Was It The Salt Water?

Today started off like any other day, Declan gets up all happy, he has some bottle, some breakfast, hangs with Mommy, catches some Phineus and Ferb, has a little nap, gets all freshened up, plays some, has more bottle, Daddy gets home from work.

Then we got ready for visits!

Mommy and Declan headed upstairs to see Madison, Josh and Auntie T.  His swimsuit was packed as we were anticipating Grandma and Grandpa's arrival for a pool date.  It was just after 3pm when they arrived so Declan got in some Grandma cuddles just before it was his nap time.  That meant that he fell asleep on Grandma - not a bad place for an afternoon nap. Everyone else headed outside to get in the pool while Mommy and Grandma waiting for the little guy to wake up.  Then just like that, he just pops up and is ready to go.

First Declan needed to get some dinner in him.  Carrots - yum, followed by the new favourite blueberries - double yum.  Then a change in to his swimsuit and we were into the water.  While playing in the water Daddy and Uncle Scott came outside to join in the fun. 
Little Declan was in the water for such a long time.  While his Auntie T was holding him in the water he kept getting salt water on his lips which he then proceeded to lap up.  He was getting really comfortable in the water.  More leg kicking and arms waving and splash....that's right, the little guy discovered the fun of splashing in the pool.  The left arm was crazy splashing and now and then the right one too.  Poor Auntie T.  Her face was getting soaked.  He just loved it.
There was a new little boat in the pool.  Madison had brought it in and Declan just had to try it out.  With such high sides he fit in it rather well and had the chance to float around.  Happy and lounging in the pool.

After getting out of the water, getting all dried off and changed the little man sat in his lounge chair in between Mommy and Grandma.  Mommy notices that Grandma is rearranging his blankets and toys, looks away, looks back and sees that Grandma has moved the arm that dangles toys over Declan, Mommy looks away again then looks back just in time to see Grandma scoop Declan up.  Sneaky Grandma. I'm onto you.

But did he drink too much salt water?  Maybe it was the apple prune juice yesterday? Well whatever it was our Declan had his first diaper blowout.  Poop made it's way out the leg of his diaper and poor Grandma was cuddling him when it went down.  He surely didn't mean to make a mess and he didn't even fuss. Mommy and Daddy snatched him up quickly and proceeded with operation nasty bum change.  After which Grandma once again wanted more snuggles.  No harm done.

My Sunshine

Declan has created his own routine regarding sleeping times.  Typical night he is full of energy and kicks and plays until 9pm.  Then we take him off to bed and he falls asleep right away.  Amazing.

Tonight Declan fell asleep on my lap at 8:15pm.  I held him on my lap until 9pm when I picked him up and took him off to bed.  He opened his eyes for Daddy when he got kisses goodnight and he blinked slowly at me as I placed him in his crib but then right to slumberland.

Daddy was also in bed for 9pm and asleep by 9:30pm.  I was watching a movie when at 11:40pm, quite unordinary, Declan started crying.  I made a bottle in case he was hungry and proceeded to collect the little man from his bed.  I brought him to the living room with me and cuddled him.  He really wasn't hungry, less than an ounce he drank.  He snuggled into me and just fell back asleep.  I have to admit, I've never been so happy to have him wake up.  It was the nicest thing to get in some extra cuddle time with my little man.  I kept him here with me for 1/2 hour until the movie ended and then carried him back to bed.  He didn't even blink an eye, fast asleep from my lap to his crib.  I'll happily take in every extra moment.  One day he'll be big and I know I'll wish I'd had just one minute more.

Blueberries - It's Official

Our little Declan had a sweet moment with his Uncle Scott today.  Scott leaned in and kissed Declan little feet which made Declan flash an enormous smile.  Then Scott walked away, looked back and Declan was grinning at him.  He couldn't resist, went back in and gave Declan's toes a couple more kisses.  The grinning ensued.  Then Declan started lifting up his left foot towards Scott for more kisses.  Such a sweetie.  Uncle Scott kept saying he was leaving before sneaking back in again and again for more kisses.

Mid-afternoon Declan had some playtime in his excersaucer so we gave him some Multigrain Cheerios for the first time to see if he was interested in eating them yet.  Well Declan certainly was interested in them.  He isn't able to coordinate his thumb and index finger yet to pick them up but he can palm them.  Bringing them to his mouth however was of no interest.  He simply wanted to play with them.  Daddy gave him one to eat.  Declan made a funny face and then ever so slowly gummed at it until it was soft enough to swallow.  Still not interested in any more after that.  Guess his rice cookies are the only things he's interested in feeding himself just yet.

