Daddy's back

Okay, I read a poll yesterday that said 40 percent of pregnant women said they crave sweets, while 35 percent yearn for salty foods. My first thought was...where is the statistic for those of us that crave both?

Finn can independently and at will pull up to our couch (which is very tall for him) and get down by himself, too! This is a new development in the last few days. I feel like he is making progress and it is so good to see. So he is obviously getting transitions (what we've been working on what seems like forever!) so now we need to focus on cruising (furniture, not in a car!).

Finn, Austin and I met my friend Amanda and her two kids Taylor (6) and Gavin (3) and my friend Stacey and her son Dillon (6) at the Splash Pad in St. Louis Park yesterday. After some initial hesitation, they all had a blast. Finn was too little because he can't walk and there isn't any standing water...but he didn't seem to mind. When we arrived, there were a lot of big kids there (it was a field trip we think), which sucks because they over run the place and intimidate the littler kids. It really is geared more toward 2-8 year olds. After a while they left and everybody had a good time. Austin waited (patiently!) in line for a LONG time to get to play with the big water gun. I was/am very proud of him for waiting. So I had to take a picture when he FINALLY got to play with it:

Well, Jim is finally home from his 4 week travel schedule. He has to go back next week (and potentially several more partial weeks), but this should have been his last full week there (it has been Sunday through Friday every week so far!). It has taken a toll on our family, but we survived. We have a low key weekend "planned" this weekend, so hopefully we can get things back on track and feel "normal" again!

Ten weeks and counting

How your baby's growing: Though he's barely the size of a kumquat — a little over an inch or so long, crown to bottom — and weighs less than a quarter of an ounce, your baby has now completed the most critical portion of his development. This is the beginning of the so-called fetal period, a time when the tissues and organs in his body rapidly grow and mature.

He's swallowing fluid and kicking up a storm. Vital organs — including his kidneys, intestines, brain, and liver (now making red blood cells in place of the disappearing yolk sac) — are in place and starting to function, though they'll continue to develop throughout your pregnancy.

If you could take a peek inside your womb, you'd spot minute details, like tiny nails forming on fingers and toes (no more webbing) and peach-fuzz hair beginning to grow on tender skin.

In other developments: Your baby's limbs can bend now. His hands are flexed at the wrist and meet over his heart, and his feet may be long enough to meet in front of his body. The outline of his spine is clearly visible through translucent skin, and spinal nerves are beginning to stretch out from his spinal cord. Your baby's forehead temporarily bulges with his developing brain and sits very high on his head, which measures half the length of his body. From crown to rump, he's about 1 1/4 inches long. In the coming weeks, your baby will again double in size — to nearly 3 inches.

How your life's changing: Before you got pregnant, your uterus was the size of a small pear. By this week, it's as big as a grapefruit. You may or may not be ready for maternity wear now. Even if you're not there yet, your regular clothes are probably feeling uncomfortably tight and your blossoming breasts are straining the seams of your bra. The thickening in your midsection is most likely due to slight weight gain and bloating. [definite thickening in my midsection, but not showing and still fit into regular clothes...for now!] If you're between regular and maternity clothes, pants and skirts with forgiving elastic waistbands (or low-rise waistlines that sit below your belly) will provide some much-needed comfort.

On bended knee

Here is Finn's "Will walk for food" sign. Too funny (because it is so true!).

We had PT this morning and Finn did a great job. He cruised the best I've seen him and didn't whine at all. We worked on getting him to bend his knees. He is a tough sell on bending his knees. I think I'm going to get his Jumperoo out again to see if he likes it. If so, the jumping will help with getting him to bend his knees more consistently. Now he locks his knees and digs his toes in for balance (until they turn white!). I told the PT that I'm expecting in February, and she said she doesn't see how/why Finn wouldn't be walking by then. I'm holding her to that!! I'd like a couple month cushion in case we go early, but I'll take what I can get :)

We are having a lot going on with our family right now. Jim's aunt is having major knee problems and Kristine is having gall bladder issues. Both looking to need surgery next week...Finn and I have signed up for nurse duty as needed, so I'm sure they'll keep us busy!

