Jordan's first trip to NYC!

We just got back from a trip to see my Dad in New York. We had a ton of fun. The weather wasn't the best, but a good time was had by all. Jordan adjusted to the time change well, slept on the plane (up there and back home), and made her Pop pretty happy!

We went into the city Saturday and had lunch. The original plan was to go to the petting zoo at Central Park, but it was pretty wet, so we roamed around Grand Central instead. Sunday afternoon we went to a little park just down from Dad's place and she had the time of her life on the slide. It was really windy, so we had to stay bundled up and J didn't quite know how to maneuver with mittens on.

She had THE best time anticipating the free fall down the slide. She would just sit at the top and ever so slowly lean far enough over that she would start sliding. She wouldn't make eye contact with any of us until she was actually sliding and then she would crack up laughing. Our hands practically froze helping her up the steps and making sure she didn't fall off the slide, but it was worth every minute!
This picture doesn't do it justice, but Jordan really did have a good time. We just figured this picture truly captures real life with a toddler--unpredictable at best!!

Boxes ARE the best toys!

Jordan really enjoyed playing in this carseat box. It had previously been used as an aid in containment when she actually played in her playroom. Since that is no longer amusing, she has taken over the whole downstairs! She had a great time closing herself up in the box and then popping the sides out, but I thought this was the cutest when she fell back!

home with daddy

I have a pretty crazy schedule right now. Aside from work during the week, I am taking a class (required for work) on Tuesday nights and working on Wednesday nights. Tuesdays I leave from home with usually just enough time to stuff something in my face and race to class when Kenneth gets home. Wednesdays he comes by church on his way home and picks up the princess. I don't get home either night until after bedtime.

Kenneth tells me that the last few times he has been "on duty", that she has asked to go to bed! She will grab his finger and lead him over to the steps (which are gated). He asks her if she's ready to go upstairs and watch her Baby Einstein DVD (bedtime ritual), to which she signs "please". So they go upstairs and do the get ready for bed thing. Typically, we hold her on our shoulder for the last few minutes of the video to make it easier to scoop her up and take her to her crib when it's over. One night recently when he tried to do that, she fussed and fidgeted, so he asked her if she just wanted to sit in his lap like she had been doing. She signed "please". And then when she was ready to go to bed, she turned up and looked at him and when he asked her if she wanted to go to bed, she signed "please"!

That's definitely my girl because she loves bedtime just like me! :)

Firetruck visit, Part Deux!

The firetruck visit was rescheduled for today since we got rained out last week. Kenneth was able to visit, too! Jordan really enjoyed the visit and interacted a little more with the truck and the firefighters. In fact, she is flirting with one of the guys in the bottom two pictures. The ff noticed that Kenneth was trying to get her attention so we might actually have her looking at the camera in the picture. Instead, she was totally preoccupied with him and just smiled coyly and waved when he waved. She's becoming such a flirt...

No, ball & Nanna

So, I remember being concerned at her well check about Jordan's lack of vocabulary--at least words that didn't need interpretation by Kenneth or me! Like the good doctor said, there was no reason to be concerned! I think I've read that children go through a word "growth spurt" where they learn a word a day. We might be hitting that!

This morning on the way to school, Jordan said "no" about 100 times. She didn't shake her head with it, which I thought was interesting because she's been doing that and knowing exactly what it meant for a while now. I would say "yes" and shake my head and she would just tell me "no"!

Then, after breakfast, she found the balls that were on the floor for the babies and told me about them..."ball, ball, ball"!

And as we were going through pictures from Nanna's visit at school yesterday, she lit up with delight and said "Nanna"!

Exciting times around here, folks--exciting times!

Bubbles!

Today was supposed to be Day 2 of the firetruck visit, but was postponed due to rain. Nanna was already pretty much at school, so she stopped in to say Hi! Miss Tiffany was blowing bubbles for the friends and their families that were visiting, too. Next thing you know, Jordan is saying "bubble, bubbles, bubble!"! She was very excited about it and just giggled with delight in between saying her new word!

Firetruck visit!

One of the local fire stations comes each year to visit the kids at school! Since Jordan attends 4 days, she will get to see it twice! She didn't really know what to make of it and since we were on the playground, was really more interested in playground stuff. As you can see by the picture of the 2 of us, she really just wanted me to let her play in the street! I finally found that she was happy if she thought she was in control and driving the truck. It was time to get her out of there when she started leaning around for buttons to push! Maybe she'll be more interested tomorrow!

Tigers win!

In honor of Clemson's beautiful defeat over Florida State last night, she wore her orange dress today! These pictures are just too darn cute not to share...

