Workin' it ...

This little cutie has been trying to crawl for a few weeks now.  Levi is up on all fours, rocking back and forth, and digging his feet into the floor.  He's ready ... it's only a matter of time! :)

Preschool Parade :)

Abby's preschool had a parade today to celebrate the past month of learning about cultural diversity.  

Each class represented a different culture.  Abby's class studied Mexico, while others learned about Italy, Japan, France, etc ....

Since Abby just started back to school this week, she missed a lot ... but was still able to make her poncho and sombrero for the parade.  

Of course Abby stood and held hands with KiKi (her bestie) while they sang "It's A Small World."

Talk about adorable. :)

And just look at this guy.  What can I say?  He was happy, laughing at the kids, and having a fun time too!

First Day of Preschool

Abby was so excited to begin her first day of preschool today.  With her new kicks, backpack on, and wearing a huge smile, she was thrilled to see her old friends.  As most of you know, Abby went to early preschool last year and loved it.  She enjoys being around kids her age and is excited to learn new things. 

 So this year, she's moving up to the 3 year old preschool class.  Abby has been talking about her teachers and friends all summer long.  I knew she would be ready to start again today, but thought she may resist just a bit after being gone for five months.  Wrong!  Upon walking into her new classroom, she immediately found her name above her hook, hung her backpack, and joined some friends who were waiting for circle time.  I told her to have fun, quickly stole one more hug and kiss, and headed for the door.  I kept turning back to check on her but she didn't need me ... she was ready.  She didn't look back. :)

I'm getting used to it.

Almost two weeks ago Levi came home from the cranial center with a baby blue doc band (helmet) fitted for his tiny, little head.

The initial fitting went well and Levi seemed okay with his new "accessory." I'll admit it... I was the one with issues ...

My baby looked adorable and seemed happy, but I still couldn't help but feel a bit sorry for him. Yes, I know he's just five months old. But nonetheless, my heart was aching. I couldn't get it out of my head that Levi would have to wear the helmet twenty three hours a day for this treatment to be successful. Thankfully the helmet is super light, weighing only seven ounces. So I had to keep reminding myself that the helmet is not uncomfortable for him, just new and something he would gradually get used to. He would learn to play in it and sleep in it, which surprisingly didn't take long at all. It's not always easy, but as time goes on it won't be such a challenge.  There are even times when I take his helmet off for a small break and he rubs his head over and over ... almost like he's missing it!

The hardest part for me is how much I miss snuggling with that sweet little head of his. I miss kissing it twenty times a day and smelling the yummy baby shampoo in his hair. I miss rubbing his head as he's drifting off to sleep.

I've been encouraged by friends that have been in this situation and have been reading a few blogs that share their journey with the helmet and their wonderful success stories. It has definitely made me rethink our journey quite a bit!

I know we are making the best decision for our little guy. I know and expect people will stare and ask questions. (so far Levi has been asked by a three year old if he had a boo boo, was called a wrestler by a elementary aged boy, was asked by an elderly man if he would be okay out of deepest concern and he then prayed over him, and has had a group of teenagers laugh at him and literally make fun of him). I know I'm going to miss my snuggle time but will look forward to the hour before bed each day and smother him with as many kisses as I can. And most importantly, I will continue to rub his head and kiss him throughout the day because the helmet is a part of him. It's a part of our journey, at least for the next couple of months ... so why not make the best of it?

And seriously ... Could he be any cuter?!?

Friday Photo Dump

Levi feeding himself.  Awesomeness.

Abby poses in front of the beautiful sunflowers across the street.

Orioles kiddies ... Abby loves her buddies!

Levi looking stylish in his new helmet ... more to come on that soon! :)

Wordless Wednesday - Cuteness

Friday Photo Dump

First up: Our visit to the B & O Railroad Museum for Toddler Time.

We met up with our buddies for a sing-a-long, story, craft, and train ride.

The museum was decorated beautifully with American flags, the playground was a hit, and the kids were in awe of the big train.  (bottom left)  

Please notice how hard it was to get five toddlers in a picture.  (middle left) We tried!

Next up: Abby's first time bowling!

Aunt Heather, Emily, YaYa, and Grandad joined in on the fun ....

Even Levi helped Mama with her game ... and WIN might I add :) 

Random pics from this week ...

Abby made brownies, with little help from Mama.  Levi found his new favorite toys, his toes!  During tummy time, Levi decided it was time to nap.  Abby and Jacob watched a movie together in the theater room.  And last but not least, Levi's new 'do.  That patch of hair sticks up after nap time and is quite funny :)

Happy 5 months! :)

Dear Levi,

5 months... wow.  It seems like just yesterday.  You have changed so much, not only since April but since this time last month.  You are a calm baby, much more relaxed, and definitely not as fussy as you used to be.  From the sound of your cry I can tell if you are hungry, tired, bored, or need a new diaper. You really make it easy for me and for that I'm grateful.  Easy is good.  :)

We let you explore with your first tastes of solid foods around four months, although I could tell you weren't quite ready.  So I waited and tried again a couple of weeks ago.  Amazing what can change in just a few weeks, you were ready!  Your favorite seems to be peas, although you've tried carrots and sweet potatoes and eat it all with a smile.  Pears and apples are your favorite fruits and you still curl your lip and turn your nose up at bananas.  I think you'll love them ... just give them time. :)

Sleep is getting .... better.  Most nights.  You'll have a night where you sleep through until morning and other nights where you wake a few times and Mama ends up feeding you.  Do you need it? No.  Are you hungry?  Shouldn't be.  Does Mama give in to you?  Yes.  Soon, little man, soon.... that bottle will be no more!  You are taking two naps, one in the morning (when we are home) that usually is on the shorter side and one in the afternoon that lasts much longer.

I know everyone says every baby is different and you and your sister are just that.  You remind me of Abby in many ways, but in many ways you are so different.  You are very motor oriented and are ready to be on the move.  You are rolling from tummy to back and from back to tummy, non stop.  You are pulling your knees up and working at scooting towards toys.  It won't be long and you are going to be taking off ... and Mama will be chasing two kids all day!  You are wanting to sit on your own, but still need assistance ... we'll keep practicing.  :)

You've definitely found your "voice" and "talk" quite a bit.  The new squeal/scream you do makes me laugh.  I love hearing you talk ... I'll talk and sing back to you all day long.  I also love cuddling with you, you are quite the snuggle bug.  You'll rest your head on my shoulder ... just because.  When I kiss your cheeks, you smile begging for more.

I love you so much Little Man.  There is nothing in this world that compares to the love I feel for our little family.  You and Abby add so much to our lives and I look forward to what is yet to come.

Love,
Mommy

Your favorite ... sock monkey blankie.

Where you goin', Little Man?

Such a sweet boy ... 

Wordless Wednesday - It takes practice ...