Yesterday was a fun day for Finn. Memere came for a visit AND auntie Becca and Austin came over (auntie to clean and Austin to play). While they were here, we went to "Austin's" park to play. Finn thought it was fun to throw sand, so I sounded like a broken record, "We don't throw sand. Stop throwing sand. No throwing sand. Etc." I think he only managed to eat a tiny bit, too.
Then all of us went to LeeAnn Chin for dinner. Yumm-O! And Papa is right, a lot of our stories revolve around food, don't they? I guess food is a very important part of our lives. Finn loved the Peking chicken and cream cheese puffs. I got a nice break as Memere fed him instead of me having to! Yay.
Today, we had Finn's 18 month photo shoot with none other than Jessica, of course! This was our first photo shoot outside, but I had high hopes. Finn was very distracted right away (hello...trucks, cars, birds and airplane, oh my!). But he warmed up and I know she got some good ones. Now I have to wait patiently to see them! As always, I'll post here when I get the link.
Oh and it is a very happy day for me. I got my Tupperware cake taker! I like to make cakes for people (nothing fancy, just round layered cakes) and I got a sweet pedestal from Pampered Chef to display them on. However, I had no way of transporting them. You might not think it is a big deal, but I don't know how many times in the last year I've said, "I wish I had a carrier for this cake!" Well, now I do! Can't wait to use it.
Counters
Tuesday, June 29
Monday, June 28
Finn's sleep over
Saturday, Finn got to have a sleep over at NeNe's house! We dropped him off early Saturday evening and from what I hear, Finn was a good boy and had a blast. How couldn't he?!?! Two dogs and two doting adults to keep him occupied! And NeNe even had a ball to play with, so I'm sure that got lots of use! "Catch?"
Jim and I headed over to Shaw's for super yummy Buffalo wings and Shaw burgers! My family has a Walkabout (i.e. pub crawl) every year and we worked it so we'd meet up with them at Shaws. It was nice seeing everybody and we left in a slight food comma (Shaw burgers are ridiulously big and full of "goop"). Then since we were kidless for the night, we decided to go to a movie. However, after shopping for a big at the mall, we were both too tired and just headed home. My, how different things are when you are older! Ha, ha.
Sunday, Jim headed to Chaska to pick Finn up while I was at church. Then we packed Jim up and dropped him off at the airport. He will be in Michigan for the next month or so (minus weekends!) working on implementation of a new client. Boo! It will make for a very long July for Finn and me! If you want to keep us company, let me know when you're free!
Jim and I headed over to Shaw's for super yummy Buffalo wings and Shaw burgers! My family has a Walkabout (i.e. pub crawl) every year and we worked it so we'd meet up with them at Shaws. It was nice seeing everybody and we left in a slight food comma (Shaw burgers are ridiulously big and full of "goop"). Then since we were kidless for the night, we decided to go to a movie. However, after shopping for a big at the mall, we were both too tired and just headed home. My, how different things are when you are older! Ha, ha.
Sunday, Jim headed to Chaska to pick Finn up while I was at church. Then we packed Jim up and dropped him off at the airport. He will be in Michigan for the next month or so (minus weekends!) working on implementation of a new client. Boo! It will make for a very long July for Finn and me! If you want to keep us company, let me know when you're free!
Saturday, June 26
Ch-ch-ch-changes
As you can see, I've changed our blog background. Finn isn't a baby any more so it was time for a change. I've been looking for the "right" one for ages and couldn't find anything that interested me (TONS of cute girly ones, not so many for little boys!). Well, I found this one this morning with a family theme, which I think is appropriate. As you can see, it still needs some tweeks as far as formatting (and I'm hoping they will allow me to change the top photos to personalize it), but I really like the new look. Hope you do, too...and bare with me as I tread through the world of XML coding (I only know HTML, so this will be interesting!).
Not sure what to think
We survived the storms yesterday. Finn wasn't too sure about the lightening and thunder, but after an inital furrowed brow, seemed to just accept that it was happening and not really care. I think he wanted to know who was turning the lights on and off outside, though! Jim came home during the middle of it and got soaked just running in from the car (an attached garage would sure be nice!). Haven't been outside yet to see the aftermath, but I'm guessing it isn't too bad.
I'm sure several of you heard about the massive crib recall from earlier this week. Just wanted to let those of you who are concerned know that our crib manufacturer was NOT included in the list of recalled cribs. You can rest assured that Finn will be safe and sound when sleeping in his crib.
I'm sure several of you heard about the massive crib recall from earlier this week. Just wanted to let those of you who are concerned know that our crib manufacturer was NOT included in the list of recalled cribs. You can rest assured that Finn will be safe and sound when sleeping in his crib.
Friday, June 25
New pool adventure
Last night John, Kelsie and Jim's cousin Jean came over for dinner. Jim made potstickers and Ahi tuna burgers and I made homemade cream cheese wantons. So yummy. I also made wasabi aioli for the burgers that was pretty good, too. I mention that I helped because I normally don't get to! We ended the evening with a bonfire and smores! Jean goes to college in California during the year and is leaving for London this weekend for the summer, so we figured we'd better grab the chance to see her before she left. This picture if Jean "reading" to Finn:
Today, Austin, Finn and I decided to try out a new pool (okay, I decided, they came along!). The two pools within walking distance from our house was too deep for Finn. But when running errands one day, I saw a similar pool, but it was zero degree entry with three bubbler fountains. I figured this was the perfect pool for my two boys...and it was!
Left: Austin is in the background. Right: Finn was very popular with the other kids! Austin and Finn had a blast. I forgot to keep track of the time and we had to rush to get Austin back in time for Becky to pick him up, but all turned out fine. I think we will be visiting that pool again.
Today, Austin, Finn and I decided to try out a new pool (okay, I decided, they came along!). The two pools within walking distance from our house was too deep for Finn. But when running errands one day, I saw a similar pool, but it was zero degree entry with three bubbler fountains. I figured this was the perfect pool for my two boys...and it was!
Left: Austin is in the background. Right: Finn was very popular with the other kids! Austin and Finn had a blast. I forgot to keep track of the time and we had to rush to get Austin back in time for Becky to pick him up, but all turned out fine. I think we will be visiting that pool again.
Thursday, June 24
Time for a darn gate
I got a girls' night out with my friend Stacey last night! I dropped Finn off at Jim's work and then we went to dinner and a movie. We went to Noodles and Company for dinner...Yumm-O! If you read regularly, you know it is one of my favorite two places that I don't get to go because Jim doesn't like it. Their Pad Thai is so good (and their macaroni and cheese is too, but I was trying to not be too naughty). Then we went to see Killers starring Ashton Kutcher and Katherine Heigl. My expectations weren't too high, but I thought it was a cute, fun movie. We'll have to Netflix it because I think Jim would also like it. Overall a very fun and relaxing night with wonderful company!
Early this morning (I had to wake Finn up...don't have to do that very often!) we had PT and Finn was like a total different boy from last week (thankfully!). We had a new PT today (she said we'd had her in February, but I don't remember...oops!). We started on the treadmill (which we hadn't done for a while) and Finn did a great job. Then he got to play basketball, so he was in heaven. Finn is getting better at transitioning to standing, but has a hard time getting his foot in the right place. She said that his butt and knees "get" it but his feet just haven't bought into the whole walking thing yet. Finn likes to stand, though, so we are going in the right direction.
Oh and it is time to get a gate for the bottom of the stairs. Finn "fell" off the bottom step this morning. I don't even think he'd made it all the way onto it (no bumps or bruises), but he was laying on his back crying when I got to him. Little stinker. I guess he IS paying attention when we work on these things!
Early this morning (I had to wake Finn up...don't have to do that very often!) we had PT and Finn was like a total different boy from last week (thankfully!). We had a new PT today (she said we'd had her in February, but I don't remember...oops!). We started on the treadmill (which we hadn't done for a while) and Finn did a great job. Then he got to play basketball, so he was in heaven. Finn is getting better at transitioning to standing, but has a hard time getting his foot in the right place. She said that his butt and knees "get" it but his feet just haven't bought into the whole walking thing yet. Finn likes to stand, though, so we are going in the right direction.
Oh and it is time to get a gate for the bottom of the stairs. Finn "fell" off the bottom step this morning. I don't even think he'd made it all the way onto it (no bumps or bruises), but he was laying on his back crying when I got to him. Little stinker. I guess he IS paying attention when we work on these things!
Wednesday, June 23
How to plant flowers
Finn and I went over to Psycho Suzi's last night with my friend Ryan for a little happy hour and dinner. AND Jim was able to leave work a little early and meet us there, too! It was a little hot (they have an outside patio which is where we sat), but it was nice to be out. Finn did really well for the first hour or so, but then started getting ornry. To his credit, he didn't get an afternoon nap, so he was for sure tired. Oh, well. I brought Finn home to get ready for bed and Ryan and Jim stopped at Jaro's for a greenie!
Finn's EI teacher and PT came over today. Man, did we have a lot to talk about! Finn has really done a lot in the last two and a half weeks. I kept saying, "Oh and Finn did this. And he started doing that. Etc." I did mention the cylinder in the hole and she said that is a skill normally learned between 14-16 months. There were several things she asked if he was doing and he was testing between 15-22 months on most of them! Hey, for what he lacks physically, he makes up for mentally! I'll take it. Jane, the PT, was very pleased with Finn physically. He is pulling up to standing while holding on (if it is low enough), he crawls all over for extended amounts of time and before she left, she worked on climbing up stairs, which he did once with her limited helps. Not too sure I WANT him to figure out how to climb stairs, but it is a necessary evil! Overall it was a GREAT appointment. Wonder what he will be doing in two weeks at our next visit?
We have a planter box that affixes to the front of our porch. It was there when we bought the house and never had any flowers in it since! So, I had the grand idea to branch out and attempt to plant/pot some flowers in it. Keep in mind that #1 this idea was two or three months ago and #2 I've never planted flowers before! Well, Finn and I went to Home Depot on Monday and I finally got stuff for it.
Potting soil, pot and flowers (no trowel, oops!). I didn't know what kind of flower I wanted except I wanted color and tolerable to full sun. So I got special brand of petunias that prefer sun to shade. Perfect. I read the potting soil bag and did what it told me to do (nothing like planning ahead). And it worked (I hope!).
They are potted and not dead yet, so I'll take it! Yay me! Now I just have to keep them watered, but not water them too much. Oh and Finn helped by sitting on the (very long!) grass and pulling apart leaves (at least he didn't get into the potting soil!).
Finn's EI teacher and PT came over today. Man, did we have a lot to talk about! Finn has really done a lot in the last two and a half weeks. I kept saying, "Oh and Finn did this. And he started doing that. Etc." I did mention the cylinder in the hole and she said that is a skill normally learned between 14-16 months. There were several things she asked if he was doing and he was testing between 15-22 months on most of them! Hey, for what he lacks physically, he makes up for mentally! I'll take it. Jane, the PT, was very pleased with Finn physically. He is pulling up to standing while holding on (if it is low enough), he crawls all over for extended amounts of time and before she left, she worked on climbing up stairs, which he did once with her limited helps. Not too sure I WANT him to figure out how to climb stairs, but it is a necessary evil! Overall it was a GREAT appointment. Wonder what he will be doing in two weeks at our next visit?
We have a planter box that affixes to the front of our porch. It was there when we bought the house and never had any flowers in it since! So, I had the grand idea to branch out and attempt to plant/pot some flowers in it. Keep in mind that #1 this idea was two or three months ago and #2 I've never planted flowers before! Well, Finn and I went to Home Depot on Monday and I finally got stuff for it.
Potting soil, pot and flowers (no trowel, oops!). I didn't know what kind of flower I wanted except I wanted color and tolerable to full sun. So I got special brand of petunias that prefer sun to shade. Perfect. I read the potting soil bag and did what it told me to do (nothing like planning ahead). And it worked (I hope!).
They are potted and not dead yet, so I'll take it! Yay me! Now I just have to keep them watered, but not water them too much. Oh and Finn helped by sitting on the (very long!) grass and pulling apart leaves (at least he didn't get into the potting soil!).
Tuesday, June 22
Baby genius
Finn likes to dance! I LOVE it. He usually does it when somebody is singing or there is music on, but he will do it any time or if you say, "Dance, Finn!" He usually sits on his butt and rocks back and forth. I HAVE to get it on video.
We are struggling a little bit with the transition away from bottle completely. It isn't that he wants the bottle per se, he just doesn't get enough from the cup. Right now he is usually only getting a bottle when we travel or if he refuses the cup. I was told a child his age needs 17 or 18 ounces of whole milk a day. He is lucky to get 13 or 14 and with the cup, I think it is even less. I'm hoping he continues to adapt to it and drink more from the cup. This morning, he drank a whole cup (I think it was 7 or 8 ounces) when he woke up, I refilled it while he ate breakfast and he drank about half of that. So many I shouldn't worry so much and just let him figure it out. Plus, he eats whole milk yogurt almost every day, so that would add to his daily fat/dairy total (and it isn't like he is wasting away!).
