Wednesday, July 30, 2008

July

I really don't know where the last month has gone. Seems like summer just started, and now it's quickly approaching its end. Yuck. I haven't been too diligent about taking pictures and updating our blog, but we've been pretty busy this month, with both good and bad things. Won't dwell on the sad things, but everything has kept us pretty busy. 4th of July, Milnor's 125th Centennial, birthday parties, softball, and just general life. I'm am happy to say that my brother and his family did make it home this month for Milnor's celebration. We all wish they lived a little closer so we could see them more often, though. :) As for our Sofia, well, she's growing up too fast for me. Although still not walking and no teeth to speak of, I can say that she has taken a few independent steps, and I can feel a bump on her lower gums, so a tooth must be ready to make its appearance. Things are moving along slowly, but really in Sofia's own time. And, that's the only time that matters, anyhow. She doesn't really speak actual words, but she is quite the chatterbox. Talking and talking all the time. It's pretty cute. But, anyhow, not really a whole lot to report. We've just been living life here, one day at a time. But, I better get to feeding Sofia her lunch. So, here's some pictures. I'll try to write again, sooner than later. :)

Hanging out after the parade in McLeod - 4th of July


League Champions


Our niece, Evelyn, hoarding her candy during Milnor's 125th Centennial Parade


My uncle, John, driving his tractor during the parade


Nothing comes between a girl and her shoes


Our nephew, Zachary


Evelyn


Watching Mulan intently


Emma's 1st Birthday party




















I foresee trouble in the future. :)








Wednesday, July 2, 2008

12-Month Checkup

Last Wednesday, Sofia and I went up to Fargo for her 12-month well-baby check. She now weighs 23 pounds 3 ounces and is 29 3/4 inches long. She ranges in the 75th percentile for both. The doctor examined her and found her to be doing just fine. She was a little concerned about Sofia (still) not having any teeth. In fact, she said that in the 6 years that she had been a pediatrician, Sofia was only the 3rd twelve-month old to not have any teeth. After examining her gums to make sure they looked okay (which they did), she said that the teeth were right there, and she wouldn't be surprised if the bottom and top ones finally popped out in the next month. Here's hoping! :) Other than that, she was tracking right on course. She isn't walking yet, but she's quite the cruiser, and in her playyard she "walks" from one end to the other. I think she could walk if she wanted, but she doesn't quite have the confidence yet. That's okay by me, she's growing up too fast for my taste anyhow. After the doctor was done, it was time for the shots. Sofia had to receive 3 boosters and one blood withdrawal. She did really well. I gave her her blankie and pacifier beforehand, but the shots still made her cry, and almost me too. But, she recovered quickly. Then, it was down to the lab for the blood draw. She cried when the tech poked her again, but before we left the lab room, Sofia was waving bye-bye to the tech so I guess she didn't hold any hard feelings. She's a pretty brave little girl. I don't think I could have handled that many shots in one day. She did really well; I was so proud of her.

Earlier in the day, we had gone to Sears and had her 12-month pictures taken. Click here to take a look. It was a long day, but she handled it really well. Must be the maturity that comes with turning a year old. :)

Sofia's 1st Birthday Party

On Sunday, June 22, we had a 1st birthday party for Sofia here at our place. It was a warm, beautiful day, and many family members and friends joined us to help celebrate Sofia turning 1. Lee grilled hamburgers and some hotdogs. Sofia received some wonderful toys and tons of clothes. We are so appreciative of everyone who loves our little girl. Thank you to everyone for your gifts and your company! The day wouldn't have been the same without you! Happy 1st Birthday Sofia! We love you!









Some More Birthday Pics











More Birthday Pics









Birthday Party Pictures Cont'd.









Sofia's 1st Trip to the Swimming Pool

The day after Sofia's birthday, it was Wednesday, so I had the day off. My friends Jolene and Cindy were both home with their kids and asked me if Sofia and I would like to join them at the swimming pool for a little while. At first I thought I should stay home and clean a little bit for Sofia's party, which was rapidly approaching, but I soon changed my mind. I hadn't seen Cindy and Drew for a long time, and I don't see Jolene and her kiddos all that often either, so cleaning could definitely wait. And, besides, it was roasting outside. We both had a good time, even though Sofia was a little iffy about being in the water. She never cried, but she was pretty clingy to whoever was holding her. But, I think a few more times, and it won't bother her a bit. I, myself, never got into the big pool because I didn't wear my suit, but Jolene was kind enough to take her in. Thanks again Jolene and Cindy! We had so much fun!

I don't know what to think about all this water.


Those kids over there look like they're having fun.


Hey! It's not so bad after all!

Sofia's Unoffical 1st Birthday Party

Here are some pictures I took on Sofia's birthday. We didn't really do anything too special because we had a larger birthday party planned for the following weekend. So we just went uptown for tacos, my mom had bought her a little cake and candle, and we sang Happy Birthday. Pretty low key, but nice.

It's my birthday!


Yes, I'm 1 year old.


Is that cake for me?


It looks pretty good.


Mmm. The frosting is yummy!