End of the week update...

I've been asked by several people how things are going with Graham and his diaper issue, so I'll take this time to update everyone. He loves to take his clothes off, there is no disputing that. If he really insists on taking his pajamas off at night, there is nothing I can do about it. Eventually he'll figure out the relationship between pajama's and warmth, but until then, I'm just not sure. It's the diaper I have issue with. Each time he's in his crib, I've been layering two diapers on him. One put on correctly, and one worn backwards so he can't release the tabs. No, he can't take the diapers off the traditional way when I layer them, but he can work very hard and almost pull them down to his knees! Very early this morning I resorted to cutting the feet off of his pajama's. From now on, he wears footy pajama's without the feet, backwards. I'd love to see him try to unzip a zipper that runs the length of his spine. To be honest though, I'm sure it's only a matter of time before he figures it out. And then, it's time to bring out the duct tape (to create a belt around the diaper, NOT his skin)!

I haven't posted pictures in a few days, so I'll add a few. These are actually from last weekend when we attended a festival that was at Graham's school. I still can't get over how 'big boy'ish' he looks lately. He's definitely a toddler now...in size, in attitude, and spirit! :)

2 Year Check-Up

Today Graham had his 2 year check-up with his pediatrician. Today also marked the very first time that Graham refused to let the doctor touch him. He didn't want to be weighed (28 pounds), measured (33.5 inches), and he certainly didn't want any instruments like a stethoscope near him. Unfortunately, even with a handful of stickers as a bribe, he was still unhappy. So, he endured his quick exam while he screamed 'Mama' with tears running down his face. As soon as the doctor left the room (he normally LOVES her), he stopped crying and said 'Mama, Go!' as he pointed to the door. And with that, we left.

Now, I need to share the reason we almost missed our appointment this morning. While I take a fast shower in the morning, Graham sits in his crib with a stack of books. When I got out of the shower I could hear Graham laughing to himself over the baby monitor so I ran into his room to see what was going on. I walked in just in time to see my naked boy going to the bathroom all over his crib. When Graham realized I was there, he looked up at me and said 'Oh Well!'. Seriously, why is it appealing to take off your clothes and go to the bathroom in your bed???? I mentioned Graham's new habit to his doctor and she suggested that over his diaper, I add another one, only put it on backwards. So, Graham is now asleep in his crib and I really hope that when he wakes up I find a child still wearing a diaper.

Naked at naptime

Over the past week or so, Graham has discovered a new way to amuse himself in the middle of the night as well as during his afternoon nap. He loves to take his clothes and diaper off! Oh joy! The first time he did this was in the middle of the night...Graham began calling out 'Dada!' so Jeff went into his room. I was immediately called in too, and met with a naked toddler standing happily in his crib. Graham threw is pajamas to the ground but decided the soggy wet diaper was better handed directly over to his Daddy. How kind! Yesterday during nap time, the same thing happened. All of his clothes and diaper were thrown to the ground. Somehow, Graham managed to get his onesie off, without unsnapping a single button! Oh, what I wouldn't give for a video monitor right about now. And finally, this brings us to today's nap. I could hear some strange movement on the monitor so I went to check on Graham. Sure enough, he was in the middle of removing each and every article of clothing. Luckily, I arrived just in time to insist that his diaper be kept on.

Sorry, there are no pictures as evidence of Graham's newest clothing (or lack of) accomplishment, but I have included a few pictures of him playing this morning. When I look at these pictures Graham looks so much older to me all of a sudden. He's also sounding older too. Here are a few examples...the other day Graham heard me talking to Jeff and for the rest of the day, Graham referred to his Daddy as 'Jeff', and he still occasionally does this now. His new favorite phrase is 'Oh Well'. If something is "accidentally" thrown across the room and I take it away, Graham looks at me and says "Oh Well!". And finally, with the recent arrival of baby Miles into our family and soon the arrival of Amelia, Graham and I have been talking a lot about the difference between a baby and a big boy. I asked him if he was a baby or a big boy and he paused for a moment before saying 'man.' Ok then, my 2 year old thinks he's already an adult, great...2 going on 20, this should be fun.

And finally the pictures- For some reason, Graham insisted on wearing Jeff's hat for most of the day...

A secret cubbyhole...