I think Finn is figuring out how to put appropriate things in the right holes! We have these foam blocks and the other day while playing, he picked up a cylinder and a block with a round hole and put the cylinder in the hole and pushed it through! I've also noticed him trying to put number/letters in a different toy, but they are so shape specific that even if you get the right one, you have to have it lined up just perfectly and then he gets frustrated. I'll mention it to his EI teacher tomorrow AM to see what she thinks. I, of course, think he is a genius ;)
We are struggling a little bit with the transition away from bottle completely. It isn't that he wants the bottle per se, he just doesn't get enough from the cup. Right now he is usually only getting a bottle when we travel or if he refuses the cup. I was told a child his age needs 17 or 18 ounces of whole milk a day. He is lucky to get 13 or 14 and with the cup, I think it is even less. I'm hoping he continues to adapt to it and drink more from the cup. This morning, he drank a whole cup (I think it was 7 or 8 ounces) when he woke up, I refilled it while he ate breakfast and he drank about half of that. So many I shouldn't worry so much and just let him figure it out. Plus, he eats whole milk yogurt almost every day, so that would add to his daily fat/dairy total (and it isn't like he is wasting away!).
I think Finn is figuring out how to put appropriate things in the right holes! We have these foam blocks and the other day while playing, he picked up a cylinder and a block with a round hole and put the cylinder in the hole and pushed it through! I've also noticed him trying to put number/letters in a different toy, but they are so shape specific that even if you get the right one, you have to have it lined up just perfectly and then he gets frustrated. I'll mention it to his EI teacher tomorrow AM to see what she thinks. I, of course, think he is a genius ;)
Monday, June 21
Summer Day #1
Today is the official first day of summer. I say, "Bring it on!" It is already 75 degrees outside and it is only 9:30 in the morning! Yikes. Some days, I love being out in the heat, but some days, I'm so thankful we have central a/c!
I think Jim had a great Father's Day yesterday. We got up bright and early (okay, 8:45, but for Jim that IS early!), got ready and all three of us headed to Valleyfair for Jim's Father's Day present with Kristine and her family.
On the left, Jordan, Finn (who was looking at the water!), Jim and I were riding the Minnesota Valley Train, or something like that. Finn could only go on a few rides because he isn't walking. In the middle, Jim is shooting hoops. He did pretty good (got 5 three pointers in 40 seconds). On the right, the gang is going down Thunder Canyon! They were soaked when they got off.
I think Jim had a great Father's Day yesterday. We got up bright and early (okay, 8:45, but for Jim that IS early!), got ready and all three of us headed to Valleyfair for Jim's Father's Day present with Kristine and her family.
Here are the boys in the parking lot on the way in (Finn looks like he isn't too sure about going!). First off, I do NOT like Valleyfair. I'd been there twice before and I think the last time was over 15 years ago! I don't like most rides. I don't like crowds. I don't like long lines. I don't like being hot and sweaty or worse yet, wet, hot and sweaty. I DO like the food...dah, who doesn't?!?! But, I gave it a chance (it WAS Father's Day after all and that is what Jim wanted to do) and had a really good time. We couldn't have asked for nicer weather, which helped.
On the left, Jordan, Finn (who was looking at the water!), Jim and I were riding the Minnesota Valley Train, or something like that. Finn could only go on a few rides because he isn't walking. In the middle, Jim is shooting hoops. He did pretty good (got 5 three pointers in 40 seconds). On the right, the gang is going down Thunder Canyon! They were soaked when they got off.
Above, this was Finn on the way out to the car. Can you tell he was tired?!?! We were there for SIX HOURS! I was thinking we'd make it maybe 4, so both Finn and I did well! And Finn was sleeping in his car seat before we exited the parking lot! We all took a nap when we got home. Thanks for including us, Kristine. We had a blast with you and your family.
Sunday, June 20
Happy Dad's Day!
First off, Happy Father's Day to Jim. You are the best husband and father anybody could ask for. We love you so very much. Thank you for all you do.
Yesterday we went over to Jim's cousin's Ann house to help set up for her graduation party! I can't believe she is a high school graduate. She and her sister, Jean, were at my high school graduation a "few" years ago and they were so little! Crazy. Anyway, we didn't help much because almost everything was all set, but Finn got to play with everybody. He wouldn't nap at their house, so we stayed after the party start for an hour and then headed home. It was a great party.
Later in the evening, Stacey, Sam and Dillon came over for dinner. What a fun night. We always have so much fun with them. Dillon brought over some cap guns and after some initial hesitation about sharing, had a fun time showing them to Finn. Jim rotisseried chicken on the grill and even though it took longer than anticipated, it was so worth the wait. Yumm-O! After dinner we watched The Journey of Natty Gann. Ever heard of it? Me neither. But apparently it was a HUGE movie in the 80's. Not sure how I completely missed it. It was a very cute (live person Disney) movie.
Yesterday we went over to Jim's cousin's Ann house to help set up for her graduation party! I can't believe she is a high school graduate. She and her sister, Jean, were at my high school graduation a "few" years ago and they were so little! Crazy. Anyway, we didn't help much because almost everything was all set, but Finn got to play with everybody. He wouldn't nap at their house, so we stayed after the party start for an hour and then headed home. It was a great party.
Later in the evening, Stacey, Sam and Dillon came over for dinner. What a fun night. We always have so much fun with them. Dillon brought over some cap guns and after some initial hesitation about sharing, had a fun time showing them to Finn. Jim rotisseried chicken on the grill and even though it took longer than anticipated, it was so worth the wait. Yumm-O! After dinner we watched The Journey of Natty Gann. Ever heard of it? Me neither. But apparently it was a HUGE movie in the 80's. Not sure how I completely missed it. It was a very cute (live person Disney) movie.
Saturday, June 19
Mommy's night out
We got to play with Austin again yesterday. I'm so glad I get to watch him every Friday so we get to spend time with him at least once a week! I decided I wanted to check out the Farmer's Market on Lyndale. I had never been there before and I missed going to the Farmer's Market (from when I worked in downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul). I packed the boys up and we went. Okay, week days are CLEARLY the time to go. We got front row parking, which is always a plus when children are involved. We walked in, found what we came for and left. It took maybe 30 minutes total. Now keep in mind, I'm sure they have a ton more vendors and selection on the weekend, but I've heard it is a total zoo, too. We got flowers for daddy for Father's Day and some cherries, which were super good.
In the afternoon, Finn had PT. What a naughty boy! Melissa, our PT, said, "Wow, this is a side of his personality I haven't seen before!" A nice way of saying, "Wow, he is being really naughty today!" At least it isn't a regular occurance. It could have been his super short nap beforehand, he hadn't had lunch (but had breakfast not long before) and Austin was there to distract him from what Melissa wanted him to do. That being said, Finn is pulling up to standing (while holding on of course)! He did it yesterday AM on my knee (I was paying attention to Austin and Finn just did it all by himself). I mentioned it to Melissa and Finn did it again for her, too! Yay. He has been pulling up to tall kneeling for a while, but not to his feet. Another baby step.
Last night, mommy got a night out! It was much needed and super wonderful. Becky, Kristine and I went to Panera for dinner. This is a place I love, but Jim doesn't, so the only time I get to go is with my sisters and my friend Amanda! Then we did a little shopping at Rosedale, drinks at Granite City (cosmos!) and we went to Sex and the City 2. Good movie, I didn't like it as much as the first, but it was still good. Thanks for the fun night out, ladies!
Jim said that while I was gone, Finn cruised along the entire length of the couch UNASSISTED! This is huge. Finn normally hates moving to the side because he has a hard time balancing (or maybe supporting his weight?) while picking up his foot. The motivation? Snacks, of course! I wish Jim had video taped it. I guess that is what I get for leaving Finn for an evening ;)
In the afternoon, Finn had PT. What a naughty boy! Melissa, our PT, said, "Wow, this is a side of his personality I haven't seen before!" A nice way of saying, "Wow, he is being really naughty today!" At least it isn't a regular occurance. It could have been his super short nap beforehand, he hadn't had lunch (but had breakfast not long before) and Austin was there to distract him from what Melissa wanted him to do. That being said, Finn is pulling up to standing (while holding on of course)! He did it yesterday AM on my knee (I was paying attention to Austin and Finn just did it all by himself). I mentioned it to Melissa and Finn did it again for her, too! Yay. He has been pulling up to tall kneeling for a while, but not to his feet. Another baby step.
Last night, mommy got a night out! It was much needed and super wonderful. Becky, Kristine and I went to Panera for dinner. This is a place I love, but Jim doesn't, so the only time I get to go is with my sisters and my friend Amanda! Then we did a little shopping at Rosedale, drinks at Granite City (cosmos!) and we went to Sex and the City 2. Good movie, I didn't like it as much as the first, but it was still good. Thanks for the fun night out, ladies!
Jim said that while I was gone, Finn cruised along the entire length of the couch UNASSISTED! This is huge. Finn normally hates moving to the side because he has a hard time balancing (or maybe supporting his weight?) while picking up his foot. The motivation? Snacks, of course! I wish Jim had video taped it. I guess that is what I get for leaving Finn for an evening ;)
Friday, June 18
Shopping's for girls
We had a busy day yesterday! It started out with an appointment in the morning, a nap for Finn (albeit a short one!) and then shopping with Lorry and Emma in the afternoon (and more shopping afterwards with just the two of us)! This picture is Finn after his breakfast (his favorite; a Fiber One bar...does that make me a bad mother? They can't be TERRIBLE for you, right?)
He clearly enjoyed it. Just wanted to show you out there that he is clearly getting "better" at feeding himself and much better at making a mess!
Finn woke up from his nap around 1:15pm and didn't take another nap until bedtime! I think that might be a "staying up" record for him...and he wasn't even super crabby, which I was very thankful for! Before we left for shopping, Finn found daddy's basketball.
He is so proud of himself! I love it. Of course, he wanted to play catch with it, but mommy didn't think that was a good idea...considering it is almost as big as he is.
He clearly enjoyed it. Just wanted to show you out there that he is clearly getting "better" at feeding himself and much better at making a mess!Finn woke up from his nap around 1:15pm and didn't take another nap until bedtime! I think that might be a "staying up" record for him...and he wasn't even super crabby, which I was very thankful for! Before we left for shopping, Finn found daddy's basketball.
He is so proud of himself! I love it. Of course, he wanted to play catch with it, but mommy didn't think that was a good idea...considering it is almost as big as he is.
Wednesday, June 16
Stupid people
After running some errands, Finn and I headed to the park for a play date with his ECFE buddies. It was WAY hotter than I thought it was going to be (it was 64 degrees when I checked in the late morning). Luckily, I brought plenty of water and sunscreen along for Finn. They have a water fountain type thing with zero entry pool and Finn LOVED it. I forgot to put sunscreen on myself (naughty mommy, I know!), so I had to call it quits. I honestly think he would have stayed in there the rest of the afternoon.
When we were leaving, somebody dinged my door! Argh! I'm so ticked. At least I was there, but of course, she didn't have insurance! Who drives around without insurance?!?! Stupid people, that's who. I called my insurance agent so now I need to decide if I want to fix it or not. I totally would if she had insurance, but there is no guarantee she will pay my deductible. Of course it is on the driver's door, too, so I will see it and be reminded of it every time I get in the car. I should have called the cops so she would have at least gotten a ticket for not having insurance. Sure, I think of that after the fact (ok, my insurance agent kindly suggested it after the fact). Hind sight is 20/20. Again...argh!
When we were leaving, somebody dinged my door! Argh! I'm so ticked. At least I was there, but of course, she didn't have insurance! Who drives around without insurance?!?! Stupid people, that's who. I called my insurance agent so now I need to decide if I want to fix it or not. I totally would if she had insurance, but there is no guarantee she will pay my deductible. Of course it is on the driver's door, too, so I will see it and be reminded of it every time I get in the car. I should have called the cops so she would have at least gotten a ticket for not having insurance. Sure, I think of that after the fact (ok, my insurance agent kindly suggested it after the fact). Hind sight is 20/20. Again...argh!
Tuesday, June 15
Role reversal
Wow, what a busy few days! Friday night, Jim had to work really late, so Finn and I went over to auntie Kristine's for Becky and Alex's birthday dinner by ourselves. The food was great and we even got to have a bonfire. We got home around 10:30pm and still beat daddy home from work. Boo.
