Dear Vinny,
I can hardly believe that four years ago today, you were born. You have grown into such an amazing little boy with a good sense of humor and fun personality!
We celebrated your birthday on Sunday, because today is a weekday. I baked you a Dora the Explorer cake, as you requested. It took me a really long time to decorate it, though.
For dinner we had homemade pizza. You got to video chat with Cousin Theo for a little while, which was lots of fun. Then you got to blow out the candles on your cake, eat some cake, and then open your presents after we were done video chatting.
The highlights of your gifts included Lego Rock Band, plus the instruments needed to play it; a book of the complete Curious George stories; a remote-controlled car; and a set of interlocking gears.
Happy birthday, sweet boy!
Love,
Mama
Showing posts with label holidays. Show all posts
Showing posts with label holidays. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 05, 2010
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Mothers Day
Dear Vinny,
We had a fun Mothers Day. I spent the morning playing with you. We got out some tinkertoys (hand-me-downs from your cousins), which you really enjoyed playing with. You could make things that went round and round -- what's not to love about that?
Daddy cooked me a special feast this afternoon, including steak, chicken, corn on the cob, and several other items. I made the dessert -- strawberry shortcakes. We ate outside on the deck -- it was a nice day (the first in over a week). It was nice to get a chance to enjoy some sunshine with our meal.
What a great, leisurely day with my boys!
Love,
Mama
We had a fun Mothers Day. I spent the morning playing with you. We got out some tinkertoys (hand-me-downs from your cousins), which you really enjoyed playing with. You could make things that went round and round -- what's not to love about that?
Daddy cooked me a special feast this afternoon, including steak, chicken, corn on the cob, and several other items. I made the dessert -- strawberry shortcakes. We ate outside on the deck -- it was a nice day (the first in over a week). It was nice to get a chance to enjoy some sunshine with our meal.
What a great, leisurely day with my boys!
Love,
Mama
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Long Lapse
Dear Vinny,
It has been quite some time since I last wrote a letter to you. I'm sorry that I've been so busy with other things. I will try to fill in some of the gaps here.
First, we had a wonderful birthday party for you the weekend of October 17-19. We invited your four grandparents down to spend the weekend all together at a cabin at Big Ridge State Park. We all had a really good time and you were the center of everyone's attention. Your grandparents brought you a lot of presents, including a Vinny-sized table and two chairs, a submarine bath toy, and a whole new fall/winter wardrobe. We had a nice birthday party for you, complete with a chocolate cake with raspberry filling made by me, and party decorations supplied and put up by Grandma Marvis.
We took you trick-or-treating on Halloween, which you enjoyed, but you didn't quite understand. We dressed you in a park ranger outfit that we had bought for you at the Grand Canyon. You thought that the purpose of knocking on doors or ringing doorbells was to enter people's houses, so you did, several times. I had to chase after you many times, and I got to see the interior of some neighbors' houses.
In November, you spent a week with Grandpa and Grandma, while Mama and Daddy went to Austin, Texas for Mama's supercomputing conference. You had a good time with Grandpa during the day. The day before Mama and Daddy left, we all went and saw your Great-Grandma Laura who had just turned 100. While you were there with Grandpa and Grandma, Grandpa took you on a trip to see his mother, your Great-Grandma Mary. He said you really enjoyed the trip, pointing out all the bridges that you saw.
We stayed home for Thanksgiving so it was just the three of us for Thanksgiving dinner. You have become fascinated by the mixer, so I took the opportunity to have you help me make rolls for Thanksgiving dinner using the mixer. You got a big kick out of turning on the mixer, except for the time that you turned it on high and the flour was thrown out into your face. "I finished!" you declared. Unfortunately, the rolls burned, so I whipped up some cornbread instead. You ate only cornbread and cranberry sauce for Thanksgiving dinner. You are a huge fan of cranberry sauce. That's my boy!
You love going to the children's museum here in town. Aunt Laura and Aunt Anne renewed your membership to the museum for your birthday, which was just wonderful of them, because you love that place. The major highlights include a room with nests recessed in the floor, which you can push buttons and illuminate (it's the push-button/light combination that you love!); a room full of trains and an elaborate model train layout that you love to watch; and an exhibit about Appalachian life with various instrumental parts playing "Turkey in the Straw" at the push of a button -- you particularly enjoy the string bass part. You have been known to run down the hall squealing in excitement. If you could live in the museum, I think you would!
The first weekend in December, we took you to the museum twice, and in the evening after it closed we took you to see the outdoor train garden there illuminated with Christmas lights. Although it was really cold, you enjoyed the trains a lot and were very disappointed to leave.
You've become interested in the potty (which you pronounce "polly") but you haven't yet figured out when you need to use it. You really enjoy watching the "Elmo Potty Time" DVD, and sitting on the toilet reading the Elmo potty book complete with buttons to push that make various sounds. And speaking of television, you really love the show "Oswald." Your love of Oswald has eclipsed your love of "Jack's Big Music Show" and "Lazytown." You've also started watching "Blue's Clues" sometimes, which led to the following funny incident. Daddy was playing a computer game, and suddenly you started shouting, "A clue! I see clue!" We didn't know what in the world you were talking about until we saw a pawprint in the game. You are a very observant boy!