15-month well check

Just a quick note about our doctor's visit today. It was nice to not have to wait! I'll have to remember that the first appointment after lunch is a great time to go. There was not a soul in either waiting room!

She weighs 24 lbs (70th %ile) and is 32 1/4 inches long (95th %ile). I speculated at her last appointment that the nurse may not have gotten her length correct because she was only in the 50th %ile then. I mean, how accurate can it be when they lay her down on a piece of paper that gets wrinkled because she's writhing around!?! Her weight has been in the same range, too, so I would think that if she really shot up in height, her weight would drop a little. Who knows; doesn't matter, anyway, Dr. S. thinks she looks great and is very happy with her development.

We go back in 3 months for another check and then she's done until she's 2. Doc told me that in the next 9 months I can expect behavior challenges and feeding changes. Translation: she's going to get more independent and become a picky eater. I think the independence is already peeking through. And, when all else fails, she'll eat fruit!!

Oh yeah, she also had 3 shots! Thankfully, those are done until she's 2 because she did NOT handle them well today...

MMMooooo...

Wednesday evening, one of the other teachers asked me if Jordan had any words yet. Words that anyone could understand without interpretation from me. Uuummm, not really. We also talked about her lack of verbal response to questions. "What is this?" while pointing to the ball yields no response. Apparently, Jordan likes to prove me wrong because while we were playing this afternoon, Kenneth asked her "what does the cow say?" and without hesitation she belted out "mmmoooooo"! Assuming we all consider Moo a word; it's official!!

Princess Mimic

It has really hit home how interested Jordan is in each and every move we make. This morning, I had a bowl of cereal while J ate her waffle. Around lunchtime, Kenneth had a bowl of soup. We both tipped our bowls up to drink the last bits of liquid. Jordan tried to "drink" the vegetables out of her little bowl at lunch, too! It was really cute, even though she did spill vegetables all over the front of her. Even after we thought we got them all out of her lap, Kenneth still found vegetables jumping out of her clothes.

I don't remember the context of the conversation, but the word "jerk" was involved and Yep, you guessed it, Jordan attempted to say "jerk". Everyone on their P's and Q's around the Princess, please! :)

in the pool!!

Jordan received this pool for her birthday from Titi Cassie. I'm embarrassed to say this is the first time we've put it up, but it was tons of fun, so it will happen again soon!

It took Jordan a couple of minutes to get used to the water temperature (not bath temp), how much water was in the pool and walking around. The back yard is not level anywhere, so we did the best we could! After she warmed up to the idea, she really enjoyed circling the pool, tossing toys over the side and watching Daddy stick his face in the water and blow bubbles. She tried it, too, but inhaled instead of exhaled, so she came up sputtering!

Today was an interesting experiment, though. She took a nap for about an hour around the same time that she has been sleeping at school. We played in the pool afterwards and then she did go back to sleep for another hour and 1/2! Tonight was so much more peaceful! She wasn't grumpy, she played and led Daddy around by his finger. I think we may stay at school and play a little while before we come home for a nap. It can't hurt--it's not like she's sleeping now, anyways! If that doesn't work, then we'll just see if we can find something else that does.

Tonight was too cute! I don't have a picture, but J was sort of playing with Mackenzie. Mack has these hard bones that J loves to pick up. J brought the bone over to Mack and was trying to give it to her. Mack was being so gentle and really wanted it, but J was holding it smack in the middle, so there wasn't enough room on either end for Mack to get a grip without getting J's fingers. Then when we could convince J to just leave it on the ground for her, Mack would only play with it for a second and when J came back her way, M would just leave it for her. Mackenzie never acted possessive about the bone or anything--it was so sweet!!

Why won't you sleep?

So, if my post about school made it seem like the 3 hour nap was going to be a regular phenomenon, let me just clear that up right now!! To date, that was the only day that she took a nap after we got home. She sleeps at school, which is great, but it's not enough. She's sleeping 45 minutes on average. If we weren't at school, she'd be sleeping 2-3 hours. And it shows because she is grumpy before and after school. Either that, or it's true that your kids really are just better for other people. I mean, she fusses at me on the way to school, fusses at me on the way home, fusses at me as I watch her on the monitor because I keep thinking if she lays still long enough, she'll fall asleep! I need to give it some more time, but the majority of people I've talked to say that I should still put her in the bed after we get home so that she knows that I think she needs a nap.