Saturday morning, we got up, packed and headed to Oville. Jim's grandparents are in Oville for a couple weeks before heading back to Washington, so we thought it would be nice to see them one more time before they left. Finn was SO naughty on the way there, that by the time we got to Oville, we had decided we were going to leave him there! I don't know what his deal was.
Finn got to visit with Granny again (his great great grandma) and even sat on her lap...although I'm sure the chips he was being fed helped a lot in that department! Saturday night, Memere stayed home with Finn so Jim and I could watch John's baseball game. It was a tough loss (in extra innings!) and it was COLD! Afterwards, John, Kelsie, Jim, Ron and I headed up to the VFW. I wasn't planning on drinking...two beers and so many shots that I don't remember later, we were huddled around the dining room table back at their house making up our own version of the game "The Game of Things." And bed didn't happen until some time after 4am! What were we thinking?!?!
Jim, Finn and I actually got up and went to church on Sunday morning. I couldn't believe it. Lynn was preaching and I know Jim likes to go when she is. Finn was pretty good. We came armed with snacks and yogurt AND it is a small congregation, so I wasn't too worried about him "bothering" people. Sunday afternoon we went to John's baseball game (a win!) and then headed home (with Finn, decided it wouldn't be wise to just leave your son, even if it is at Memere's house!). He was a little better on the way back, but not much. I'm so sad...he used to be so good on long trips.
Saturday morning, we got up, packed and headed to Oville. Jim's grandparents are in Oville for a couple weeks before heading back to Washington, so we thought it would be nice to see them one more time before they left. Finn was SO naughty on the way there, that by the time we got to Oville, we had decided we were going to leave him there! I don't know what his deal was.
Finn got to visit with Granny again (his great great grandma) and even sat on her lap...although I'm sure the chips he was being fed helped a lot in that department! Saturday night, Memere stayed home with Finn so Jim and I could watch John's baseball game. It was a tough loss (in extra innings!) and it was COLD! Afterwards, John, Kelsie, Jim, Ron and I headed up to the VFW. I wasn't planning on drinking...two beers and so many shots that I don't remember later, we were huddled around the dining room table back at their house making up our own version of the game "The Game of Things." And bed didn't happen until some time after 4am! What were we thinking?!?!Jim, Finn and I actually got up and went to church on Sunday morning. I couldn't believe it. Lynn was preaching and I know Jim likes to go when she is. Finn was pretty good. We came armed with snacks and yogurt AND it is a small congregation, so I wasn't too worried about him "bothering" people. Sunday afternoon we went to John's baseball game (a win!) and then headed home (with Finn, decided it wouldn't be wise to just leave your son, even if it is at Memere's house!). He was a little better on the way back, but not much. I'm so sad...he used to be so good on long trips.
Yesterday, aunt Kelsie wasn't feeling well, so Finn and I went over to keep her company. I think Finn was probably the best medicine for her anyway! I forgot to bring KeeKee (Finn's blanket) so he didn't sleep well, but he did nap a little. He loved playing with the "toys" at aunt Kelsie's house...a jar of leather protector, tea candles (unlit of course!) and some bracelets! I finally got to watch the movie New Moon, so I was happy about that (although, Finn never stops talking or making noise, so I'm not sure how much I actually heard...good thing I'd read the book and generally knew what was going on!).
Friday, June 11
Big tiny baby
Grace came to spend yesterday and today with us. Finn LOVES her. It is so funny. And now that he is a little older and one can actually "play" with him, she has a lot more attention for him, too. I wonder if Finn will ever get tired of endlessly playing, "catch?"
Yesterday, my Grandma and Grandpa Walsh stopped by for a visit! It was so great to see them. They were in town celebrating their wedding anniversary and wanted to stop in to see Finn (and probably me, but you know how it is when there is a baby around!). He hammed it up for them; being his usual cute self.
He even let Grandma hold him a few times and cuddled next to Grandpa, which is really good considering he has been playing stranger lately (even with Jim sometimes...argh!) AND he was tired from PT and didn't lay down until they left late in the afternoon. Thanks for stopping by, guys. It really meant a lot!
My grandpa pointed out that Finn has SIX living great grandparents (and one great great grandma)! Just think about that. It really is amazing. And to think that some kids don't even get to know their grandparents. In so many ways, Finn is one lucky boy.
Last night, the four of us (Jim, Finn, Grace and me) took a walk to the neighborhood grocery store. We weren't sure if it was going to rain on us, but thankfully it didn't. We stopped at our neighbor's on the way back who just had a baby two weeks ago! Man, I forget how little babies are! She was so tiny that I asked if she was small when she was born...nope, 7 pounds, 15 ounces! Like Jim said, that just tells you how small Finn really was. I can't even remember any more!
Oh and Finn ate black beans last night for the first time. After some initial texture issues, he loved them (and wasn't super tooty today even!). And today for lunch, he had some macaroni and cheese. And after some texture issues again, he loved it (if fed from a spoon...not if he had to pick it up!). Hey, I'll pick my battles.
Yesterday, my Grandma and Grandpa Walsh stopped by for a visit! It was so great to see them. They were in town celebrating their wedding anniversary and wanted to stop in to see Finn (and probably me, but you know how it is when there is a baby around!). He hammed it up for them; being his usual cute self.
He even let Grandma hold him a few times and cuddled next to Grandpa, which is really good considering he has been playing stranger lately (even with Jim sometimes...argh!) AND he was tired from PT and didn't lay down until they left late in the afternoon. Thanks for stopping by, guys. It really meant a lot!
My grandpa pointed out that Finn has SIX living great grandparents (and one great great grandma)! Just think about that. It really is amazing. And to think that some kids don't even get to know their grandparents. In so many ways, Finn is one lucky boy.
Last night, the four of us (Jim, Finn, Grace and me) took a walk to the neighborhood grocery store. We weren't sure if it was going to rain on us, but thankfully it didn't. We stopped at our neighbor's on the way back who just had a baby two weeks ago! Man, I forget how little babies are! She was so tiny that I asked if she was small when she was born...nope, 7 pounds, 15 ounces! Like Jim said, that just tells you how small Finn really was. I can't even remember any more!
Oh and Finn ate black beans last night for the first time. After some initial texture issues, he loved them (and wasn't super tooty today even!). And today for lunch, he had some macaroni and cheese. And after some texture issues again, he loved it (if fed from a spoon...not if he had to pick it up!). Hey, I'll pick my battles.
Thursday, June 10
Here piggy piggy
Finn has a new favorite food (much to my dismay).
Yup, hot & spicy pork rinds (thank you very much, daddy!). Jim was craving them one night for some reason, so he went out to get a bag. Finn insisted on having one when Jim got back. We thought, "Fine. He won't like it, they are super spicy." WRONG! He ate half the bag that night and then demanded to eat the rest the next day for lunch. Man, that kid really will eat anything!
Yesterday, Finn and I had a play date at a park with our old ECFE group of friends. It was great to get out and see them again (I know it had only been a week, but you get used to these kids!). The weather was kind of weird...cool, then hot, cloudy than super sunny! Finn had a great time and slept until almost 7pm afterwards! We are hoping to make this a weekly get together, which will be nice for the summer. And we found a GREAT park! It is the North Mississippi Regional Park off at 94 at 49th. LOVED it! Gotta bring the swim suit next time, though.
Also, happy anniversaries to both of my grandparents! Grandma and Grandpa Walsh's was yesterday (58 years maybe?) and Grandma and Grandpa Smith's is today (61 years, I think). I'm sure one of my lovely aunts will correct me if I'm wrong ;) If, I mean when Jim and I make it that long, we'll be almost 90! Crazy. Congratulations and love you all.
Yup, hot & spicy pork rinds (thank you very much, daddy!). Jim was craving them one night for some reason, so he went out to get a bag. Finn insisted on having one when Jim got back. We thought, "Fine. He won't like it, they are super spicy." WRONG! He ate half the bag that night and then demanded to eat the rest the next day for lunch. Man, that kid really will eat anything!
Yesterday, Finn and I had a play date at a park with our old ECFE group of friends. It was great to get out and see them again (I know it had only been a week, but you get used to these kids!). The weather was kind of weird...cool, then hot, cloudy than super sunny! Finn had a great time and slept until almost 7pm afterwards! We are hoping to make this a weekly get together, which will be nice for the summer. And we found a GREAT park! It is the North Mississippi Regional Park off at 94 at 49th. LOVED it! Gotta bring the swim suit next time, though.
Also, happy anniversaries to both of my grandparents! Grandma and Grandpa Walsh's was yesterday (58 years maybe?) and Grandma and Grandpa Smith's is today (61 years, I think). I'm sure one of my lovely aunts will correct me if I'm wrong ;) If, I mean when Jim and I make it that long, we'll be almost 90! Crazy. Congratulations and love you all.
Wednesday, June 9
Dentist and suckers
Wow, things seem to be slowing down a bit, which is fine with me. We no longer have ECFE and while we still have PT twice a week, the EI team is on break for a couple weeks between regular and summer sessions. Finn and I went for a walk on Monday to a neighborhood park. I wanted to experiment with Finn and the sand. It went well! He actually seemed to like it and played with it and of course, managed to make a mess and get dirty. That is what little boys (okay, any little kids!) are supposed to do. He tried eating it a few times, but I told him "no." We'll see if that sticks!
Then the two of us went over to auntie Becca's to help celebrate her birthday (daddy had basketball and couldn't join us). Becky, Austin, Pete, Finn and I went to Red Lobster. Yumm-O! One of my favs (and Becky's, too, of course!). Finn ate at least one and a half cheddar bay biscuits! We hope auntie had a great birthday and were glad we got to celebrate with her. We are having a birthday dinner on Friday for Becky and Alex...so technically we get to celebrate twice!
Yesterday was rainy, dreary and kind of quiet. I had a dentist cleaning appointment in the morning. All is well. She even said she is surprised I don't floss because of the lack of build up on my teeth. Maybe next time I will just tell them I floss so they don't give me the third degree! Um, hello!! I've been going to the dentist for almost 30 years...I GET that I'm supposed to floss. I don't. Deal with it! (hee, hee)
The perfect compliment to my dentist appointment:
Finn found, unwrapped and ate his first sucker (rootbeer flavored, I think)! Litte bugger. I was next to him the whole time, so he was safe, but he managed to make quite the sticky mess. I saw him open it and play with it for a while. I honestly didn't think he would put it in his mouth...but of course he did. Most of it was still left, but when he handed it to me, I took the opportunity to take it and clean him up!
Then the two of us went over to auntie Becca's to help celebrate her birthday (daddy had basketball and couldn't join us). Becky, Austin, Pete, Finn and I went to Red Lobster. Yumm-O! One of my favs (and Becky's, too, of course!). Finn ate at least one and a half cheddar bay biscuits! We hope auntie had a great birthday and were glad we got to celebrate with her. We are having a birthday dinner on Friday for Becky and Alex...so technically we get to celebrate twice!
Yesterday was rainy, dreary and kind of quiet. I had a dentist cleaning appointment in the morning. All is well. She even said she is surprised I don't floss because of the lack of build up on my teeth. Maybe next time I will just tell them I floss so they don't give me the third degree! Um, hello!! I've been going to the dentist for almost 30 years...I GET that I'm supposed to floss. I don't. Deal with it! (hee, hee)
The perfect compliment to my dentist appointment:
Finn found, unwrapped and ate his first sucker (rootbeer flavored, I think)! Litte bugger. I was next to him the whole time, so he was safe, but he managed to make quite the sticky mess. I saw him open it and play with it for a while. I honestly didn't think he would put it in his mouth...but of course he did. Most of it was still left, but when he handed it to me, I took the opportunity to take it and clean him up!
Monday, June 7
Hey, let me speak
As of a couple days ago, Finn has started playing with his toys in the toy area (instead of the middle of the living room)! I think this coincides with his ability to crawl and get around much better. And to that point, as of today, the "Finn" crawl, as we liked to call it, is almost nonexistent! He is able to stay on his knees and get where he wants to go. I can't believe I can finally and actually say Finn is a crawler! Man, if only they had Olympic medals for the efforts we put in to get him to this point!
Finn has also started "talking" in full sentences. Now, before you freak out and say that isn't possible, let me explain. He isn't speaking English when he is talking, he is speaking "Finn," but it isn't just one or two syllables at a time any more like is used to be. He goes on and on and he honestly thinks he is saying something. Like when he is done, he waits for us to acknowledge what he has said. Very cute.
Finn already called her and "sang" to her, but he wants to be sure to wish auntie Becca a very happy birthday today (and uncle Alex, too!).
Finn has also started "talking" in full sentences. Now, before you freak out and say that isn't possible, let me explain. He isn't speaking English when he is talking, he is speaking "Finn," but it isn't just one or two syllables at a time any more like is used to be. He goes on and on and he honestly thinks he is saying something. Like when he is done, he waits for us to acknowledge what he has said. Very cute.
