Old Toys Teach New Tricks

Do you remember the old-school Fisher-Price telephones, complete with a rotary dial? 

While they are probably not suitable for today's kids because of their long cords and lead paint, my mom pulled out the one I had when I was younger.  We dragged the toy around the house in hopes that Joshua would want to chase it, and sure enough, this is what happened...

Who says old toys don't teach new tricks?!

One Fish, Two Fish...

I know I'm going to get a lot of flack from my Phoenix friends for this, but it's H-O-T!  We tried to beat the heat today by visiting our neighborhood pool.  I loved watching my two fishes play together : )

Yes!

Joshua has been saying, "Da-da" for awhile now.  He still doesn't really associate it with Andrew, but it still bummed me out a bit when I would hear him say it.  A few days ago, Joshua started saying, "Ma-ma."  As with Da-da, he doesn't associate Ma-ma with me, but it's just nice to hear him say those sweet consonants together!

Happy Father's Day!

Happy Father's Day to all of the dads out there!

A special shout-out goes to my hubby and best friend.  Andrew, thank you for going above and beyond for our family.  Thank you for going to work each and every day with a cheerful heart, and then for coming home and jumping right into the chaos even when you're tired.  It has been such a joy over the past year to watch you grow in your role of "father," and I can't wait to see the journey that awaits us in the future as parents.  

We also want to wish our Dad's a Happy Father's Day:

Doug, thanks for taking care of me as your own daughter.  Thank you for raising a godly, loving son - that's the best gift you could ever give a girl!  Also, we affectionately call you the "Baby Whisperer" because you are a natural with Joshua.  Joshua sure does cherish his Papa time!

And, to my daddy...  I will always be your little girl.  I'm sure I'll be playing the "Daddy" card, as I bat my eyes, well into my late years : )  You've taught me so much over the years, and I cherish the relationship that we have.  Joshua wants you to know that he appreciates the fact that you let him watch Sportscenter at your house ; )

Nine Months

Joshua had his nine month well-visit last Friday.  He weighed in at 20.6  pounds, and measured 28 inches long.  Surprisingly, this puts him in about the 50th percentile for each category.  I say "surprisingly" because it seems like he's a big boy compared to other babies his age.  Other than that, there's not much to report on.  Dr. Koil said he looks great!  The best part of the visit - no shots (good news for mom and Joshua!).  I can't believe he will be a one-year-old at his next well-visit.  The months are going by so quickly!!!

Lil' Fish

The girls and I took Joshua for his first dip in the pool.  He loved splashing the water, and kicking his feet.  He's a natural fish - just like his Daddy!

Four Girls and a little baby

Last week, I was spoiled by having my NAU girls come out for a visit.  Bethany and Mary teach high school history and biology, so they are on summer break.  Lindsay is also on summer break as she finishes up her PhD in Psychology.  I have smart friends, so I feel the need to brag about them a little bit : )

The last time we were all together was three weeks after Joshua was born, for Bethany and Luke's wedding.  Joshua has changed quite a bit since then, so it was fun to see them enjoy him a little more this time around.  

I love being with my girls.  We know each other so well, that when we're together, life is easy.  I'm so thankful to God for these women, and the impact that each one has had on my life.  I don't mean to be super emo, but you girls are the best!  I love each of you so much.  Thanks for a great week, and thanks to the guys for lending their women for a few days!

(Lindsay, Mary, Bethany, me)

   

The Land of 10,000 Lakes

I'm back from my blogging hiatus!  These past few weeks have been filled with traveling, guests, and lots of fun.  Over Memorial weekend, our family headed to Minnesota to visit Andrew's grandparents and aunt.  Andrew's parents also flew out from California, so it was a family affair.  It's safe to say that Andrew and I took a back seat to Joshua and his cuteness...I'm seeing this to be a trend : )

Here is a picture of Joshua with Great-Grandma and Great-Grandpa Grundstrom.  Joshua has the honor of being their first great-grandchild.

Joshua loved story time with Great-Grandma...

Aunt Kathy couldn't get enough of the little guy : )

Grandma babysat for us, so that we could go to a Minnesota Twins game.  One more ballpark down in our quest to visit all of the Major League parks.  We agreed that this is one of the nicest parks we have seen so far.

Thank you for watching our teething boy...

Family picture - 4 generations

We went to the Mall of America in hopes of Joshua getting to go on his first ride.  We ended up at this mini carousel, and he loved it!  Maybe he'll graduate to the little kid rides by the time we make it back.

All tuckered out from vacation, and ready to go home.  He sure was a trooper, as he cut three teeth while we were in Minnesota.

Another highlight of the trip was spending a few days in Madison, WI.  We were fortunate enough to visit some dear friends of ours who moved away from Albuquerque a year ago to plant a church.  It was fun to be with their family of six again, and to be able to spend Sunday morning worshiping alongside of them at their church.  We love and miss you, Nielsens!

All in all, we had a great time with friends and family.  Thank you Grandma and Grandpa for your hospitality.  We enjoyed introducing you to your first great-grandchild!