On another note, Kenneth and I have been so amazed over these things that just start happening and we don't know why, how, or when! The best example is that Jordan is now shaking her head NO (emphatically, I might add!) and knowing exactly what she is trying to tell us. I will go to put Goldfish on her tray while something is heating up and she shakes her head NO! Someone will come up and just act like they are going to pick her up and she shakes her head NO! I don't have a clue how that happened.

playing in the kitchen

Jordan received a play kitchen from a fellow teacher at school. Her daughter had outgrown it and offered it to us. I have been looking for some plastic dishes and food to go with/in it. Well, Mimi Patty to the rescue!! She found a cute set with cups, food, milk, etc. Jordan loves it. The milk carton has a cow on it and she picks it up and says "Moo!". I couldn't get to the camera in time, but one of the cutest moments was when she and Daddy were sharing a cookie--Daddy had the cookie half out of his mouth and Jordan bent over and bit it to take it out of his mouth!

(Please excuse the dinner on the dress and dissheveled hair--it's been a long day!)

1st day of school in Toddler A

Today was our first day of the new school year. My room has 9 new infants each day and Jordan has a new room all together! I'm not sure who I was worried more about--her or me! I shouldn't have worried about either of us as we all did just fine. Miss Judy and Miss Ann had just as hard a time as I did watching Jordan happily play at the sand table while I walked out of the room. I only went down and checked on her a time or two (seriously!) and she was just playing and having a good time. One of the progress reports I got was after quiet time and Jordan was the only one they didn't have to "hold down" on her cot. She laid there and slept for just a couple of minutes. When it was time to get up, she happily gave up her paci and square and kept on going! She slept for a solid 3 hours this afternoon, so I know she gave it her all today.

Yikes--we are the parents of a Toddler!!

tu-ttle

My grandmother is up from Florida, so my Mom came by after work to pick Jordan up for a surprise spend the night party. I'm sure after all that driving, the thing Grandma wanted to do most was keep up with a toddling Jordan! :)

Mom and Jordan hadn't been gone a couple of minutes and the phone rang. I wondered what we could have forgotten, but Mom proceeded to inform me that Jordan was correctly identifying the blue plastic turtle that was in her carseat in Nana's car! I could hear her in the background "tu-ttle", "tu-ttle". WAY too cute!

Jordan's well, Daddy's sick

Today was a day of doctor's visits for the Manning family! Jordan had a recheck for her ears from her most recent ear infection. She checked out great--no bacteria, no fluid! Kenneth, on the other hand, is about to fall apart. He had been feverish off and on since Thursday. Random headaches started over the weekend. Surprisingly, he went to the doctor without much fight, so you know he feels bad! The diagnosis is sinusitis. He recently finished antibiotics for a sinus infection, but we're thinking it never really cleared up and grew into this. Another indicator that something is wrong--Kenneth didn't want to wait on his prescription at CVS because he was really cold inside the store--when have you known Kenneth to be cold?!? He came home and got in bed and I went to CVS...Ay, ay, ay!

play date with Brooklynn

We made it over to Joy and Brooklynn's today to get the girls together for a play date! Joy and I have been talking about this for quite a while, so we were very proud to make this happen. Joy and I talked "girl" stuff of our own while the girls played...but not necessarily together. Jordan is not quite at that interactive play stage quite yet. Brooklynn, however, was quite interested in reading a book to Jordan. She wanted to sit in her lap and show her the pages. The only problem is that there was no room for that to happen since Jordan was straddling a riding toy. It was a much appreciated effort! And, though they were in the same space, we could not get them to look at the camera at the same time. I probably gave up too easily, but I lapped the room several times and only took 3 pictures, so we'll just have to do this again so we can try for some better shots! :)

another haircut

We went for a back to school trim today at Jelly Beans. Jordan got the works--shampoo, blow dry, a braid, curling iron and hair spray! The braid is precious! I took some pictures, but they don't do it justice! I know how to french braid, but I'm not sure I'll ever be able to replicate this...

first trip to the dentist!

Yes, she only has 2 teeth (with more just around the corner), but I read that children should go to the dentist by their first birthday. So, we went to the pediatric dentist this morning. We were doing OK until we laid her down so the hygienist could look in her mouth. That went over like a lead balloon. I wasn't expecting a cleaning anyway (there are only 2 teeth, after all!), so it was no big deal, but they really wanted the experience to be positive. There was a little more screaming when the dentist looked in her mouth, but for the most part, it was OK. The dentist says that everything looks OK and she's a little late in starting the teething process, but it's still within reason. I got a great look at the 4 top teeth that are going to come in about the same time. She has a 15 month molar that is breaking through on the bottom, but it is being about as slow as Christmas!

visit with Pop

My Dad was in town this weekend. He got in Friday and we met him downtown for dinner at Sticky Fingers. Saturday night we went to Wild Wing and we met Grammy at the Ham House today after church. Jordan was really good for each of these visits. She is just starting to use sign language for "more" and "milk". It is a little more difficult to take milk with us everywhere because it needs to stay cool, so I typically just take water with us. Well, in the middle of dinner Saturday night, she starts emphatically signing "milk". This is the one that has been giving us some trouble because she uses "more" for everything. 'I don't want this (whatever it is), I want "more" (translated as something else).' So, when she does sign "milk", we really try and give her just that immediately. Well, I felt SO bad because I had to flag down a server and get it for her, etc. Oh well, live and learn!

