tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83861796085087182942024-03-13T22:24:08.601-06:00Peyton's BlogThis blog is to keep our friends and family up to date on all things Peyton. From birth on, come here for your most up to date Peyton information.Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-56556756549273607552012-04-26T19:40:00.001-06:002012-04-26T19:40:03.717-06:003 Years Old-I'm a Preschooler Now!<br />
Ok, so I'm a bit late. Blame it on a crazy work schedule followed by family illness and I'm almost a month late writing Peyton's 3 year old blog. <br />
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I know I say this every time, but I can't believe he's 3 already! Talking in complete sentences, counting, starting to recognize letters and sounds, a puzzle whiz, and making friends like crazy. The logic of a 3 year old is both dizzying and entertaining. Peyton will bring up a story that happened 6 months ago like it happened yesterday and then jump to something that happened that day. He loves to talk too. He'll talk a blue streak for an hour straight in the car. <br />
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He's still such a boy. He's learned how to ride a bike with training wheels and would do it for hours if we let him. He still loves his baseball...and soccer, and football, and golf. He's still in gymnastics, and thanks to our friends and family, will get to take classes again next fall. He's obsessed with the typical boy things, construction equipment, cars, the movie Cars, Toy Story, dinosaurs, trains, etc. He loves to go to the zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. <br />
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As I think all little boys do, he wants to be just like his Daddy. A recent bag of hand me downs had boxer briefs in it, "like Daddy's" and he only wants to wear those. Sometimes the only way to get him to eat is to have it be from Daddy's plate. He also loves to help, almost to a fault.<br />
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He's a great big brother, most of the time. He definitely has difficulty with the concept of "gentle." Sierra has been knocked down, hit, and smacked more than once. He does love his little sister though. <br />
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We recently changed daycare, which was initially hard on Peyton. He'd been with Miss Lisa for so long. He's getting used to going to Miss Jamie's now and loves that there are other boys his age there. I'm happy because she used to teach kindergarden so he often comes home with projects that they've worked on that are educational. Plus, he's getting a nap again...thank goodness. <br />
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With how amazing this age is with the budding of a little person with a mind of their own comes the frustrations of a little person with a mind of their own. The temper tantrums are epic. The whining, grating on the nerves. The inability to fully understand and express causes frustrations in both boy and parents. The word "NO!" is yelled at least a couple dozen times a day. Learning how to navigate this age hasn't been easy on any of us. It's a learning process and a pretty tough one. The newest thing is possessiveness. Everything is "mine." <br />
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For his birthday we went to Red Robin again this year. This year he got it. This year he was excited it was his birthday, he told everyone. He's three and he's proud. We also had a "play date" at the park instead of a party with some of his friends. He had a great time and talked about it for weeks. Now he's excited about Daddy's and Mommy's and Sierra's birthdays, which he thinks for them all we should go to Red Robin. Love that kid. He's awesome and it's such a privilege to get to watch him grow up.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11782799909084839306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-48103716736554354182012-01-04T21:07:00.004-07:002012-01-04T21:07:40.441-07:00An Anecdote Not To Be ForgottenI had to write this down since it will probably be forgotten and I don't want it to be. I just had the most curious and cute exchange with Peyton. I put him to bed and he was really good because we just started a sticker chart for going straight to bed without crying or calling for Mommy over and over. Because Zack is out of town and I am doing all the nighttime duties myself I forgot one, going to the potty. Peyton and I must've had a psychic connection because I realized it and he called for me almost simultaneously about 30 minutes after he went to bed. We went in the bathroom and he began to tell me something I couldn't quite understand, but it was so cute anyway. He got on the toilet and began telling a story about his cape and being in the wind and getting knocked down and it hurt. I was sitting on the stool waiting for him to be done listening to this. He told me that when he was in his room he was talking to me (pretending) and had told me this story about the cape. When he was done he went back to bed, I tucked him back in, and he said "Thank you, Mommy for sitting on stool and listening to story about my cape while I was on toilet." He gave a huge cheesy grin and commenced to begin pretending again in bed, but quietly, so that he can get his sticker in the morning.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11782799909084839306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-8758838961155532072011-10-06T23:56:00.001-06:002011-10-06T23:56:07.660-06:00I'm a Big Boy NowPeyton is doing so well with potty training! He's gotten 3 trains so far from the Thomas the train loot we scored from one of Zack's coworkers and is a present every time he makes a potty training milestone (telling us when he has to go, staying dry at daycare, making it through naps, etc.). Peyton can't stop talking about "Big Buzz" which is the promised gift when he is fully potty trained. <br />
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I'm blogging to talk about the new structure in Peyton's life. This week we've started a lot of new things. We've enrolled him in the Little Gym on Wednesdays (which Daddy will have off starting next week so that we can rotate who goes with him), he goes to Miss Lisa's for daycare on Mondays with Sierra, and on Fridays we have started a co-op preschool with some of the MMMamas for 2 hours. The goal is to get him interacting with kids his age more, give him structured activity and direction following and so that school isn't such a shock. There is also the option of activities on Tuesdays (Roxborough State Park's toddler activity) and Thursdays (story time at the Roxborough library). I think it's already benefiting him because today, for the first time, he went and sat on the carpet with the other kids at story time instead of with Mommy. He even interacted with the songs a little bit. My baby boy is growing up fast. I just hope we can do right by him.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11782799909084839306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-71496056387110875722011-08-12T23:16:00.005-06:002011-08-12T23:39:37.525-06:00Camping at 2-A whole new world<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vFdSZpFAlIA/TkYN7hyXQZI/AAAAAAAAAQs/vEFaA_OEWKM/s1600/DSC_0264.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vFdSZpFAlIA/TkYN7hyXQZI/AAAAAAAAAQs/vEFaA_OEWKM/s320/DSC_0264.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640210899661177234" /></a>
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<br />So we went camping last night at our normal, close to home place, near Deckers. It was Sierra's first camping trip, but more importantly it was Peyton's first camping trip he may remember. In the morning before we left, he woke up and wanted to read a book, so I decided we would read his books that pertained to camping. He was SO excited to be going camping like, George (curious George). I went to my 6 week follow up appointment at the midwifery and Daddy and Peyton packed for camping. He was so helpful and as soon as I got home from the appointment he started asking about camping. What was more amazing was while we were on the drive he started talking about gathering water from the pump in a bucket (like curious George) and we had to explain we were going to a campsite without water to gather, so we had to bring it ourselves. <div>
<br /></div><div>Once we got there he wanted to help with everything. He helped erect the tent and carry stuff from the car. He wanted to be in the tent at all times and was so excited to have his own headlamp that it was on long before dark. He wrestled with Daddy on the air mattress (which now has a hole in it) and by then was extremely tired. He'd had no nap and became super cuddly. He sat on Daddy's lap and made Daddy's day. He soon switched to Mommy's lap and then back to Daddy. He wanted to know all things outdoors. The moon, the sun, the dirt, the bugs...it was all so exciting and new. </div><div>
<br /></div><div>In the middle of the night he woke up crying. Was he confused about where he was? Was he scared? Who knows, but he went back to sleep on Daddy and slept until morning. He was so exhausted in the morning, though, that he was super fussy. Less than half way home in the car he fell asleep and slept in the car at home for at least 45 minutes and then went back to bed for another 2 hours or so. That just doesn't happen. </div><div>
<br /></div><div>We can't wait to camp again, with plans to do so next week. Things are so different with him now. Daddy took him on a walk to explore. We talked about bugs, trees, the moon, the sun, and animals that might wander into camp. It is so amazing to give to our child the experience of sleeping outdoors and discovering the wild. He's been camping since 6 weeks old, but now, he remembers, repeats and enjoys. I love this part of being a parent. Experiential education...it's how we go to go on amazing excursions with TRiP at UF and now, it's how we will introduce our 2 year old to the great outdoors, bond with him, and teach him to preserve the planet. Life is good. </div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-11600889000023699242011-04-05T13:30:00.004-06:002011-04-05T14:08:46.800-06:002 years old and acting like it<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bgigoc19XVI/TZt1iPH52yI/AAAAAAAAAQA/JZGqQ6FuJ-U/s1600/P4040066.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bgigoc19XVI/TZt1iPH52yI/AAAAAAAAAQA/JZGqQ6FuJ-U/s320/P4040066.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592192593346288418" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ox32D5s7ZjU/TZt1hjERELI/AAAAAAAAAP4/5e8GTq4dlzA/s1600/P4030054.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ox32D5s7ZjU/TZt1hjERELI/AAAAAAAAAP4/5e8GTq4dlzA/s320/P4030054.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592192581519872178" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h4Emoj-xgns/TZt1hJT3p5I/AAAAAAAAAPw/h-IGLajEA2w/s1600/P4030049.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h4Emoj-xgns/TZt1hJT3p5I/AAAAAAAAAPw/h-IGLajEA2w/s320/P4030049.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592192574605993874" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v-aYCMbI4h0/TZt0eQN1UqI/AAAAAAAAAPo/zCrr3kdYp4s/s1600/P1080096.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v-aYCMbI4h0/TZt0eQN1UqI/AAAAAAAAAPo/zCrr3kdYp4s/s320/P1080096.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592191425408488098" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w16hA3TxGzA/TZt0eLJfBTI/AAAAAAAAAPg/MtqJUvUN5y4/s1600/P4030040.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w16hA3TxGzA/TZt0eLJfBTI/AAAAAAAAAPg/MtqJUvUN5y4/s320/P4030040.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592191424048071986" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3R_cI6O2Jc4/TZt0d9UVpCI/AAAAAAAAAPY/YN15AkDl6dc/s1600/P4030035.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3R_cI6O2Jc4/TZt0d9UVpCI/AAAAAAAAAPY/YN15AkDl6dc/s320/P4030035.