Hidden Treasures

We stumbled upon an old CAT toy backhoe this past Sunday while strolling around on a spontaneous afternoon. Rick couldn't resist purchasing this one for the small price of $15. We later saw the toy online for more than $160. We happened to be by his job site and stopped in for a quick photo session and introduction to his boss. Teagan was 100% game for the random fun! Heavy machinery runs in the family on both sides. Plus, we aren't afraid of introducing our sweet baby girl to a little dirt!

XO,
EAT

Teagan - quick 11 month update

The past 3 or 4 weeks have been a whirlwind. We are making the most of the last weeks of summer. But what really amazes us is how Teagan is rapidly emerging out of the baby phase and into a toddler. She took 6 consecutive steps on July 16th (10.5 months) and then several days later we counted 12 and then 20 and now all she does is walk! It was incredible to watch her figure it out. She actually is very graceful in her efforts and displays excellent balance.



The word of the month is hi/hey accompanied by a wave of the hand. She waves to everybody and everything. The door, the tree, Lolo the lamby, the chickens at the fair, the cashier at the grocery store, the man sitting next to us on the plane. I think nurse Mary had it right at 4 days old...we have a social butterfly in he making. She is now putting phones and other objects up to her ear like she is on the phone. Socialite!

Other things she loves:
Buckles - high chair, car seat, stroller, Grandpa's backpack, keys
Hats - or anything that could go on her head...they don't stay on her head but she loves putting them on and taking them off
Food - she eats EVERYTHING except broccoli...that belongs on the floor
Remote Controls - especially the expensive one
Lolo the Lamby - her favorite lovey for now
The Pool - splashing but mostly walking around pulling the lei's off the dummy, taking the lifeguards water bottles and waving to the other kids
Stairs - up and down and up and down

1 year will be here soon - wow and yay in the same breath!!

Buckles...FUN!

Lolo:

XO,

EAT

Bump, Set, Spike

We were able to catch Rick's volleyball game tonight. It was a gorgeous evening with the heat taking a break and a nice warm breeze. It was the perfect summer night to watch the games! We were at the same complex that we bowled at for a year and played sand volleyball for a summer. It is just another sign of the times that have passed to see players we used to play with and now we have this adorable 11 month old in tow! Teagan wanted to get out in the large sandbox and join in on the game! I can't wait to be on the sidelines cheering for her in whatever sport she chooses to try!

XO,
EAT

Guilty Pleasures

We all have them. Some have a new meaning now that I have a daughter. I am sitting here watching a movie that is terribly produced and with a predictable plot. The thought crosses my mind that Teagan could very well be begging to watch similar shows in 10 years. I hope I can remember moments like this between me, my glass of wine and ---

Our wild little zebra

She is so silly/hilarious/curious/smiley!

Explorer

Teagan is quite comfortable in her home now. She is quick to explore places she used to not go near or would even venture towards. Examples include -

Stormy

We had a violent storm whip through our area on Sunday. It only lasted 45 minutes but the damage is going to take weeks to clean up. We were fortunate to only be without power for 30 hours while some in the Western Suburbs are still without power. It was a reminder how much we use electricity and water in our daily lives. We are fortunate to have such luxuries as a hot shower, wifi Internet, air conditioning and washing machines. We are grateful the storm left us with minimal damage. We made the best with playtime on the deck, a trip to the pool to cool off, a visit to a friends house and Qdoba by candlelight!

Teagan's daycare was closed for two days. Today she went to a sister center in another suburb. I was a bit hesitant but figured it was worth a shot. The nursery teacher was very impressed with her social skills and willingness to explore. They took the babies on a 4th of July parade in the buggy where Teags waved and chatted with the toddlers! It is nice to have an adaptable baby!

Now we are back to the summer heat and looking forward to an extended Independence weekend at the lake!

XO,
EAT