I think Pop had a happy visit, though. He walked Jordan around before and/or after dinner. She really responded to him and even showed off her "touchdown"! I have to figure out a way to get her to a game this season. They just all seem to be in the middle of naptime or will keep her up later than bedtime. We'll figure it out.

another stupid ear infection!

Actually, we're not convinced the original ear infection ever actually was really gone. Jordan has had a cough and runny nose for about 1-1/2 weeks and just doesn't seem to be quite herself (to me). So we went to the pediatrician again. I was really thinking they were going to tell me I was crazy and that it would just go away. But, no, right ear infected again/still. At least this time we're on the higher strength antibiotics and that should take care of it! And, she was such a trooper--our appointment was "lost" (and I don't want to tell you how long we waited before I asked a nurse what was going on), it was getting to be lunch time, and they had to pick more wax out of her ears to see the eardrum to see that it was infected! She didn't even cry until the very end--such a good girl! :)

aren't you a little young for that?

It's the end of an era--I think Jordan is outgrowing her morning nap! I have mixed emotions. This should mean that her afternoon nap will be longer and it should be easier for her to "hang" in the Toddler A classroom as they don't do morning naps--just quiet time after lunch for 1/2 hour. It just also means that running errands, etc. will have to be done before lunch. But a lot of places don't open as early as we can be ready to leave, so we'll just have to learn to be very efficient! :)

last day of Summer ITP!

Yesterday was the last day of school which means it is the last time that Jordan will be in the Infant room with Mommy at school. It's a sad day, but exciting all the same. She's gotten so big and is just doing so much that I can hardly believe it's been over a year since she has entered our lives! I know she will miss Ms. Ann and Ms. Judy, but she'll have great teachers in Toddler A, too.

Kenneth and I have been talking about cleaning out the garage as one of our next "big" projects. His old engine is still in there along with a whole bunch of car parts and tools, etc. from when his engine blew. It's hard to get just about anywhere, but we had been putting it off and putting it off. We kicked it into gear tonight as we have discovered that we have a visitor of the furry kind--a mouse! Kenneth noticed droppings on the steps a couple of days ago, so it's time to find the source of the problem. Mom came by after work yesterday and picked up Munchkin for the night.

We got a lot done last night, including confirming the presence of a critter. 2 traps were set and while Kenneth was in the shower, I was downstairs and heard a SNAP! come from the garage. I went upstairs really hoping that Kenneth had dropped something in the shower; but no. I made him go look because I have no desire to see a mouse dead or alive. The mouse was sitting beside the trap just happy as you please. Kenneth managed to get a bowl almost over him when he scurried away. Yuck! Traps are reset, so we'll see what happens...

Happy Birthday, Grandma!

Kenneth's Mom's birthday is Monday, so we went to Rock Hill today to visit. It is nice to have Jordan back to almost full capacity. She seems to be feeling pretty good--good enough that she did not take her afternoon nap at Grandma and Papa's. I guess it was just too much fun petting Grandma's hair and laughing at us during dinner!


She's really not pulling Grandma's hair--
she's being very gentle. (Surprisingly!!)












She had us all rolling after dinner!
If you look REALLY close you can see 2 teeth :)

ear infection/teeth update

I did not give Jordan enough credit about being at school this week. She was still feverish Tuesday and Wednesday, but since I knew the fever was from her ear infection, it was OK to take her to school. I expected that she would be miserable, but she really did pretty well, all things considered. She can't walk as well as she was because I think her equilibrium might be out of whack. She also isn't eating very well, but I sort of expected that.

Today while she was fussing at me about something, I noticed a third tooth on the bottom! It looks like a molar because I can just see one little point as opposed to the line that I saw with the other two. Time will tell!

She stopped running a fever Wednesday night and got a little more appetite yesterday. Thankfully, she's in a relatively good mood and her afternoon naps have been record breakers!

silly ear infection!

Ay, ay, ay!! It's been a rough few days! I went to the lake Saturday to get Jordan and she was a little grumpy, but it was about nap time, so I didn't think much about it. The teeth have broken through the gum, so I also attributed some of it to that. She also had a runny nose. I put her down for a nap when we got home, but she had napped for 30 minutes in the car, so I think she thought she'd gotten enough sleep. Kenneth was holding her and noted that she felt really warm. We took her temperature and it was 102. I thought that was a little high for teething, but we gave her some Tylenol and waited to see what the night would hold. She slept pretty fitfully and woke up feverish.