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592191420335498274" /></a><br />Can you believe it? Peyton just turned 2! It's hard to believe it was two years ago that he came to join our family. It feels like he's always been here. He's such a boy too. He loves his baseball and being outside. His knees are always skinned and he bumps his head several times a week. His legs are always several shades of black and blue. The theme for his birthday this year was camping and baseball. For the baseball he got a glove and ball (way too big for him, but he has hardly taken it off since he got it several days ago), Rockies pjs and a jersey along with tickets to the game on his birthday. That was a bust, though, with a freaky cold front blowing in forcing the game to be snowed out (it snowed 2 years ago too, on the night he was born, but it hadn't been 84 degrees the day before). We'll just have to trade in the tickets for another game along the way. He was disappointed, but took it well. As far as camping goes, he now has his own camp chair and and headlamp care of his grandma and a camelback to wear hiking. I'm not sure how much he'll get to use this stuff this year with the new baby due in June, but it'll work for him for years to come. He also got a Woody doll from Toy Story and is getting a bike helmet (we got a scooter on Craigslist for him, but with how much he falls he's not allowed to try it until the helmet gets here) from other family. <div><br /></div><div>We went today to his 2 year well child visit. He weighs in at 25 pounds and is 34 3/4 inches tall, just shy of his Daddy's goal for him to be 3 feet by 2 years old (in order to get to 6 feet by adulthood-have you seen his parents? Not gonna happen). As usual, he was well ahead of normal in the motor development chart, doing a lot of 4 year old activities. He runs, jumps, rolls, throws, kicks, hits a baseball (from a tee or pitched to him) at a level well beyond what we would think possible. His climbing is only limited by his lack of height. He also loves to color and draw and is starting to talk up a storm, which is good because the temper tantrums he throws when we don't understand what he's saying are amazing. Speaking of tempers, he has one...big time. He gets frustrated easily when he can't do something right (like his mom) and has a short temper (like his dad). The terrible 2's have been upon us for some time now, and they aren't fun, but we know it's just a phase, and every time we successfully come up with a strategy for dealing with one of his triggers, it feels like a major victory as parents. </div><div><br /></div><div>He seems happy now about the new addition that is joining our family in June. He kisses my belly and tells Sierra hi. He gets a "kick" out of her kicking him when he sits on my lap at night. We are dealing with a little bit of reverting to baby-like behaviors, cuddling more (which I'm not complaining about), wanting to be carried, and refusing to potty train even though he knows full well how to use the toilet, what it's for, and when he needs to go. That's probably the most frustrating. We really wanted him potty trained by baby time and with only 3 months left (and my energy for such things waning) it's not looking good. Maybe it'll just happen one day, like him starting to repeat everything we say (that happened overnight). We'll keep our fingers crossed.</div><div><br /></div><div>Every day is a challenge, but a wonderful one. It's a journey we wouldn't trade for anything. And when you sneeze and hear a little voice say "tat-too" (bless you) or you give him a toy he wants and you get a "tankcoo" (thank you) and an occasional "I wuv you" followed by the most fabulous hugs and kisses in the world, you feel like your doing things right and he's on the right track. </div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-63313892467827294512010-12-16T10:26:00.009-07:002010-12-16T11:06:31.626-07:00Ear tubes!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TQpU2-CyMQI/AAAAAAAAAPI/J4qNg_Yrhbc/s1600/IMAG0353.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TQpU2-CyMQI/AAAAAAAAAPI/J4qNg_Yrhbc/s320/IMAG0353.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551342794031902978" /></a><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TQpU2rnq_0I/AAAAAAAAAPA/Y88W_qX-rrg/s320/IMAG0354.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551342789086347074" /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TQpU2eqjODI/AAAAAAAAAO4/KNrd4AUclDM/s1600/IMAG0351.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TQpU2eqjODI/AAAAAAAAAO4/KNrd4AUclDM/s320/IMAG0351.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551342785608759346" /></a><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TQpU2IzG95I/AAAAAAAAAOw/6Ros4jPJHds/s320/IMAG0350.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551342779739076498" /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TQpU1n5Y7uI/AAAAAAAAAOo/lyNZCGJJB2U/s1600/IMAG0349.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TQpU1n5Y7uI/AAAAAAAAAOo/lyNZCGJJB2U/s320/IMAG0349.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551342770907049698" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Today Peyton had surgery to put tubes in his ears. It was a tough decision, especially for me who didn't want my little boy to have to be under anesthesia, but after 5 ear infections in 8 months and many many sleepless nights up with a screaming child, we determined it was for the best. We were further justified when he went to the ENT and they tested his eardrums for movement (a measure of fluid behind them) and they were deemed "flat" basically meaning they weren't vibrating the way ear drums should because of the pressure. Everything went great. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I only got teared up when they took him back and he started screaming and reaching for me. Zack came and stayed until he was released. He had a ball before the surgery with so many nurses to play ball with him, which was good since it was 6:30 in the morning and an hour before his actual surgery. That's a long time to keep a 20 month old occupied who's been not allowed to eat and drink since 8:30 the night before. Afterward he cried for about an hour or so, but was pretty cooperative. He even took the tylenol with no problem that the nurses said was not the good tasting stuff he's used to. Right before we got home he finally stopped wailing and is now back to his old self. The doc said we made a good decision because the left ear was all pus behind his eardrum (and is still draining like crazy) and the other was a mix of pus and mucus (yuck). He's showing no signs of having any ill effects from the anesthesia. The doc said he'd most likely puke at least once, but he's had a whole cup of milk and some crackers and is playing and acting fine. Amazingly, he's even keeping the cotton ball in his left ear. He's such a little trooper. I thought we'd have a lazy day sitting around watching TV, but he's not in the mood to sit still. I wish he'd go nap so we could get some errands done since he's doing so well, but he doesn't even seem tired. So it looks like we made a good decision. I can't wait until he's healed to see if there are big changes in his speech and sleep patterns.</span></span>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-26979720004876258512010-10-08T18:40:00.006-06:002010-10-08T21:53:34.690-06:001 1/2 years old and no longer a baby<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TK_mc_VJNcI/AAAAAAAAAOg/mtoIbWofiyI/s1600/IMAG0286.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TK_mc_VJNcI/AAAAAAAAAOg/mtoIbWofiyI/s320/IMAG0286.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525888653517731266" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TK_mcbIIxJI/AAAAAAAAAOY/x9GeSw7-1Wk/s1600/P1070600.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TK_mcbIIxJI/AAAAAAAAAOY/x9GeSw7-1Wk/s320/P1070600.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525888643799499922" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TK_mcBHM1hI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/szq41-LgugU/s1600/P1070614.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TK_mcBHM1hI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/szq41-LgugU/s320/P1070614.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525888636816250386" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TK_mb6ZHyJI/AAAAAAAAAOI/vYDdfUlr1JM/s1600/P1070621.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 238px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TK_mb6ZHyJI/AAAAAAAAAOI/vYDdfUlr1JM/s320/P1070621.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525888635012368530" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TK_mbdzV7ZI/AAAAAAAAAOA/A71QUmFoSDY/s1600/P1070389.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TK_mbdzV7ZI/AAAAAAAAAOA/A71QUmFoSDY/s320/P1070389.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525888627337719186" /></a><br />A year and a half, 18 months. Time flies. We no longer have anything resembling a baby on our hands, we have a budding little boy. A little boy who loves to throw the ball, climb, run, and flip, mimics everything we do, throws temper tantrums with the best of them, cuddles better than anyone on the planet, and has a litany of priceless faces that we recently memorialized in a collage photo. He is also a little boy who has gets sick every time he's teething, refuses to sleep through the night, and tries our patience at times as he pushes the envelope to see what he can get away with. <div><br /></div><div>At his docs appointment he was 22 lbs 14 oz, 33 inches. He's getting taller and skinnier dropping down off his weight growth curve and moving up on the height curve. This could also be because our once connoisseur of fine foods, who would eat everything but meat, suddenly doesn't want to eat anything. He's too busy to eat. You can almost see the changes in him cognitively. He's wanting to say more and more words, is spending more time on activities that test his brain, like the shape sorter (which he can now easily do and does over and over and over), coloring, looking at books and trying to say the words that go with the pictures, and participating with the TV when he watches his favorite show, Play With Me Sesame. He is also on the road to potty training, often taking himself to the potty during the day (now if we could only get his babysitter to offer him the potty more often, he might be 100% trained by the end of the month). His joy in life is making us proud as can be seen by the grin on his face and his self applause when he does something right. We've got him putting away his toys before bed every night, which is one of his favorite games-we'll see how long that lasts. We are working on the Gator chomp. That should be good to go, hopefully by the UF/LSU game this weekend or next week at the latest:) </div><div><br /></div><div>Every time I blog, I think, this is my favorite time. He's becoming such a little person. His personality is a joy. He loves to sing and dance and seems to be very musically and athletically inclined, which should be genetic since both his parents were both athletes and musicians. He is the greeter whenever we are out somewhere of all who come near him. He waves hi and gives a big toothy grin. I had a guy stop me in the grocery store one day when he was in the Ergo on my back and I couldn't see him, to tell me that Peyton made his day because he looked over at him, gave him a huge smile and started waving. That's our Peyton, he's a real people person. Unfortunately for me, but good for him, he has been going to his baby sitter's house more lately as I have begun working more and Zack changed his schedule. He loves spending time with the other kids, plus there is every toy known to man at that house. When I pick him up he is typically covered in dirt, food, markers, paint, or something to show he was having fun. It makes it easier for me to leave him, but harder because I'm not getting to spend nearly the time with him that I was.