Another thing that shows your advanced powers of observation is that today, when we were watching Oswald say goodbye to his pet fish, you said "I feel sad Oswald" -- Vinny-speak for "Oswald is sad." I was impressed that you noticed Oswald's sadness and possessed that kind of empathy for him.
For Christmas, we went to Kentucky. During the week before Christmas, we were at Grandma and Grandpa's house, and got to see your Aunt Rachel, Uncle Scott, Cousin Byron, and Aunt Laura. Also we saw your cousin Maya, Aunt Vaughan, Uncle Austin, Aunt Kristin, and Uncle Andy. You also got a chance to meet Mama and Daddy's friends Carrie and Chad, and their kids Alex and Annika, and to jump on their bounce house in the basement. You really enjoyed that jumping. You also enjoyed helping Grandpa cut down and decorate a Christmas tree.
On Christmas Day, we went to Granny and Granddad's house, and got to have dinner with them and Aunt Ginger and Uncle Johnny. Then, Aunt Mary and Uncle Wayne came for a visit too. You had a great time with all those relatives, and your presence gave great joy to them too.
You got all kinds of presents for Christmas. From Mama and Daddy you got a big boy bed, although we haven't set it up for you yet. It's a twin mattress, plus sheets, a blanket, and a comforter, and some decorative pillows. The sheets, comforter, and decorative pillows are an underwater theme, with sea creatures playing musical instruments. It seems like the perfect theme for you, because you love fish and music.
From Grandma and Grandpa, you got a fish tank. We also haven't set that up for you yet. They provided the tank and accessories, but we need to get some fish. Aunt Laura and Aunt Rachel's family both gave you some books. I know you will love to read them, because you are an avid reader. From Aunt Ginger and Uncle Johnny you got some more Curious George stuff (book and video), to go with the book and Curious George stuffed animal they gave you for your birthday. And Granny and Granddad gave you many gifts; your favorite one was a set of eight bells upon which one could play tunes. But you prefer just ringing them as fast as you can. Fair enough.
Your vocabulary has expanded a lot. You are pronouncing words better and better, and you are forming more advanced and complicated sentences. You are very polite and basically always say please and thank you. Also, when you ask for things, you generally say "I'd like some [whatever], please." You're repeating more and more of what Mama and Daddy say to you, such as "Let's do it!" and "That's a boy!" (which is Grandpa's influence, not ours).
Every day you bring such joy into my life, sweet boy. Thank you for all your love.
Love,
Mama
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Happy 2nd Birthday!
Dear Vinny,
Today is your second birthday! It is hard to believe that you are two years old already, but when I look at you I know that you are. You're still a very happy boy, and your powers of speech continue to amaze me. Speaking of amazing, you are amazed by a lot of things still. You see something interesting, and you exclaim, "Oh, wow!" How I love to hear you say that!
Today we went to Chuck E. Cheese with Tia and Uncle. You enjoyed the pizza but you also enjoyed running around the restaurant and looking at all the blinking lights.
We brought some frosted brownies to serve as a cake for your party. Daddy gave you the candle to lick, but you didn't understand that you were supposed to lick it, and took a big bite out of it instead. I don't think you enjoyed the taste of wax very much, but you wouldn't let me get the wax out of your mouth. You just chewed it and swallowed it.
For your birthday, Mama and Daddy got you an iPod Shuffle because you love to listen to music so much. You've been listening to Daddy's iPod a lot, and you will even sit for 15 minutes at a time, just listening. I loaded it up with your favorite songs.
It was a lot of work giving birth to you two years ago, but the joy you have brought into our lives was well worth the effort!
Love,
Mama
Today is your second birthday! It is hard to believe that you are two years old already, but when I look at you I know that you are. You're still a very happy boy, and your powers of speech continue to amaze me. Speaking of amazing, you are amazed by a lot of things still. You see something interesting, and you exclaim, "Oh, wow!" How I love to hear you say that!
Today we went to Chuck E. Cheese with Tia and Uncle. You enjoyed the pizza but you also enjoyed running around the restaurant and looking at all the blinking lights.
We brought some frosted brownies to serve as a cake for your party. Daddy gave you the candle to lick, but you didn't understand that you were supposed to lick it, and took a big bite out of it instead. I don't think you enjoyed the taste of wax very much, but you wouldn't let me get the wax out of your mouth. You just chewed it and swallowed it.
For your birthday, Mama and Daddy got you an iPod Shuffle because you love to listen to music so much. You've been listening to Daddy's iPod a lot, and you will even sit for 15 minutes at a time, just listening. I loaded it up with your favorite songs.
It was a lot of work giving birth to you two years ago, but the joy you have brought into our lives was well worth the effort!
Love,
Mama
Monday, March 24, 2008
Travel to Virginia
Dear Vinny,
This past weekend we traveled to Virginia for Aunt Laura's dissertation defense. We left on Thursday, arriving at Aunt Laura's in time for dinner. You were a little bit fussy in the car, but not too bad. It can't be much fun to be all cooped up in that seat for six hours.