I hate to say it, but I think Finn's runny nose is allergies. He has no other symptoms and I heard that allergies are really bad right now (maybe it is a good thing that Jim is gone...because he gets TERRIBLE allergies). In the meantime, I just keep wiping/suckering as needed. Finn isn't complaining and likes the weird noises he can get his nose to make, so it could be worse!

Will walk for food

Finn and I journeyed to Costco yesterday. I've now learned that Finn has a definite time span that he will tolerate that place. It's like he just hits a wall and needs to be done. Poor guy. Doesn't help that I need to look at everything to make sure I'm getting all the good deals! Anyway, I picked up a crate of nectarines and had one when we got home. Hands down, it was the sweetest, best tasting nectarine I've ever had...and considering they are one of my top favorite fruits, that is saying something. I had to force myself to save a quarter of it for Finn! The sacrifices moms make for their kids ;)

This morning Finn's EI team came for their visit. It went well...nothing really too new. His teacher had me reevaluate how many words Finn is saying (it had been a few months since I had) and he can now say or sign 40 words! That is really good for his age. Like his PT said, "He isn't going to need speech therapy!" Finally, something we don't need. Ha, ha! They made a sign that says, "Will work (walk) for food!" Like a homeless sign! Because he will cruise for snacks! Too funny. His teacher took a picture and I'll see if she can email it to me.

Trucks everywhere

Finn woke up yesterday with a little runny nose. I don't think it is anything serious as he has no other symptoms and is in good spirits. Anyway, I decided to suction his nose to get as much out as I could (which wasn't a lot). In the past, this has been a difficult task. He would push my hands away, cry and turn his head. Keeping in mind that it has been a long time since he's needed it (thankfully!), this time, he LAUGHED! Kids are so unpredictable. Must have tickled his nose or something. All day, he would breath in and out from his nose and smile...because it sounded funny! Man, I love this kid. He keeps me laughing and on my toes all day.

Finn's new thing is TRUCKS! He LOVES trucks. He hasn't figured out subcategories yet, so anything that moves or looks like it could move is a truck (other than cars usually!). Because the Lowry bridge is closed, all the traffic now goes by our house, which include a lot of semis. His favorite thing to do is sit on the front steps and point to all the trucks and say, "Truck. Bye bye truck." So cute! If we are inside and he hears a truck go by, he will say "truck." Hey, it is better than "catch it?" all day like he used to do and sometimes still does! He got two trucks for his birthday, which are now his favorite toys. He is all boy for sure!

On a pregnancy note, I think my morning sickness is abating (knock on wood). Now that I say that, I will be sick all day again! I still gag when I brush my teeth, but it seems less severe during the day. But to balance that out, I feel a lot more tired. Luckily, I can rest or nap when Finn takes his afternoon nap, so I've been feeling pretty good. The scale says I haven't gained any weight, but man, my body is shifting and changing! I am for sure going to show earlier this time than I did with Finn.

Family fun

Finn and I went over to my aunt Karen's for a visit this morning. Okay very late morning, as Mr. Finnegan didn't get out of bed until 10:30! I'd told Karen we'd get there between 10:30 and 11...needless to say, we were a little late (how do you plan for THAT?!?!). Finn had a super time. My godson, John (14 years old) was home for a few weeks, which was the reason for our visit. Anthony (almost 9) and Rachel (6) kept Finn busy the whole time. I'm bummed I forgot to take any pictures! It was a really nice way to spend an afternoon. We headed out when Finn showed signs of bring tired. It was funny, like a switch was flipped and he was done. Thanks for the wonderful lunch, conversation and company!

Momma's back

I had a wonderful weekend. I attended the 1st Annual Smith Lake Girls' Weekend with my friend Stacey (far right), her mom, Connie (in yellow) and her friend, Jackie (in black).

Seriously, I didn't realize how much I needed a weekend exactly like this! It was perfect. It was so relaxing that some of the details are a blur, but we got up to Connie's "camper" (near Alexandria, MN) Friday night and headed out to dinner. I say "camper" because it is more like a home, but I wasn't complaining! The restaurant (Weston Station, I think), was in an old railroad car! So cool. And had really good food and drink (I had Dr. Pepper...poor me because I needed something stronger after the afternoon I had!). Then we went back and had a wonderful bonfire until far too late into the night (or morning!).