I went on to work and left Jordan and Kenneth watching Baby Einstein in our bed. When I called to check on them on my way home, Kenneth reported that she was only happy laying around doing nothing. We just kept giving her Motrin and tried to get her to eat and sleep. She also had goopy eyes--the same color as her runny nose! After two calls to the pediatrician, her temperature was up to 103.7 (underarm, with no adjustment)! I was freaking out! Jordan slept with me Sunday night while Kenneth slept with the dogs. When Jordan sleeps with us now (which is RARE!), she takes up the whole bed between me on one side and all the pillows propped up on the other to keep her from rolling off the bed.

I was dressed and ready to walk out the door when I called the doctor at 8am Monday morning. After a quick was removal, he discovered otitis in her right ear. I can't believe an ear infection could cause such a high fever. Dr. Wylie did a great job of making me realize that everything was OK. He told me exactly what to expect over the next few days and everything I could do to make her happy.

Poor girl--new teeth AND an ear infection! It ought to be an interesting week! :)

picture of a sick little girl!

If you've wondered what a sick girl and her worried Mom look like, here they are. You know Jordan doesn't feel good when she just climbs up in my lap and lays her little head down. This is just before we determined her fever was pushing 105!

Happy Birthday, Dada!

Today is Kenneth's birthday! I had to remind him that we turn 32 this year! Jordan will be staying at the lake with Nana and Papa tonight. Kenneth and I went to see the new Pirates of the Caribbean movie. It was really good and it was nice to be out with just us!

the teeth are coming!

I know that we've cried wolf many times before, but I promise Jordan is teething! She woke up mad from her morning nap (highly unusual). While she was screaming, we were at just the right angles that I could see her bottom gums and plain as day were these two clear lines. We even went to see Daddy at work so he could see them, too! I just wonder how long it will take them to actually break through the surface?!?

visit with Titi Mireya and Ann!

So, we survived camp! Jordan and Reece both did very well considering they were totally out of their elements. Kenneth came and got Jordan last night. They left this morning and went to Rock Hill. Kenneth's aunt who lives in Miami was up visiting the Manning's. I drove to Rock Hill after camp and arrived mid-afternoon. I was pooped, but it was so good to see everyone. Stephen, Gianna and Andrea were also there to visit, so the house was full of folks!

Here's a picture of Jordan and Reece at camp. I'll have to get pictures of the family and kids from today in Rock Hill...

Jordan's off to Camp!

Camp Opportunity starts tomorrow. Jordan will be with me almost all week. The kids leave Friday, but Kenneth will come pick her up Thursday night and then they will go to Rock Hill Friday. I'll meet them there because Titi Mireya and Ann will be there. It's going to be a long week, but it's always well worth it!

Jordan will be spending a lot of time with my Godson, Reece, and his Mom, Laura, while Ivan and I are out taking care of camper and/or counselors challenges. Our cabin has 5 individual rooms, 3 bathrooms, and 2 window a/c units! What more could you ask for!?!

a weird week!

Jordan has really not felt 100% most of the week. Kenneth stayed home with her Tuesday and she didn't run a fever after Tuesday, but she still had the cough, runny nose, etc. She's definitely on the mend, but it just made for a weird week. Tuesday was the first time that I've been at school without her! It was just too strange!

My stitches come out tomorrow! Yay!

to the pediatrician we go!

So, while I am trying to figure out how to maneuver life with my currently defunct finger, Jordan wakes up with a fever! I did think it was kind of weird because when we got home from Rock Hill, Jordan had a cough. She slept the whole way home and had not coughed at all before then. I didn't think much of it. I am pretty sure she developed the fever during the night because she woke up a few times (not usual) and felt warm, but again I didn't think much of it. Well, it was 102, so I called the doctor and they said we should probably go ahead and bring her in. Of course, her fever was down to 99 by the time we got there (I hadn't even given her any Tylenol or anything yet) and the doc said it was just viral, so no antibiotics. But, he did give us some good OTC stuff we could give her. She doesn't act like she feels bad, but she sure is warm...

Happy Father's Day!

Thankfully (or unfortunately, depending on who you are!), I wasn't planning on too much for Father's Day. I only say that because of my finger. Jordan had already made Kenneth's present , so I just got the cards together and brought it all upstairs. The unfortunately part is that Kenneth was so excited because he saw the tray and thought I had made breakfast! Oops!