Aunt Anne's mother graciously let us stay at her house. She has a dog called Daisy, a young golden retriever, whom you really enjoyed. Daisy would lick your fingers and you would laugh and laugh that belly laugh of yours. It was so fun to watch you!
On Friday, Aunt Laura held an informal colloquium about her research. You lasted for about 10-15 minutes of it, which is pretty good, but Daddy took you out after that because you were fast becoming the center of attention. You're far more interesting than an esoteric discussion of ethics, no offense to Aunt Laura!
On Saturday, we went to a park and cooked out for breakfast. It was a little cold, but I think you enjoyed your first-ever taste of pancakes with maple syrup. That afternoon, Aunt Laura held a party to celebrate her successful defense. You attended the party and charmed everyone who saw you. That evening, you stayed with Aunt Anne's mother while Daddy, Aunt Rachel, Aunt Laura, Aunt Anne, and I went to a play.
On Sunday, we had a nice Easter dinner with Aunt Anne's family. You woke up from your nap at the very end of it and got a chance to enjoy some delicious corn pudding, spinach, and turkey breast. For breakfast, you'd had a biscuit with jam for the first time. You found that to be incredibly delicious, and gave me a look that seemed to ask why I had hidden this delicacy from you for so long.
You won the hearts of everybody who saw you. Aunt Rachel and Aunt Laura hadn't seen you since the summer, so they were very happy to see you again. You'd never met Aunt Anne before, but you both seemed to be happy to be together. Aunt Anne's mother enjoyed you so much that she said we had to bring you back to visit her again. Maybe we will!
Love,
Mommy
This past weekend we traveled to Virginia for Aunt Laura's dissertation defense. We left on Thursday, arriving at Aunt Laura's in time for dinner. You were a little bit fussy in the car, but not too bad. It can't be much fun to be all cooped up in that seat for six hours.
Aunt Anne's mother graciously let us stay at her house. She has a dog called Daisy, a young golden retriever, whom you really enjoyed. Daisy would lick your fingers and you would laugh and laugh that belly laugh of yours. It was so fun to watch you!
On Friday, Aunt Laura held an informal colloquium about her research. You lasted for about 10-15 minutes of it, which is pretty good, but Daddy took you out after that because you were fast becoming the center of attention. You're far more interesting than an esoteric discussion of ethics, no offense to Aunt Laura!
On Saturday, we went to a park and cooked out for breakfast. It was a little cold, but I think you enjoyed your first-ever taste of pancakes with maple syrup. That afternoon, Aunt Laura held a party to celebrate her successful defense. You attended the party and charmed everyone who saw you. That evening, you stayed with Aunt Anne's mother while Daddy, Aunt Rachel, Aunt Laura, Aunt Anne, and I went to a play.
On Sunday, we had a nice Easter dinner with Aunt Anne's family. You woke up from your nap at the very end of it and got a chance to enjoy some delicious corn pudding, spinach, and turkey breast. For breakfast, you'd had a biscuit with jam for the first time. You found that to be incredibly delicious, and gave me a look that seemed to ask why I had hidden this delicacy from you for so long.
You won the hearts of everybody who saw you. Aunt Rachel and Aunt Laura hadn't seen you since the summer, so they were very happy to see you again. You'd never met Aunt Anne before, but you both seemed to be happy to be together. Aunt Anne's mother enjoyed you so much that she said we had to bring you back to visit her again. Maybe we will!
Love,
Mommy
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Happy New Year!
Dear Vinny,
Happy New Year! We had a fun time with Grandma and Grandpa, who came down to see you this past weekend. They came on Saturday and they left this morning. You enjoyed spending time with your grandparents. They brought you a gigantic present: a slide and swing set, that is just your size. It can be used inside or outside, depending on our preferences. We have it in the living room.
You don't seem to understand what the slide is all about, but you like the swing a lot. You also enjoy standing on the platform above the slide, where there's a captain's wheel that you can spin around.
On Sunday, we all went on a trip to Cherokee, North Carolina. You were a very good sport about traveling in the car for so long. We went to the museum there, and you enjoyed it at first but you got a little bit impatient by the end. That evening, on our way home, we stopped for dinner at a restaurant, and we ordered you a sweet potato but you weren't very interested in letting us feed it to you. You are becoming more independent and you like to do things on your own.
On Monday, you enjoyed spending the day with Grandma and Grandpa. We didn't do much of anything, just enjoyed each other's company. One thing we did do is take a walk in the park, along the trail beside the lake. Grandpa carried you in the backpack baby carrier. I think he got a little tired by the end!
Every night that he was here, Grandpa put you to bed. I think he really enjoyed getting a chance to sing to you and rock you in the rocking chair. I know that I enjoy doing that too. I know that Grandma and Grandpa had a really good time with you, and are looking forward to seeing you again!
Love,
Mommy
Happy New Year! We had a fun time with Grandma and Grandpa, who came down to see you this past weekend. They came on Saturday and they left this morning. You enjoyed spending time with your grandparents. They brought you a gigantic present: a slide and swing set, that is just your size. It can be used inside or outside, depending on our preferences. We have it in the living room.
