-27T22:03:00.001-05:00

This wasn't my favorite image, but I was on a deadline!

Quick & Dead

2010-10-24T22:00:00.002-05:00

This is probably the image I was most proud of when I completed it. I thought the concept was strong, but in the end it was tactless. A wise pastor declined to put it on the order of worship. Could you imagine what visitors would have thought?

Ascended & Sitteth

2010-10-21T21:52:00.002-05:00

So, I took a few months off of the Apostle's Creed series. I kept drawing them, but I've just become more lax about my commitment to posting them. Thanks for your patience!

Sleep Strike

2010-10-15T09:38:00.005-05:00

Elliot has been a pretty "easy" and happy baby. He usually goes to bed without too much fuss and is happy as long as he has been fed & pottied. So the last 9 days have been somewhat of a shock to me. About a week ago Elliot decided he would not sleep. He woke up from his morning nap at 10am and refused to sleep until 10 that evening. In the afternoon, I noticed he had a slight fever & cold and thought, "Oh, he's getting sick. That is why he is so uncomfortable." But I thought babies sleep more when they are not feeling well. I tried everything to get him to sleep - walked him around in the stroller, got him out and about, carried him around in the Ergo, everything I could think of, I tried. Every time he would be almost asleep, he would wake himself up. It was a stressful day, but little did I know that is how the rest of the week would look.

Luckily, Brad & I were both able to take care of him over the weekend. With his cold and never ending desire to stay awake, neither of us got much sleep. Brad ended up finding the only way to settle him down was to lay down with him and physically just hold him on his back. Then it would take around an hour to get him to sleep. Elliot is learning to both crawl & stand and seems like he cannot shut his mind off. As soon as he is laid down, even when almost asleep, he is rolling over to practice, practice, practice.

A couple of days ago I totally lost it! I was a crying mess. I was so tired & worn out and felt like a total failure. My house was a mess, I hadn't been able to cook in a few days, I hadn't left the house in a couple days & I had a baby that wouldn't sleep. This last week has taught me a lot. No matter how much I have planned, I need to learn to be more flexible and forgiving of those around me and myself. My number one priority and the reason I am staying home is to be with Elliot. I think I have put a lot of my self worth in having a clean house, a happy baby - on being a good wife & mother. Sometimes I think this has not made me a whole lot of fun to be around. I'm trying to relax and know that my value is not in the things I do or what I can check off my list, but it is hard at times.

So our new approach with Elliot is to just stop what we are doing when it is time for naps or night and lay down with him for a little bit. This seems to be working and he is settling down faster each time. This is also allowing me some much needed rest. I thought the whole sleep when the baby sleep thing ended when they were no longer newborns, but am finding I was getting a lot less sleep now than when Elliot was born. I'm amazed at how quickly he changes. I think I have something figured out and he is on to the next thing. I'm sure this is the way it is with children - constantly changing and growing, I just wish I could keep up sometimes.

Wisconsin Trip

2010-10-15T08:52:00.000-05:00

A month ago we took our first family vacation with the 3 of us! We left for 4 days and drove about 5 hours north of Chicago to Door County Wisconsin, which is the Peninsula that sticks out into Lake Michigan with Green Bay on one side & the Lake on the other. We had a really lovely time & got some much needed rest & relaxation.

On the way up north we figured in several stops to allow Elliot a break from the car, especially since he is not very used to being in his car seat at all, let alone for hours at a time! We drove through Milwaukee, stopped at the delicious Alterra Coffee right near the lake, and saw the Art Museum by Calatrava. Another stop along the way was Two Rivers to visit the Hamilton Wood Type Museum.

We stayed in a hotel right by the lake & basically just spent time together. The weather was in the high 60s, which in our opinions is perfect. One afternoon we went out on Lake Michigan on a sailboat & now have the itch to take some sailing lessons - maybe next summer. Overall it was a great trip & fun to visit a new state!

8 Months

2010-10-14T22:17:00.002-05:00

7 Months

2010-09-14T22:29:00.000-05:00

This post is about 10 days late, but these picture was taken when Elliot turned 7 months. Stay tuned for pictures from our trip to Wisconsin!

Pizza fan

2010-09-11T12:48:00.000-05:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Yummy carrots

2010-08-25T11:46:00.000-05:00

Another food success! I hope this little guy continues to like food this much!

I have really enjoyed making his baby food and seeing his reactions. Today I put a raspberry in his oatmeal and that did not go over well - just a bit sour!

I already am imagining our little family all cooking together. I can't wait to teach him how to cook!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Cucumber avocado anyone?