Saturday, Connie made a ridiculously good breakfast which kept us full until late afternoon (preggers had to snack frequently to keep from getting nauseous, but that doesn't mean I was hungry!). Stacey and I headed into Osakis (rivals of mine in high school, so it was tough to like the town!) to the Meat Market (to get steak, not to check out the local hotties!). There were "Famish" people across the street. Famish means "fake Amish." They had a buggy pulled up and they were celling quilts and what not...with an SUV parked right next to it and no horse to pull the buggy. Hmmm... We think they probably have tattos, dance and watch TV! So scandalous.

Then we laid around in the sun and read smutty celebrity magazines, which are my favorite! I, of course, had to take a nap, but I guess everybody ended up taking one, too! The weather was unpredictable, so we didn't dare go out on the boat. Connie made an absolutely fabulous dinner! She made dates stuffed with Gruyere cheese and wrapped in bacon (so supper yummy!) for an appetizer, Stacey made caprese salad (one of my all time favs!) and Connie grilled twice baked potatoes and bacon wrapped filet mignon. Can you say, "Food comma?!?!" Like I said, the weather kept changing, so we stayed in and watched a girly movie (Sliding Doors with Gweneth Paltrow). It was good. And then we hit the hay "early" like around 11:30.

We got up this morning and went to the Corral for breakfast to get the full Douglas County experience. It was quite the experience, but had good food, too. There was an 8 year old (give or take) boy without shoes on in the restaurant running around! I seriously had never seen that before. It was even ruder when they got up to leave and then the kid put his shoes on. At least we had assumed before that he just didn't have any. Unbelievable. We went back to the camper and even though it was a little windy, went out for a boat ride. LOVE that. Then it was time to head home. It went so fast, but it was just wonderful. My battery is recharged and my cup is full.

Before I left on Friday, auntie NaeNae came over to cut Finn's hair, which I really appreciated. Hey, she got a huge Red Velvet Cake and a loaf of homemade bread for her troubles and some Finn/Austin time, so I don't think she minded too much. And Finn said "NaeNae" twice, not sure if she heard or not, though!

Becky graciously watched Finn today after Jim left for Michigan. I got there to pick him up around 5pm and after checking me out when I first walked in, Finn was like, "whatever!" and Austin wasn't even there! I'd forgotten he'd gotten a hair cut, so he of course looked so much older. He was talking a mile a minute, I'm sure telling me all about the fun he had with daddy and auntie Becca and Pete. I must seem so boring after all that fun.

I missed my boys, but the weekend was exactly what I needed. Now I'm just hoping I will be able to go to the 2nd Annual Smith Lake Girls' Weekend next year when I have a baby, too! Better get it on my calendar now :)

Surprise!

What does Finn's shirt say? (kind of hard to read with his round belly!)

This confirms it, here we go again...

Well, er, sick child appt

On Monday, after going down for a nap at 8:30am and getting up at 2pm (seriously!), I decided Finn needed to get out of the house and we went to visit the twins. He didn't have any contagious symptoms, so neither I nor their mom was worried. Finn definitely perked up while we were there (even ate some snacks!) and crashed when we left. I think all the girls do him good!!

Finn still wasn't feeling 100% yesterday. His temp was up Monday night to the highest that I had recorded in the last few days (100.9 degrees) and he was on both Tylenol and Motrin at the time. Fortunately, we had his 18 month well-child appointment yesterday, so I knew I could at least talk to the doctor about it. After sleeping in until 11:30am (Finn always sleeps a lot, but this is getting ridiculous!), Finn ate a little breakfast and we headed to the doctor. As for his illness, she said it is going around and not to be concerned unless things worsen (he should have a wet diaper at least every 8 hours). He seemed a little better yesterday; his fever seemed lower and he was awake a little more than the last few days. He isn't up yet today, so not sure how he is feeling. Hopefully it is running its course.