Finn already called her and "sang" to her, but he wants to be sure to wish auntie Becca a very happy birthday today (and uncle Alex, too!).
Sunday, June 6
Say, "Cheese!"
Finn had his first cheese curd yesterday...and loved it. Shocker that Jim's son would love cheese curds. Once he had a taste of the curd, Finn thought his puff treats were junk. I said, "And now the life long obsession begins!"
Friday night when it was bedtime I said to Finn, "It's pajammy time." He looked up from his toys and said, "Nigh night?" I didn't know he had that full of comprehension or vocabulary to put it all together without prompting. Another funny vocabulary story, we were at Target Saturday AM and a mom pushing a cart with a 2-ish year old in it turned the corner towards us. Finn looked at them, pointed and said, "Baby." Ha, ha. I told him the boy was bigger than he was, but Finn obviously gets the point. I could hear the other mom chuckle as she walked by. Finn is growing and developing so much.
Last night our friend Stacey and her brother Andrew came over for dinner and to watch the Twins game (and as it turned out SNL "best of"). As always, a nice relaxing time was had by all, even if we stayed up a little too late! Too bad her boys were out of town and couldn't join us. Two days in a row, daddy has slept past 1pm...not sure if he has the nicest or dumbest wife around ;)
Friday night when it was bedtime I said to Finn, "It's pajammy time." He looked up from his toys and said, "Nigh night?" I didn't know he had that full of comprehension or vocabulary to put it all together without prompting. Another funny vocabulary story, we were at Target Saturday AM and a mom pushing a cart with a 2-ish year old in it turned the corner towards us. Finn looked at them, pointed and said, "Baby." Ha, ha. I told him the boy was bigger than he was, but Finn obviously gets the point. I could hear the other mom chuckle as she walked by. Finn is growing and developing so much.
Last night our friend Stacey and her brother Andrew came over for dinner and to watch the Twins game (and as it turned out SNL "best of"). As always, a nice relaxing time was had by all, even if we stayed up a little too late! Too bad her boys were out of town and couldn't join us. Two days in a row, daddy has slept past 1pm...not sure if he has the nicest or dumbest wife around ;)
Saturday, June 5
Two is better
Yesterday, Austin came over to play. Like always, we managed to have a lot of fun (where did the day go?). And we obviously had to get the pool out since it was absolutely beautiful weather. But, why have one pool when you can blow up two?
We found Austin's pool in the garage from last summer (or maybe even the summer before?!?!) and set up a big boy pool that was deep and a little boy pool for Finn. It was the PERFECT set up that kept them both happy. In hindsight, I probably should have curbed it sooner, but they played in the pools for two and a half hours (don't worry, lots of sun screen and sun protection)!!! We have a third hard-sided pool, but I drew the line at having more pools than kids! Why is it they can play forever with toys in a pool that they would get bored with after minutes if they weren't in a pool? I guess it is the "water factor!"
Auntie Kristine got to leave work early, so she came over to play with us (well, actually she watched the boys so I could mow, but man, it needed it!). Thanks, auntie. I need to find out when Minneapolis fills their kiddie pools. Maybe we can go there next Friday...but our pools are private with no big kids to ruin all the fun (and they aren't overcrowded). We'll see.
We found Austin's pool in the garage from last summer (or maybe even the summer before?!?!) and set up a big boy pool that was deep and a little boy pool for Finn. It was the PERFECT set up that kept them both happy. In hindsight, I probably should have curbed it sooner, but they played in the pools for two and a half hours (don't worry, lots of sun screen and sun protection)!!! We have a third hard-sided pool, but I drew the line at having more pools than kids! Why is it they can play forever with toys in a pool that they would get bored with after minutes if they weren't in a pool? I guess it is the "water factor!"Auntie Kristine got to leave work early, so she came over to play with us (well, actually she watched the boys so I could mow, but man, it needed it!). Thanks, auntie. I need to find out when Minneapolis fills their kiddie pools. Maybe we can go there next Friday...but our pools are private with no big kids to ruin all the fun (and they aren't overcrowded). We'll see.
Thursday, June 3
What a day!
We had our last ECFE class of the spring yesterday. It was a good group of parents, so it is tough to not have that support network any more. However, we are going to try to still get together weekly at the same time at local parks, so hopefully that will replace it, at least for the summer. It is fun to see how much the kids have changed since the beginning of class.
This morning we had PT. Julie was very impressed with Finn again this week. Hey, I'll take it. She is so good at getting Finn to crawl properly and of course, I didn't even think to bring the video camera. If I don't catch him before, I promise I'll bring it along next week! We continue to work on crawling (obviously), transitions to and from standing and cruising.
After PT, we headed to St. Cloud for a play date with our friends Holly and Odin. Wow, what a big boy Odin is! He is one month younger than Finn (actual) and he is WAY bigger and can do a lot more things (like climb stairs and go down slides!). I don't notice the size so much with other kids, probably because Odin is the closest to Finn's actual age. Auntie NaeNae had the day off, so she joined us, which Finn (and Odin!) loved. We had lunch at AppleBee's and then headed to a local park.
It was a blast. We couldn't have asked for better weather and even though Finn didn't think he needed to sleep on the way to St. Cloud, he was really good and not crabby (I think being outside and having Auntie there helped a lot in that department). Finn even liked the swings, which he usually gets a little freaked out on. After Holly and Odin headed for home, the three of us went to Auntie's work so she could show Finn off. Finn was so tuckered out that he fell asleep before we got there and it was just down the road! He was a hit with all the girls there (what a little flirt!), then we dropped Auntie off and headed for home. Finn was able to fall back asleep and slept the whole way home; waking up just as we pulled into the driveway...how does he do that?!?! What a wonderful day! Can't wait for them to possibly move to St. Cloud so they are twice as close or half as far :)
This morning we had PT. Julie was very impressed with Finn again this week. Hey, I'll take it. She is so good at getting Finn to crawl properly and of course, I didn't even think to bring the video camera. If I don't catch him before, I promise I'll bring it along next week! We continue to work on crawling (obviously), transitions to and from standing and cruising.
After PT, we headed to St. Cloud for a play date with our friends Holly and Odin. Wow, what a big boy Odin is! He is one month younger than Finn (actual) and he is WAY bigger and can do a lot more things (like climb stairs and go down slides!). I don't notice the size so much with other kids, probably because Odin is the closest to Finn's actual age. Auntie NaeNae had the day off, so she joined us, which Finn (and Odin!) loved. We had lunch at AppleBee's and then headed to a local park.
It was a blast. We couldn't have asked for better weather and even though Finn didn't think he needed to sleep on the way to St. Cloud, he was really good and not crabby (I think being outside and having Auntie there helped a lot in that department). Finn even liked the swings, which he usually gets a little freaked out on. After Holly and Odin headed for home, the three of us went to Auntie's work so she could show Finn off. Finn was so tuckered out that he fell asleep before we got there and it was just down the road! He was a hit with all the girls there (what a little flirt!), then we dropped Auntie off and headed for home. Finn was able to fall back asleep and slept the whole way home; waking up just as we pulled into the driveway...how does he do that?!?! What a wonderful day! Can't wait for them to possibly move to St. Cloud so they are twice as close or half as far :)
Wednesday, June 2
Luv you, teeth
Finn has one tooth from his first set of molars! No wonder he has been crabby lately and chewing on everything. So as of yesterday, he has his front eight teeth and his top right molar. I did a little research and this is what I found out about teeth order: "You might expect that the canines would come in next after the front 8, since they are located directly next to the incisors, but that is not usually the case. Babies normally get their molars in first, leaving a gap where the canines will eventually come in. The first molars erupt around 13 months."
That means Finn's teeth are exactly on track as far as order and timing. Finally, something we are on track for (nevermind the fact that they are crooked)! Ha, ha. This darn teething is going to be the death of me (or poor Finn!). Bring on the pain killers ;)
Yesterday, I FINALLY painted the front porch! I pressure washed it almost two months ago (thanks, Sam for letting me borrow your washer!) and never got around to painting it. Well, yesterday, I started when Finn was napping and then when he got up, Nana and Papa watched him for me while I finished. Some bad weather was coming in, so I had to get it done.
Top: before Bottom: after. Not too shabby if I do say so myself. Now, if you get close, it doesn't look that great (and I got some on the floor...oops!), but it definitely looks better than it did. Next; the back porch! And the lawn...it really needs to be mowed, but I opted for painting yesterday instead.
That means Finn's teeth are exactly on track as far as order and timing. Finally, something we are on track for (nevermind the fact that they are crooked)! Ha, ha. This darn teething is going to be the death of me (or poor Finn!). Bring on the pain killers ;)Finn started saying "luv you!" in the last couple of days. It is super adorable. He doesn't do it without us saying it first, so pretty sure he doesn't know what it means, but it will just about melt anybody's heart. He said it for Nana and Papa, so it isn't just us! Hopefully I can get it on video now that I charged the battery.
Yesterday, I FINALLY painted the front porch! I pressure washed it almost two months ago (thanks, Sam for letting me borrow your washer!) and never got around to painting it. Well, yesterday, I started when Finn was napping and then when he got up, Nana and Papa watched him for me while I finished. Some bad weather was coming in, so I had to get it done.
Top: before Bottom: after. Not too shabby if I do say so myself. Now, if you get close, it doesn't look that great (and I got some on the floor...oops!), but it definitely looks better than it did. Next; the back porch! And the lawn...it really needs to be mowed, but I opted for painting yesterday instead.
Monday, May 31
Harry Houdini
After an afternoon of unsuccessfully trying to find a public access lake that wasn't completely insane today with Uncle John and aunt Kelsie (boo!), Jim, Finn and I headed up to the KOA in Maple Grove to spend the evening with Nana and Papa. First, Finn calls Papa "Gaka" which I think is adorable. Second, Finn has already figured out that if he wants something, all he has to do is ask for Nana...which I'm sure she loves!
Third, for those of you who don't know, Harry Houdini is a famous magician...well, Finn managed to get out of the bedroom in the camper tonight like magic! It was amazing. Jim laid him down and we could hear him crying on and off. All of a sudden, it sounded like he was right by the door, but I didn't think anything of it. I looked over and there was Finn! He had crawled over to the door and opened it (it was a pocket door...it isn't like he stood up and turned the knob)! I guess that was our cue to leave, but it was hilarious. He was very proud of himself.
Happy Memorial Day to all, especially those who have and who are providing us the very freedom our country was founded on. Thank you.
Third, for those of you who don't know, Harry Houdini is a famous magician...well, Finn managed to get out of the bedroom in the camper tonight like magic! It was amazing. Jim laid him down and we could hear him crying on and off. All of a sudden, it sounded like he was right by the door, but I didn't think anything of it. I looked over and there was Finn! He had crawled over to the door and opened it (it was a pocket door...it isn't like he stood up and turned the knob)! I guess that was our cue to leave, but it was hilarious. He was very proud of himself.
Happy Memorial Day to all, especially those who have and who are providing us the very freedom our country was founded on. Thank you.
Saturday, May 29
Here fishy fishy fishy
Wow, three days between blog posts?!?! I must have other "stuff" to do. Ha, ha.
One day this week, Jim lowered the temperature in the hot tub and he and Finn went for a swim.
It was the first time Finn had been in there and his reaction...why the heck haven't I been in here before this!?! He loved it. We practiced with his new life jacket a little bit and the jacket is pretty nice (one of our Costco deals!). He is such a fish...hmmm, wonder who he takes after?!?! Any ideas, Auntie NaeNae (or Austin for that matter!)?!?!
Finn had a great session at PT on Thursday. She is very impressed with his progress over the last two weeks and already needs to change some of his objectives because he is starting to crawl and cruise! She also said that his torticollis is no longer part of his therapy plan. It is still there (and probably always will be to some extent), but it isn't affecting his development and because he flips sides, there isn't much we can do about it anyway. It is what it is. This was the first time Finn actually enjoyed "walking" on the treadmill. Maybe he is starting to "get" it.
Yesterday, Jim's grandparents, Nana and Papa, came over. They are in town for the week visiting from Washington state. It had been a little over a year since their last visit, so Finn had obviously changed a lot since then! He was a six pound one month old (adjusted) baby with his apnea monitor last visit.
I watched Austin during the day and he has been asking to blow up Finn's pool since he got it in April and it was finally nice enough to do so. We got it ready in the morning and Austin could not wait until the afternoon for it to warm up, so in he went. Burr! Once it did warm up, Finn joined him.