And we have determined after three dinners in a row... Declan LOVEs blueberries.  These have to be his favourite food he's tried.  So glad to have found a food he is really excited about eating.

Since Declan is getting bigger I thought it might be time to check and see if the bunny slippers from Auntie T might feet him finally.  They almost do.  Enough so that he was able to wear them a bit.  They have little bells in them so they are kindof like toys on his feet.  He was kicking and kicking making those bells ring.  Then he would curl his feet up to his face and grab one bunny ear in each hand.  Very entertaining.

Soon a Little Independance

Another day, another park to discover. Today Declan and Mommy found a new park in the older part of Milton; Laurier Park. There were lots of old trees so finding shade was much easier. The park was really far away though and after treaking an hour to get there in the heat we decided we didn't feel like walking home. Daddy to the rescue! After getting home from work Daddy drove over to pick us up. Whew, just wasn't feeling the walk today. We had a nice time at the park though and it was sweet seeing little Declan notice when he Daddy showed up at the park. He gets really excited to see him.

This evening Declan was hanging out with Daddy in the Jolly Jumper.  First Daddy put Declan into another tickle trance by tickling his leg.  Declan just went into a tickle coma, starring off and staying very still.  Then he got a crazy burst of energy and the legs were a kicking.  He was certainly getting in a great workout tonight.

Next Daddy took the little man for a diaper change and to get into his jammies.  I could hear Declan from the other side of the house laughing and squealing.  I almost couldn't believe that what I was hearing was actually Declan because it was so loud.  Not sure what was so funny but I did hear that Declan stole Daddy's glasses right off his face so that might have been part of what he was laughing about.

And finally a sign of the independance that will come soon enough.  Our little guy, for a brief moment, was holding his own bottle and having a drink before bed.  Then he got sloppy and there was milk everywhere.  Oh well.  He needs the opportunity to try.

Wheelie Poppin'

My Declan was in the greatest of spirits today.  All full of beans and such a smiley pants.  He only took two little naps today, seems he just wanted to be a part of the action.

Mommy and Daddy had plans for the evening and were bringing Declan along but before heading out Declan had his dinner.  A new treat - for Dessert Declan tried blueberries for the first time.  He LOVED them.  This may have been the most excited I've seen the little guy get over a new food.  Then again, he seriously was full of beans today and was excited about everything so we'll check again tomorrow when he has them for the 2nd time.

After Declan's dinner we all headed to the Hamilton Beach to go to Hutch's for Fish and Chips.  A old beach side dinner that has been around since the '40's and hasn't changed a bit. There were a few classic old cars in the parking lot which we got to check out and the three of us walked along the beach for an hour after dinner. Along the path Daddy pushed the little man in his stroller and popped a few wheelies to Declan's delight. Every time Declan would flash a huge grin and look fack up at his Daddy. Such a sweetie and a cute moment.

When we got home there was only an hour left before Declan was to be off to bed and he was so overtired from lack of naps. We changed him up into a fresh diaper and clean jammies then his evening bottle. The best part of the night for me, when Declan snuggled in for sleepy cuddles for a half hour before he was off to bedtime. What a nice family night. We are so lucky.

Molly's Birthday Party

Declan went to his first Baby Birthday Party today.  Little Molly turned 2 years old today.  It was a gorgeous day so the party took place outdoors.  We placed Declan's picnic blanket down so the little man could stretch out.  There were lots of kids there but Declan was the littlest one.  The next youngest were two little girls aged 14 months each but they were both walking around.  There were lots of people curious about Declan, young and old so he was visited lots but he couldn't play with the other kids.  He did enjoy watching them run around though.  He had a special visit from 4 1/2 year old MacGregor who plopped down in front of Declan for a little while trying so hard to get him to smile at him.  Successful as the little guy was drooly and grinning.

At one point durring the party when Declan was laying on his back staring up at the trees when a nice strong breeze came through.  Declan was bright eyes and a huge smile looking up watching the leave blowing.  There was also a weird stripped beetle-like bug that landed on the picnic blanket so Mommy picked it up for Declan to see.  Right away he tried to grab it.  Mommy pulled it away and then brought it in again for another Declan view.  Then Declan pulled Mommy's hand close to his mouth because he wanted to eat it.  No luck Declan, that could make you sick.  Mommy did let Declan have a taste of Cake whipped cream icing though.