I'm thinking that every mom in the Minneapolis area is beginning to go stir crazy with the winter weather just like we are. And because of that, it felt like every mom and their toddler-filled stroller joined us at the zoo this morning. Maybe the crowds were a result of the weather or possibly the day of the week, but I don't think I'll be back on a Friday! I haven't seen it this packed since last summer, and even then, the wide outdoor walking paths help make the crowds feel a bit lighter. Today though, all the strollers were crammed into the buildings and the crowd was a bit much for my taste. Alex did let us in on a secret spot in the aquarium though...a kid size cubbyhole that Graham and I had yet to discover! It was here, for a few minutes, that the kids had the opportunity to observe the marine life without a crowd. This is one place we'll be back to explore...just not on a Friday!

Happy Birthday Graham!!!

I can't believe that today, Graham turns 2 years old! It really is amazing to me that Jeff and I are the parents of a (very independent) toddler! Graham is growing so quickly and learning new things each and every day. His little mind really is like a sponge right now! Happy Birthday Graham! You are an amazing little boy, and it is a true privilege for us to be your Mommy and Daddy!

In honor of Graham's birthday, Jeff decided to make a surprise appearance at school today. Graham LOVED showing his Daddy around the classroom and was excited to have his buddy sitting at his table right along side him.

For anyone that has had the pleasure of dining with Graham at a restaurant, you'll know that ice was the perfect toy for him to discover at school today!

After the bitterly cold weather we've been experiencing for the past week, today's sunny clear sky and highs in the mid-20's felt balmy enough to play outside. So, all three of us bundled up and took Graham sledding for the first time. Graham LOVED it! Each time he went down the hill, he would yell 'Fun!' and beg for 'More!' each time the sled slowed to a stop at the bottom of the hill. Jeff and I decided the fun had to end when we were too cold to continue, but Graham seemed like he could have gone on forever.

So excited to be outside in the snow!


"FUN!"

I think this is a sweet picture of the birthday boy.

No, Graham isn't upset here, this is him having trouble containing his excitement in the sled!

After dinner, the birthday boy opened up his gifts. Graham wasted no time with wrapping paper and dove right in.

Studying his new transportation book


Graham received a very special gift from his Great Grandparents. We knew what it was, so we saved it for last, because we figured he would want to spend some time with his new toy. To say that he likes his new 'Elmo Live' is an understatement. It seemed to Jeff and I that Graham really believes this Elmo is real. Graham spent a great deal of time interacting with him, trying to feed him, and laughing when Elmo laughed. These two were instant friends!

Kissing his new Elmo...he LOVES it!

Copying Elmo's dance moves

'Big Boy' Lunch

Today Graham enjoyed his lunch 'big boy' style at General Mills. We haven't been there in a while, but Graham still remembers the routine and the route we take to the cafeteria. Once we met up with Jeff, Graham happily jumped out of his stroller, grabbed his Daddy's hand, and off they went. Graham literally took off running down the hall toward the elevator where he knows he'll be allowed to push the button. He also took great pride in pushing the large square button that opens the giant double doors into the cafeteria. Things got a bit crowded at this point, so an unhappy Graham was strapped back into his chariot. As Jeff and I surveyed our lunch options, Graham was sure to let everyone within earshot know that he wanted a hot dog....too bad that wasn't an option for him today. Thankfully, Graham appeared satisfied with his meatloaf and mashed potatoes. The real treat was dessert though. Yes, Graham enjoyed his mini donut, but he was most excited by the fact that he was allowed to sit on the 'big boy' leather furniture while he enjoyed his snack. I had to laugh on the way home though, because Graham continued to demand another donut. I didn't even know he could say that word, but apparently his dessert made quite the impression on him!

Happy 'Almost' Birthday!

This past Sunday we had a small birthday celebration for Graham. He doesn't turn 2 until Thursday, but Sunday was the day that worked with our schedule, so Sunday it was. This party was nothing like his massive 1st Birthday Bash , but we still had a great time celebrating. I still can't believe my little guy is turning 2!!!

Graham had a lot of practice in December unwrapping gifts, and he had no problem getting back into the swing of things.

This is Graham studying the Elmo cake that I slaved over. As I was decorating it, I kept commenting to Jeff that this would be the only Elmo cake I would ever create. He reminded me that Amelia may very well love Elmo, in which case, I might be creating another red monster cake in the future!

Elmo cake on an Arthur plate-what could be better!

After dinner, Graham performed for his family. He LOVES to be the center of attention and the more pleased we appeared with his performance, the more he played into his crowd! I've got a feeling this performance was the direct result of a cake and ice cream sugar high!

Piano Lesson

The following pictures are not posed...I promise! Jeff was the first one to notice Graham giving his faithful companion, Elmo, a piano lesson. Jeff motioned for me to grab the camera and this is what I found...




Apparently Elmo needed a bit more guidance so Graham moved him onto his lap. How sweet is this?!?