Well, Finn is 28.5" long and weighs 21# 15oz. That puts him at <3% for height and 10% for weight (for actual age). I was disappointed with his height and had the nurse measure him twice...with the same result. I was just so sure he had grown more than one inch. Both his weight and height remain exactly on his own growth curve, which is what they are looking for. I wouldn't mind him "catching up" a bit though! Overall, his doctor is VERY impressed with him and says that he is graduating out of the "special needs" category! So good to hear. That being said, instead of waiting until the next well-child appointment (which would be 24 months), she wants to see him at 21 just for a weight check and a quick look over (which I appreciate since 24 months seems so long away!).

We talked about his milk intake, or the lack thereof. She said that a baby child his age could drink around 24 ounces a day. So I mentioned that he usually drinks between 8 and 12 ounces a day! She said to just keep offering him whole milk and he will drink what he drinks. I can start giving him low fat yogurt and cottage cheese instead of the full fat variety, as he doesn't need the extra fat (he needs whole milk for the vitamin D and protein). As far as him wanting to eat all day, she said just to keep regulating it. Nobody needs to eat constantly, but several small meals and healthy snacks a day is good. Honestly, he doesn't eat junk, so I feel like if I keep doing what I'm doing, he will be good.

I mentioned the PT's concerns about his hips and feet. She said that she wasn't concerned about his hips (or at least she didn't order an ultrasound for them) and that his PT would know more about his feet issues than she would. She also mentioned appointing a specialist who is a doctor who specializes in physical therapy patients to over see Finn's progress. That way one medical expert will know what is going on and can make appropriate recommendations. Not sure what the next step for that will be.

After one vaccine and one blood draw, we were finally done (the appointment lasted almost an hour and a half!). We headed over to aunt Angie's so mommy could get her hair did! Finn LOVES Erica (and as it turns out, Gavin, too!), so after letting him snooze a little in the car, since he fell asleep on the way over there, he woke up, went to Erica and I was chopped liver. Thank you so much for watching him. I REALLY needed to get my hair colored and cut. Glad to know he likes being with you guys so much! Erica said that Finn should just stay with them! So cute. I think I would miss him and changing all those diapers might get a little boring after a while!

Walsh family pics

Must be Jessica Hislop week here in blog land! Upon my mom's request, my sisters and I did a secret photo shoot with Jess in June with our whole family (12 people total..Jess's biggest group shoot to date!). We told mom about it this weekend on her birthday, so it isn't a secret any more. The shoot went really well. We weren't exactly sure what mom wanted other than a full group shot, so we did sisters, grandkids, individual grandkids and family "pods." They turned out really well (as usual per Jess, duh!). Here is the link if you'd like to take a look at the Walsh family!

http://www.jessicahislop.com/clients/Walsh

Don't make fun of me for the one where I'm terrified...we were jumping off a high table and I don't like heights! Also check out Jess's blog if you are interested in family pictures. She does these little "mini session" packages in the fall that work great for Christmas cards! Something to keep in mind (she fills up fast, so don't wait too long!).

Proceed with caution!

Finn's 18 month pictures are ready for viewing! This set of pictures is so different from the previous ones because 1. they are outside, which I LOVE and 2. Finn is just so much bigger and can stand and looks like a little boy (instead of a baby)!

To take a peek, all you have to do is go to www.jessicahislop.com/clients/Finn. The password for proofing is: 18months. Proceed with caution as you may not be able to stop looking at them (if you're like me, that is!).

Jess said it best, "Your little baby is growing up." As always, my little plug for Jess, keep her in mind for any of your photo needs; including babies, kids, families, seniors and events! She is just the best.

Whirlwind weekend

Well, our extended weekend was fabulous. I don't really get the chance to spend time like that at my mom's very often, so it was a nice treat. Finn was terrible on the drive out there and eventually just screamed about the last 20 minutes of the trip. I'm so sad because he used to be such a wonderful traveler. I need to "rent" Austin for long car rides to keep Finn busy, I guess! We got to mom's, I handed Finn over (which of course he was fine them because Austin was there!) and I headed to dinner with two of my high school girl friends. We hadn't done this since, well, probably high school, so it was great to catch up. I told mom I'd probably be home around 8:30 and I think we finally closed down the patio around 10 or a little after. Oops!