For dinner tonight we also gave Declan nice fresh Niagara peaches to try.  He had peaches from a jar and he didn't like them one bit but thought perhaps fresh peaches might taste a whole lot better.  No luck.  He just doens't like them.  We'll have to try the again in a few weeks to see if he grows to like them.  Peaches are Mommy's 2nd favourite food so here's hoping Declan comes around.

Well the little man didn't have even the shortest of naps while we were at the party so no real surprise Declan crashed in the car on the ride home.  After getting home Declan was into his jammies, had a quick bottle and then right into bed.  He was just exhausted.  Not a bad first Baby Birthday party.

Peach Festival

Daddy and Mommy took little Declan to the Winona Peach Festival today.  In hindsight, it was way to hot to go but we'd already driven the 1/2 hour to get there and paid for parking so we strolled around for a long as we could handle it.

Declan is the most cooperative baby ever.  He has little sweat beads on his nose and his head and back are all sweaty.  I've got him slathered in sunscreen and still everytime I look his way he flashes me a huge gummy grin.

The three of us walked around in the shade and checked out the classic cars.  Mommy and Daddy were admiring the beautiful cars and Declan was just looking everywhere.  Took a picture of him in front of a nice blue car and I'm sure he was hoping we were bringing it home.  One day little man (assuming you're buying it right Declan?)

We then moved onto the Peach/Strawberry ice cream sundae.  Wow! So good.  We stopped in some shade to eat them up while Declan polished off a bottle, still just too little for ice cream sundaes Bud.

This evening there was almost a new milestone for Declan.  He rolled from his back to his front...almost.  His arm got in the way and stopped him up but his lower half was all the way over before he rolled back onto his back again. 

Whip Cream Park Day

Declan and Mommy went for a nice long walk today.  Walked all the way to Metro to grab some water and a small chocolate eclair.  Then we continued over to the splash pad so little Declan could watch some older kids play around in the water.  He's so curious and will watch the kids play for such a long time.  There was a little boy around 2 years old that kept running through the water and I told Declan I was excited for when he would be big enough to run through the sprinklers himself.  I promised him that next summer he'll be big enough and I can go in with him so he's safe.

We then headed home about halfway when we found another new park - Meighan Park.  Mommy laid out our picnic blanket so little Declan could get out of the stroller for a bit and stretch out.  This also allowed for eclair time.  Mommy took the top off the eclair because it's chocolate and Declan is too little for chocolate yet.  No complaining - glad to eat it.  Then I presented the remainder, the thick swirly whip cream to Declan.  He grabbed a handful immediately and proceeded to wipe it down my leg.  He was enjoying squishing it in his hand.  I gave him a little to try eating.  It mostly just sat on his lips as he really wasn't interested in it as food but more as a new toy of sorts.  It was all over his shirt, his legs, his diaper (he was pantless due to diaper change...and I just thought with the heat and his shorts having a proper waistband that he would be more comfortable pantless) and he liked it.  Nothing like some time at the park with the wind in your fluffy baby hair and whip cream all over.

Daddy's Tickle Trance

What a nice day today.  The weather was warm and clear, sunny skies.  After Daddy got home from work we packed up the stroller and headed to old Milton to visit the park in front of Town Hall again - this time with Daddy.  Put down our big picnic blanket and some toys for the little man. 

Declan still loves to look up into the trees and see all the leaves.  There is just so much to look at making it very easy to entertain the little man.  During our park visit Declan did in fact have another fresh nap - it's his thing - but he also had some Tickle Time.  Declan lounges on his back and Daddy takes either his arm or his foot and gently tickles them.  This puts the little man into a relaxation trance.  Staring at seemingly nothing the little guy just freezes and go into a deep calm.  Daddy has the majic touch.

Babies Be Gassy

We noticed the funniest thing about our little D today.  Of course he toots. That's just a baby thing but what we've notice is the new force and intent behind the toots, even lifts his butt up to do it. Hilarious. What a boy.

Little Milestones

During Breakfast this morning  - Mixed Fruit Cereal - Declan displayed a new skill: blowing raspberries while he has food in his mouth.  It was actually really cute. Today.  I imagine it won't be so cute when he gets some real force behind it and blows his cereal all over me.  But for today, really cute.