We are off to Rock Hill today to see Kenneth's Dad. I am looking forward to driving with my hand up above my heart so my finger won't throb, with this stupid looking "finger sock" which will probably lead people to believe I'm giving them the one finger salute! :)

Happy Father's Day, everyone!!

trip to the ER

You know, today started out to be a great day...we went to IHOP for breakfast, planned to come home, make guacamole and head to the lake for an early Father's Day gathering. That is, until I picked up a knife! The dogs were outside and Jordan was in her walker in the kitchen. Kenneth was in the shower and I was trying to make slices in a lime to make it easier to juice for the guac. Kenneth loves our knives sharp and they really are because the paring knife I was using went right through the lime and into my left ring finger! As soon as I cut it, I knew it was bad. I grabbed a paper towel, threw my hand above my head and ran upstairs to get Kenneth. I am not going to lie--I was freaking out! It was bleeding lots and I couldn't look at it to see how deep it was.

We pretty much threw Jordan at our neighbor and headed to the hospital. A couple of hours and 6 stitches later, we came home to finish the guac and get to the lake. I was glad to have some other folks to occupy Jordan because I spent my time holding my hand above my heart so that my finger wouldn't throb quite as much!

So, I'm going to live and Jordan survived us dumping her in the pack and play next door. I think I'll leave all knife handling to Kenneth, though!

1 year check up

Yet another trip to the Doctor! At least it was a well check and not a sick visit...

As usual, Dr. Stoeber says that Jordan is doing beautifully! She weighs 22 lbs. 9 oz., which puts her in the 70th %ile. I don't remember her length right this second, but it is in only the 50th %ile. The Dr. and I were both surprised by that, but he's not concerned about it. They will try to predict her height at age 2. Of course, we ended an otherwise pleasant visit with 3 shots and a finger prick to check hemoglobin! She did fine with the finger prick and her hemo is great. Her feelings were a little hurt by the shots, though. Kenneth bailed on me for this appointment. (hee hee!) The nurses have done this a few times before because they asked me if I wanted to leave the room while they did the shots. I stayed--I'm getting better at handling it!

Happy Birthday, Jordan!

So, today is Jordan's actual birthday. I spent parts of the day thinking about what was going on "this time last year". It's crazy to think about everything that has happened in 12 months. I think it's crazier how time is going by SO much more quickly the older I get. I imagine that is only going to be exacerbated by having Jordan around!

We celebrated by going to Guadalajara's for dinner. Jordan had her favorite--spinach quesadilla!

Happy Birthday, little girl!!

I'm sorry, what did you just do?!?

It's official--Jordan took steps today. She just picked up and started shuffling those feet around! We are still recovering from the busy past few days, so Ken and I were a little late with our dinner plans, so we were all in the playroom. And then, in the middle of a bite of rice and beans (of which Jordan had already eaten from, even though she just finished her dinner!) she took a step...and I cried. Then after I calmed down, I got the video camera and we got 3 steps on tape! Not only is she about to be one, she's about to be a walker! Yikes--what happened to our little girl?!?

cake pictures

I had to put the cake pictures in a separate entry because Blogger limits the number you can put in each post...just in case you were wondering! :)

"Aaahhh, what an adorable cake!"

"Hhhmmm, this looks VERY interesting!?!"

"This is how you ENJOY your food!!!"

"I'm done. Take it away, please..."

Happy 1st Birthday Party!

Although Jordan's birthday is not until next Friday, a lot of family was in town for Uncle Trey and Aunt Heather's wedding last night. With their permission, we decided to have her party today so that we could maximize the family's visit. Jordan was in a great mood coming off a full 24 hours of undivided Mimi Patty's attention! Junebug wore her signature lady bug dress, although the matching hat was never gonna make it!

She visited for a little while and then opened her presents. After many cute outfits,

books and even her own adirondack chair,

it was time for the main event--the cake! Publix not only makes great cakes, but also provides a free "smash cake" for the first birthday. Complete with ladybugs, it only looked pretty for a minute or so before Jordan figured out that it tasted REALLY good! She dug right in and proceeded to shovel it in her mouth fistful after fistful. I think she could have eaten the whole thing! Even with all that sugar and hype, she managed to take a 2 hour nap and only got to bed a little later than normal. There was so much going on that most of the day is a blur for me, but I do remember when we were singing Happy Birthday and holding the big cake with the candle, all these flashes going off. I think everyone there had a camera. So, if you were at the party, you probably already have these pictures, but for everyone else...we missed you!!