You don't seem to understand what the slide is all about, but you like the swing a lot. You also enjoy standing on the platform above the slide, where there's a captain's wheel that you can spin around.
On Sunday, we all went on a trip to Cherokee, North Carolina. You were a very good sport about traveling in the car for so long. We went to the museum there, and you enjoyed it at first but you got a little bit impatient by the end. That evening, on our way home, we stopped for dinner at a restaurant, and we ordered you a sweet potato but you weren't very interested in letting us feed it to you. You are becoming more independent and you like to do things on your own.
On Monday, you enjoyed spending the day with Grandma and Grandpa. We didn't do much of anything, just enjoyed each other's company. One thing we did do is take a walk in the park, along the trail beside the lake. Grandpa carried you in the backpack baby carrier. I think he got a little tired by the end!
Every night that he was here, Grandpa put you to bed. I think he really enjoyed getting a chance to sing to you and rock you in the rocking chair. I know that I enjoy doing that too. I know that Grandma and Grandpa had a really good time with you, and are looking forward to seeing you again!
Love,
Mommy
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Your Second Christmas
Dear Vinny,
Today was your second Christmas. I think you enjoyed it more than the first one. Last year you were sick. This year, you felt fine. But I think there were some new frustrations.
You don't quite understand how the Christmas present concept works. I would help you open up the wrapping paper, and you could see the present inside. You'd be excited about the present, but at the same time you would feel frustrated, because you couldn't get to it. So I'd help you remove all the wrapping paper, and then Daddy would take the box away and open it, which was frustrating because you wanted the present that we'd finally opened but you had to wait. Then, you would get mad because we would take that present away and make you open the next one.
But all in all, you got a lot of good stuff. Granny and Granddad gave you a tricycle, even though you're still too small for it and lack the motor skills to use it. They also gave you quite a few Little People sets, and a couple of books. Mommy and Daddy gave you a bunch of books and more Little People stuff. We also got you a remote-controlled car, but it doesn't work yet because we didn't have the right batteries for it. We'll get them when we next go out.
The three of us enjoyed Christmas dinner together: Mommy and Daddy had turkey tetrazzini, while you had some delicious crackers and fruit. You don't seem to care for meat, even though I kept trying to disguise it under your oatmeal. You would find it and pull it out of your mouth.
I think that maybe next year, you will understand what's going on a little bit better and enjoy Christmas even more. I certainly enjoyed this year's holiday with you and I'm looking forward to next year!
Love,
Mommy
Today was your second Christmas. I think you enjoyed it more than the first one. Last year you were sick. This year, you felt fine. But I think there were some new frustrations.
You don't quite understand how the Christmas present concept works. I would help you open up the wrapping paper, and you could see the present inside. You'd be excited about the present, but at the same time you would feel frustrated, because you couldn't get to it. So I'd help you remove all the wrapping paper, and then Daddy would take the box away and open it, which was frustrating because you wanted the present that we'd finally opened but you had to wait. Then, you would get mad because we would take that present away and make you open the next one.
But all in all, you got a lot of good stuff. Granny and Granddad gave you a tricycle, even though you're still too small for it and lack the motor skills to use it. They also gave you quite a few Little People sets, and a couple of books. Mommy and Daddy gave you a bunch of books and more Little People stuff. We also got you a remote-controlled car, but it doesn't work yet because we didn't have the right batteries for it. We'll get them when we next go out.
The three of us enjoyed Christmas dinner together: Mommy and Daddy had turkey tetrazzini, while you had some delicious crackers and fruit. You don't seem to care for meat, even though I kept trying to disguise it under your oatmeal. You would find it and pull it out of your mouth.
I think that maybe next year, you will understand what's going on a little bit better and enjoy Christmas even more. I certainly enjoyed this year's holiday with you and I'm looking forward to next year!
Love,
Mommy
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Holiday Fun with Tia and Uncle Furry
Dear Vinny,
On Saturday, Tia and Uncle came over to celebrate an early Christmas with us. Daddy made the adults some beef barbecue, and you had a lot of fruit and crackers.
We had a good time watching you open your presents. You didn't quite understand how the present thing works. We provided you with positive reinforcement when you did an action that helped progress towards the present being opened, to encourage you to open the presents. Tia had given you some toys in a bag with tissue paper, so we applauded when you pulled a piece of tissue paper out. After the paper was all gone, the bag was on its side, and you got down on your belly and looked inside the bag. It was cute and we laughed. You got some little cars and a giraffe on wheels with a clear plastic belly with flowers in it. It sounds strange, but you have two of the other animals in the collection and you enjoy them. Tia and Uncle also gave you some pajamas, but you were the most excited about the toys.
You are such a sweet baby and I know that Tia and Uncle Furry love you very much!
Love,
Mommy
On Saturday, Tia and Uncle came over to celebrate an early Christmas with us. Daddy made the adults some beef barbecue, and you had a lot of fruit and crackers.
