First Swim Class

Annabel had her first swim "class" on Saturday and she just loved the water. It's like bath time, but way longer, bigger, and more fun. The Baby-Parent class at the Penninsula Swim School is a magnet for Dads - most the participants were daddies & babies.

She was dunked a couple of times and "swam" to Matt which she didn't mind at all, even when she took on a bit of water.

And they did a lot of singing and playful activities.

First Concert

Checking out some music on Friday night in downtown Redwood City.

Cousins

My cousins Rachel and Christina came to visit from Maryland and Annabel really enjoyed playing with them. They are also much better photographers than I am (see last photo where it appears we let Annabel drink more than just milk) so hopefully I'll post some additional pics when they send some along.

We may fly Rachel (left) back out to CA so she can babysit Annabel - she just loved her. And Christina just came back from a trip to Zambia and brought Annabel a couple of amazing photos of giraffs and elephants that she took during her visit.

Double-duty

Ran into Kieren & his mom, Shayna, the other weekend. No need to hit the gym Matt, that's some heavy lifting. (Anyone else find thethe sign behind him which reads 'roid' amusing? No need to dope up either.)

Hangin' with the "Carnies"

Checked out the Foster City Festival this past weekend and went to the carnival where we enjoyed a nice glass of wine paired with a fine funnel cake.

Just my size

9 Months

Then (at 2 weeks)

And Now, at 9 months.

Once, you were dwarfed by your big crib you were so small. Now, you stretch out over half.

You laid still all snugly in your swaddle. Now, you roll from end to end.

You used to look up at the world. Now, you pull yourself up so you can look our knees in the eye.

Books were for looking at and listening to. Now, you won't let them stay on the shelf and each must be handled (with care?)

Food came in liquid form. Now, you eat off our plates.

You cried at daycare when we dropped you off (aka, abandoned you). Now, if you could jump out of your seat when we arrive to play with your friends, you would.

You used to cry, not cry, eat and sleep...exclusively. Now you laugh, complain, express frustration, smile and demonstrate love with your kisses and hugs.

We used to put you down and find you in the same spot minutes later. Now, we put you down and find you crawling away seconds later.

What was put in front of you was interesting enough. Now, your curiosity leads you to the window, reaching up bookshelves and behind slightly ajar doors.

Tiny noises came from your mouth. Now, you speak with us like we're having a discussion (sorry we can't understand you).

Your giggles were tiny too. Now, our tickles incite shrieks and deep belly laughs.

The younger you was so cute and easy to be nostalgic for. But the older you is so much fun.

Lap of Luxury

On Saturday the weather in the Bay Area was very cold and rainy. Having an active 9 month old baby does not work well with wet, rainy weather (It's not supposed to rain in June?!?). So Lisa and I decided that Ikea would be like a giant play ground and amusement park for Annabel. Little A had a great time and especially liked the giant bin of wool rugs. She felt very chic and was charming all of the old ladies who were walking by.