</div><div><br /></div><div>We are so pleased by how Peyton is turning out, temper tantrums and all. Now if only we could get over the never ending cold/teething and get him sleeping through the night, life would be perfect. </div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-7318852135634527042010-08-05T12:37:00.003-06:002010-08-05T13:12:18.836-06:00Longboat Key trip-16 months old!Last week, we took a family vacation to Longboat Key. Before we went we thought Peyton would enjoy things like chasing the birds and throwing rocks in the water. We had no idea how much fun he was going to have (and how little interest he would have in chasing birds and throwing rocks into the water). We were there with Grandma, Granddaddy, Aunt Carrie, cousins McKenzie and Justin, and Aunt Cathy came down one day to visit too. Peyton was so good for everyone. He stayed with Grandma and Aunt Carrie and was well behaved and played hard. This gave Mommy and Daddy several nights out to dinner alone and a kayaking trip, which were much needed. We have had very little alone time or date nights in the last 16 months. He napped well for everyone, and even slept pretty well at night even with the time difference, teething, and being in a weird place. His favorite thing to do was to play in the water and shovel sand. He had a shovel glued to his hand almost constantly. He loved running into the shallow water and tide pools and would fall down and just pick himself up and do it again. It was so much fun to watch. He enjoyed the beach much more than the pool. He would sit in the raft out in the ocean just bobbing up and down and almost drifting off to sleep on several occasions. We had to go early in the morning, stay until about noon, let him nap for about 3 hours and then we would go back in the evening because of the heat. He didn't seem to mind the humidity and heat much, though. He wanted to be outside all the time and got very angry when we would make him come in. <div><br /></div><div>The trip was good for him socially and developmentally too. He got to play with his cousins and took to everyone very quickly. He is even more of a copy cat than ever. You do something once and you'll see him doing it shortly thereafter. Running on the beach did wonders for his balance and his hand eye coordination improved a lot-the first day he couldn't figure out how to shovel and get it in the bucket and by the last day he was filling buckets with sand-and he's doing better at catching and is on the verge of jumping. His personality grows more everyday, as does his stubbornness. At times he is quite the handful, getting into everything and constantly testing his boundaries. </div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, here are some links to videos from the trip. I thought it was easier to do it this way than put links to every one on facebook. Enjoy!</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; "><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DDWn1WBGAg" target="_new" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 51, 204); text-decoration: none; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DDWn1WBGAg</a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; "><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hs9PpSWyDzI" target="_new" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 51, 204); text-decoration: none; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hs9PpSWyDzI</a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; "><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daL9lMAsrWg" target="_new" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 51, 204); text-decoration: none; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daL9lMAsrWg</a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; "><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DnazCbWm1U" target="_new" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 51, 204); text-decoration: underline; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DnazCbWm1U</a></span></div><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtE1-kyljTI">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtE1-kyljTI</a></div><div><br /></div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-61153800382336246042010-07-02T19:36:00.002-06:002010-07-02T20:08:07.759-06:0015 months-Time Flies When You're Having Fun<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TC6bZqG1B4I/AAAAAAAAANw/z5MYPVUYoJo/s1600/P1060509.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TC6bZqG1B4I/AAAAAAAAANw/z5MYPVUYoJo/s320/P1060509.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489495860913178498" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TC6bYnTjrvI/AAAAAAAAANo/lD3JDk_iOsA/s1600/P1060495.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TC6bYnTjrvI/AAAAAAAAANo/lD3JDk_iOsA/s320/P1060495.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489495842981392114" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TC6bYHTey7I/AAAAAAAAANg/lEcQKybjbTE/s1600/IMAG0093.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TC6bYHTey7I/AAAAAAAAANg/lEcQKybjbTE/s320/IMAG0093.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489495834391137202" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TC6bXgqjbyI/AAAAAAAAANY/-MFDDK0vSsM/s1600/IMAG0038.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TC6bXgqjbyI/AAAAAAAAANY/-MFDDK0vSsM/s320/IMAG0038.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489495824018927394" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TC6bW9AwuSI/AAAAAAAAANQ/5D66Hhre2fQ/s1600/P1060281.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/TC6bW9AwuSI/AAAAAAAAANQ/5D66Hhre2fQ/s320/P1060281.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489495814448396578" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Verdana, sans-serif;font-size:medium;">So I came to a realization tonight, my baby is no longer a baby. It actually started this morning. We pulled up in front of the house where he goes for day care and he did his usual whimpering in acknowledgement of where we were and that I was going to leave him. I said, "stop that, you know you have fun when you are here." He promptly stopped. We walked to the front door where Ms. Lisa was waiting and walked inside. He didn't cry, he didn't cling to me. Instead, he smiled at her, pushed away from me to be put down and commenced playing with a toy that he proudly showed me. So there it is, the first time that he didn't cry when I left him. I was given a kiss and a quick wave goodbye in between playing with the giraffe he'd found. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Verdana, sans-serif;font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Verdana, sans-serif;font-size:medium;">In just the past two weeks or so, Peyton's personality has blossomed into a little boy. He "talks" all the time, in complete Peyton sentences. He says tons of stuff appropriately. When we left daycare I asked him if he had fun and he said "yep!" I asked him if he played a lot and he said, "yep!" I said "what else did you do today?" and he proceeded to monologue about his day, even though I didn't understand a word of it. When he's proud of himself he loudly declares, "I did it!" He squeals, runs around like a maniac, and climbs on everything. I swear he is going to be a rock climber and a baseball and football player. His skills are unbelievable. He tries to jump, loves to spin in circles and make himself dizzy, and now safely goes up and down the stairs without being told how. He loves to play in the hose when I'm watering my garden. He's a social butterfly, pleading with his eyes to other kids to play with him at the playground and has made his babysitters' 5 kids all ask "when is Peyton going to be here next," especially her 4 year old twins who greet him at the door and can't sleep in on Wednesday mornings because they are so excited he's coming. He says hi to everyone we pass in the grocery store.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Verdana, sans-serif;font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">On top of everything he's become such a lover. He gets so excited to see me or Daddy when we get home from work, climbs in our laps, gives great kisses and hugs, blows kisses, and loves just sitting with us, talking up a storm. It's the most amazing feeling to see him blossom into this wonderful little boy and know that we've done things right. For 15 months we have done more than keep him alive (the goal of every new, scared parent), we have facilitated his development, physical, social, and emotional, and now he is an extremely happy, well adjusted child who makes everybody who meets him smile. He leaves an impression. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">So tonight, when I said to Zack, "Have you noticed in just the last 2 weeks or so how much Peyton has changed from a baby into a little boy?" we both started crying, not because we are sad really, but it is sad to see babyhood end, and scary to see childhood begin. We know there are power struggles to come and every day will be a new adventure, but we are proud. Proud parents of an amazing child who leaves us in awe every day that he came from us. Every sacrifice we've made in the last 15 months is so worth it. I know we both feel our lives were not complete until Peyton came into it. A child is a blessing you can't understand until you have one, then your whole life changes and that's OK because you now feel that it is the way it always should have been. We love you, Peyton.</span></span></div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-68963270821560673192010-04-08T11:54:00.002-06:002010-04-08T13:24:52.076-06:00Guess who's 1!?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S74tWmw-3hI/AAAAAAAAANI/dqHGd5_iJ1g/s1600/DSCN0729.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S74tWmw-3hI/AAAAAAAAANI/dqHGd5_iJ1g/s320/DSCN0729.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457849664805985810" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S74tWNa2UXI/AAAAAAAAANA/ACZ8Yey1GsY/s1600/P1060075.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S74tWNa2UXI/AAAAAAAAANA/ACZ8Yey1GsY/s320/P1060075.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457849658002264434" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S74tVkiF0LI/AAAAAAAAAM4/-VfV6hfi-eU/s1600/P1050990.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S74tVkiF0LI/AAAAAAAAAM4/-VfV6hfi-eU/s320/P1050990.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457849647026786482" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S74tVOxZilI/AAAAAAAAAMw/0xW_vTrb5xw/s1600/DSCN0814.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S74tVOxZilI/AAAAAAAAAMw/0xW_vTrb5xw/s320/DSCN0814.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457849641185413714" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S74tUaqfKaI/AAAAAAAAAMo/00lh6DyVCRM/s1600/P1050965.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S74tUaqfKaI/AAAAAAAAAMo/00lh6DyVCRM/s320/P1050965.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457849627197778338" /></a><br />So I can't believe it, our baby is one...I guess that technically makes him a toddler now. What a wild and crazy year it's been. I have enjoyed writing this blog to commemorate each month and milestone along the way. This will be my last regular post. I still may blog from time to time to inform about new milestones, big events, etc. I am very happy because our little baby is turning into such a fabulous little boy, but I'm sad because his baby days are numbered.