Uncle Trey and Aunt Heather's wedding

Friday was such an exciting day! Trey and Heather officially tied the knot at the Ryan Nicholas Inn. Jordan was along for some of the excitement thanks to our lifesaver, Mimi Patty. Jordan made a brief appearance at the rehearsal before chauffeur Patty picked her up for lunch, playtime and a nap. Then, dressmaker and stylist Patty brought Jordan to the ceremony looking more adorable than usual! Jordan had a sleepover at Mimi Patty's house and then was dressed and ready for her birthday party debut today (more about that later!) The only sad news that I have is that in all the hullabaloo (sp?), we did not get a picture of Jordan at the reception, much less one of Jordan and Patty! Don't get me wrong, the photographer and some disposable cameras took many pictures of Jordan, but not a single family camera was clicked. I will be getting those pictures from Heather soon, but in the meantime, here's a picture of Ken and I (best man and maid of honor!)...

We went to the lake today! Jordan had a great time in the water and enjoyed sporting her shades, too. I think she liked the boat, but not necessarily the required life jacket. Last year, she was so small that it swallowed her whole and she slept the whole time we were on the boat. This year, we actually had to loosen the straps to something other than the tightest settings, but she couldn't even get her two little hands together to clap. :(
It was a little sad!

2nd haircut

Uncle Trey is getting married next Friday. There is lots going on between now and then, but we decided that Jordan needed a little trim. We went to Jelly Beans and they fixed her up. She was so good and happily sat in the chair for a few snips. We are growing her bangs out with hopes that with some added length, they will stay out of her eyes a little better. In the meantime, we use bows or pony tails so that she can see!

Out on the playground and look what happens!

The weather has been so great and we have finally been able to get out on the playground at school. It's surprising how long it takes to get 9 kids ready to go anywhere, but I digress! So, we're outside and the next thing I know, Jordan is standing up in the middle of the playground not holding onto a darn thing! How did that happen? She did it a few more times and I cried (shocker!) as I realized that she is THAT much closer to walking! Help...wasn't I just pregnant a few days ago? How is she growing up SO fast!?!

First Mother's Day!

Today is Mother's Day! I made a point to not really celebrate Mother's Day last year since Jordan wasn't here. That made this year that much more special! Kenneth even remembered to get a card from Jordan!
We had Mom, Carroll, Trey and Heather over for dinner. I actually cooked--spinach and artichoke calzones!

Cinco de Mayo!

Last night we made our annual trip to Guadalajara's for Cinco de Mayo! Kenneth's parents were nice enough to come down and stay with Jordan while we went out. They really just watched her sleep on the monitor since she was already in bed when they got here, but they said they had a good time regardless. We definitely had a good time. Jordan went with us for dinner and was a huge hit, as usual!

Thank you Grandma and Papa for helping us enjoy a fun night out!

purple mouth!

This might be TMI--proceed with caution!

Today was the Nursing Moms Support Group meeting. I like going to the meetings to see all the new babies and to chat with Donna. I don't really have that many questions anymore, but I still try to go when I can. Today, I NEEDED to go because I have a really sore nipple when Jordan nurses. I discovered a crack and knew that Donna would know exactly what was wrong. Turns out that we have thrush--a yeast infection. Yuck! Jordan has to have Gentian Violet put into her mouth. It stains. Enough said!

visit with the Manning's

Grandma and Papa came to visit today. We took some pictures because Jordan was making this really cute smile with just about her whole face. Of course, when I tried to get pictures of it, she started fussing. Most of the pictures, therefore, look like she is in pain! It wasn't that bad!


Oh, and her hair is kicking because of her nap. She doesn't really enjoy having someone play with her hair yet, so I have to pick those battles carefully--I wasn't up for the fight today!

a pretty dress!

Titi Mireya (Kenneth's aunt) lives in Miami and has a very talented neighbor! She made this beautiful dress for Jordan. She modeled it today when Kenneth's parents came over...

doctor's visit with no shots!

We got home from Florida, slept a little bit, got a bath, and went to the doctor--what morecan a little girl ask for!?!
The "no shot" appointments are my favorite! Today was Jordan's 9 month well check. Yes, she's 10 months old, but we are a month behind because of the ice storm. Anyways...
she weighs 20 lbs. 10 oz. (65th %ile)
she is 28 3/4 inches long (70th %ile)
her head is 46.5 cm round (90th %ile)
Doc says she is growing fine and not to worry about her big head! It doesn't really look that big to us--she was really squirmy during that part, so maybe it's a few centimeters off?!?
Dr. Stoeber is happy with the things she's doing and the things she's not. She's crawling, babbling, pulling up. She has no teeth! You can see the outline of them just waiting to come forth, but no luck yet. We really think they've been bothering her more, though, because her tongue just keeps working and working them. Yay for Orajel!
Since she has been eating yogurt and other dairy with no problem, we can start whole milk around 11 months as opposed to waiting the full year. I'm excited to see how she will do with it. She drinks water and drinkable yogurt from her straw cups just fine, so I'm hoping there won't be anything weird with milk--time will tell!