We headed upstairs for a visit with Auntie T and little Declan was treated to a few airplane rides and of course a short nap.  That's right, she hasn't lost her touch.  Declan always sleeps on Auntie T.

 
Where else does he always get in a nap?  The Park.  This afternoon Declan and Mommy visited the park in front of Milton Town Hall with Hayley and Declan's little buddy Owen.  The boys chilled on a blanket under a nice big tree for a while and then little Declan was treated to some whip cream icing off of Mommy's cupcake.  Delicious!!!  Then of course as he was relaxing under the tree little Declan closed his eyes and drifted off.  Even a passerby was overheard saying to her infant "Why can't you sleep in the park like that?"  Dear Declan, you are a dream.

This evening during playtime, like the raspberry, Declan displayed another little milestone.  While he sat up with some toys in front of him the little man started to dig through a box for some toy shapes.  He can pass them back and forth between both hands, pick them up out of the box and put them back again.  I just can't believe how big he is.
And I still can't believe that he's ours.

Simple Monday

Why is everybody always so hard on Mondays?  A Monday spent with Declan is wonderful.  Up at 9am for the day, we decided to head upstairs and see if Auntie T was free for a mini visit.  She was!  Funny enough the little guy was just so tired he fell asleep just after 10am and was out cold on Mommy's lap for almost 40 minutes.  When Daddy walked in from work at 10:35 he snuck in to see Declan and just then the little man opened his eyes, saw Daddy, and gave a huge gummy smile.  Declan loves his Daddy.

So then he was awake and it was off to the high chair for some breakfast.

Just after 11am Grandma Gale dropped by for some Declan time.  Little guy was awake and in good spirits.  Sitting on Grandma's knee the little guy was all ticklish as Grandma "Criss-Cross, Apple Sauced" his back.  He really does have a ticklish little back.

After some Grandma time the little guy was down again for another nap - sleeyp kid.  Lots of happy play with Mommy in the afternoon and then it was dinner time.  Mommy thought perhaps we could tried mixed vegetables with chicken and get some meat into the kid for the first time.  NO CHANCE!  Declan would not close his mouth and continued to slowly push the food back out with his tongue.  Fine.  I get the hint.  Not ready for meat flavours just yet.  Ate his pear and then mixed up some simply cereal to make sure his little belly was all fulled up.

Then it was bathtime.  Kid was overdue.  Now he smells so good.

Cuddles and playtime, a quick ride on Mommy's shoulder and a nice display of kicking for Daddy and it was off to bed at 9pm. 

Hopefully Declan has some nice baby dreams and gets a good nights sleep.  Playdate tomorrow afternoon with his buddy Owen.

Long Sleepy Ride Home

Today was the end of our visit back to Ottawa for Declan's Dr appointment and visits with family.  This morning little Declan woke at 4am and then again at 7am.  His nice routine is all messed up while we are on vacation.  Hope he gets back to normal back in Milton.

Declan actually fell asleep all by himself on the floor at Grandma's just before we all sat in for breakfast.  This was nice as we were able to enjoy our breakfast and eat together while he caught some zzzzzz's.  He did wake up at one point, stared out the window, looked back and Daddy and then was out again.  Just before we finished he finally woke up and wanted to socialize with us.  Daddy scooped him up and brought him over to the table.  Then Grandpa asked "Does he ever wake up in a bad mood?"
No he doesn't.  We're really very lucky.  Declan is a joy.
After Mommy finished eating she prepared Declan's breakfast and then held him on her lap at the table while Grandma fed him.  It is really nice that he's not a messy eater.  Finished all of his squash but once again was not interested in his peaches.  Now we fed Declan store bought baby food because we were out of town and I hope that this is why he didn't like the peaches.  We'll try again with some fresh ones prepared at home.

As Mommy and Daddy packed up everything for the drive home little Declan sat on Grandma's lap in the window and had his morning coffee.

Just kidding of course.  No coffee this young!

So the car was packed and we were off.  Declan didn't wait even 5 minutes before he passed out for a nice long slumber.  In fact he was more asleep in the care than away today.  When we finally stopped for a pee break Declan woke up and we changed him and gave him a bottle.  He managed to stay awake for about 1 hour.  Then he ate his dinner on the road and once again passed out.  This time for the remainder of the drive.  And a good solid, deep sleep.