We had a good time watching you open your presents. You didn't quite understand how the present thing works. We provided you with positive reinforcement when you did an action that helped progress towards the present being opened, to encourage you to open the presents. Tia had given you some toys in a bag with tissue paper, so we applauded when you pulled a piece of tissue paper out. After the paper was all gone, the bag was on its side, and you got down on your belly and looked inside the bag. It was cute and we laughed. You got some little cars and a giraffe on wheels with a clear plastic belly with flowers in it. It sounds strange, but you have two of the other animals in the collection and you enjoy them. Tia and Uncle also gave you some pajamas, but you were the most excited about the toys.
You are such a sweet baby and I know that Tia and Uncle Furry love you very much!
Love,
Mommy
Monday, December 17, 2007
Grand-Visitors
Dear Vinny,
Granny and Granddad came for a visit over the weekend. They arrived really late on Friday night, after you were already in bed. But they got to see you on Saturday morning after they got up! Granny spent a lot of time doting on you, as did Granddad. But Granddad and Daddy went out to get a Christmas tree while Granny and I stayed home with you.
Granny has a special way with you. She can charm you and make you laugh like no one else can. Granddad is amazing with you too.
Granddad and Daddy picked out a beautiful Frasier fur for the Christmas tree, and Daddy decorated it with lights. You were pretty enthralled by the Christmas tree, and the lights in particular. You tried to eat some of the needles off the tree, but I kept you from eating them.
We gave Granny and Granddad personalized gifts made from your photographs: a tie for Granddad, with little one-inch pictures of you all over it, and a fleece blanket for Granny, with a picture of you from Halloween. We also gave Granddad a framed picture of you in a Santa hat. They loved their gifts. I know that they would want to be with you more often if they could. It's too bad that they live so far away.
Granny and Granddad left on Sunday, and you cried when they left. That was the first time you'd ever cried when somebody other than Mommy or Daddy left. But, they left behind a big pile of presents for you, sitting under the tree and waiting to be opened.
Love,
Mommy
Granny and Granddad came for a visit over the weekend. They arrived really late on Friday night, after you were already in bed. But they got to see you on Saturday morning after they got up! Granny spent a lot of time doting on you, as did Granddad. But Granddad and Daddy went out to get a Christmas tree while Granny and I stayed home with you.
Granny has a special way with you. She can charm you and make you laugh like no one else can. Granddad is amazing with you too.
Granddad and Daddy picked out a beautiful Frasier fur for the Christmas tree, and Daddy decorated it with lights. You were pretty enthralled by the Christmas tree, and the lights in particular. You tried to eat some of the needles off the tree, but I kept you from eating them.
We gave Granny and Granddad personalized gifts made from your photographs: a tie for Granddad, with little one-inch pictures of you all over it, and a fleece blanket for Granny, with a picture of you from Halloween. We also gave Granddad a framed picture of you in a Santa hat. They loved their gifts. I know that they would want to be with you more often if they could. It's too bad that they live so far away.
Granny and Granddad left on Sunday, and you cried when they left. That was the first time you'd ever cried when somebody other than Mommy or Daddy left. But, they left behind a big pile of presents for you, sitting under the tree and waiting to be opened.
Love,
Mommy
Friday, November 23, 2007
Thanksgiving Day
Dear Vinny,
On Thursday, Tia and Uncle came over for Thanksgiving dinner. But it was a long day for you before that, because Mommy and Daddy had to cook for the dinner and didn't have a lot of time to spend with you. Also, you were teething and we hadn't quite realized it. The pain of teething made you extra clingy.
You spent most of the morning and early afternoon in the kitchen with me. You stood at my feet, balancing yourself by holding on to my legs. Sometimes, you would demand to be picked up, so I would hold you in one arm and cook with the other. I made the corn pudding entirely one-handed while holding you.
But when I tried to put you down for a pre-dinner nap, you got really upset. When I went back in to calm you down, I observed how much you were chewing on your binky, and realized that you were teething. So I gave you some ibuprofen, and Daddy put the orajel on your gums, and then you were okay.
Tia and Uncle were really happy to see you, and they spent some time with you while Mommy and Daddy finished up the last steps of the dinner. For dinner, you had some bananas, some mashed potatoes, and some sweet potatoes. You played with Tia after dinner, but we put you to bed early because you were very tired after going napless all day. You slept for a while, but then you woke up screaming from the tooth pain. Daddy calmed you down and administered the proper medication before putting you back to bed.
It was a very enjoyable Thanksgiving and I'm glad you were there to share it with us!
Love,
Mommy
On Thursday, Tia and Uncle came over for Thanksgiving dinner. But it was a long day for you before that, because Mommy and Daddy had to cook for the dinner and didn't have a lot of time to spend with you. Also, you were teething and we hadn't quite realized it. The pain of teething made you extra clingy.
You spent most of the morning and early afternoon in the kitchen with me. You stood at my feet, balancing yourself by holding on to my legs. Sometimes, you would demand to be picked up, so I would hold you in one arm and cook with the other. I made the corn pudding entirely one-handed while holding you.
But when I tried to put you down for a pre-dinner nap, you got really upset. When I went back in to calm you down, I observed how much you were chewing on your binky, and realized that you were teething. So I gave you some ibuprofen, and Daddy put the orajel on your gums, and then you were okay.