Man, did they have a blast. I think Finn was in there for over an hour and Austin probably was for close to two hours (good thing for UV clothing and SPF 50!)! And they played really well together. I wasn't sure how Finn would do (we are always holding him at swim class), but it was the perfect depth so that he could "crawl" around and keep his head out of the water...most of the time! He couldn't have cared less when he went under or when they splashed each other. I love that he doesn't mind getting his face wet. And he even kept his hat on for most of the time.
After swimming, we headed over to Uncle John and Aunt Kelsie's for dinner with them and Nana and Papa. Finn needed a nap and was a little whiny. But, oh well. He is a kid. Plus I think he was a little "backed up" so that didn't help. I think everybody was a little surprised at how much he eats! If I can remember everything off the top of my head, he ate a 6 oz jar of green beans and rice, a 6 oz bottle of formula, some puff treats, some apple juice/water combo, kiwi, strawberries, chicken, lettuce, bread, corn on the cob (LOVED it and even got it off the cob himself...I'll have to get pictures from Nana or Kelsie!) and he shared a cinnamon roll with uncle John for dessert! Piggy! Finn, not John ;) Oh and for the record, per Finn's diaper this morning, the corn looks the same coming out as it does going in!! No longer backed up at least ;)
One day this week, Jim lowered the temperature in the hot tub and he and Finn went for a swim.
It was the first time Finn had been in there and his reaction...why the heck haven't I been in here before this!?! He loved it. We practiced with his new life jacket a little bit and the jacket is pretty nice (one of our Costco deals!). He is such a fish...hmmm, wonder who he takes after?!?! Any ideas, Auntie NaeNae (or Austin for that matter!)?!?!Finn had a great session at PT on Thursday. She is very impressed with his progress over the last two weeks and already needs to change some of his objectives because he is starting to crawl and cruise! She also said that his torticollis is no longer part of his therapy plan. It is still there (and probably always will be to some extent), but it isn't affecting his development and because he flips sides, there isn't much we can do about it anyway. It is what it is. This was the first time Finn actually enjoyed "walking" on the treadmill. Maybe he is starting to "get" it.
Yesterday, Jim's grandparents, Nana and Papa, came over. They are in town for the week visiting from Washington state. It had been a little over a year since their last visit, so Finn had obviously changed a lot since then! He was a six pound one month old (adjusted) baby with his apnea monitor last visit.
I watched Austin during the day and he has been asking to blow up Finn's pool since he got it in April and it was finally nice enough to do so. We got it ready in the morning and Austin could not wait until the afternoon for it to warm up, so in he went. Burr! Once it did warm up, Finn joined him.
Man, did they have a blast. I think Finn was in there for over an hour and Austin probably was for close to two hours (good thing for UV clothing and SPF 50!)! And they played really well together. I wasn't sure how Finn would do (we are always holding him at swim class), but it was the perfect depth so that he could "crawl" around and keep his head out of the water...most of the time! He couldn't have cared less when he went under or when they splashed each other. I love that he doesn't mind getting his face wet. And he even kept his hat on for most of the time.
After swimming, we headed over to Uncle John and Aunt Kelsie's for dinner with them and Nana and Papa. Finn needed a nap and was a little whiny. But, oh well. He is a kid. Plus I think he was a little "backed up" so that didn't help. I think everybody was a little surprised at how much he eats! If I can remember everything off the top of my head, he ate a 6 oz jar of green beans and rice, a 6 oz bottle of formula, some puff treats, some apple juice/water combo, kiwi, strawberries, chicken, lettuce, bread, corn on the cob (LOVED it and even got it off the cob himself...I'll have to get pictures from Nana or Kelsie!) and he shared a cinnamon roll with uncle John for dessert! Piggy! Finn, not John ;) Oh and for the record, per Finn's diaper this morning, the corn looks the same coming out as it does going in!! No longer backed up at least ;)
Wednesday, May 26
Dare I say?
Yup, Finn CRAWLED unassisted yesterday afternoon (he didn't even have the leg bands on)! I couldn't believe my eyes. He was on the hardwood surface, I turned one of his toys on and he just popped up on his hands and knees and took about four "steps" toward it! I ran and grabbed the camera and he took a couple more before dropping into his regular army crawl. I wouldn't say he is "crawling" per se, but he apparently can do it! There is a light at the end of the very long tunnel we've been in!!! My baby is growing up.
Tuesday, May 25
Give me a drink
Sippy cup update...Finn is doing great with the sippy cups. He gets how to tip it up now, so he drinks a whole cup at a time, instead of just chewing on the spout and getting a little bit. Does that mean the bottles are almost history? Probably. I also got him a straw one so he wouldn't have to tip it up, but he doesn't really get it. And Jim took it apart to put in the dishwasher and now I don't know how to put it back together! I'll keep trying both cups to see what he prefers once he figures out the straw.
Finn's ECFE teacher also said that babies at Finn's age should be offered a regular glass with water in it to start figuring out how to drink from them (with the obvious understand that 90% of it will end up on them and the floor!). Finn doesn't like the real cup; it seems almost like he is afraid of it...but maybe he just doesn't like getting wet from it! Although, I did give it to him yesterday and he tipped it up and sipped it by himself and kept asking for more water...maybe 4 times?!?! I think that is progress. I'll just keep offering it on and off. He will get it eventually.
Yesterday Finn was a rockstar when EI came for their visit. He crawled with limited assistance, which is huge. He had his leg bands on and completely coordinated his arms by himself. He just got help with his legs, but only a little bit and usually only with his right leg. And he started crusing around the couch. Now when I say that, I mean he took a few steps sideways, but they were unassisted steps (holding onto the couch), which it is a big deal. His PT predicts that he will be crawling by their next appoinment in two weeks. I sure hope so (but I'm not holding my breath)!
They also said to hold off on buying a gate for the stairs going upstairs. With Finn's getting around more (and if he is close to actually crawling) I mentioned we needed a gate. But they said that because Finn is so cautious, we may not need one! The recommendation surprised me, but makes sense. Plus, our stairs going downstairs (which would obviously be more dangerous) has a door at the top, so we are "safe" there. I guess we'll wait and see (I hate baby gates, so if we don't need one, I'm happy with that).
Finn's ECFE teacher also said that babies at Finn's age should be offered a regular glass with water in it to start figuring out how to drink from them (with the obvious understand that 90% of it will end up on them and the floor!). Finn doesn't like the real cup; it seems almost like he is afraid of it...but maybe he just doesn't like getting wet from it! Although, I did give it to him yesterday and he tipped it up and sipped it by himself and kept asking for more water...maybe 4 times?!?! I think that is progress. I'll just keep offering it on and off. He will get it eventually.
Yesterday Finn was a rockstar when EI came for their visit. He crawled with limited assistance, which is huge. He had his leg bands on and completely coordinated his arms by himself. He just got help with his legs, but only a little bit and usually only with his right leg. And he started crusing around the couch. Now when I say that, I mean he took a few steps sideways, but they were unassisted steps (holding onto the couch), which it is a big deal. His PT predicts that he will be crawling by their next appoinment in two weeks. I sure hope so (but I'm not holding my breath)!
They also said to hold off on buying a gate for the stairs going upstairs. With Finn's getting around more (and if he is close to actually crawling) I mentioned we needed a gate. But they said that because Finn is so cautious, we may not need one! The recommendation surprised me, but makes sense. Plus, our stairs going downstairs (which would obviously be more dangerous) has a door at the top, so we are "safe" there. I guess we'll wait and see (I hate baby gates, so if we don't need one, I'm happy with that).
Monday, May 24
Happy belated bday, daddy!
In honor of his birthday, daddy took Thursday PM and all of Friday off from work. He joined us at Preemie class on Thursday, which was a fun treat for Finn (and the other dad that goes regularly!). Friday, I got to watch Austin, which was a blast (I forget how much fun it is to have him around during the day!). Finn, Austin and I headed over to the twins' house in the AM so their mom could go get a pedicure for her birthday (hey, it is the small things in life, right?!?!). Austin and Maia had a blast and everybody was very well behaved.
I'm not sure what we did the rest of the day, probably getting ready for Saturday, but it sure was nice having daddy around. Saturday was daddy's birthday! I like it when daddy has his birthday because then I'm no longer "old" since Jim turns my age (I'm four months and 13 days older than him). We had our last swim class in the morning. We decided not to sign up for summer classes, since we have a pool and a hot tub (which Finn can go in if Jim lowers the temp), there are two city pools within walking distance and hello...we live in the land of 10,000 lakes! I think Finn will be fine.
It decided to POUR in the morning, which concerned us since we were having people over to grill in the evening for Jim's birthday. But in true MN fashion, it cleared up and ended up being a beautiful afternoon and evening (albeit a little windy). Thank you to everybody who came. I know Jim appreciated it and had a great time.
Jim requested a German Chocolate Cake for his birthday. Two things: 1. I've never made a German Chocolate cake before AND 2. of course, it had to be Gram's recipe. So I got the recipe from DeAnn, made the cake and...it turned out! Or at least that is what the Thomas clan said, so I'll take it (they would be the best judge of Gram's cooking/baking skills).
The one thing I will do differently next time is to frost the cake when the frosting is a little warmer. It didn't drip elegantly down the sides like it was supposed to because I waited until it was completely cool. Hey, I didn't know...and at least it didn't affect the taste!
Sunday, Finn got another hair cut.
It is shorter than the first one. It looks so light when it is this short...I miss my dark brown haired boy! Perfect for summer and now it can grow out a bit before he needs another one. Mommy and Finn did much better for this one. Auntie NaeNae did it while I was at church Sunday morning, so I wasn't even there! She said Finn just sat there like a stone the whole time. Nick said it was like he just froze with his arms halfway in the air. Too funny. Thanks Auntie NaeNae!
Later in the day, we went to Jim's cousin, Ann's, senior voice/singing recital. She is an amazing singer...and it doesn't even look like she is trying very hard! We were a little nervous about how Finn would do, but he was perfect! It helps that he likes music AND there were people around us to keep him entertained.
Oh, and we broke down and finally turned the A/C on Sunday. It was just too muggy. Sleeping last night was much more pleasant than Saturday night.
I'm not sure what we did the rest of the day, probably getting ready for Saturday, but it sure was nice having daddy around. Saturday was daddy's birthday! I like it when daddy has his birthday because then I'm no longer "old" since Jim turns my age (I'm four months and 13 days older than him). We had our last swim class in the morning. We decided not to sign up for summer classes, since we have a pool and a hot tub (which Finn can go in if Jim lowers the temp), there are two city pools within walking distance and hello...we live in the land of 10,000 lakes! I think Finn will be fine.
It decided to POUR in the morning, which concerned us since we were having people over to grill in the evening for Jim's birthday. But in true MN fashion, it cleared up and ended up being a beautiful afternoon and evening (albeit a little windy). Thank you to everybody who came. I know Jim appreciated it and had a great time.
Jim requested a German Chocolate Cake for his birthday. Two things: 1. I've never made a German Chocolate cake before AND 2. of course, it had to be Gram's recipe. So I got the recipe from DeAnn, made the cake and...it turned out! Or at least that is what the Thomas clan said, so I'll take it (they would be the best judge of Gram's cooking/baking skills).
The one thing I will do differently next time is to frost the cake when the frosting is a little warmer. It didn't drip elegantly down the sides like it was supposed to because I waited until it was completely cool. Hey, I didn't know...and at least it didn't affect the taste!Sunday, Finn got another hair cut.
It is shorter than the first one. It looks so light when it is this short...I miss my dark brown haired boy! Perfect for summer and now it can grow out a bit before he needs another one. Mommy and Finn did much better for this one. Auntie NaeNae did it while I was at church Sunday morning, so I wasn't even there! She said Finn just sat there like a stone the whole time. Nick said it was like he just froze with his arms halfway in the air. Too funny. Thanks Auntie NaeNae!Later in the day, we went to Jim's cousin, Ann's, senior voice/singing recital. She is an amazing singer...and it doesn't even look like she is trying very hard! We were a little nervous about how Finn would do, but he was perfect! It helps that he likes music AND there were people around us to keep him entertained.
Oh, and we broke down and finally turned the A/C on Sunday. It was just too muggy. Sleeping last night was much more pleasant than Saturday night.
Thursday, May 20
My baby's growing up
It is with mixed emotions that I announce that Finn no longer is taking a bottle during the day! We introduced a sippy cup a while ago and Finn didn't really "get" it but didn't hate it either. Well, at ECFE last week they were telling horror stories that the longer you wait to wean from a bottle, the harder it is. So, Finn hasn't had a bottle during the day since last Friday! It is hard on me. My baby is growing up. To him, he could care less! He would probably be fine not having his morning or night time bottle, too...but I am SO not ready for that. Plus, he doesn't get as much from the cup, so at least I know he is getting those bottles/calories. Yet another step away from babyhood!