Happy Easter

The babysitters...














Bobby and his "bug"...














Easter Sunday was a great day! We started off with waffles and crepes for breakfast and ended it with ham and all the fixin's for dinner. There was lots of family in between, so that was actually the best part! :)
Thanks to Deana and Doug for having us at their house. Thanks to Katie and Lindsay for happily Jordan-sitting just about any time of day! We had a wonderful vacation and look forward to more visits to Florida...

what, no presents for me?

That's OK, I'd rather play with the paper, anwyay...

Today was Aunt Kim's surprise 50th birthday party. This morning we went back to the Grandma's for a little visit and to play with measuring cups! But this afternoon, Aunt Kim walked right into the trap and was surprised to see the SC gang there. It was nice to get a surprise over on her, but I just missed getting to visit with her the last couple of days while we've been here. The party was lots of fun and Jordan's job was to play with the wrapping paper and bags as the gifts were opened. She earned her keep!

"swang"ginnn'

We have found a new favorite thing--the swing! Jordan was absolutely crazy about the swing at Sims Park in New Port Richey. We met some of the family there and she's a little small still for a lot of the stuff, but not this swing! She swang for a few minutes and then we got out to walk around and she was just not happy until we got back in the swing! She talked and talked the whole time she was just a "swangin'"!

visit with the "great"est grandmas!

Jordan is lucky enough to have a Great and Great Great Grandmother still alive in Florida. We went down this week to visit, celebrate a birthday (Aunt Kim) and celebrate Easter. This was our first day down there. We drove through the night so as to preserve the princess' schedule--aren't Mommy and Daddy crazy...oops, I mean, nice!
Anyway, Jordan is enthralled with a piece of the wrapping paper from her Easter present from Great Grandma--a cute outfit and a bathing suit!

no, she's not in jail!

Daddy thought this was a cute picture of the princess getting ready for bed. And no, she's not in jail (at least not yet!), she's at the gate inside our bedroom. Sometimes there just has to be a barrier between her and the dogs!

Easter fun with Trey and Heather!

Uncle Trey and Aunt Heather are the best! They came over for dinner tonight and came bearing gifts! Jordan got to open her first Easter basket! Since she can't have chocolate, Jordan got fruit puffs and mini fruits in her baskets along with some plastic eggs and even some treats for Mommy and Daddy...I told you they are the best! :)

welcome home JD!

My college roommate and her husband recently brought home their newly adopted little boy from Guatemala, James David. Since both of our husbands were busy this weekend, Katy and I planned a play date for JD and Jordan. JD is about a month younger than Jordan, but you wouldn't know it by looking at him! He is about the same weight and probably a little longer, too! The kids had a good time together and we all enjoyed playing with Maya, their 5 month old puppy. We are looking forward to more play dates with JD!

Jordan's in da house!

We have a house at school that most of the kids love to play in. Jordan has been a little hesitant with it. She usually just wants to stand up and look in through the front window and door. She likes the doorbell sounds, but the button is hard to push (even for me!). She will sometimes crawl as far as the threshold to the door, put her hands inside, but then chicken out. One day I put her in the house and that did not go over very well. Today, however, she just decided that she was ready to see what the house was all about. I looked over and she was just there--standing up looking out the window like a big girl. Of course, she had also taken the bow out of her hair, so she was pretty happy about that, too!



Yikes, Jordan, quit growing up so much!! :)

fruit girl!

Tonight was a fun little experiment! There was a wide selection of fruit on the salad bar at church. I knew she liked fruit, but I just haven't been brave enough to try a lot yet. Mainly because I don't want to buy a bunch of it and her not like it! Jordan had watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, grapes, blackberries and raspberries. According to the picture, I think it's safe to say that she liked it a little bit!

Easter Egg Hunt, Part 2

Because Jordan's school has 2 sets of days in which children can attend, we do everything twice! The lucky kids that go all 4 days get to do everything twice, too--like Easter Egg Hunts. But today was extra special because of all the people that came to see her. Kenneth, my Mom and Carroll, and Grammy came to participate. Jordan had such a good time. She patted eggs together, played with the basket and in general just was happy being her usual self!

Easter Egg Hunt!

Jordan got to play in her first Easter Egg Hunt at school today! She also seems to be working on teeth as evidenced by the strange tongue position. Of course, we've said that before...for the last, oh say, 6 months!! Regardless, she had a pretty good time playing with eggs and grass and friends on the playground.