4.07.2006

Huge update

If you look below, you will notice about 48 uploaded photos, plus this posting. I've been having some technical snafus with the blog which have kept it WAY out of date for several months. This latest upload includes photos from Christmas, through James's first birthday, up to last week. They are in approximate chronological order (most recent at the top), but not perfect.

Just after Christmas, James got his first teeth. Over the course of a month or so, he got four teeth up on top, then he decided that was enough for the time being. He still only has those four teeth.

He started saying his first words in the last month. "Duck" has been a favorite word to hear for several months, but he clearly started saying it recently. He also learned the baby sign for "more" and says "moowah" when he does the sign. He also does the sign for "eat," and sometimes mixes that with saying "moowah." The r-sound is pretty tough to make. He is adorable in his efforts, though.

He has also added the sign and words for "all done" which he shares whenever he feels like it, even if he is not "all done" with a meal or other activity. He has a sign for and says "dog." He also points at things much more and we tell him what they are.

About three weeks ago, we witnessed his first independent steps. That was a real thrill. I wish I could upload the video clip that we made. Since then, he has steadily improved his balance and speed. He now walks about 50% of the places he goes.

What else?.... Bathing him in a real tub, every other day or so, has helped him to enjoy baths - finally. Now he stands by the side of the tub and watches the water flow into it and bounces his knees with excited anticipation for time to play with his "duh." (You can guess what that means; hint:rhymes with "luck") His laugh is getting more like a little boy's laugh, which is fun. That also means that his fusses are becoming more like toddler fusses, which is less fun. As the weather warms up, we are able to spend more time outside with him and he really likes doing just about anything outside. I know he will enjoy it when he can run outside later in the spring.

I hope you enjoy the updated photos. Thanks for helping to keep this blog alive!


Now he's just showing off his new skills.


The tongue is very important for balance


Hurray for springtime!


Flowers are fun to pull apart


Snuggle time


Looks good in red


Gorgeous smile


James and Buster


The results


Getting focused on this project


Look mom, no hands!


Cake art


He may not like the way it tastes, but it mashes pretty good!


James is not impressed by his first chocolate experience. Is he really a Kerrigan?


Here it is... fitting, for a boy born on Superbowl weekend.


Then, got out of the nice outfit and ready for cake!


Great books and toys!


Opening presents


Do you mind? I am trying to sneak upstairs!


Huh?


James's first birthday


Can you believe they made me take a bath?! It's okay, because my good friend Duck Senior is here.


Yes, very good!


This is good


James has adopted the local dress here in rural North Carolina... a little too well.


Studley and his mom


Hello, my name is Studley Studerton


Gotta brush those four teeth


We thought they had a chance.


Hey Quinn, let me show you my latest trick!


Bundled Buds


James wants to go play in the snow in Massachusetts


A nice shot


Heh heh... sneaky dudes.


Yeah....


The expression on Quinn's face was simply too cute.


Not the best Christmas spirit here.


We get presents? Cool!


Sharing with a bud... good Christmas spirit.


More crackers


Santa likes crackers....not cookies!


Three cuddly tigers


Sweetness


Cutie and a tree


Ho! Ho! Ho!


Hey, Santa!


Happy family on Christmas Day