A clear a step towards being a gross little boy...Finn started picking his nose! Okay, in all fairness, he isn't actually picking his nose, but he sticks his finger in his nose all day long. I'm sure I will get a pic soon. The funny thing is that another mom at class brought it up last week because her daughter (who is the same age adjusted as Finn) just started doing it, too! The teacher said it is totally normal and it is just them exploring their bodies and having another place (besides their mouth and ear) to stick their fingers. So, in the meantime, I told Finn that if he finds gold up there, to give it to mommy (anything else he finds, he can give to daddy)!
As you all know, Finn is a talker and has been talking for a while. But lately, he can say ANYTHING you ask him to! And his vocabularly is expanding by the minute. Let's see...words he says regularly now without prompting from us: momma, dadda, Austin, auntie (these four were his first), hat, light, catch, head, I get, hi, byebye, nigh night, all done, duck, doggie, quack, roof, moo, book, football...there are more, but I can't think of them all right now. On the bright side (from yesterday's post), if he does have hearing loss, he will obviously still be able to understand and speak!
We got to see NeNe's new house last night! It is kind of a hike out there, but SO worth it! They have lots of plans for renovating, but it is awfully nice just how it is, too. I love that it is on the lake and so secluded and quiet. Maybe we'll move in with them if the Ark's deal falls through. Ha, ha! Jim said I have to quit asking to move in with everybody.
A clear a step towards being a gross little boy...Finn started picking his nose! Okay, in all fairness, he isn't actually picking his nose, but he sticks his finger in his nose all day long. I'm sure I will get a pic soon. The funny thing is that another mom at class brought it up last week because her daughter (who is the same age adjusted as Finn) just started doing it, too! The teacher said it is totally normal and it is just them exploring their bodies and having another place (besides their mouth and ear) to stick their fingers. So, in the meantime, I told Finn that if he finds gold up there, to give it to mommy (anything else he finds, he can give to daddy)!
As you all know, Finn is a talker and has been talking for a while. But lately, he can say ANYTHING you ask him to! And his vocabularly is expanding by the minute. Let's see...words he says regularly now without prompting from us: momma, dadda, Austin, auntie (these four were his first), hat, light, catch, head, I get, hi, byebye, nigh night, all done, duck, doggie, quack, roof, moo, book, football...there are more, but I can't think of them all right now. On the bright side (from yesterday's post), if he does have hearing loss, he will obviously still be able to understand and speak!
We got to see NeNe's new house last night! It is kind of a hike out there, but SO worth it! They have lots of plans for renovating, but it is awfully nice just how it is, too. I love that it is on the lake and so secluded and quiet. Maybe we'll move in with them if the Ark's deal falls through. Ha, ha! Jim said I have to quit asking to move in with everybody.
Wednesday, May 19
Ears: good and bad
Sigh...we had Finn's post-op follow up appointment for his tubes this morning. As it seems is always the case when Finn's ears are involved, we had good news and bad news.
The good news: no fluid or infection in either ear!!! Yay! And the tubes are still in, which is obviously preferable. We also asked for custom fit ear plugs because Finn does NOT like getting the cotton and Vaseline in his ears for bath time (plus, I don't think that works very well). Regardless, the Dr said if we were going to have him in a lake this summer, he should have these plugs anyway and Finn will be in a lake at some point this summer (hello...we live in the land of 10,000 lakes after all!!). The doctor wants to see Finn in 6 months for a follow up, but he was very pleased with the results. Yay for tubes!
Now the not so good (not necessarily bad) news: Finn was tested for hearing again today and did not pass...and this time he did not have fluid in his ears. His results again were "mild hearing loss." The "good" news is that she also tested inside his ear and his cochlea is receiving and sending back sound...they just can't test (at this stage) how much. I am not an alarmist and don't want to say Finn has mild hearing loss at this point. We are going back in to retest in two months, hoping that Finn will be that much older and able to respond appropriately. If we see a negative change in him verbally in the meantime, we will go in sooner. He can obviously hear (his vocabulary is enormous for his age), so that is encouraging. Jim was in the sound booth with him during the test and said he thinks Finn hears more than he is responding to...hopefully that is the case. I guess we'll wait and see (or hear as the case may be!).
The good news: no fluid or infection in either ear!!! Yay! And the tubes are still in, which is obviously preferable. We also asked for custom fit ear plugs because Finn does NOT like getting the cotton and Vaseline in his ears for bath time (plus, I don't think that works very well). Regardless, the Dr said if we were going to have him in a lake this summer, he should have these plugs anyway and Finn will be in a lake at some point this summer (hello...we live in the land of 10,000 lakes after all!!). The doctor wants to see Finn in 6 months for a follow up, but he was very pleased with the results. Yay for tubes!
Now the not so good (not necessarily bad) news: Finn was tested for hearing again today and did not pass...and this time he did not have fluid in his ears. His results again were "mild hearing loss." The "good" news is that she also tested inside his ear and his cochlea is receiving and sending back sound...they just can't test (at this stage) how much. I am not an alarmist and don't want to say Finn has mild hearing loss at this point. We are going back in to retest in two months, hoping that Finn will be that much older and able to respond appropriately. If we see a negative change in him verbally in the meantime, we will go in sooner. He can obviously hear (his vocabulary is enormous for his age), so that is encouraging. Jim was in the sound booth with him during the test and said he thinks Finn hears more than he is responding to...hopefully that is the case. I guess we'll wait and see (or hear as the case may be!).
Tuesday, May 18
Shoot some hoops?
Sunday mom and I took Austin and Finn to church. Finn's track record at church is not so good, but I think I've found the magic remedy...Austin! Finn was great all through church with Austin there to distract him. Although, Finn also woke up 5 minutes before we left for church, so he wasn't tired, either, which I'm sure obviously helped. I'd like to be able to take him to church with me every week...maybe it is one of those things that the more you do it, the better he will be. Hmmm...
After church mom left, Becky picked Austin up and we headed over to my friend Jess's for lunch. It was a great afternoon. Finn loved their toys and loved playing with Ella (5 years old). We had grilled hamburgers for lunch which were great. Hope we can do it again soon! I have to share what happened after we left: Ethan (8 years old) said to Jess, “Mommy, I wish Finn was our baby. He’s so cute. Was he born with those chubby cheeks?" Obviously, I thought it was adorable! The beautiful things kids say.
Yesterday was my favorite person, Erica's birthday! Happy birthday, love! I meant to call and sing to you, but the day got away from me (as they usually do!). Hope you had a fabulous day.
Yesterday, we went to the twin's house and played for a while and then we got to go see their new house! Holy cows, batman! It is a beautiful house with tons and tons of space. I totally love it and asked if we could move in. The neighborhood is absolutely perfect, which is something I'm obviously jealous of! I couldn't be happier for them (and the twins will get their own rooms...maybe mom will get more sleep!).
Last night, Finn got to go to daddy's basketball game for the first time (at least I think it was the first time).
Auntie Becca and Austin were there, so Finn had a blast. All he wanted to do was eat Austin's french fries and play catch with Jim, which was super cute. Unfortunately, daddy was playing basketball, so he couldn't (but Austin did share his fries!). Most of the games are too late for Finn, so this is probably the only one he will make this session. Oh and Jim's team is one game away from being the league champions, which hasn't happened in a really long time.
After church mom left, Becky picked Austin up and we headed over to my friend Jess's for lunch. It was a great afternoon. Finn loved their toys and loved playing with Ella (5 years old). We had grilled hamburgers for lunch which were great. Hope we can do it again soon! I have to share what happened after we left: Ethan (8 years old) said to Jess, “Mommy, I wish Finn was our baby. He’s so cute. Was he born with those chubby cheeks?" Obviously, I thought it was adorable! The beautiful things kids say.
Yesterday was my favorite person, Erica's birthday! Happy birthday, love! I meant to call and sing to you, but the day got away from me (as they usually do!). Hope you had a fabulous day.
Yesterday, we went to the twin's house and played for a while and then we got to go see their new house! Holy cows, batman! It is a beautiful house with tons and tons of space. I totally love it and asked if we could move in. The neighborhood is absolutely perfect, which is something I'm obviously jealous of! I couldn't be happier for them (and the twins will get their own rooms...maybe mom will get more sleep!).
Last night, Finn got to go to daddy's basketball game for the first time (at least I think it was the first time).
Auntie Becca and Austin were there, so Finn had a blast. All he wanted to do was eat Austin's french fries and play catch with Jim, which was super cute. Unfortunately, daddy was playing basketball, so he couldn't (but Austin did share his fries!). Most of the games are too late for Finn, so this is probably the only one he will make this session. Oh and Jim's team is one game away from being the league champions, which hasn't happened in a really long time.
Sunday, May 16
Happy belated Mother's
Yesterday turned out to be a "work outside" day and we didn't even get back in the garage, which was okay, as our yard definitely needed some work. After swim class, I mowed while Jim went to Home Depot to get some supplies and mom trimmed the bushes on the west side of our house. In the process of mowing, I accidentally ran over a baby bunny, which traumatized me. Thankfully Jim took care of it and I didn't have to be further tormented.
I quit mowing when I was half done to get ready because we were heading over to Jim's cousin Pete's in St. Louis Park to see his new house. When Jim got back from Home Depot, he had gotten me a belated Mother's Day gift at Home Depot...a FIRE PIT!
We have been wanting one for at least the last year (probably longer), but we weren't sure about Minneapolis's fire policy and we couldn't find a pit we liked. We figure we will be fine since this one is portable and not massive in size. Jim put it together after we got back from the house warming and we (Jim, mom and I) had our first bonfire last night! Talk about perfect weather for a bonfire. Love it! Now we need to find some cheap wood because I have a feeling we will be using it a lot. Yay for late Mother's Day presents ;)
I quit mowing when I was half done to get ready because we were heading over to Jim's cousin Pete's in St. Louis Park to see his new house. When Jim got back from Home Depot, he had gotten me a belated Mother's Day gift at Home Depot...a FIRE PIT!
We have been wanting one for at least the last year (probably longer), but we weren't sure about Minneapolis's fire policy and we couldn't find a pit we liked. We figure we will be fine since this one is portable and not massive in size. Jim put it together after we got back from the house warming and we (Jim, mom and I) had our first bonfire last night! Talk about perfect weather for a bonfire. Love it! Now we need to find some cheap wood because I have a feeling we will be using it a lot. Yay for late Mother's Day presents ;)
Saturday, May 15
Bagged, tagged and sorted
We actually got a TON done on the garage yesterday. And by "we" I actually mean "mom!" She is amazing and has tons of motivation. Why didn't I inherit more of that from her? Anyway, we were able to sort through the entire garage! What a good feeling. We have a mountain of garbage (good thing we have unlimited pick up!) and a good amount for donation. Now we have to organize, which is even worse than sorting. What are you supposed to do with momentos that you don't really want and are just sitting in boxes, but have some special meaning? Oh, and Jim needs to go through and clean up his stuff...which means it will still be there next time we clean the garage. Thanks, mom for all your help. I really do appreciate it.
Becky dropped Austin off yesterday morning, so he got to stay and play with all the stuff we pulled out of the garage. It looked like a white trash yard sale. He was also in charge of "baby sitting" Finn, who was in the stroller. Whenever Finn got fussy, Austin would push him around the yard. So cute.
In the evening, Kristine's family, Becky, Austin and we made dinner for mom for a belated Mother's Day dinner. Even if we were really tired from working all day, it was a nice evening with really good food.
Becky dropped Austin off yesterday morning, so he got to stay and play with all the stuff we pulled out of the garage. It looked like a white trash yard sale. He was also in charge of "baby sitting" Finn, who was in the stroller. Whenever Finn got fussy, Austin would push him around the yard. So cute.
In the evening, Kristine's family, Becky, Austin and we made dinner for mom for a belated Mother's Day dinner. Even if we were really tired from working all day, it was a nice evening with really good food.
Friday, May 14
What a cry baby
Finn and I had PT yesterday morning. We did the treadmill therapy again, but this time, they wanted to put him in a harness so it is easier to manipulate his movements (he does the work, they shift his body for him). Well, she got the harness, tried to put it on him, and it was too big. This caught me completely off guard. I know Finn is still small, but I feel like size-wise, he is in the "normal baby" size now, just small for his age. They made the harness work, but it kept slipping up and while Finn did the best he has so far on the treadmill, he was uncomfortable and if it had fit, he would have done much better.