Friday was a great, relaxing day. It seemed that Finn and Austin didn't get to see each other because as one was going down for a nap, the other would get up and vice versa (Austin had two naps/rests so he could stay up late for the bonfire!). In the afternoon the three of us walked over to my dad's. Austin had a blast climbing on the huge dirt piles. My dad hadn't seen Finn in a really long time, so he kept saying how big he was! Later, after Finn went to bed, we went to the "neighbors up north" (that is what Austin told me!) for a bonfire. It wasn't windy, which was nice for the smoke factor, but not so nice for the buggy factor.

Saturday morning, Austin, Finn, Becky, Grandma, me and Grandma's neighbor Pat, who is a local fire fighter took a trip over to the Murdock fire station. The boys loved it (although I don't know how much Finn really understood). He loved the flashing lights of course. Jim got to town around Noon and we headed over to Benson for the Smith family reunion (my mom's dad's family). There wasn't nearly as many people there this year as there have been in the past, but I guess it was a different weekend than normal or something. My grandpa is one of 12 kids and his offspring made up the biggest presense for sure. We came back to mom's when it was over and then took mom out to dinner for her birthday (which was on Sunday...Happy Birthday, Mom!). People from the reunion were going to gather back there in the evening for a huge bonfire and I toyed with the idea of going (plus, Becky, Pete and Austin were tenting there and it would have been nice to spend some time with them). Well, as it turned out, that was NOT in the cards. Just as we got home from dinner, the skies opened and the storm of all storms rained down on us. The wind was so loud, it sounded like constant thunder. Mom said they got 2.5 inches in a matter of an hour or a little more. Crazy. Thanksfully, no storm damage, though. Needless to say, we didn't head back over to Benson for any bonfires! And Becky, Pete and Austin survived (Austin has been obessed with tornadoes, so he was very concerned about one!).

Sunday, we got up intending to go to church with my grandma (and the WHOLE gang), but little Mr. Finnegan was hot to the touch (I didn't have a baby thermometer to check his temp for sure), whiney and clingy. He got up at 8:45, ate some yogurt and baby cereal, then Finn went back to bed at 9:30 and slept until 11:45...don't get me wrong, he likes to sleep, but that is a bit much even for him. Since we would have had to leave at 9:30 for church, Jim and I stayed back and waited for Finn to wake up. After church all of my cousins, aunts and uncles went over to my grandma's house (mom's mom) to celebrate her 80th birthday party. We managed to get there, just a little late. All of my mom's eight siblings were there and all but three or so cousins were there (which is really good considering there is 20 of us, I think). Then you add on great grand children and spouses and there was an entire backyard full of people. So good to see everybody, even if Finn was crabby, whiney and clingy the whole time.

We headed out a little early to get Finn home and so we could have some family time at home before Jim has to head back to Michigan (two weeks down, hopefully only two more to go!).

Pictures to come, I didn't take a ton with my camera, so I'm going to have to get them from Becky and mom. Thanks for the hospitality, mom!

Aren't walkers for old people?

I normally would wait until tomorrow to post about Finn's PT this morning, but since we won't have access, I just wanted to share this quickly. Finn used a walker today in PT! It was so cute and he looked SO big. They often use different kinds of walkers to help kids with delays in walking, which Finn obviously has. He didn't really "get" it, but Kristine (PT) said that is very common the first time they try. She also said that the plan will be to use one kind or another at each visit going forward to see if he takes to one (they have the walk behind push toys to try, too). Yay...anything to help little Mr. Finnegan to walk...I'm game! And of course I didn't bring my camera today to take a picture. Oh, well. There's always next time.

We're outta here. Have a fabulous weekend, everybody!