<div><br /></div><div>Peyton had his one year checkup on the 6th and he weighed in at 20 lbs 8 oz and 29 inches long. He's still in the 25th %ile for height and weight so he's thriving well (he just has short parents). No one at his doctor's office could believe he's already a year. He sees a general wholistic practitioner, not a pediatrician, so he's very well known there for his adorable smiles and round cheeks. He's healthy as can be with the only problem being his lack of sleeping at night still. He's able to put himself to sleep well, he always gets laid down awake, but he doesn't stay there. His ears looked good, as did everything else, so we think it's still just teething. Poor baby got 3 teeth all at once and is acting like more are on the way. He looks very cute with his 2 front teeth and he's learned quickly that they are used for biting food. It's so cute to see him break off a piece of cracker and move food to the front of his mouth to try and chew with the 4 teeth he has. </div><div><br /></div><div>Other things he's been up to include walking (he's still unsteady at times, but he tries to go further and further every day), climbing up anything he can, and saying more and more words. His newest words are "baby," "no way," and "yum yum" or "yummy." We can tell, because we're around him a lot, that he tries to say more than that. He repeats the inflection of words and phrases, even when he can't get the word. </div><div><br /></div><div>Peyton's first birthday fell on the day before Easter. On his birthday we went to the neighborhood egg hunt, where there were tons of kids. He had never seen that many people in one place before and was in awe. He wouldn't pick anything up because he was so amazed by the wind (it was a ridiculously windy day) and all the people. He walked around holding my hand, though, which was super cute. We had a party that evening with some of our close friends who have gotten to know him pretty well in the last year. Grandma and Aunt Cathy were also here for the whole week leading up to his birthday, so they got to celebrate too. Peyton had a Sesame Street cake and a little cube cake that looked like an ABC block that he got to tear into without any of the adults having to eat from it afterwards. He really wasn't that into the cake, with me having to give him the first taste to get him to even touch it. He only licked a little bit of icing, but it was enough to give him a bout of diarrhea the next day since he usually only eats very healthy foods. The party was Sesame Street themed, with the focus being his favorite, Elmo. He got all kinds of fun toys. We themed his presents, getting him a play tent and multiple camping story books to get him in the mood for the upcoming summer. He got lots of books, a plastic golf game, a wagon with blocks, some balls, a ride on/hauling toy and several other things. He loves them all. </div><div><br /></div><div>So, I want to conclude by saying that I could never have imagined how wonderful motherhood would be (and I'm sure Zack would agree with being a father-especially now that Peyton is all about playing with Daddy). The lack of sleep, trying to juggle work (albeit only 2 days worth), housekeeping, parenting, and making sure that he is introduced to all the right things for play and food and development has all been worth it to see how amazing he is now. He's extremely happy, has had one illness all year requiring a doctor's visit, and makes each day better than the last. We love him with all our hearts and hope to continue leading him on his life journey to make him a happy, successful person. I wouldn't change a thing about birthing him at a birthing center with a midwife, being an attachment parent, using cloth diapers, feeding him only organic, healthy foods, continuing still to breastfeed (although minimally now), limiting his television viewing, having few electronic toys, feeding on demand and allowing him to sleep in our bed when he needs to. I love being an mom, Zack loves being a dad and Peyton seems to love life and that's all we could ask for.</div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-6482966288075966732010-03-05T10:39:00.004-07:002010-03-05T13:36:54.831-07:0011 months old!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S5FIBRzdOOI/AAAAAAAAAMg/9RWnLBjtv8A/s1600-h/P1050541.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S5FIBRzdOOI/AAAAAAAAAMg/9RWnLBjtv8A/s320/P1050541.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445212611263936738" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S5FIAvj0K_I/AAAAAAAAAMY/gDn4eJ9jeEc/s1600-h/P1050866.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S5FIAvj0K_I/AAAAAAAAAMY/gDn4eJ9jeEc/s320/P1050866.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445212602071526386" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S5FIAJksBFI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/YyJExxyLPn8/s1600-h/P1050840.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S5FIAJksBFI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/YyJExxyLPn8/s320/P1050840.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445212591874638930" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S5FH_eIx2BI/AAAAAAAAAMI/r3c6vwDGgSI/s1600-h/P1050852.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S5FH_eIx2BI/AAAAAAAAAMI/r3c6vwDGgSI/s320/P1050852.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445212580214855698" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S5FH-3v5tHI/AAAAAAAAAMA/gpKQqLn6Auc/s1600-h/P1050856.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S5FH-3v5tHI/AAAAAAAAAMA/gpKQqLn6Auc/s320/P1050856.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445212569909965938" /></a><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ZLibXIRcaA">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ZLibXIRcaA</a></div><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9i7Q1yHyEQ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9i7Q1yHyEQ</a></div><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Va1nT1aDx_g">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Va1nT1aDx_g</a></div><div><br />Our baby is almost a year old! It's so hard to believe that I was due this month last year. <div><br /></div><div>Peyton gets more personality by the day. More than his mobility this month, his social skills have developed. He continues to test his boundaries and definitely does things he's not supposed to for attention. He's destroyed 2 lamps in his room. Those little hands are fast and accurate as was demonstrated the one morning he ended up with OJ all over his head from him grabbing my glass. He's got a toy box in the living room and his favorite thing to do is empty it and throw everything across the room. He's got a pretty good arm. He's talking more and more. Not always real words, but you can tell they are real to him. I caught him "singing" the other day to himself. He's very expressive with his facial expressions too...especially those eyebrows. Anyone who's seen the face I'm talking about would agree. It makes everyone laugh. When we go out he is still initially shy, but is starting to wave and "talk" to people he doesn't know now, as long as he gets Mommy's look of approval first. </div><div><br /></div><div>Peyton's not walking yet, but he tests his balance. He can stand without holding on to anything for about 10-20 seconds before he falls. Just like crawling, I think it'll just happen one day. The child does not sit still for 2 seconds when he's awake. He has learned to do lots of things that teach me that just when I think the house is babyproofed, it's not. He can climb the stairs, but can't safely come down. He climbed up on the couch the other day with the help of something on the floor that he figured out how to use as a step stool. His new thing is pushing his toys across the room while crawling on his knees and putting toys in other toys. I guess that means the boy needs a dump truck. Maybe for his birthday...</div><div><br /></div><div>That's pretty much it. Next month will make me cry. Our baby will be one. Zack and I are getting him a little cake and Grandma and Aunt Cathy will be in town to celebrate. We love that baby boy!</div></div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-63078329905015285242010-02-18T22:55:00.003-07:002010-02-18T23:41:56.306-07:00Peyton's first Mardi Gras<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S34ybzF9vdI/AAAAAAAAAL4/HNT1Snxa1Dk/s1600-h/P1050823.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S34ybzF9vdI/AAAAAAAAAL4/HNT1Snxa1Dk/s320/P1050823.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439840853063220690" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S34ya4SipYI/AAAAAAAAALw/vA_68aIeuEM/s1600-h/P1050785.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S34ya4SipYI/AAAAAAAAALw/vA_68aIeuEM/s320/P1050785.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439840837278279042" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S34yaOmNW-I/AAAAAAAAALo/jDzsOUl-ME0/s1600-h/P1050644.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S34yaOmNW-I/AAAAAAAAALo/jDzsOUl-ME0/s320/P1050644.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439840826086480866" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S34yZRRNaDI/AAAAAAAAALg/53kV94YIRMI/s1600-h/P1050615.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S34yZRRNaDI/AAAAAAAAALg/53kV94YIRMI/s320/P1050615.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439840809623840818" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S34yYI-m3FI/AAAAAAAAALY/jp6p3OGI0z4/s1600-h/P1050604.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S34yYI-m3FI/AAAAAAAAALY/jp6p3OGI0z4/s320/P1050604.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439840790218464338" /></a><br />For the past week we've been in Lafayette, LA celebrating Mardi Gras and introducing Peyton to his Daddy's relatives. Wow, did he meet a lot of people. He was a trooper the whole time and seemed to really enjoy being around lots of other kids and new faces. He definitely liked the attention. And all this while he was sick with a runny nose and cough (which we now know is an ear infection). <div><br /></div><div>We stayed with Peyton's Parrain and Aunt Jessica. He got to meet his cousins, Averie, Marie, and Baylor. Also, he got to be reunited with Aunt Jessica's parents, Chris and Richard. The first night they had dinner at their house and Peyton also got to meet PawPaw and Nanny Bobbie. Even after traveling all day he was happy as a clam to be passed around.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thurday, for lunch, we ate with Mrs. Connie, Daddy's Mom's childhood friend. We also made plans to get Peyton's first haircut from his PawPaw (the pics are so cute, he was so good). He also met MawMaw (his great grandmother). She was in love, as was expected. She gave him a little radio she got from the casino and a piggy bank full of coins (we haven't checked our luggage yet to see if it made it or got smashed on the trip home). Miss Margaret, MawMaw's friend was there too. This was the day Gwen and Philip got in from Texas too. I can't remember if Tiffany and her friend Holly came that night or the following day, but they were at the house too. It was crazy full.</div><div><br /></div><div>During the day on Friday we headed to Pizza Village to have lunch with MawMaw and as a surprise, Uncle Ricky and TroyAnn, Uncle Earnest, and 2 of Ricky's sons showed up too. We got a picture of the whole Roger clan. On Friday night our friends Ben and Rachel came, but didn't get in until really late. Peyton got to experience his first Mardi Gras parade on Saturday, when we headed to Carencro for the block party at Aunt Sandra's house. Uncle Fred provided the music. This was Peyton's longest day by far, but he only fussed for a little while because he was hungry. We got tons of beads that day, and Peyton made out with quite a few toys as well. We danced and ate and had a good ol' time. Peyton got to meet Joshua, Daddy's cousin Jodi's son, who is 6 months old. Aunt Jessica's sister and her 2 kids came in on Saturday from Florida. Talk about a full house. Saturday night we stayed in because after getting home from Carencro, Peyton's cough got bad. Poor baby couldn't catch his breath and actually ended up throwing up because of all the drainage that was running into his tummy. </div><div><br /></div><div>Sunday he was no worse for the wear and we had a bonfire at Chris and Richard's property that night. He was content sitting in the sling on Daddy all night. </div><div><br /></div><div>We finally went to Cajun Field on Monday to watch the parade. It was fun, again, keeping Peyton content in the sling. He met so many more people these last few days, that I can't even begin to think who they all were. Peyton did us the favor of being a good boy and going home with Aunt Jessica so we could have one night to ourselves. Tuesday was Mardi Gras and we were again at Cajun Field. This was the longest day by far without anywhere for naps. He finally gave in a napped in our arms briefly. By the time we got home, he had his second wind and was happy, playing, and entertaining everyone. </div><div><br /></div><div>The whole trip was so much better than I could've ever anticipated. Peyton loved meeting everyone and was so good considering how little sleep he got the whole week, and I think everyone loved meeting him. He's quite the little charmer when he wants to be. He didn't even fight bedtime, which surprised me with him being out of his element. Runny nose and all, he had an exciting week. He comes home with multiple gifts as well. A Mardi Gras outfit from Aunt Sandra, a Superbowl champs outfit from Gwen, a Saints outfit, bear, and telephone from Aunt Janet, money from Mrs. Connie, and the little radio and bank from MawMaw. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks to everyone for the hospitality. Peyton is truly blessed to have such a great extended family. </div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-79011092978177230042010-02-03T20:12:00.003-07:002010-02-03T20:41:17.456-07:0010 months old today!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S2pBSArRS5I/AAAAAAAAAKw/nWYd68x_MRg/s1600-h/P1050328.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S2pBSArRS5I/AAAAAAAAAKw/nWYd68x_MRg/s320/P1050328.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434227678050864018" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S2pBRtu7-ZI/AAAAAAAAAKo/HbSSFH1WBIY/s1600-h/P1050316.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S2pBRtu7-ZI/AAAAAAAAAKo/HbSSFH1WBIY/s320/P1050316.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434227672965970322" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S2pBRKHmatI/AAAAAAAAAKg/61HvQIQODK0/s1600-h/P1050333.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S2pBRKHmatI/AAAAAAAAAKg/61HvQIQODK0/s320/P1050333.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434227663405738706" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S2pBQnO0f6I/AAAAAAAAAKY/iGjQ0_CUl4c/s1600-h/P1050386.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S2pBQnO0f6I/AAAAAAAAAKY/iGjQ0_CUl4c/s320/P1050386.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434227654040780706" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S2pBQGUePDI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/IstZJ4KFlMU/s1600-h/P1050447.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S2pBQGUePDI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/IstZJ4KFlMU/s320/P1050447.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434227645206117426" /></a><br />Here we are, 2 months away from 1 year! With increased mobility and increased intelligence comes increased mental fatigue for Mommy and Daddy. Peyton is testing us. His favorite "test" is to sit in front of the fireplace hearth, and act like he is going to climb up. Then he makes sure we are watching and tell him no, and he shakes his head side to side in the "no" sign and then, with one last glance to make sure we're still watching, he books it up and grabs the fireplace screen. There are days when he will repeat this process over and over and over. He knows all the things he is not supposed to get into and those are the first things he goes for when we turn our heads. I can't believe how fast the kid can crawl. He's getting really fast at cruising on the furniture too. With this speed comes lots of falls and tears. He has no regard for what is safe when he gets it into his head he should be able to do something. It's making his mother a nervous wreck!<div><br /></div><div>In other news, this month I don't have to say we think he's teething, he is! The first tooth has been cut, but is barely in and is still bothering him a lot. It is causing a ton of wakeful nights, making for a crabby baby and a tired Mommy. </div><div><br /></div><div>Peyton has more words daily. "Up" is his favorite. It has multiple uses. "Pick me up," "take me out of the car seat," "go upstairs," "get me out of the high chair." His second word is "mama." Sometimes in the middle of the night he doesn't even cry, he just says mama over and over. If mama does not come, then the screaming commences. He also says "dada," "bye bye," and multiple other sounds that sound like he is really trying to say the appropriate thing. </div><div><br /></div><div>Next week we go to Louisiana so Peyton can meet the rest of the Johnson family. Hopefully he'll fly as well as he has on past occasions. I hope they all realize Hurricane Peyton is on the way!</div><div><br /></div><div>Until next month...</div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-71855161145017985432010-01-05T10:37:00.002-07:002010-01-05T11:10:47.152-07:009 month update<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S0OAiZTSrKI/AAAAAAAAAKI/96XlJIDJyH8/s1600-h/P1050106.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S0OAiZTSrKI/AAAAAAAAAKI/96XlJIDJyH8/s320/P1050106.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423319704679918754" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S0OAhjpbEsI/AAAAAAAAAKA/WqtrqBNBhNE/s1600-h/P1050004.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S0OAhjpbEsI/AAAAAAAAAKA/WqtrqBNBhNE/s320/P1050004.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423319690277229250" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S0OAhA2kmkI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/4IlK7ucK6NI/s1600-h/P1050135.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S0OAhA2kmkI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/4IlK7ucK6NI/s320/P1050135.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423319680937138754" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S0OAgwhXrlI/AAAAAAAAAJw/ayj5pB6JuAI/s1600-h/P1050155.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S0OAgwhXrlI/AAAAAAAAAJw/ayj5pB6JuAI/s320/P1050155.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423319676553244242" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S0OAgelJzrI/AAAAAAAAAJo/7lF3EOAF8CA/s1600-h/P1050189.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/S0OAgelJzrI/AAAAAAAAAJo/7lF3EOAF8CA/s320/P1050189.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423319671737274034" /></a><br />Wow, it feels like I just did the 8 month update on here. Peyton had his 9 month check up today and weighs in at 18 lbs 6 oz and is 27 1/2 inches long. He still has a tiny head in the 6th percentile, but I think that is what makes him look like a little boy vs. a little baby. Still no teeth. The girls in the doctor's office are in love with him. Grae, the PA that sees him, thinks he'll be walking before our 12 month visit, and we agree.<div><br /></div><div>So Peyton can get around with the greatest of ease these days. He crawls FAST! He can stand up using just about anything for leverage, from the couch to a door to the wall. He loves to walk across the room holding our hands. We have to keep an eye on him at all times . Turn around for a second and he's gone and getting into something he's not supposed to be. We've put latches on all the cabinets, padding on the fireplace, and fixed up all the outlets. The biggest thing is still the stairs. We have awkward stairs that you can't really put a gate on so we're trying to teach him how to do them correctly in case he somehow got to the stairs without us seeing him, but I don't see that happening. </div><div><br /></div><div>Peyton's first Christmas was awesome for both him and Mommy and Daddy, oh, and of course Grandma, who spoiled him rotten. He surprisingly unwrapped his presents and actually liked the toys, not just the boxes and paper. My favorite pic is one of him seemingly reading the directions of how to install his swing. Of everything he got, he plays with the peg board with the hammer and the plastic blocks, the most. </div><div><br /></div><div>On top of his first Christmas, he also had his first cold, which he proceeded to spread to the whole family. Since then he's had a hard time getting back into a sleep routine, but it is getting a little bit better. </div><div><br /></div><div>For the next 6 days I will be alone with him for the first time. I'm a little nervous about how I will ever get any meals made or cleaning done, but who knows, it might actually be better than when Zack is here. </div><div><br /></div><div>Hard to comprehend, but by the time we go in for Peyton's 12 month appt there may be a little brother or sister on the way that we'll have to start a new blog for.</div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-3462512152185671102009-12-03T09:57:00.003-07:002009-12-03T10:40:34.045-07:008 months old-how time flies when you're having a good time!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/Sxf31f2abnI/AAAAAAAAAJg/AhS4-vytI-w/s1600-h/P1040799.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/Sxf31f2abnI/AAAAAAAAAJg/AhS4-vytI-w/s320/P1040799.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411065975763791474" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/Sxf305hVlJI/AAAAAAAAAJY/SMkaNouklLc/s1600-h/P1040777.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/Sxf305hVlJI/AAAAAAAAAJY/SMkaNouklLc/s320/P1040777.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411065965474845842" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/Sxf30VX8aDI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/DXlrI-wrYrM/s1600-h/P1040870.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/Sxf30VX8aDI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/DXlrI-wrYrM/s320/P1040870.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411065955771770930" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/Sxf3z3RbiMI/AAAAAAAAAJI/p1w-T6R3NBY/s1600-h/P1040843.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/Sxf3z3RbiMI/AAAAAAAAAJI/p1w-T6R3NBY/s320/P1040843.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411065947691387074" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/Sxf3zWvSCOI/AAAAAAAAAJA/kweXg_TdvXg/s1600-h/P1040858.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/Sxf3zWvSCOI/AAAAAAAAAJA/kweXg_TdvXg/s320/P1040858.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411065938958223586" /></a><br />8 months sure does fly when you are having fun! Peyton is becoming more of a joy by the day. He's 18.2 lbs according to the Wii. From his new set of words (baba, mama, dada, buhbuy) to the squeals at the top of his lungs, to the new skills (crawling, scurrying up mommy's lap, downward dog, imitating, pulling to stand and cruising along the side of the playpen or crib, going from tummy to sitting, and ever improving fine motor skills) he's a miracle and a joy to watch. With the development of all these skills comes some frustration for him. He gets mad when he can't do something which leads to more fussiness than normal, but he's still a great baby. Couple that fussiness with possible teething. Yes, I know I say that every month in my update, but it has to be soon, right? He's 8 months and is still toothless, which is fine by me since I am still breastfeeding. The good thing is that in the past week we seem to be getting back on a waking up only once a night routine, which is making me happy. The trip to Florida, the time change, and a change in weather really threw him for a loop. I think the humidifier is helping a lot.<div><br /></div><div>As far as eating goes, Peyton is an awesome eater. The only thing we can't get him to eat so far is meat, but I'm sure if we try it mixed with something he likes he'll enjoy it too. I still make all the baby food which is supposed to make for less picky eaters, so we'll see. </div><div><br /></div><div>Another thing we are proud of is our skills as parents with "elimination communication." I know it's a foreign concept to most, but it is a means by which you follow your baby's cues in order to toilet them instead of having them go in a diaper, so that when potty training does occur it's easier since they already know the potty is where that happens, not a diaper. I'm happy to report that we catch "poopoo in the potty" 95% of the time and he does #1 in there after naps and in the morning. Even if potty training is still difficult, this time, learning how to communicate with Peyton even without words, has been time well spent. Plus, he seems to enjoy it!