Tia and Uncle were really happy to see you, and they spent some time with you while Mommy and Daddy finished up the last steps of the dinner. For dinner, you had some bananas, some mashed potatoes, and some sweet potatoes. You played with Tia after dinner, but we put you to bed early because you were very tired after going napless all day. You slept for a while, but then you woke up screaming from the tooth pain. Daddy calmed you down and administered the proper medication before putting you back to bed.
It was a very enjoyable Thanksgiving and I'm glad you were there to share it with us!
Love,
Mommy
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Halloween!
Dear Vinny,
Tonight we took you out trick-or-treating for Halloween. We dressed you as a little devil and you were absolutely darling. Unfortunately, you didn't nap very well all day, so you were very tired. But you were in that slap-happy mood that you get in sometimes when you're tired, so everything was hilarious.
We took you around the neighborhood, and everybody agreed that you were absolutely adorable. After we were done, Daddy put you to bed while I gave out candy. I met a family who just bought a house down the street, who have a daughter who's just about your age. We'll have to get together with them after they move in!
You are a sweet boy and I love you!
Love,
Mommy
Tonight we took you out trick-or-treating for Halloween. We dressed you as a little devil and you were absolutely darling. Unfortunately, you didn't nap very well all day, so you were very tired. But you were in that slap-happy mood that you get in sometimes when you're tired, so everything was hilarious.
We took you around the neighborhood, and everybody agreed that you were absolutely adorable. After we were done, Daddy put you to bed while I gave out candy. I met a family who just bought a house down the street, who have a daughter who's just about your age. We'll have to get together with them after they move in!
You are a sweet boy and I love you!
Love,
Mommy
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Parental Birthdays
Dear Vinny,
On Saturday, Tia and Uncle came over. Tia was so happy to see you, because she hadn't seen you in over a month. First, you hung out with Daddy and Uncle, while Tia and Mommy went out. Then, we all had dinner, and after dinner, you spent time with Tia and Mommy until Mommy finally put you to bed.
On Sunday, we went out to dinner for Daddy's birthday. You sat in your portable high chair on a booth seat, and ate your dinner. Unfortunately, you gagged on a piece of hamburger and puked up most of your dinner. But other than that, you enjoyed going out to dinner with Mommy and Daddy.
After dinner, we gave Daddy his presents. You gave him a 500 GB external hard drive and a card that you had signed. I also gave him some gifts, and you helped him open the packages.
On Monday evening, we ate dinner out on the deck as the sun was setting. I had lit a citronella candle, and you were fascinated by the flame. You wanted to touch it, but I kept the candle safely out of your reach.
On Tuesday evening, we celebrated my birthday. First, Daddy presented me with a picture that you had drawn for me. It was very beautiful and if there is space for it, I will try to hang it in my office. Then, we went out to dinner and Daddy and I both had burgers made of different meats, with french fries. Daddy let you eat some of his fries. You were really fascinated by dipping them in ketchup, although you didn't seem to like the taste of it very much. But you were beginning to understand that you can use your front teeth to bite off pieces of food. You were starting to be able to do that with the french fries. I was very pleased that you were beginning to catch on to that!
Your teeth had been bothering you before but they seem to be lessening up somewhat. I am glad because this means you are more cheerful and I enjoy seeing you so happy!
Love,
Mommy
On Saturday, Tia and Uncle came over. Tia was so happy to see you, because she hadn't seen you in over a month. First, you hung out with Daddy and Uncle, while Tia and Mommy went out. Then, we all had dinner, and after dinner, you spent time with Tia and Mommy until Mommy finally put you to bed.
On Sunday, we went out to dinner for Daddy's birthday. You sat in your portable high chair on a booth seat, and ate your dinner. Unfortunately, you gagged on a piece of hamburger and puked up most of your dinner. But other than that, you enjoyed going out to dinner with Mommy and Daddy.
After dinner, we gave Daddy his presents. You gave him a 500 GB external hard drive and a card that you had signed. I also gave him some gifts, and you helped him open the packages.
On Monday evening, we ate dinner out on the deck as the sun was setting. I had lit a citronella candle, and you were fascinated by the flame. You wanted to touch it, but I kept the candle safely out of your reach.
On Tuesday evening, we celebrated my birthday. First, Daddy presented me with a picture that you had drawn for me. It was very beautiful and if there is space for it, I will try to hang it in my office. Then, we went out to dinner and Daddy and I both had burgers made of different meats, with french fries. Daddy let you eat some of his fries. You were really fascinated by dipping them in ketchup, although you didn't seem to like the taste of it very much. But you were beginning to understand that you can use your front teeth to bite off pieces of food. You were starting to be able to do that with the french fries. I was very pleased that you were beginning to catch on to that!
Your teeth had been bothering you before but they seem to be lessening up somewhat. I am glad because this means you are more cheerful and I enjoy seeing you so happy!
Love,
Mommy
Monday, May 28, 2007
Weekend of Fun
Dear Vinny,
This weekend, we have been very busy. On Friday, I had the day off and we mostly just relaxed. We went to Home Depot in the afternoon, where one of the employees was entranced by you and spoke in his native tongue to you. I couldn't tell if he was African or Haitian, but he spoke French to you.