2010-08-22T09:10:00.001-05:00

This is my favorite so far!!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Starting Solids

2010-08-18T10:26:00.001-05:00

Enjoying rice cereal & the Bumbo chair

Distracted by the Ceiling Fan

Playing with his Food

6 Month Stats

2010-08-17T10:09:00.004-05:00

Elliot had his 6 month check-up the other day and seems to be growing right along. He smiled & talked to the doctors & nurses. He even gave a nurse a smile right after his shots - what a brave little guy! I really love seeing Elliot around other people because he is such a charmer and it is fun to see his personality coming out. So for everyone who is interested, here are the little man's stats:

Height: 27 inches
Weight: 18lbs, 2 oz
Head Circumference: 44cm

In other developmental news...

Elliot seems to be teething, his hands/toys/our hands/kitchen counter/almost everything always seem to be in his mouth, though no actual teeth have appeared yet.

He grabs his toes & just a few weeks ago got those little piggies into his mouth

He is sitting up pretty much by himself, though we usually keep a hand on his back, just in case.

6 months

2010-08-15T17:26:00.002-05:00

Chewing on the Crib!

2010-08-08T14:11:00.001-05:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Taking the Train to St. Louis

2010-08-03T22:11:00.008-05:00

This past weekend we took a train down to St. Louis to visit our dear friends John & Andrea. This was Elliot's first Amtrak train ride and we were hoping for a smooth trip with plenty of rest time for Elliot and work time for Daddy. We were lucky on the trip down and rode on the Texas Eagle, a double decker train headed for San Antonio with lots of leg room, bathrooms with changing tables and even an observation car. It was super fancy and we decided it was the best way to travel! Elliot was able to rest best in the Ergo strapped to Mama but woke up with some serious sleep marks on his face........

Poor Baby

Elliot and Jack

I'm pretty sure I've seen baby pictures of Brad making this exact face.

For some reason we always forget to take pictures when we go places or have guests here - I guess we just enjoy ourselves too much to document the event! So first thing Saturday morning we took some pictures of the kiddos. Sadly enough, those were about the only photos we took!

Annie-Bananie

We had a fun weekend filled with relaxing, napping babies, homemade calzones, laughing, light saber duels, yummy Mexican & Asian food, Church, fountain playing, & a game of Spades that ended with a score of 18.5 to 17.9!

Daddy: "Elliot this is The Gateway Arch which is known as the "Gateway to the West". It was designed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen and structural engineer Hannskarl Bandel in 1947 and built between 1963 and 1965. It is not a pure inverted catenary. Saarinen preferred a shape that was slightly elongated and thinner towards the top, a shape that produces a subtle soaring effect, and transfers more of the structure's weight downward rather than outward at the base."

Elliot admiring the Arch

For the ride home we did not have the fancy train - so sad! It took less time to get back to Chicago, but the ride seemed to take twice as long. Elliot was fussy for much of the trip and he had a hard time taking a nap. Also, there were no changing tables in the restrooms, which proved to be tricky balancing myself on a moving a train and a baby on my leg. A little after Springfield I noticed that both Elliot and I were starting to sneeze and cough...looked like we were both a little tired out. By Monday morning we both had a pair of bad colds, headaches (I can only speak for myself on this symptom), and low fevers. Elliot had a lot of firsts over the past few days: first train ride, first taste of guacamole, first time to St. Louis, first cold & fever.

Thankfully we are both on the mend after being taken care of by Brad!

Not a Happy Camper

2010-07-29T10:20:00.001-05:00

Since Elliot was around 4 months we've been giving him some "solids" (rice cereal, applesauce, or banana) a couple times a week. Our pediatrician recommended doing this just to get him used to texture. He doesn't eat very much and I think more ends up on his face, belly and diaper than in his mouth but he has always seemed to enjoy all three. That changed today.

The little man has been sort of refusing to breastfeed for the last 36 hours. He eats a little bit then seems done or distracted. Is this a possible side effect of teething?

Anyway, I decided to give him some rice cereal this morning in hopes that he won't go hungry and he looked at me like I was a crazy person......

Yes these are my natural chubby rolls. I obviously will not starve.

Mama, what are you doing to me?!?!

I'm sure I'll get this look often in the years to come.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Sleepy baby

2010-07-22T11:00:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure what Elliot is going through, perhaps a growth spurt or some serious teething, but he has been a sleeping champion. Yesterday he took a 5 hour nap, went to bed early and woke up 2 hours later than usual.

Now he is an hour and a half into his morning nap. Who knows how long this one will last?!?

Now if only I could be super productive during these naps......

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Do These Make My Bottom Look Big?

2010-07-17T13:53:00.001-05:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

5 months

2010-07-17T10:44:00.001-05:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Grandpa Ratzlaff & Elliot joking around

2010-07-08T10:48:00.000-05:00

Staying cool

2010-07-06T12:12:00.000-05:00

Both of our " babies" trying to stay cool.