</div><div><br /></div><div>My favorite thing that Peyton is doing now is giving me kisses. It is the sweetest thing and makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside, and usually left with a very wet cheek:) As of now, he'll only do it to me, but he seems to be a pretty smart cookie and will probably start with Daddy soon too. He also loves to laugh and smile. My least favorite thing is that he gets into everything he's not supposed to. Gone are the days of sitting him in the living room while I run to the kitchen. He's across the room lickity split trying to get some cord, the dog's bone, a shoe, lick the sliding glass door, climb on the brick fireplace, or any number of other things he shouldn't be getting into. Those things are way more fun than toys.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm so looking forward to Peyton's first Christmas. All of his presents are bought and Grandma is coming from Florida. I'm sure he'll be much more interested in the paper, bags, bows, and ribbon, than the actual presents, but it'll be fun to start experiencing Christmas through a child's eyes again. </div><div><br /></div><div>So I guess that's it. It's a lot. Each month more seems to happen in the span of a month. So in the words of Peyton, buhbuy.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-64472093968416982582009-11-03T21:16:00.006-07:002009-11-03T21:50:09.410-07:007 months update<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEGaGOfyQI/AAAAAAAAAI4/qf9sOt5CHkI/s1600-h/P1040619.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEGaGOfyQI/AAAAAAAAAI4/qf9sOt5CHkI/s320/P1040619.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400104473611716866" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEFYuWEULI/AAAAAAAAAIw/nk4D2k3JU2I/s1600-h/P1040713.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEFYuWEULI/AAAAAAAAAIw/nk4D2k3JU2I/s320/P1040713.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400103350509523122" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEFYV3_mVI/AAAAAAAAAIo/mFnBhH7QsQA/s1600-h/P1040706.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEFYV3_mVI/AAAAAAAAAIo/mFnBhH7QsQA/s320/P1040706.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400103343940933970" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEFX8bmf1I/AAAAAAAAAIg/vpJlJVNXfNs/s1600-h/P1040671.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEFX8bmf1I/AAAAAAAAAIg/vpJlJVNXfNs/s320/P1040671.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400103337110962002" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEFXkhnKhI/AAAAAAAAAIY/QGt4DFLNeXw/s1600-h/P1040544.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEFXkhnKhI/AAAAAAAAAIY/QGt4DFLNeXw/s320/P1040544.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400103330693720594" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEEmoLqqwI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/N0Yxd0JpCts/s1600-h/DSCN0454.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEEmoLqqwI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/N0Yxd0JpCts/s320/DSCN0454.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400102489861827330" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEEmWVah6I/AAAAAAAAAII/9GAUIbWqQ5o/s1600-h/P1040505.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEEmWVah6I/AAAAAAAAAII/9GAUIbWqQ5o/s320/P1040505.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400102485070874530" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEEGS7T7OI/AAAAAAAAAIA/CQtBOAXzBTI/s1600-h/P1040405.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SvEEGS7T7OI/AAAAAAAAAIA/CQtBOAXzBTI/s320/P1040405.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400101934400269538" /></a><br />So I can't believe it. Today Peyton is 7 months old. I had every intention of weighing him today on the Wii, but with the people here doing the windows I forgot so I'll have to add an addendum later. We love that little boy more every day. He's changing faster than I ever imagined. His personality is blossoming as are the skills he's able to perform. He's been on the verge of crawling for a while now, but is much more interested in standing. In fact, today, his 7 month birthday, he pulled to stand for the first time by himself in his crib. I sat him down in there with the side down to do something and the next thing I knew, he was standing up. Other things he does routinely now is going from sitting to his stomach, but he can't get from his stomach to sitting yet, is a very adept roller at getting from one place to another, and he plays really well by himself and enjoys the toys that make music when he pushes buttons or anything he can gnaw on. <div><br /></div><div>He still doesn't have a tooth, but continues to act like he's teething, drooling like a mad man and chewing on everything. His new favorite toy is an old cell phone he can chew on. It's the only way I can keep him from insisting on mine. It's amazing to watch him discover new textures. The other day he discovered the bricks on the fireplace hearth and the tile, both which he rubbed his hands across for a good 10 minutes a piece, just exploring. <div><br /></div><div>We went to Florida in October and he got to experience the beach again as well as the pool. It was a much better experience at the beach than when we were there in June since it wasn't hot, but the ocean was too choppy to take him in. He loved his new raft in the pool, but it was too cold out to go in very much. He was a very good baby to me on the airplane and in the airport since I was traveling alone and very stressed about it. I got many complements after we landed that I had the best baby on the plane. In the airport he showed off his new mimicking skills and entertained a couple that, ironically, are expecting a baby girl that they are naming Peyton too. He started really squealing on that trip too, as well as waving hi to my family. </div><div><br /></div><div>So that's all I can think of that has happened this past month. We are starting to baby proof the house with crawling seeming like an imminent occurrence, but he would much rather be walking, it seems. Life is about to get really exciting.</div><div><br /></div><div>New videos on youtube:</div><div>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxtC8NmD0Yo</div><div>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=av5WbwaIDhc</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-85408403934016463692009-10-06T17:19:00.003-06:002009-10-06T17:58:39.537-06:006 Months Old!!! Half a year, can you believe it?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SsvZk_pdYDI/AAAAAAAAAH4/53c0C5ZOInU/s1600-h/P1040477.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SsvZk_pdYDI/AAAAAAAAAH4/53c0C5ZOInU/s320/P1040477.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389640608662773810" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SsvZkbwUR7I/AAAAAAAAAHw/MJNs0UtlWfQ/s1600-h/P1040436.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SsvZkbwUR7I/AAAAAAAAAHw/MJNs0UtlWfQ/s320/P1040436.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389640599027861426" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SsvZj4QptLI/AAAAAAAAAHo/w_T1YuxAHBw/s1600-h/P1040466.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SsvZj4QptLI/AAAAAAAAAHo/w_T1YuxAHBw/s320/P1040466.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389640589499806898" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SsvZjW0y_II/AAAAAAAAAHg/8nE9FEAQmY8/s1600-h/P1040336.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SsvZjW0y_II/AAAAAAAAAHg/8nE9FEAQmY8/s320/P1040336.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389640580524604546" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SsvZiiPKSeI/AAAAAAAAAHY/w4mHfuSjCiM/s1600-h/P1040378.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SsvZiiPKSeI/AAAAAAAAAHY/w4mHfuSjCiM/s320/P1040378.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389640566408104418" /></a><br />Today Peyton went to his doctor's appt. for his 6 month checkup. He was 16 lbs 6 oz. and 26 1/2 inches long. He hasn't grown much in height, but he's chunked up so much. There have been lots of changes in his life in the last month. He sits VERY well now and will sit for hours playing with his toys on the floor or watching Sesame Street. He gets around the living room by rolling. It's amazing how quickly he can get across the room that way. He's getting pretty close to being able to belly crawl too. We've introduced solid foods which he took to very well. He loves his rice cereal and so far the only thing he has completely rejected is peas...go figure. It made me sick to my stomach just smelling them when I was trying to feed them to him. <div><br /></div><div>Sleeping on his back is a thing of the past. Yes, we still put him down on his back like all the experts say, but it takes less than 2 seconds for him to be flat on his stomach. He sleeps in some of the most awkward positions, but most of them are exactly like I sleep. His naps have, for the most part, greatly increased in length to 1 1/2 hours to 2 instead of his previous 30 minutes or so, which is great for me getting things done around the house. </div><div><br /></div><div>He's now able to go hiking with us in the backpack. We went up to Kenosha Pass to hike with our neighbors and their son and both boys ended up falling asleep in the packs. Boy did it look uncomfortable, not to mention that it was about 45 degrees and it rained on us. The backpack is so much more comfortable to hike in than the Baby Bjorn.</div><div><br /></div><div>Peyton has probably begun teething. He is suddenly waking at night again even though he's been sleeping through the night for the last 2 months. He gnaws on everything and bites his bottom lip, which is so cute. And he drools...man does he drool. I love his toothless grin, but I wish this tooth would come in so that he's back to his normal happy self. </div><div><br /></div><div>So that's that. Half a year old. Seems like just yesterday that he was born and now we're thinking we need to baby proof the house sooner than later because he will be crawling soon. This age is so much fun, his personality is growing by the day. We love that little boy!</div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-50420471244008196992009-09-04T10:17:00.005-06:002009-09-04T10:47:36.383-06:00Peyton is 5 months old!!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SqFDFJyBSCI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/xotDuKwo1dw/s1600-h/P1040302.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377653185861208098" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SqFDFJyBSCI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/xotDuKwo1dw/s320/P1040302.JPG" /></a> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SqFDEhV6aXI/AAAAAAAAAHI/40rD5kvpsjI/s1600-h/P1040286.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377653175005899122" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SqFDEhV6aXI/AAAAAAAAAHI/40rD5kvpsjI/s320/P1040286.JPG" /></a><br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SqFDEGQqkhI/AAAAAAAAAHA/VVsO7GUQYRc/s1600-h/P1040282.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 214px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377653167736132114" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SqFDEGQqkhI/AAAAAAAAAHA/VVsO7GUQYRc/s320/P1040282.JPG" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SqFDDv0BIWI/AAAAAAAAAG4/-8PV_Y7tSho/s1600-h/P1040269.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 214px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377653161710395746" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SqFDDv0BIWI/AAAAAAAAAG4/-8PV_Y7tSho/s320/P1040269.JPG" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SqFDDEBG6ZI/AAAAAAAAAGw/qGNLN95tEDg/s1600-h/P1040263.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 214px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377653149954140562" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SqFDDEBG6ZI/AAAAAAAAAGw/qGNLN95tEDg/s320/P1040263.