This evening we all hung out on the floor with little D so he could stretch out his car legs and get in some play.  It was during this time that we noticed, while having a bum change, that little D has a big goose egg and bruise where he had one of his Menengitis vaccination.  Poor guy though he doesn't even seem to notice it's there.  He's tough.

8:30pm and he couldn't handle any more of the day.  Fell asleep on Mommy's lap and was easily carried off to his crib for the night.  What a good little traveller.

Low Fat Muffin

Today we had breakfast with Grandma and Grandpa May. Little D had Butternut Squash for breakfast followed by peaches but he was not interested in the fruit this morning. I think he may have been feeling a bit off because of his vaccines the day before. Just didn't eat a whole lot today.

We then spent the afternoon walking around Westboro with Grandma May. Such a beautiful day and lots of fresh air for Declan.

Late afternoon we were back to Grandma and Grandpa's for dinner with family again but in addition Mommy's friend Amal dropped by for a quick visit. She had not seen little D since he was just a month old.

Declan seemed to really enjoy seeing everyone tonight. It was mostly smiles to start. When his cousin Alex would talk to him he would give a big grin.

Poor little muffin was drying a lot at bedtime but he needed to get away from all the stimulus do he could drift off, which he did once Mommy tucked him away in the quiet of his room.

Tomorrow we have a long drive ahead of us for making the long drive back to Milton. Only after grandparents visits at breakfast of course.

My little slim muffin.

6 Month Checkup

Today our little Declan had his 6 month Dr appointment.  Now remember our little guy is not too fond of men, especially new men. Well there is a new nurse at the office, a male nurse. While Declan was sitting in the baby scale to be measured he just kept staring up at this new nurse and as soon as the male nurse looked made eye contact with Declan he started crying. Now I'm sure it didn't help that we woke Declan up from what should have been a nap for this but he just really doesn't like new men.

As we were preparing to get Declan's weight all the other nurses gathered around to guess what his weight would be. The result: 17lbs 10 ounces! Now Declan is only in the 33rd percentile for his weight - he's slim.  Length, 69.5cm - the 77th percentile. He's still kind of a noodle. The checkup went very well and then it was needle time, one in each thigh. A slightly longer delay before the cry from his needles and even better, he didn't cry as long as the other two time and even laughed at the nurse playing peek-a-boo. Such a big boy. Declan is now sporting two transformers band aids-he's the coolest.

After his appointment we visited Daddy's old work and saw his friend Crystal. She made two new bibs for Declan. One with his name stitched on and a second with his first and last initials.  Used one for his dinner tonight and he didn't spill a drop of food on it. I think he likes it.

This evening we visited Aunt Marissa and cousin Alex's where he got to see Aunt Jackie, Uncle Peter, Corbin, Grandma and Grandpa May...oh and Piper the cat too.  Declan is such an observer, he loves to stare at everyone. He especially was checking out his cousin Holden. I bet he can't wait until they are old enough to play together. Good mood all evening, the little man was babbling on and had lots of laughs. Then, because he's perfect, he fell aslee drinking his bottle in the car on the ride home and Daddy carried him right up into bed. Out cold for the night...and Monkeys there too of course.

Oh My D-R-O-O-L-Y

Today we hit the road to Ottawa to visit Grandma and Grandpa May, and sneak in the 6 Month Dr visit for the little man. Declan is a very good road tripper. With the one exception of a poop that gave the wee man some trouble and thus a few tears, he was great the entire trip from Milton to Ottawa. To keep things interesting we attached a couple different toys to his car seat and what a hit! Declan couldn't get enough of his butterfly/giraffe toy and by couldn't get enough I mean it was in his mouth almost the entire drive. So much so that you could actually wring it out if needed. When sucking on it I was actually watching drool bubbling up out of it and every time he waved it around or let it touch something it left wet.

Kindof gross Declan.

Poor Monkey

Woke up at 1:15am and calling for his bottle. Quick bottle then moved onto a bum change during which little Declan cried. Calmed him back down and got him back to sleep. Then only a half hour later wakes up crying loudly. Calmed down again and back to sleep.
Then it was 6:22am that he woke again for his normal early morning bottle and right back to bed.  Up at 9am for the day.

Mommy and Declan were out for a two hour walk today during which Decan slept or was in great spirits.