Well, we went home, napped, had lunch and then went to Preemie class. We talked about fine motor skills, which was good. The whole time, the incident at PT was bothering me and I knew these people would understand better than any others, so I mentioned it when we "checked in." And out of nowhere, I just started bawling. I talked it out and they were all supportive and I think the issue was that I was caught off guard. When I go to the doctor's office, I am prepared and KNOW that he will be around the 3% for height and weight. When we do PT, I KNOW he isn't crawling or walking or standing or all of that stuff. I guess I just wasn't expecting this. I just want him to be beyond issues like these...I mean, it isn't like he is a 5 pound peanut like when he came home from the hospital! I felt better after discussing it. I guess I might have more emotions about this whole experience than I've really allowed myself to feel or acknowledge.
Grandma came last night! She is going to help me "clean" out the garage. I don't have high hopes for finishing, but we have to start some where and our garage is a massive dumping ground. The funny thing is, over half the shelves are empty! So organizing, throwing away, cleaning up is the name of the game today and maybe tomorrow!
Well, we went home, napped, had lunch and then went to Preemie class. We talked about fine motor skills, which was good. The whole time, the incident at PT was bothering me and I knew these people would understand better than any others, so I mentioned it when we "checked in." And out of nowhere, I just started bawling. I talked it out and they were all supportive and I think the issue was that I was caught off guard. When I go to the doctor's office, I am prepared and KNOW that he will be around the 3% for height and weight. When we do PT, I KNOW he isn't crawling or walking or standing or all of that stuff. I guess I just wasn't expecting this. I just want him to be beyond issues like these...I mean, it isn't like he is a 5 pound peanut like when he came home from the hospital! I felt better after discussing it. I guess I might have more emotions about this whole experience than I've really allowed myself to feel or acknowledge.
Grandma came last night! She is going to help me "clean" out the garage. I don't have high hopes for finishing, but we have to start some where and our garage is a massive dumping ground. The funny thing is, over half the shelves are empty! So organizing, throwing away, cleaning up is the name of the game today and maybe tomorrow!
Thursday, May 13
Sit up and take note!
Finnegan is a sitter-upper! He has been able to get to sitting for a while, but not consistently and not reliably. Well, as of a couple days ago, he can go from sitting to tummy to rolling and back at will! It is such a good feeling because I wasn't sure he WAS going to get it. Now he just knows that if his leg is in the way, keep pushing backwards and it will get out of the way. Oh, and he can get to sitting through the middle like he usually gets down from sitting, but I don't care! Next: figuring out this whole crawling thing!
We went to ECFE yesterday afternoon where we had a class on what to do if your baby is choking sponsored by the American Red Cross. It was very informative and now I think Finn is going to choke every second! I didn't really think about it before. Hopefully it is a skill that we never have to use.
After class, Becky and Austin came over. Too bad the weather was so yucky. Poor Austin, he hasn't been able to go to the park in a long time because it is always bad weather when they come over. Hopefully it will be nice next time. Pete stopped by after work and we all had dinner. Very nice evening.
We went to ECFE yesterday afternoon where we had a class on what to do if your baby is choking sponsored by the American Red Cross. It was very informative and now I think Finn is going to choke every second! I didn't really think about it before. Hopefully it is a skill that we never have to use.
After class, Becky and Austin came over. Too bad the weather was so yucky. Poor Austin, he hasn't been able to go to the park in a long time because it is always bad weather when they come over. Hopefully it will be nice next time. Pete stopped by after work and we all had dinner. Very nice evening.
Wednesday, May 12
Hello, nurse!
Finn and I had a great day yesterday. We had lunch with Amanda and Taylor at Panera (I still had to get her the Pampered Chef stuff she ordered...oops!)! It is one of my favorite places, but since Jim doesn't like sandwiches, I only get to go there with Amanda or one of my sisters. I tried their new Cuban Chicken Panini, which was awesome. Finn loved watching Taylor (six years old) "practice" her ballet. He even said "Tay Tay" once, which I think made her day.
After lunch we headed over to Woodbury to see Finn's NICU nurse Lisa! She is in town on vacation and had some extra time yesterday afternoon. This was the first time she has seen Finn since he was in the hospital. Finn had a blast (she has a 3 year old and a 2 month old, so there was plenty of toys to play with!). I forgot to take pictures, but am hoping she will be able to email them to me. She is an amazing person. Maybe she'll move back when we have #2 just in case we're in the NICU again. Hmmm...
Here are some pictures from our trip to Chicago/IN for my godson John's confirmation. The lady next to us on the flight to Chicago took a picture of Finn and me (not the best picture, but at least I was in one!)
This is John and Finn at John's confirmation brunch (Jim and Todd are in the background). I love this picture of my boys.
The Monster sleeps! Finn was very tired and crabby during the confirmation, but of course would not go to sleep. So during brunch, Jim grabbed the car seat and Finn FINALLY took a much needed short nap. He looks so peaceful (looks are deceiving!).
After lunch we headed over to Woodbury to see Finn's NICU nurse Lisa! She is in town on vacation and had some extra time yesterday afternoon. This was the first time she has seen Finn since he was in the hospital. Finn had a blast (she has a 3 year old and a 2 month old, so there was plenty of toys to play with!). I forgot to take pictures, but am hoping she will be able to email them to me. She is an amazing person. Maybe she'll move back when we have #2 just in case we're in the NICU again. Hmmm...
Here are some pictures from our trip to Chicago/IN for my godson John's confirmation. The lady next to us on the flight to Chicago took a picture of Finn and me (not the best picture, but at least I was in one!)
This is John and Finn at John's confirmation brunch (Jim and Todd are in the background). I love this picture of my boys.
The Monster sleeps! Finn was very tired and crabby during the confirmation, but of course would not go to sleep. So during brunch, Jim grabbed the car seat and Finn FINALLY took a much needed short nap. He looks so peaceful (looks are deceiving!).
Tuesday, May 11
We're baaaa-ack
We arrived back home yesterday at 3pm. We were all happy to be home. Finn cried the whole way home from the airport, but not at all during the flight. I will take that exchange for sure. As it turned out, he was a little constipated and his infant seat angle somewhat prevents him from going. So we took care of that and he took a nap for THREE hours! Do you think somebody was happy to be home and in his own bed? Then he and I played while daddy napped, daddy got up to help with bath time (these stupid cotton balls and vaseline do NOT work to prevent water in his ears!) and then we moved the crib mattress down. It was a process I thought would take 5 minutes, but ended up taking about 30. Oh, well. Finn is safe and sound in his crib and I'm not sure how I'm going to lift him out! Good thing we have a moveable side.
The trip was fabulous, minus the weather. It was cold, windy and rainy on Saturday and just cool and windy on Sunday. We got up Saturday AM after staying in a marvelous suite at the Marriott in downtown Chicago. We met the Sester family in South Bend, IN for lunch and then we all headed over to Notre Dame. I was so excited for this. I have always been facinated with Notre Dame and couldn't wait to see it. The bookstore was humongous (Jim needed to buy a sweatshirt because he hadn't brought any long sleeves with him!). My godson John had been there before, so he and Jim navigated the campus for us. It is massive (puts lil' ol' St. Thomas to shame!) and I love all the history.
After Notre Dame, we parted ways with Sesters for the day so we could check into our hotel and thaw out a bit. The Marriott in South Bend was awful, so we changed our reservation to the Residents Inn. LOVED this place...even had a fire place and a loft area for Finn to sleep in. Sunday we headed to John's school for his confirmation. It was a lovely ceremony...I can't believe John is old enough for confirmation! Where did my little man go? Finn decided he did not want to be in church, so Jim took him out for about 90% of the service. We had brunch there and then we headed back to Chicago (lots of driving this trip!).
Sunday night we stayed at the Hyatt Regency, which we've stayed at before and were able to get adjoining rooms! We were very luck with our hotel accommodations for this trip. They have The Big Bar in the hotel, so the three of us went there so I could get a Mother's Day drink...a mango margarita...yumm-o! Side note: did you know you can bring a baby into a bar, but not sit AT the bar? Maybe that is only in Chicago, but I found that interesting.
Monday, Jim had a meeting and left the hotel at 7:30am, leaving Finn and I to get to the airport by ourselves. Luckily, it was very easy to get to Midway from the hotel and returning the car was simple. Jim had a conference call before we checked in. We checked in, got through security with little problems (now that I'm an expert...ha, ha!), had a beer and got on the plane. The flight was overbooked, so I could not bring the car seat on (boo!). Finn was a rock star, though. He was tired and fidgety (and of course would not sleep!), but overall, a very good flyer.
Glad we took the trip and happy to be home again! I will try to download pictures today some time.
The trip was fabulous, minus the weather. It was cold, windy and rainy on Saturday and just cool and windy on Sunday. We got up Saturday AM after staying in a marvelous suite at the Marriott in downtown Chicago. We met the Sester family in South Bend, IN for lunch and then we all headed over to Notre Dame. I was so excited for this. I have always been facinated with Notre Dame and couldn't wait to see it. The bookstore was humongous (Jim needed to buy a sweatshirt because he hadn't brought any long sleeves with him!). My godson John had been there before, so he and Jim navigated the campus for us. It is massive (puts lil' ol' St. Thomas to shame!) and I love all the history.
After Notre Dame, we parted ways with Sesters for the day so we could check into our hotel and thaw out a bit. The Marriott in South Bend was awful, so we changed our reservation to the Residents Inn. LOVED this place...even had a fire place and a loft area for Finn to sleep in. Sunday we headed to John's school for his confirmation. It was a lovely ceremony...I can't believe John is old enough for confirmation! Where did my little man go? Finn decided he did not want to be in church, so Jim took him out for about 90% of the service. We had brunch there and then we headed back to Chicago (lots of driving this trip!).
Sunday night we stayed at the Hyatt Regency, which we've stayed at before and were able to get adjoining rooms! We were very luck with our hotel accommodations for this trip. They have The Big Bar in the hotel, so the three of us went there so I could get a Mother's Day drink...a mango margarita...yumm-o! Side note: did you know you can bring a baby into a bar, but not sit AT the bar? Maybe that is only in Chicago, but I found that interesting.
Monday, Jim had a meeting and left the hotel at 7:30am, leaving Finn and I to get to the airport by ourselves. Luckily, it was very easy to get to Midway from the hotel and returning the car was simple. Jim had a conference call before we checked in. We checked in, got through security with little problems (now that I'm an expert...ha, ha!), had a beer and got on the plane. The flight was overbooked, so I could not bring the car seat on (boo!). Finn was a rock star, though. He was tired and fidgety (and of course would not sleep!), but overall, a very good flyer.
Glad we took the trip and happy to be home again! I will try to download pictures today some time.
Saturday, May 8
Saving Grace
Well, we made it safe and sound to Chicago last night. Security was a nightmare, but now that I know what to expect (and Jim will be with me on the way home), I will manage much better. Our saving grace on the flight to Chicago was Finn's car seat. The attendant at the gate told me to take it on, which means we got an extra seat for free! Southwest usually charges for infant seats. And Finn actually took a short nap while in flight! I couldn't believe it and he would NOT have done that had he been on my lap. Overall, he did a great job. Ears hurt on the decent, but that is to be expected.
More details to come, just wanted to let you know we are arrived and are well!
More details to come, just wanted to let you know we are arrived and are well!
Friday, May 7
Leavin' on a jet plane
Finn and my flight leaves at 4:50 this afternoon! My godson, John, is getting confirmed on Sunday in Indiana and the three of us are going. I have a feeling/hoping the traveling will be fine for four reasons. 1. I have a bottle for the way up and the way down and upon my aunt Karen's suggestion, extra formula for "just in case." 2. I am bringing snacks along for in between the bottles if necessary. 3. Everything about tomorrow afternoon will be new for Finn and he will be people watching and checking everything out...which I hope means occupied and happy. 4. the tubes are supposed to help a lot for flying.
The three wrenches I can see in my plan are 1. I've never traveled with an infant and we are NOT checking a bag if we can help it, but will have lots of liquids and baby stuff. 2.the possible snow...please don't let us be delayed! and 3. Finn's crabby time of day is right when we are traveling. Again, I hope the four above help off set these three! A prayer or two would be much appreciated!
Of course, things would be much easier if Jim were flying with us, but he is flying in from the east coast and meeting us in Chicago. The nice thing is that, as long as both flights are on time, they get in at the same time. So I will have help getting out of the airport and to the hotel! Yay. Jim ended up having business in Chicago this coming Monday, so we are staying until Monday instead of hurrying to get back on Sunday night. I think it will be a little more relaxing for all of us AND Jim will be flying with us on Monday. Another yay!
A huge thank you to Aunt Kelsie for picking us up and dropping us off at the airport! Doesn't make sense to pay for airport parking for both of our cars!
The three wrenches I can see in my plan are 1. I've never traveled with an infant and we are NOT checking a bag if we can help it, but will have lots of liquids and baby stuff. 2.the possible snow...please don't let us be delayed! and 3. Finn's crabby time of day is right when we are traveling. Again, I hope the four above help off set these three! A prayer or two would be much appreciated!