We're still here!

The past few days have just flown by for us! Despite the arctic air that refuses to leave Minnesota, we've still managed to stay very busy. We met our friends Tiffiny and Livia at Edinborough Park on the absolute coldest day of the year. Both Graham and Livia seemed thrilled with the space to run and play.

Graham was in the middle of throwing his wipes into the pond when I took this picture. It looks like Liv is cheering him on!

I was even able to indulge in a bit of retail therapy for Miss Amelia. I've got a strong suspicion that the longer it takes her to come home the larger her wardrobe will become! Here is Graham trying on some glasses before we headed to the mall.

And this, is just a cute video. Until Jeff starts talking, Graham had no idea he was being taped. He LOVES to sit at the piano and play. I'm not sure if you can hear him in this clip, but he's singing to himself too!

FREEZING cold!

Despite the freezing cold weather (-23 F!!!) Graham and I ventured out this morning to run a few errands and spend some time visiting with our friends Amy and Miss Alex. Graham has been working on being able to pronounce the name 'Alex' for a while now, and today he was able to do it! Alex was a wonderful host and let Graham play with anything he wanted to. Interestingly enough, we have many of the same toys but for some reason in a different house, they seemed to entertain Graham much better than they do at home! Thanks Amy and Alex for a fun morning!

Big Cousin Graham

Over the weekend, we gained an adorable new family member! Graham's cousin Miles was born late Sunday night. Unfortunately, Graham was tucked into bed and soundly sleeping when Miles made his appearance, but I was lucky enough to be at the hospital along with my parents so we got to meet him almost immediately!

Graham's cousin Miles...less than an hour old!

This afternoon Graham and I picked up Jeff from work a bit early and we headed to the hospital to pay the new Mommy and Daddy and Miles a visit. I was very curious as to how Graham would react when he saw his Mama cuddling another little bundle. Luckily, he was so entertained by the baby that he didn't care which arms Miles was resting in. I didn't sense any jealousy from Graham which is a good sign since very soon, there will be a new baby in our house too! Graham was also extremely impressed by Miles' bellybutton. He immediately noticed it looks a bit different than his own and spent some time lifting his shirt up to compare and contrast them. How fun it will be for these two little guys to have each other as buddies as they grow up. I can only imagine the mischief they'll be causing together in the years to come! Congratulations Peter and Lynn-your little guy is amazing!

No, Graham isn't winding up to hit Miles, he was actually mid-wave when this photo was taken

Grandma and her boys

Graham thought it was hilarious to offer his bunny graham crackers to Miles. I should note that Graham wouldn't share with anyone else. It didn't matter how nicely we asked Graham for a cracker, the only person to get a cracker was Miles.

How crazy is it that both Peter and I are parents????

Life with Elmo Slippers: Day 2

Graham is still very attached to his Elmo slippers and I guess I really shouldn't be surprised. He wears them constantly only to have me remove them against his will to leave the house, sleep, and take a bath. Tonight at dinner (with Elmo slippers) I noticed Graham taking bits of food and shoving them under the table. I think he was trying to be discrete, but he isn't as sly as he thinks he is. I reminded him that his food needed to stay on his plate and he very calmly pointed to his feet and said 'Elmo mmmmmmmm'. In Graham's world, that means that Elmo is eating food and enjoying it. Great, Graham finally gets over his eating issues and now he's giving his food to stuffed slippers??? I almost started laughing when I realized what he was thinking but reminded myself that he was taking this very seriously. It was dinner time for the family and since Elmo is part of the family according to Graham, it was only fair that Elmo have a meal too. I let Graham offer his slippers a few more bites then encouraged him to eat the rest of his food. I guess hunger got the best of him because he eagerly went back to his dinner. Graham and I did share some chocolate ice cream for dessert and I caught him just in time before an ice cream covered spoon was forced into Elmo's mouth. I think I finally have him convinced that Elmo doesn't like chocolate. After all, there is no way, I'm going to let chocolate be wasted on a stuffed animal!

Notice the remnants of dessert all over his mouth!

The night with Elmo didn't end at the dinner table though. As soon as Graham left the kitchen I could hear him running towards the bathroom. Things then got very quiet and this is what I found...what can I say, Graham is a fan of good dental hygiene!

More Elmo!

As I was rushing through Target to pick up a few things, Graham suddenly became very animated and began to yell 'Elmo!'. Elmo is plastered everywhere at Target so I had no idea what type of Elmo it was that caught his attention this time. He was pointing and going crazy trying to climb out of the cart so I turned around to see what it was that was so exciting to him. I couldn't miss it...an entire display of toddler Elmo slippers. I pushed the cart towards the display so I could get a better look and before I knew it Graham grabbed a pair and began kissing them. Then, he got very quiet, looked up and me and in a very sweet voice said 'Pease?' How could I say no to that???