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div>Can you believe it? Our baby is already 5 months old. It seems like just yesterday that we were wondering when I ever would go into labor and were holding that tiny baby of only 6 lbs 7 oz. It's a distant memory when I pick up his now 17lb, chunky body that likes to be thrown in the air and turned upside down that he was ever so small and fragile. What was life like before Peyton? I know I have a hard time remembering. It feels like everything in my life has led up to this point. Goals and dreams that I had to travel and pursue, that almost prevented me from wanting children, now don't seem all that important. What is important is our little life here in Colorado and doing what is best for him everyday and introducing him to the world, for better or for worse. I feel blessed every day that I am able to stay at home with him 5 days of the week. I keep waiting to wake up from the happiness I feel every day when I look at him and play with him. It's too good to be true.<br /><br /><div><div>Peyton has such a great personality...most of the time. He's extremely happy...most of the time. It seems like every time we hang out with people from Zack's work he is fussy, but at home he's always laughing and smiling. He likes to watch Sesame Street and sports on TV. Rockie's games freak him out now, because he startles easy with the loud noise. We can still go, but we just know now that one person will have to be up walking with him out where it's not as noisy. He loves going hiking in the Bjorn and today we are going to take a trial run hiking in the backpack since he can sit independently for short periods of time now. The outdoors is still our pacifier. If he's crying, walk outside and he's a whole new child. He's become quite the Mama's boy lately, not wanting to be held by anyone but Mommy and Daddy and often only able to be comforted by Mommy. Now that the seasons are changing I will be interested to see how he is in the cold weather. He loves to not wear clothes which won't be an option once the weather turns. </div><br /><div>We think he might really be teething now, but we've thought that before. His new passion is chewing on glass, ceramic, and electronics...I'm assuming because they are hard and cold, not because of a lack of silica in his diet. He has become fascinated by my food lately as well. Around 6 months we will begin introducing solid foods, which I am on the fence about. On the one hand, it will be nice to not be "exclusively breast feeding" anymore, but on the other hand, breastfeeding poop is so much better than solid food poop. Oh well, it has to happen someday. He also has started night waking again, which may mean teething as well. </div><br /><div>He's getting much more mobile too, making me think we should start thinking about baby proofing sooner than later since it seems like we'll just wake up one day and he'll be crawling. That seems to be how it happens. One day he can't do something and the next day it's as natural as if he'd been doing it since birth. He does well moving from one end of the crib to the other by rolling around and turning on either his back or stomach. We had to put the bumpers on the crib because he kept rolling on his stomach and getting his legs stuck out the sides. He plays like crazy now too, loving a toy one day and not being interested at all in it the next. The general rule of thumb is that if it makes noise and it fits in his mouth, it's fun.</div><br /><div>So anyway, that's the update on our little man. When I get my new Mac I will post more video. It's too hard on this slow computer. Take care.</div><br /><div>Connie, Zack, and Peyton</div></div></div></div></div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-49616411641896126952009-08-13T19:59:00.002-06:002009-08-13T20:06:59.033-06:00New Peyton Videos on YoutubeBecause the blog does not have much memory for videos, we have posted some misc. videos of Peyton on youtube. Here are the links. <br /><br /> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=djQ8WglibC8">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=djQ8WglibC8</a> 17 week update<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qYzscN94EI">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qYzscN94EI</a> 18 week update<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_0Nw-btboA">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_0Nw-btboA</a> Bath time<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbo8PmVOuq4">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbo8PmVOuq4</a> Changing table watching the light<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXNzUu3TMzA">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXNzUu3TMzA</a> Fake coughing and laughing<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4elHGFCIWQ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4elHGFCIWQ</a> Laughing and standing up<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a5VoiiBqwjI">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a5VoiiBqwjI</a> Peyton flying<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmaJVwpH3q0">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmaJVwpH3q0</a> Sleeping in funny position<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSvTjAGcyUw">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSvTjAGcyUw</a> Sleepy red eyebrows<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg-5DbJ1Xrs">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg-5DbJ1Xrs</a> Teething ring<br /><br />Enjoy:)Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-19955547658537356632009-08-12T21:23:00.003-06:002009-08-12T21:54:04.349-06:004 month checkup at doctor's<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SoOOAsuiruI/AAAAAAAAAGo/2s8m9nYFk-c/s1600-h/P1040088.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 214px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369291323413278434" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SoOOAsuiruI/AAAAAAAAAGo/2s8m9nYFk-c/s320/P1040088.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SoON_75wjHI/AAAAAAAAAGg/3xWR86cQk0s/s1600-h/P1040072edit.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369291310306987122" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SoON_75wjHI/AAAAAAAAAGg/3xWR86cQk0s/s320/P1040072edit.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SoON_Sfk8VI/AAAAAAAAAGY/KaWewswVDsM/s1600-h/P1040094.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 214px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369291299191320914" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SoON_Sfk8VI/AAAAAAAAAGY/KaWewswVDsM/s320/P1040094.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SoON-4qDTbI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/XShvRE3Uqo0/s1600-h/P1040173.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369291292255931826" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SoON-4qDTbI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/XShvRE3Uqo0/s320/P1040173.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SoON-d0L_4I/AAAAAAAAAGI/Dk0BnclLokA/s1600-h/P1040151.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 214px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369291285050687362" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SoON-d0L_4I/AAAAAAAAAGI/Dk0BnclLokA/s320/P1040151.JPG" /></a><br /><div>Peyton had his 4 month checkup today at 18 1/2 weeks old. He was 26 inches long, 14 lbs 11 oz and NOT happy about having his 2nd round of vaccines. Poor baby got sore again and was very upset this afternoon, but by evening he was better, just tired. </div><div> </div><div>Peyton is changing so much every day. He's developmentally well ahead of where average is at 4 1/2 months. He is rolling both directions (with coersion...he really has no desire to roll otherwise), LOVES to stand, can sit propped on his hand for short periods of time, laughs and plays all day long and still loves being outside. We've taken him camping in our new HUGE tent several times now and he's getting more used to it. He still has issues going to sleep and eating when we're outside b/c he is so interested in every little thing going on around him. We probably won't be able to do much more camping this year because it's already chilly at night in the mountains.</div><br /><div>Mommy has gone back to work just 2 days a week. It's actually working out quite well. Daddy works W-Sat, and Mommy works Sun-M. That way he has no daycare needs.</div><div> </div><div>For the most part Peyton is a smiley, happy baby. He sleeps pretty much nightly from 8 pm to 4 am, without any fight, eats at 4 and goes back to sleep on and off until about 9 am. He does not like to nap, though. I guess he's afraid he'll miss something if he sleeps during the day because unless we are in the car, getting him to sleep during the day is always a fight. His eyebrows turn red when he's tired so it's very obvious. He's seemed to have been teething since about 10 weeks old, with lots of drooling and chewing, but still no teeth have emerged. He has started the past couple of days sucking, not his whole hand, but his thumb. I have a feeling soon the pacifier is going to be a thing of the past because he's not all that interested in it anymore, but unfortunately we can't take away his thumb. </div><br /><div>I will be posting video soon to youtube from the past 6 weeks or so so stay tuned.</div><br /><div>Peyton, Connie and Zack</div></div></div></div></div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-64833352655244697902009-07-08T12:53:00.003-06:002009-07-08T15:10:49.032-06:0012 weeks old-Planes, Florida, Steamboat, and milestones<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SlUKJQ2AZgI/AAAAAAAAAFY/cfFXpauNJMM/s1600-h/P1030744.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356198486083659266" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SlUKJQ2AZgI/AAAAAAAAAFY/cfFXpauNJMM/s320/P1030744.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SlUKJAR8YeI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/gjBgTw103nE/s1600-h/P1030842.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 214px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356198481637433826" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SlUKJAR8YeI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/gjBgTw103nE/s320/P1030842.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SlUKIxLSk8I/AAAAAAAAAFI/xK8HdzunUY0/s1600-h/P1030672.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356198477582996418" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SlUKIxLSk8I/AAAAAAAAAFI/xK8HdzunUY0/s320/P1030672.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SlUKIppO0AI/AAAAAAAAAFA/GMtViN2wBvY/s1600-h/P1030576.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356198475561095170" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SlUKIppO0AI/AAAAAAAAAFA/GMtViN2wBvY/s320/P1030576.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SlUKIMnIP6I/AAAAAAAAAE4/hDp4DPUBT18/s1600-h/P1030624.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 214px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356198467767648162" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SlUKIMnIP6I/AAAAAAAAAE4/hDp4DPUBT18/s320/P1030624.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>Hello all. Time for another Peyton update. He is 12 weeks old...hard to believe it was only 3 months ago that I had him. He's growing and changing so much daily. He's had a very active life for only being 3 months old. Zack has been home for 5 weeks (went back to work today) so we've been able to do lots of things as a family. Who knows if we'll ever have that much time together again. So here's what Mr. Peyton has been up to.