Of course, things would be much easier if Jim were flying with us, but he is flying in from the east coast and meeting us in Chicago. The nice thing is that, as long as both flights are on time, they get in at the same time. So I will have help getting out of the airport and to the hotel! Yay. Jim ended up having business in Chicago this coming Monday, so we are staying until Monday instead of hurrying to get back on Sunday night. I think it will be a little more relaxing for all of us AND Jim will be flying with us on Monday. Another yay!
A huge thank you to Aunt Kelsie for picking us up and dropping us off at the airport! Doesn't make sense to pay for airport parking for both of our cars!
Thursday, May 6
It's time
I mentioned to Jim awhile ago that we should probably preemptively move the crib mattress down. Finn isn't pulling up yet but it is better to be safe than sorry. WELL...this was munchkin yesterday morning when I went in to get him:
This was a first for him. He still isn't pulling up, but is pretty close to regularly sitting up and the bars aren't much taller than he is when he is sitting. While it was kind of scary, as you can tell, I still had to run and grab the camera! Naughty mommy (he wasn't in any immediate danger of falling out or even getting close to it because as you can tell, he was too mad to move!). Oh, and I gave him his bottle which is what he wanted! We will be moving the mattress down as soon as we (i.e. daddy!) gets back on Monday!
Yup, putting cabinet locks on! And of course, he had to go for the under sink cabinet with the dangerous stuff in it! How do kids just know that? I did tell him "danger" and "stop" and he did, but I'm sure that won't last for long and once he is more mobile, I'd like to have the added security. I can't watch him every second of every day.
I guess these are two more steps away from babyhood...he has been taking a lot of these "steps" lately! Does that mean he isn't my baby any more? Boo. I refuse to call him a "toddler" until he is toddling.
This was a first for him. He still isn't pulling up, but is pretty close to regularly sitting up and the bars aren't much taller than he is when he is sitting. While it was kind of scary, as you can tell, I still had to run and grab the camera! Naughty mommy (he wasn't in any immediate danger of falling out or even getting close to it because as you can tell, he was too mad to move!). Oh, and I gave him his bottle which is what he wanted! We will be moving the mattress down as soon as we (i.e. daddy!) gets back on Monday!
Another item we haven't done yet, but it is time to:
Yup, putting cabinet locks on! And of course, he had to go for the under sink cabinet with the dangerous stuff in it! How do kids just know that? I did tell him "danger" and "stop" and he did, but I'm sure that won't last for long and once he is more mobile, I'd like to have the added security. I can't watch him every second of every day.
I guess these are two more steps away from babyhood...he has been taking a lot of these "steps" lately! Does that mean he isn't my baby any more? Boo. I refuse to call him a "toddler" until he is toddling.
Wednesday, May 5
Chomp chomp
I don't think I mentioned that Finn has SEVEN chompers! After his front four teeth came in, I stopped checking (because they were sharp and he likes to chomp down). Well, he got my thumb good a couple weeks ago at swimming when I tried to check, but I was able to look in there a few days ago and he has three more teeth that are already through the gums and big! Four on top and three on bottom. No wonder he has been cranky lately (between teeth and ears, who could blame him?!?!).
Yesterday morning we went to play at the twins' house. Juliette likes to climb on Finn and yesterday, she kept giving him kisses all over his face! So cute. I didn't have my camera, though. Darn it. While I don't think he minded the kisses, he kept trying to inch away from her. I guess he is playing hard to get!
Finn took a 3 plus hour nap when we got home (must have tuckered him out!). Then we went over to Auntie Becca's for dinner and some more play time. We didn't leave until after 8:30 (and he didn't fall asleep on the way home!), so Finn had two late nights in a row, but he didn't seem to mind. He slept in yesterday and this morning, so he is getting plenty of sleep.
I decided to cancel Finn's pictures for this Friday. The point of the pictures is to see his physical and developmental changes and he still isn't crawling and other than his hair, I don't think he looks THAT different from his one year pictures. I thought for sure when I made the appointment a month ago that he would be fully crawling by now. Plus, I put him on the grass on Monday and he freaked and I'd like at least some outside pictures the next time around. I just started to feel like I was having these pictures just for the sake of having pictures instead of "meaning" something. Jessica is wonderful and flexible, which I greatly appreciate. So, we are going to reschedule for the beginning of July. If he isn't crawling by then, not sure if I'll still have my sanity (wait...do I have it now?!?!).
Happy Cinco de Mayo!
Yesterday morning we went to play at the twins' house. Juliette likes to climb on Finn and yesterday, she kept giving him kisses all over his face! So cute. I didn't have my camera, though. Darn it. While I don't think he minded the kisses, he kept trying to inch away from her. I guess he is playing hard to get!
Finn took a 3 plus hour nap when we got home (must have tuckered him out!). Then we went over to Auntie Becca's for dinner and some more play time. We didn't leave until after 8:30 (and he didn't fall asleep on the way home!), so Finn had two late nights in a row, but he didn't seem to mind. He slept in yesterday and this morning, so he is getting plenty of sleep.
I decided to cancel Finn's pictures for this Friday. The point of the pictures is to see his physical and developmental changes and he still isn't crawling and other than his hair, I don't think he looks THAT different from his one year pictures. I thought for sure when I made the appointment a month ago that he would be fully crawling by now. Plus, I put him on the grass on Monday and he freaked and I'd like at least some outside pictures the next time around. I just started to feel like I was having these pictures just for the sake of having pictures instead of "meaning" something. Jessica is wonderful and flexible, which I greatly appreciate. So, we are going to reschedule for the beginning of July. If he isn't crawling by then, not sure if I'll still have my sanity (wait...do I have it now?!?!).
Happy Cinco de Mayo!
Tuesday, May 4
Sleeping on a dog bed?
Finn's Early Intervention team came yesterday to to do their yearly review and assessment for the next 12 months. We decided to amp up PT with EI to weekly as well (he is doing it weekly at Gillette now). The OT is going to stay on the team, but only make visits when we think it is necessary since Finn is doing so much better in the eating/feeding area. I will get the full assessment recap in a week or two and will have more details then. Overall, he is doing great and continues to excel with cognition and language and "creep" along with physical skills.
Jane, the PT with EI, gave us these "bands" to put around Finn's legs. The hope is that it forces his legs to stay closer together and help with his transitions and balance. He had them on for almost an hour while they were here and did not seem to mind at all. He bonked his head a few extra times because he is used to balancing only with his legs. Hopefully this will strengthen his core as well. Now I just need to remember to put them on several times a day.
Finn's friend Quinn came over to play last night so her mom and dad could go to the Twins game. She is two and a half and the cutest thing ever. The three of us went over to Uncle John and Aunt Kelsie's for some of Uncle John's famous and yummy grilled hamburgers. Quinn LOVED playing with Dixie (their black lab whom Quinn called Dicky!) and Finn just loved all the attention! I tried wheat beer last night for the first time and loved it (don't worry, Katie, I only had one! Ha, ha.). Might be a new "thing" for me. It got a little later than planned, but no biggie...Finn crashed in their bedroom (on Dixie's dog bed...covered by a blanket!) and Quinn settled on the couch with Dixie to watch Seasame Street!
Jane, the PT with EI, gave us these "bands" to put around Finn's legs. The hope is that it forces his legs to stay closer together and help with his transitions and balance. He had them on for almost an hour while they were here and did not seem to mind at all. He bonked his head a few extra times because he is used to balancing only with his legs. Hopefully this will strengthen his core as well. Now I just need to remember to put them on several times a day.
Finn's friend Quinn came over to play last night so her mom and dad could go to the Twins game. She is two and a half and the cutest thing ever. The three of us went over to Uncle John and Aunt Kelsie's for some of Uncle John's famous and yummy grilled hamburgers. Quinn LOVED playing with Dixie (their black lab whom Quinn called Dicky!) and Finn just loved all the attention! I tried wheat beer last night for the first time and loved it (don't worry, Katie, I only had one! Ha, ha.). Might be a new "thing" for me. It got a little later than planned, but no biggie...Finn crashed in their bedroom (on Dixie's dog bed...covered by a blanket!) and Quinn settled on the couch with Dixie to watch Seasame Street!
Monday, May 3
Big boy in a big seat
One more step further away from babyhood: Finn graduated to his big boy car seat yesterday!
Okay, so he is crying in this pic, but I don't think it is because he doesn't like the new seat...he was over due for a nap. A friend of a friend who is car seat certified installed the seat for us yesterday and showed us how to work it. It helped that she has installed the exact same car seat in the same model car before, but she does all models (car seat and car). If you want her info, let me know! It feels GREAT knowing he is as safe as he possibly can be.
Anyway, LOVE IT! Finn is much higher and can see out the windows. Plus, no more lugging around the super heavy infant carrier! Finn must have liked the new seat because this was him about 20 minutes after the first picture.
See, I told you he needed a nap! I feel like it is tilting a little too much forward because his head was dropping down, but she said it was the right angle. Maybe this will help strengthen his neck muscles!
After the install, we headed over to Stacey and Sam's to have some yummy lunch and watch the Twins (they won, yay!). We spent the rest of the day being lazy at home and daddy packed for his work trip. Jim left this morning at 4:30am for DC and will be gone all week. Boo. Finn and I are meeting him in Chicago Friday evening. I'm trying not to stress about your first flight together (alone, if you didn't catch that!).
Okay, so he is crying in this pic, but I don't think it is because he doesn't like the new seat...he was over due for a nap. A friend of a friend who is car seat certified installed the seat for us yesterday and showed us how to work it. It helped that she has installed the exact same car seat in the same model car before, but she does all models (car seat and car). If you want her info, let me know! It feels GREAT knowing he is as safe as he possibly can be.Anyway, LOVE IT! Finn is much higher and can see out the windows. Plus, no more lugging around the super heavy infant carrier! Finn must have liked the new seat because this was him about 20 minutes after the first picture.
See, I told you he needed a nap! I feel like it is tilting a little too much forward because his head was dropping down, but she said it was the right angle. Maybe this will help strengthen his neck muscles!After the install, we headed over to Stacey and Sam's to have some yummy lunch and watch the Twins (they won, yay!). We spent the rest of the day being lazy at home and daddy packed for his work trip. Jim left this morning at 4:30am for DC and will be gone all week. Boo. Finn and I are meeting him in Chicago Friday evening. I'm trying not to stress about your first flight together (alone, if you didn't catch that!).
Sunday, May 2
Oville here we come
Finn and I headed to swim class on Friday instead of Saturday this week. It is kind of nice not to have class on Saturday. It really does cut up the weekend. Finn was kind of clingy to me. I wasn't sure if it was because Jim wasn't there or if he knew they were different people or what. Overall, he definitely shows a strong preference to be by me...I thought (hoped) we would skip this stage, but I guess not. Not that I mind my baby wanting me, but seriously, gets annoying some times.
Then, daddy was able to leave work early and we headed to Oville to see Granny, Finn's great great grandma. She had a heart attack several weeks ago and it had been almost a year since she saw him, so Jim wanted to make a point to get out there as soon as we could. Finn did well on the drive except for the last 30 minutes or so. I don't blame him, 4 hours is a long time to be in the car. Granny was super surprised and excited to see us and just couldn't get enough of Finn! Jim's mom has the pics, so I'll have to get them from her.
Then Saturday afternoon Uncle John (Grandpa Ron is the manager) had a baseball game in Oville, so we stayed to watch that, despite the excessively windy, cold, rainy weather. They started out slow, but came back to win from a 13 to 5 deficit. Way to go Rox!
In this pic, Finn was checking out the players in the dugout. Guess he wants to play! Maybe he can run the bases by the end of the summer. We came home after the game, but didn't get in until kind of late. It was a short, but fun visit!
Then, daddy was able to leave work early and we headed to Oville to see Granny, Finn's great great grandma. She had a heart attack several weeks ago and it had been almost a year since she saw him, so Jim wanted to make a point to get out there as soon as we could. Finn did well on the drive except for the last 30 minutes or so. I don't blame him, 4 hours is a long time to be in the car. Granny was super surprised and excited to see us and just couldn't get enough of Finn! Jim's mom has the pics, so I'll have to get them from her.
Then Saturday afternoon Uncle John (Grandpa Ron is the manager) had a baseball game in Oville, so we stayed to watch that, despite the excessively windy, cold, rainy weather. They started out slow, but came back to win from a 13 to 5 deficit. Way to go Rox!
In this pic, Finn was checking out the players in the dugout. Guess he wants to play! Maybe he can run the bases by the end of the summer. We came home after the game, but didn't get in until kind of late. It was a short, but fun visit!
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