On Saturday, we had the annual neighborhood picnic. You are quite the people-watcher, so I carried you around from person-to-person, and you talked with them all. Marilyn from down the street, and our hostess Marty wanted to hold you, so you graciously agreed to be held and charmed them with your big smile.
On Sunday, Tia and Uncle came over for dinner. Before they came, you and I went to Kroger and did some major grocery shopping. I carried you in the sling, and you seemed to think that was okay, although you were kind of tired and by the end you were getting cranky. Daddy cooked a big meal for the adults, and you had peaches. You seem to like peaches, although the first time you tried them you didn't know quite what to make of them. We have also given you some prune juice, because you don't poop as often as you should.
Today, we have once again spent most of the day relaxing and playing with you. You are a joy to be with, as usual!
Love,
Mommy
This weekend, we have been very busy. On Friday, I had the day off and we mostly just relaxed. We went to Home Depot in the afternoon, where one of the employees was entranced by you and spoke in his native tongue to you. I couldn't tell if he was African or Haitian, but he spoke French to you.
On Saturday, we had the annual neighborhood picnic. You are quite the people-watcher, so I carried you around from person-to-person, and you talked with them all. Marilyn from down the street, and our hostess Marty wanted to hold you, so you graciously agreed to be held and charmed them with your big smile.
On Sunday, Tia and Uncle came over for dinner. Before they came, you and I went to Kroger and did some major grocery shopping. I carried you in the sling, and you seemed to think that was okay, although you were kind of tired and by the end you were getting cranky. Daddy cooked a big meal for the adults, and you had peaches. You seem to like peaches, although the first time you tried them you didn't know quite what to make of them. We have also given you some prune juice, because you don't poop as often as you should.
Today, we have once again spent most of the day relaxing and playing with you. You are a joy to be with, as usual!
Love,
Mommy
Thursday, January 04, 2007
New Year
Dear Vinny,
On New Year's Eve, your grandma and grandpa arrived. We rang the new year in by watching "Little Miss Sunshine" (while you slept). In fact, I think you were asleep at midnight.
You are recovering well from your cold. Your cough is almost gone now. I think when we take you back to the doctor next week, she will find that the ear infection is gone.
You have made some interesting developments recently. First of all, you discovered your reflection in the mirror. I don't know that you realize that it's you, but you are definitely interested in that other baby. And Daddy says that yesterday and today, you began to discover your feet. You've been lying on your back and raising your feet into the air, fascinated by them.
This evening, you had a major diaper blowout. I heard what sounded like the mud bubbling at Yellowstone. As it turned out, a bubble of gas caused your poop to leak out the leg hole and all over the place. It was pretty darn disgusting, but I managed to get you all cleaned up.
Today we got a package from your great-aunt and uncle Barb and Glen, and their kids Glenna and Julian. In it was a book of Mother Goose rhymes. I think you'll really enjoy the Mother Goose rhymes because of their rhythm. You definitely like rhythmic things like when I pat your back or when I talk to you with exaggerated rhythm.
Welcome to 2007! It is your first full year in this world, and I hope it is a good one for you.
Love,
Mommy
On New Year's Eve, your grandma and grandpa arrived. We rang the new year in by watching "Little Miss Sunshine" (while you slept). In fact, I think you were asleep at midnight.
You are recovering well from your cold. Your cough is almost gone now. I think when we take you back to the doctor next week, she will find that the ear infection is gone.
You have made some interesting developments recently. First of all, you discovered your reflection in the mirror. I don't know that you realize that it's you, but you are definitely interested in that other baby. And Daddy says that yesterday and today, you began to discover your feet. You've been lying on your back and raising your feet into the air, fascinated by them.
This evening, you had a major diaper blowout. I heard what sounded like the mud bubbling at Yellowstone. As it turned out, a bubble of gas caused your poop to leak out the leg hole and all over the place. It was pretty darn disgusting, but I managed to get you all cleaned up.
Today we got a package from your great-aunt and uncle Barb and Glen, and their kids Glenna and Julian. In it was a book of Mother Goose rhymes. I think you'll really enjoy the Mother Goose rhymes because of their rhythm. You definitely like rhythmic things like when I pat your back or when I talk to you with exaggerated rhythm.
Welcome to 2007! It is your first full year in this world, and I hope it is a good one for you.
Love,
Mommy
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Holiday Fun
Dear Vinny,
On Saturday, we went to a holiday party at the next-door neighbor's. You were a popular guy and lots of people wanted to hold you. For a long time, a neighbor down the street, Shigiro, held you and you two watched TV in the other room. You knew her from Halloween and from when Mommy and Daddy voted, because she was one of the poll workers and she watched you while we voted.
But it was that night that we noticed you were a little crankier than usual. By morning you were all stopped up and had a cough: it was your first cold. Continuing the holiday tradition of children everywhere, you were sick on Christmas. We had been invited to go over to Joe and Katie's for Christmas dinner (that's the son-in-law and daughter of the next-door neighbor) but we had to decline because you weren't feeling good.
