away - day 2

I know he looks sweet but don't be fooled. We are in the baby proofing isle at Babies R Us for a reason. Jace is exploring everything. I picked out a few different products for our electrical outlets. I am finding that one solution does not solve every problem. Some cords don't work with the outlet covers I got so I picked out two other kinds. One of them has me frustrated because I can't even open it to install it. The worst part is that by the time I get this problem fixed he will be bored with the outlets and be on to the next dangerous thing. What will it be next?????? I think we better get the gates installed on the stairs.

Today's photo: He's not that innocent.

away - day 1

Joel is away again. He drove back to El Paso to work. Jace & I had a quiet day at home. Jace is crawling all over the place (still on tummy) so before Joel left we did some of the baby proofing that we had put off. We took down some scary shelves and reorganized storage so that it was safe for him to play. Today I was so grateful we got that done because I left him on the living room floor while I answered the phone. Joel was calling to check on us. I looked over and held my breath as Jace pulled himself up from his tummy to his knees and then to standing next to the couch. I was so terrified and excited and afraid to distract him. He stood there for a few minutes (long enough for me to move closer and take the photo).

Today's photo: Peek-a-boo. Who woke up happy?

Baptism

A small group of family and friends joined us today at Church to witness and celebrate Jace's baptism. Jace was alert and interested. The other children in the congregation were invited to sit around the font. Jace watched the kids and kicked his feet happily. He never seemed nervous at all. He even got a laugh when, after the baptism, he looked Pastor Bruce right in the eyes with his serious face (the same one he gave Santa). After church we enjoyed brunch at Palmer's house while Jace napped.

Happy Birthday Joel!

Joel worked all day. Jace was a little cranky tonight. I keep thinking we will see some teeth coming in soon. We celebrated Joel's birthday last night with his family so tonight we just had a quiet night at home. I picked up sushi for a special dinner. Joel got some nice cards and calls. Hopefully Jace will sleep quietly tonight. Last night he was fussing in his sleep which makes it difficult for us to sleep well.

TA-DA!

overcoming obstacles

Jace is crawling all over the place now. It is still an army crawl with his tummy down and pulling with his arms but it is very efficient. Today he pulled himself through the bottom of his exersaucer. It took several minutes. Joel & I were tickled watching him. He seemed so pleased with himself.

shoes

Taking a few steps with Daddy.

Today was a fun Saturday. We attended Jayden Marsik's 9th birthday party. It was a spirited floor hockey tournament at the elementary school. Anyone with the inclination could jump in and play. Jayden lead the sharks team. Joel played on Sage's team, the snakes. I think the teams were pretty well matched. It shows how much I was paying attention that I don't even know for sure who won. It was a great birthday party!

Jace did pretty well at the party considering it was right during his normal nap time. He seemed to enjoy watching the kids. After the party Jace got his nap and we took it easy the rest of the day. Joel had Jace squealing with laughter once tickling him (no one can escape the claw). I got into a wrestling match with Jace and ended up with drool all over my face and my hair a terrible mess (I'm pretty sure Jace won). We fixed a yummy dinner at home (I wish this was a more normal occurrence). Jace tucked in to bed on time tonight (lots of evenings we are hurrying to get him to bed). Joel and I both have a little quiet time tonight and hopefully we will tuck in early also.

I am thankful for days like this one.

Jace and Cole

We enjoyed Superbowl Sunday at Chris & Deanna's house. Their little guy, Cole, just celebrated his 1st birthday last month.

Cole is walking. Jace still gets around on his tummy.

He and Jace look a lot alike. They don't pay much attention to each other yet but I'm sure it won't be long until they are chasing each other around.Chris holding both boys.