These two take turns between sleeping and playing. I think India may have Elliot beat on the sleeping end

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T20:53:00.000-05:00

Happy 2nd Father's Day!
One year ago today we found out we were going to be parents:)
Thanks for being such a good daddy to our little boy!

Everyone's favorite spot!

2010-06-16T10:58:00.000-05:00

4 Months

2010-06-14T21:25:00.009-05:00

We have had an eventful past week. Last week Brad & I celebrated our 8th wedding anniversary and spent our first evening out without Elliot. Our friends, Brooke & Chad watched Elliot along with their own little cutie, Savannah. He didn't seem to miss us a bit & we really enjoyed a fun evening, just the two of us.

Savannah & Elliot

Some other milestones in regards to Elliot: He attended his first concert, had his first visit to the church nursery, he's been rolling over a lot, and he has discovered his feet. Also, he had his 4 month appointment today and he is a growing boy!

Height - 25 1/2 inches
Weight - 15lbs. 10oz

This past weekend we did a photo shoot with Elliot at The Art Institute, which is always one of our favorite places to go. We had a lot of fun & got some great photos!

Visit our Flickr page for more photos....

First concert

2010-06-07T22:31:00.001-05:00

Tonight we went to Elliot's first concert in Millennium Park - he decided to take a little snooze. Fun band (Him & She) and beautiful weather!

We have a roller!

2010-06-07T10:52:00.000-05:00

When I left Elliot he was on his back. When I returned he was like this......

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Mommy made me a new shirt - part II

2010-06-03T13:42:00.002-05:00

This car is from my boppy cover material! Now I'm speedy!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Mommy made me a new shirt - Part I

2010-06-03T13:42:00.001-05:00

Mommy has made an elephant shirt for many of my friends - now I have one too!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

New toy

2010-05-28T08:56:00.001-05:00

Elliot trying out the bumbo for the first time. He seems to like it despite what his face looks like in this picture!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

4 Eyes

2010-05-21T09:24:00.001-05:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Naptime

2010-05-20T12:34:00.001-05:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

3 Months

2010-05-14T17:57:00.000-05:00

We can't believe he is three months already! Elliot is so much fun and such a joy!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T21:11:00.000-05:00

We have the privilege of knowing a lot of wonderful mothers. Hard working ladies that love their kids and have been such an encouragement to me as I've become a mother.

But 2 women we are especially thankful for this mother's day are our own mothers! They are not only amazing mothers, but the best mother-in-laws we could ask for in the world. We are so glad that Elliot has both Grammy & Grandma!

Carol & Amy

Kristi & Brad

We love you both!

India vs Elliot

2010-04-30T21:45:00.001-05:00

India & Elliot are fast becoming friends!
At times, India is a little starved for attention, but she is now nicer to our guests and sometimes hangs out on my lap while I feed Elliot. I think these two are going to be buddies!

Tummy Time

2010-04-30T09:39:00.002-05:00

Elliot loves to be on his tummy, especially on his changing table, kitchen counter, dining room table and our bed. This is one of the first times he was content on his tummy on the floor - He usually likes to be up higher!

Trying to figure out whether or not this is going to work...

Looking at mommy....

And the money shot!

Love it!

Surprise Ending

2010-04-26T21:34:00.003-05:00

This is the first time that Elliot has payed attention to this toy!

Look-a-likes

2010-04-22T18:35:00.001-05:00

Hey! Where did he learn this from.....

Grandpa!!!

Elliot reconciling the bank statement

2010-04-21T18:34:00.001-05:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Saying Hello

2010-04-18T10:35:00.000-05:00

Playing Catch Up

2010-04-17T09:08:00.003-05:00

We cannot believe that 2 months have gone by since Elliot was born. It has been so much fun to watch him change and get to know him. Also, we have loved introducing him to so many family and friends. Our little man sure is loved by a lot of people and we are thankful for everyone in his life! Over the last couple of months, we've had a lot of visitors and done some traveling ourselves. Scroll down to see what has been happening!

Sweet smiles

2010-04-15T08:22:00.001-05:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Kansas Trip

2010-04-13T21:57:00.010-05:00

Last weekend we took a trip to Kansas to celebrate Brad's Grandpa's 80th birthday & Elliot met a lot of family!

Grandpa Lewis with all the siblings!

Elliot at the birthday party

4 Generations

Grandpa Neal & Elliot enjoying a Sunday afternoon

Great Grandma Andres & Elliot

Our nephew, Luke

Uncle Corey with Elliot

Elliot talking to Grandma

Celebrating Grandma Carol's & Nephew Jack's birthdays.
Jackie turned 2 & Corey made him this great Thomas Cake

NYC Trip

2010-04-08T21:57:00.000-05:00

Hanging out at our hotel

Linus & Kevin - Breakfast with the Gosas & Brandon

Mama & Elliot in Central Park - so pretty in the spring!

Bryant Park - Empire state building in the background