Bottles are for the weak

Yesterday, Finn's EI team came for their visit. I talked to Finn's teacher about his emotional attachments. After seeing other kids interact with their parents last Saturday, I was having some concerns about Finn. He just doesn't show affection like they did and doesn't really seem to get comfort from Jim or me. His teacher said she has ZERO concerns about Finn emotionally or with his attachments. She said that he has an independent personality (something we have nurtured since he came home from the hospital...our blessing and our curse, I guess!) and clearly has a normal, healthy attachment to us (she said when it isn't normal, it is VERY obvious). Well, I guess feel better! Better to ask the question than to wonder.

We are bottle free! With the except of one night last week, Finn has not had a bottle in at least a month! I still have them out on the counter, waiting to be used, but we haven't needed them. It is SO nice not having to wash them all the time (of course it didn't help that I only had three!). With sippy cups, I can just use them and then throw them in the dishwasher. Love it. I'm surprised I'm not sad about being done with the bottles, but I guess it was time. Now if only Finn would drink more milk from a cup, things would be wonderful!

We are off to Grandma's house this afternoon (i.e. get to see Austin!) for a long weekend without access to the internet (I know, can you believe some people still don't have internet at their home...ha, ha!). I'm having dinner with some girlfriends from high school tonight, we're hopefully seeing Grandpa "Egg" (my dad...Greg) tomorrow at some point, a neighborhood bonfire in the evening, family reunion on Saturday and my Grandma's 80th birthday party on Sunday. Whew. Hope we survive! Jim is meeting us in Murdock either late Friday night after his flight gets in or Saturday some time.

18 already?!?!

I meant to post yesterday because our pumpkin pie "turned" 18 months old! Where does the time go?



On the left is 7/6/09 and the right is 7/7/10 (forgot to take this comparison shot yesterday...oops!). My, how much difference a year makes. This time last year, he was losing weight and couldn't lift his head (partly due to his major torticollis). Now he is sitting, crawling, pulling up to stand and obviously loving his snacks (no more weight concerns...thankfully)!

Yesterday Finn and I didn't have anything planned (a rare day for us). But when I woke up, I remembered that my aunt Angie is on "break" from work and called to see if they had plans. Low and behold, they didn't! So Finn and I went over to play and to go to lunch with Angie and Erica (at the Sunshine Factory...Yumm-O!). It was confirmed that I'm not a member of the Perfect Mom's Club when I gave Finn rice that was too hot and burned his mouth. I, seriously, was more tramatized that Finn was. What kind of a mother does that?!?! He recovered quickly and Finn just LOVED Erica. I think I have a found babysitter! We came home, Finn napped and then auntie Becca invited us over for dinner (she needed my recipe for Thai peanut chicken...her and my favorite!). So we went over there! Note: Finn was NOT happy when he realized Austin was not there (Austin is at my mom's for the week). For not having anything planned, we sure had a fun day!

Today, Finn wants to wish auntie NaeNae a very happy birthday! He can't wait to see you on Sunday to sing Happy Birthday to you. I better start working on that! Ha, ha. Hope you have a fabulous day, sista! We love you.

Ideals

You know how when you are pregnant with your first child, you dream about what kind of parent you are going to be, how you will do things differently (or the same!) as your parents and how you aren't going to do things just because it is the easy way, but you'll do it the RIGHT way?!?! No, just me? Well, I did. I like to consider myself a well-adjusted and educated woman and I was going to do things "by the book." I made my own baby food (except when we traveled), I read books to Finn every day (or as often as I remembered or he reminded me!) and I said, "No french fries for my kid!" I had read some where that for American children, french fries were their favorite "vegetable" and that disgusted me (and still does!). And I held out for a long time (mainly because he wouldn't self feed, probably!).

Well, on the way home today from dropping daddy off at the airport, I had to stop and get gas and an Arby's hot ham and cheese sandwich was calling my name. The kind of calling my name where the car had a mind of its own...it just drove itself into the drive through lane! So I obliged. I got it with curly fries (duh, who wouldn't?!?!) and while it wasn't the first time he'd had fries, Finn ate at least half of them on the way home. He would just stick his chubby arm out the side of his car seat and grunt to let me know he was ready for another one. So much for my ideals! I'm still set on not ORDERING him his own fries, like in a happy meal (now they have healthy alternatives), but we'll see how long that lasts! I guess I'm no longer a card carrying member of the Perfect Mom's Club (and Finn will probably thank me for it later!).