</div><br /><div>We went to Florida at the beginning of June for 10 days to see friends and family. Peyton met his Grandpa, Great Grandpap, Great Uncle Ron, and Great Great Aunt Loretta. We had a BBQ to meet all the generations. Aunt Cathy and Grandma greatly enjoyed their time with him. He got to go in the swimming pool and LOVED napping in a chair on the porch by the pool. He didn't like the beach so much. We only stayed an hour because of how hot and humid it was. Aunt Cathy was nice enough to baby sit the next day so that we could go back to the beach. Grandma also babysat one day so that we could go canoeing. Those two days were the longest I've been away from him. He was great on the airplane, sleeping most of the time and perfectly content maneuvering through the airport in the Baby Bjorn. Not one bit of crying during travel. Oh, and while in Florida we took him off the reflux medicine and he's doing great.</div><div> </div><div>We also went to Steamboat Springs for the 4th of July with Grandma and Granddaddy. Peyton got to see the botanical gardens and the 4th of July parade, which he actually watched part of (when he wasn't asleep in the Bjorn) and seemed to enjoy. He almost got crushed when the nearly 7 foot old man standing next to Zack passed out and Zack was holding him. It was a scary moment, but Peyton was passed back to me unscathed (and we think the man ended up being fine too). Peyton did sleep through the fireworks because they were passed his bedtime. Maybe next year. On the drive to Steamboat we had to travel over several mountain passes over 11,000 feet and he did great. At his 4 month appointment we'll need to see when it's safe to keep him at that altitude for any length of time. The same week as the 4th we went on our first camping trip. We went up to about 7400 feet near Buffalo Creek and did some roadside camping. Everything was good except Peyton wouldn't nap or eat well because there was so much distracting stuff around (flies, trees, wind, etc.) We used our backpacking tent and have since bought a family tent because it was way too cramped. I rated the experience a B+ and hope for an A once we try out the bigger tent.</div><div> </div><div>Finally, we went in for a weight check today at the doctor's office because of the confusion about his weight at 8 weeks. He weighs in at a whopping 12 pounds 15 1/2 ounces. That's a HUGE gain in the last month. We double checked his weight last time so it was definitely a gain of over 2 pounds. That puts him back on the growth curve he was on initially. He's also started really laughing...almost a HA HA HA sound. Before he would try to laugh, but it was funny sounding. He makes us laugh so hard we cry when he does it. He's starting to push with his arms when on his tummy and is so close to rolling over. He rolls to his side constantly now, but doesn't make it all the way over. He's also starting to reach for things and play with soft toys. One of the PA's at the doctor's office thought he was 6 months old because of how he was holding up his head and sitting in my lap. He's constantly wanting to chew on things and started drooling a lot so we think teeth may be in the near future. He rarely cries, usually only when he's fighting going to sleep, but still is regularly in bed by 9:00 and sleeps between 6-8 hours straight. We couldn't ask for more. </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-7159407205585608202009-06-02T18:21:00.002-06:002009-06-02T18:25:38.213-06:00Addendum to 8 week update<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiXC5OqHNFI/AAAAAAAAAEw/OrrhmuhWDD4/s1600-h/P1030316.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342890821388022866" style="WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiXC5OqHNFI/AAAAAAAAAEw/OrrhmuhWDD4/s320/P1030316.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiXC4rruz-I/AAAAAAAAAEo/fyjF4lYf5qE/s1600-h/PeytonJumbotron.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342890811999571938" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 204px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiXC4rruz-I/AAAAAAAAAEo/fyjF4lYf5qE/s320/PeytonJumbotron.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>I forgot. At 5 weeks old Peyton got to go to his first Rockies' game for Daddy's birthday. He loved it. He stayed awake through 7 innings and loved watching the people walking around and the crowd noise. When they came around with the camera to film to crowd the people behind us and the people in our group got his attention and Peyton got to be on the jumbotron. He's a star!</div></div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-90021416599238703082009-06-02T17:45:00.003-06:002009-07-31T16:06:03.341-06:008 week old appointment<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiW7SfqtA7I/AAAAAAAAAEg/vMTmSI9ExxM/s1600-h/P1030389.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342882459357610930" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiW7SfqtA7I/AAAAAAAAAEg/vMTmSI9ExxM/s320/P1030389.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiW7SNNvu2I/AAAAAAAAAEY/yhlIn79AWyA/s1600-h/P1030428.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342882454404316002" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiW7SNNvu2I/AAAAAAAAAEY/yhlIn79AWyA/s320/P1030428.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiW7R_jHfzI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/uZTZZgTbajU/s1600-h/P1030483.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342882450735857458" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiW7R_jHfzI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/uZTZZgTbajU/s320/P1030483.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiW7RrLFf-I/AAAAAAAAAEI/NVnvIQczBaQ/s1600-h/P1030474.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342882445266354146" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiW7RrLFf-I/AAAAAAAAAEI/NVnvIQczBaQ/s320/P1030474.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiW7RaUsI1I/AAAAAAAAAEA/5H9dXQzrMBU/s1600-h/P1030455.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 214px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342882440743232338" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SiW7RaUsI1I/AAAAAAAAAEA/5H9dXQzrMBU/s320/P1030455.JPG" /></a> Today Peyton had his 8 week appointment. It was the first time that we've gone to the doctor that Peyton was all smiles and noises other than crying. And then... Today was his first round of vaccinations and he screamed, but was easily calmed after it was all over and fell asleep on the way home. Then it hit him. The pain in his leg from the tetanus. He won't straighten out his leg or let us touch him without screaming the most blood curtling yell you've ever heard. Now he is sleeping, but will only sleep and eat curled up in a ball...it'll be a long night. Now that Zack and I are aware of what triggers the crying we've been able to limit it and so far he's not running a fever or having any other problems. Of course when he was screaming earlier and we didn't know why, I cried. I can't stand to see my baby in pain.</div><div></div><div>He weighed in today at 10 lbs. 9 oz. and was 24 inches long. If you follow the blog then you know at the last appointment a month ago they said he was 10 lbs. 8 oz. Us and the doctor agree that the past weight must have been wrong because he eats well and is otherwise healthy. We'll go back for a weight recheck when we get back from Florida just to make sure he's doing well. Otherwise he still has stomach issues so I get to try cutting things out of my diet now to see if it's something I am eating that's hurting his belly.</div><div></div><div>He's a very happy child mostly. He's started really having a personality. He laughs and smiles and coos. He's lifting his head pretty well, but still doesn't have a lot of rotational control...he looks drunk sometimes when he tries to turn his head unsupported. We play all kinds of games to help him develop his motor skills and his visual skills. He loves the outdoors. We spend time outside every day it's nice out, frequenting many of the Denver parks and trails. We go to Florida in a week, so Peyton will get to go on his first plane ride and Zack and I get to experience our first time traveling by plane with a baby...and packing. </div><div></div><div>Thanks for reading.</div><div>Connie and Zack and Peyton<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyapCBGMzLqwUnNevTvHK3Wy5oVpZ3jVr_wS0lt90M_QLPbqpjg8QICxA2AItdZnQ1mAnzwcAjntmnj_iW8RQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-50079001862397546102009-05-07T16:24:00.004-06:002009-05-07T16:49:55.784-06:00One month checkup<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SgNglkq8v4I/AAAAAAAAAD4/vpJavMv9Vqs/s1600-h/P1030227.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333212582352043906" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SgNglkq8v4I/AAAAAAAAAD4/vpJavMv9Vqs/s320/P1030227.JPG" border="0" /></a>Alright, so I'm a little late updating. A lot has happened in little Peyton's life in the last 2 weeks. It's amazing how much he has changed. Grandma came back for a visit, which was a huge help with Mommy's adjustment to going out in public with a little one. Now Peyton and Mommy go on outings every day, mostly to parks around town now that the weather is getting nice, to get some fresh air and exercise.<br /><br />Peyton is now smiling and laughing and making tons of noises, especially in his sleep. The crying has backed off a bit except for 3-4 hours first thing in the morning and 3-4 hours in the evening before bed. Mostly it seems to be gas and possibly reflux, so we are going to start him on Prilosec and see if that helps. Otherwise he is happy and healthy. At his 4 week appointment the other day he weighed a whopping 10 lbs. 8 oz. That is a weight gain of 4 pounds in 4 weeks. He is definitely a good eater, but sometimes I think too good. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SgNgk0bzdoI/AAAAAAAAADo/xtmWSKM9MIQ/s1600-h/P1030201.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333212569403618946" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SgNgk0bzdoI/AAAAAAAAADo/xtmWSKM9MIQ/s320/P1030201.JPG" border="0" /></a>We've had multiple episodes of projectile (and I'm not exaggerating) vomitting recently, possibly due to overfeeding and gas. Today we practiced the pacifier, which he has previously adamently objected to in place of eating, and he took it! Maybe it's because he now eats from a bottle at least once a day. He doesn't eat as well from the bottle as the breast, but he'll learn when I go back to work and he has to.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SgNgk0bzdoI/AAAAAAAAADo/xtmWSKM9MIQ/s1600-h/P1030201.JPG"></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SgNglKyhh6I/AAAAAAAAADw/nzXdyWijk84/s1600-h/P1030219.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333212575404492706" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SgNglKyhh6I/AAAAAAAAADw/nzXdyWijk84/s320/P1030219.JPG" border="0" /></a>One last bit of news. As a gift for my birthday, Zack's birthday, and our anniversary, we are going to Florida for 10 days in June to soak up the sun, beach, pool, and visit with friends and family before I have to return to work. It'll be a great way to end my maternity leave.<br /><br />New stats:<br />Weight-10 lbs 8 oz<br />Length-22 inches<br />Head-14 1/2 inches<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SgNgkj5qBvI/AAAAAAAAADg/UnEDIhdGIwA/s1600-h/happy+family.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333212564965426930" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SgNgkj5qBvI/AAAAAAAAADg/UnEDIhdGIwA/s320/happy+family.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SgNgkY9A_HI/AAAAAAAAADY/nMwj4tUV1nI/s1600-h/100_5823.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333212562026724466" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_8thihH0qoQc/SgNgkY9A_HI/AAAAAAAAADY/nMwj4tUV1nI/s320/100_5823.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div>Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8386179608508718294.post-15332436858434880662009-04-20T21:59:00.002-06:002009-04-20T22:01:46.673-06:00Stats-2 week appt.At Peyton's 2 week Dr.'s visit this is what they found:<br /><br />He eats great-8lbs 1oz., 20 1/2 inches long<br />He's got great lungs-he screamed the entire visit<br />He clots well-they needed blood from his heel and he just wouldn't bleed.<br /><br />That's our boy!Zack and Conniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02029001987966275293noreply@blogger.com0