So, Graham is now the VERY proud owner of Elmo slippers. He jumps, runs, and dances in them, and Annie chases close behind convinced that Graham has two stuffed dog toys attached to his feet. Here's the problem though-not a single pair of shoes lives up to his new slippers. Leaving the house is a bit of a problem as I have to remove the slippers only to replace them with boring brown shoes. Hopefully the novelty of the slippers begins to fade so changing into shoes isn't such a traumatic experience!

Both of these video's show how excited Graham is to be wearing his new slippers. In the first video, you'll have to excuse the fact that Graham is making Elmo burp. What is it with boys and bodily functions??? He isn't even two yet and he's amusing himself with burping noises! He calls himself 'Am' so when he starts saying that and coming towards the camera he wants to watch the video of himself.

In the second video, you can hear Graham asking to play football. He's suddenly very interested in sports and every time he passes a tv that's on, he asks for football. I wonder if this is any indication of what is constantly on the tv at our house???

Just Being Silly...

As you can tell, Graham is still working on his 'natural' on cue smile. In my opinion, his forced smiles are pretty cute though!

Rara, Boy Rara, a Shark, and a few Otters

Sadly, our Christmas vacation is coming to an end. After nearly two weeks home, Jeff returns to work on Monday. Graham will surely miss him, as he's become accustomed to having his Daddy around all the time! We've had a great break though, and this weekend was no exception.

Last night our friends Sara and her fiance' Chris ('Rara' and 'Boy Rara' according to Graham) joined us for dinner. Graham LOVES to spend time with both of them and had a fantastic time dancing around the living room with Sara. Graham was even kind enough to share his coveted dance pad with her. You know that Graham really likes you, if Graham is willing to share his favorite toys!

For the past few days, nearly every time we're in the car, Graham insists that we're heading to the zoo. When the car stops and he gets out to see the grocery store or the mall, he often says 'zoo?' in a very sad voice. So, at Graham's request, this morning the three of us decided to brave the cold and visited the zoo. A good portion of it is indoors, so we aren't that crazy as we braved the below zero windchill to check out the animals. Not surprisingly, Graham was most intrigued by the large aquarium. He was very impressed by the shark that repeatedly swam in front of him.

Check out the 'fishy face' he's making for the shark!

Today was the first time that Graham paid any attention to the small clawed otter exhibit. I normally walk through very quickly because to be completely honest, I think that specific exhibit smells horrendous. But, since Jeff was with today, he was the good parent and offered Graham a new experience. Graham continually 'meowed' at the otters as if they were cats, but they did provide some good entertainment. I guess next time I take Graham to the zoo, I'll be stopping to see the otters...

Graham and Daddy enjoying a morning at the zoo...happy after the stinky otters :)

Happy New Year!

It's hard to believe that the new year has already arrived and 2009 promises to be an exciting year for our family! I'm still in shock (a giddy, excited shock!) that in a matter of weeks we'll be lucky enough to have two little ones. Never in a million years did I imagine, that I would have the privilege of parenting two children so soon. I am one lucky lady! I know that in raising Graham and Amelia, my dreams are coming true, and I hope that 2009 brings fulfillment of the dreams of our friends and family too!

We've been very busy this week which is why recent posts have been non-existent. We've been lucky enough to have Jeff home all week so we've been visiting with family, visiting with friends, and just hanging out. With no schedule, I kind of lost my discipline to update the blog. But, Jeff does have to go back to work on Monday, which means I'll be back on a schedule, which means you can count on more regular Graham updates! Until then though, here are a few pictures and video from the past week. Enjoy!

Graham and mini-Graham playing with trains

Graham and mini-Graham looking out the window...notice a pattern? This baby (bee bee as Graham calls him) goes everywhere with him!

One of my very best friends from high school Sue ('Foo' according to Graham), is in town from California. Here they are playing in Graham's new tent.


The following video is Graham playing with his dance pad, one of his new Christmas toys, and as you can see, he LOVES it! Graham's great grandparents sure know what Graham likes!





**A warning about the following video-it might become annoying!** Yesterday morning Graham figured out how to actually play his recorder. He obviously has no clue what he's doing note wise, but ever since he mastered actually blowing air through it and making noise, that's all he wants to do. I'm not sure if I should be happy about this or not...it sure didn't help my headache today!