Saturday I made a red velvet cake (my specialty!) for Jim's friend, Mike's non-birthday, birthday party. However, this was my first time adding pecans...which was an interesting endeavor.And I got to use my new Tupperware cake taker (LOVED it by the way!). I also made "velvet" cupcakes for the kids (sans red food coloring!). The party was great, even if it was a touch warm. All the kids had a blast and Finn held out with only a nap until 9pm! And the little bugger didn't fall asleep the WHOLE way home! Hello...they live like 40 minutes from us! Sunday (Happy Fourth of July everyone!) was a quiet family day, which we needed. We got Finn's pool out and he got to swim and play with his water toys. At the end, I brought out the soap and he got his first outdoor bath (easier than bringing him in and filling another tub, right?). Like I said previously, now daddy is on his way back to Michigan for another week. One week down, three (or more) to go.

Not again!

Okay, I changed the blog again. I know, I know...enough already! There were just too many things about the last template that I needed to fix and didn't know how. I'm still hopeful that a friend can help me offline and then I would change it back. But in the meantime, this is it. Simple, but it works.

Ride 'em cowboy

Wednesday we had PT in the morning. Julie was very impressed with Finn's development and stability. She worked a ton with transitioning to standing and said that he is definitely "getting" it. So we are focusing on transitioning and cruising (which he can do, he just forgets that he is standing some times!).

In the afternoon, Memere, Finn and I headed to the park for our ECFE play date. Finn had a great time, as there is a pool. All the kids went swimming, so it was a little chaotic. We got some pictures, but they are on Memere's camera and I, of course, forgot to get them off!

Wednesday evening, we decided we deserved some Dairy Queen and "shared" a banana split. I stress share because Finn pretty much ate it all! He wouldn't let Memere have a bite inbetween his bites. I think she did manage to get a couple in, though. Finn needs to learn to share and patience! After three wonderful days, Memere left to go home Wednesday after Finn's bedtime. It was great having another pair of hands and help! She mowed the lawn for me, which made me feel guilty, but she offered...and it looks great.

Yesterday, Finn and I went over to the Twins' house! We hadn't seen them in over a month, which is terrible! In our defense, they DID move houses in that month and I'm sure a little busy. Finn loves their house because there are so many "new" toys to play with and girls everywhere! I love their new house because it is spacious and open (jealous much?!?!).I didn't know that Finn could "ride" one of these toys (his toes JUST barely reached the ground)! Shockers of all shockers, we actually don't have anything like it at our house (I thought we had EVERY toy imaginable!). Unless Austin does...maybe I should check the garage! Anyway, Finn loved it. I told him we wouldn't tell anybody that it was a pink horse, though, so shhhhhh! Oh, and Ms. Juliette is full on WALKING! I can't believe it (and I think Lily will be soon!). We left when the girls laid down for a nap...and I think Finn was sleeping before we got out of their development.

Last night before bath and bed, Finn and I Skyped with daddy. While Memere was here, I don't think Finn really noticed Jim was gone (or maybe noticed, but didn't seem to mind). Yesterday, however, I could tell Finn missed Jim because he kept saying, "dadda, dadda, dadda." Now that Finn is older, he seems much more aware of when things are different. This was the first time that Finn "got" that daddy was on the 'puter and LOVED it. He kept waving to him and smiling. But daddy comes home today (yay!) and got an earlier flight (double yay!), so Finn will get to see him this evening!

Sneak peek

Jess is amazing. She already posted four pictures from Finn's photo shoot (okay, she did yesterday, but I didn't do a post!). They are on Facebook, so if you have access to Facebook, so to Jessica Hislop Photography & Design. If the link doesn't work, just type in the name at the top. Super cute pics, if I do say so myself! She is on vacation this week, so hopefully that tides you over until all of the pictures are ready. Thanks again, Jess.

It takes the cake

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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!).

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 ;)

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.

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.

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.

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 ;)

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.

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!

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.

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!).

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.

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.

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!

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!).

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 ;)

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.

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 :)

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 ;)

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.

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.

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 ;)

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.