On Christmas morning we opened our presents. You helped Mommy and Daddy open your presents. We would start to tear the wrapping paper, and then we helped you get a handhold on it and you would rip it some more. I think you will enjoy your presents more next year. You made out like a bandit. Daddy and Mommy bought you a bunch of toys, but Granny and Granddad also gave you toys as well as some cute clothes.
The day after Christmas, I took you to the doctor. As it turns out, you also had an ear infection, so you are now on amoxicillin, which they are able to put in a thick, berry-flavored liquid that you seem to think tastes pretty good. Daddy has been doing a consistently good job of spraying your nose with saline spray and sucking out your boogers, which you totally hate. But it makes it easier for you to breathe. I've also been taking advantage of the fact that you cough before you cry in order to make you clear your breathing passages. Sometimes while you're eating it sounds like you're having a hard time breathing so I take away your bottle, which makes you upset. The first thing you do before crying is you cough, so I just wait until you clear out your throat and then I give you the bottle again. It's a dirty trick, but it seems to work.
Later in the afternoon your grandma and grandpa arrived, en route to Florida. They were happy to see you, even though you were still under the weather. But you were cheered up by their charms. Your grandma spent some time cooing with you, and she really enjoyed it. Grandma and Grandpa also brought a bunch of presents, most of which were for you. Even some of the presents for Mommy and Daddy were actually for you!
They were reluctant to leave in the morning, but they knew that they'd get to see you again on their way back from Florida. They will be back tomorrow evening. I'm sure they can't wait to see you again!
Love,
Mommy
On Saturday, we went to a holiday party at the next-door neighbor's. You were a popular guy and lots of people wanted to hold you. For a long time, a neighbor down the street, Shigiro, held you and you two watched TV in the other room. You knew her from Halloween and from when Mommy and Daddy voted, because she was one of the poll workers and she watched you while we voted.
But it was that night that we noticed you were a little crankier than usual. By morning you were all stopped up and had a cough: it was your first cold. Continuing the holiday tradition of children everywhere, you were sick on Christmas. We had been invited to go over to Joe and Katie's for Christmas dinner (that's the son-in-law and daughter of the next-door neighbor) but we had to decline because you weren't feeling good.
On Christmas morning we opened our presents. You helped Mommy and Daddy open your presents. We would start to tear the wrapping paper, and then we helped you get a handhold on it and you would rip it some more. I think you will enjoy your presents more next year. You made out like a bandit. Daddy and Mommy bought you a bunch of toys, but Granny and Granddad also gave you toys as well as some cute clothes.
The day after Christmas, I took you to the doctor. As it turns out, you also had an ear infection, so you are now on amoxicillin, which they are able to put in a thick, berry-flavored liquid that you seem to think tastes pretty good. Daddy has been doing a consistently good job of spraying your nose with saline spray and sucking out your boogers, which you totally hate. But it makes it easier for you to breathe. I've also been taking advantage of the fact that you cough before you cry in order to make you clear your breathing passages. Sometimes while you're eating it sounds like you're having a hard time breathing so I take away your bottle, which makes you upset. The first thing you do before crying is you cough, so I just wait until you clear out your throat and then I give you the bottle again. It's a dirty trick, but it seems to work.
Later in the afternoon your grandma and grandpa arrived, en route to Florida. They were happy to see you, even though you were still under the weather. But you were cheered up by their charms. Your grandma spent some time cooing with you, and she really enjoyed it. Grandma and Grandpa also brought a bunch of presents, most of which were for you. Even some of the presents for Mommy and Daddy were actually for you!
They were reluctant to leave in the morning, but they knew that they'd get to see you again on their way back from Florida. They will be back tomorrow evening. I'm sure they can't wait to see you again!
Love,
Mommy
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Thanksgiving
Dear Vinny,
We shared Thanksgiving dinner with the neighbor and her family. She invited us over for dinner at the beginning of the month too, but I don't think you remember that because you slept pretty much the whole time! Anyhow, we were once again at the table with Ann, her daughter Katie and son-in-law Joe, and their kids Bert and Amelia, and joined for the first time by Ann's son Quentin. The dinner was delicious and a good time was had by all. This time Daddy and I had to eat in shifts because you were awake and fussy if we put you down.
Amelia is just a couple of months older than you. Right now that is a big difference (developmentally speaking) but I think as time goes on you may become friends and playmates.
It is good to have such nice neighbors and I hope that we continue to see them.
Love,
Mommy
We shared Thanksgiving dinner with the neighbor and her family. She invited us over for dinner at the beginning of the month too, but I don't think you remember that because you slept pretty much the whole time! Anyhow, we were once again at the table with Ann, her daughter Katie and son-in-law Joe, and their kids Bert and Amelia, and joined for the first time by Ann's son Quentin. The dinner was delicious and a good time was had by all. This time Daddy and I had to eat in shifts because you were awake and fussy if we put you down.
Amelia is just a couple of months older than you. Right now that is a big difference (developmentally speaking) but I think as time goes on you may become friends and playmates.
It is good to have such nice neighbors and I hope that we continue to see them.
Love,
Mommy
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