Poor Monkey though. After his bath this evening Declan was fussy. Cried a long time befor bed. Seems like he is in discomfort so perhaps teething is hitting him. Had to have some Tylenol and Momm finally calmed him to sleep.

I hope the little man feels better in the morning.

Rainy Day Blues

Booooooo, nobody wants to be stuck inside because the weather is lousy.  Declan and Mommy did just that.  Hard to be in a happy mood the entire time when you have no parks to play and you can't go for a walk.  Declan was a bit off today and he didn't want to take his nap anywhere but on Mommy so we did a little couch napping just after noon.  I'm certainly not complaining that we had to cuddle.

Declan has successfully finished four days of peas so this morning we introduced Barley cereal.  Just like Rice and Oats before it, Declan loved it!

Late afternoon the weather cleared up and it turned into a nice day.  Daddy, Mommy and Declan were able to get out and go for a walk and get some fresh air.  Then it was a mellow quiet evening and some more cuddles.  Overall not a very eventful day but I am always happy to hang with my little man even when we have nothing on the agenda.

Made a New Friend

Mommy hadn't seen her friend Meagan in 10 years.  Today was finally a day to catch up and wonderfully Declan and Meagan's' little guy Liam are only 2 months apart in age.

Declan has at times played shy and when meeting new babies there is usally some hesitation and a cry at some point.  Today's new baby introduction went very well.  Mommy and Meagan sat down on the couch facing each other with the little guys also sitting and facing each other.  Declan had his Nuby ring and they passed it back and forth between themselves, they reached for each other and all the while they both had big smiles on their faces.  Perhaps a little guy 2 months younger than himself is the physical speed Declan is most comfortable playing with.  Declan was even babbling and threw out a few good squeals.  They were both pretty chatty.  At one point during the visit the boys were laid down side by side and they were happy.  Declan seemed to like Meagan a lot and when she leaned in to look at the boys he kept smiling at her.

Well behaved for the entire visit we packed it in after a couple hours to head home so Daddy could get in some Declan time.  We were all pretty tired tonight and Declan easily fell asleep drinking his last bottle on Daddy's lap.

Very proud of Declan today.  He seemed like such a big boy.

Daddy Makes it all Better

This evening Declan was playing on the floor and Daddy was right there beside him. While he was on his back Declan kept picking up his hard plastic ball until it finally happened, he dropped it right on his head. Daddy watched as surprise on Declan's face turned to pain and the little guy let out the loudest scream. He screamed and screamed, tears were flowing and Daddy very gently moved the toys away so he could pick up his little guy to comfort him. He held him close and gently walked around to calm him down. Poor Declan and poor Daddy.

Daddy said the hardest part was listening to Declan sobbing away as he calmed down.

Declan survived what will be one of many bumps he'll experience in his lifetime and Daddy survived the heartache of seeing his little guy so sad.

Gag Me With a Spoon

9:40am Declan is finally up.  One of my favourite things to see: going into Declan's room to get him and the first thing I see is feet up in the air and baby butt...and then as I approached his crib side...a huge smile.

This morning Declan, Mommy and Daddy met Grandma and Grandpa May at Cora's for breakfast/lunch before they had to head back to Ottawa.  A short visit but a nice one for little D.  After ordering breakfast Declan was treated to his packaged breakfast of peas (blah) and pears for dessert.  The first taste of peas never seems to go over very well as we get a nice yuk face but after than he simply ate them up no fuss.  Then on to pears which Declan seems to be very fond of.  A little bottle to wash it all down and then a nap while we ate our meals....wait...no nap.....oh Declan you little monkey.  Somebody had such a nice long sleep last night he wasn't interested in sleeping again so soon.  So social monkey it was. 

Bright eyes and looking all around Declan was pretty content for most of the meal but near the end he was done with his carseat.  On to Mommy's lap for some visiting.  This was the first time Mommy allowed Declan to grab anything off the table and of course the little man grabs a spoon.  Mommy held onto the stem of the spoon but of course Declan still managed to put the entire spoon in his mouth all the way back to gag himself.  Oh babies.  Well he was fine, Grandma noticed right away so some watery eyes were the only consequences but Daddy said "no more spoon" so we moved onto a much safer option...the napkin.

Declan then left Mommy's lap and headed over to visit with Grandma.  Once all plates and utensils were removed from the table it was time to play with the paper place mat.  Grandma made certain that the little guy didn't eat the place mat but he sure seemed to enjoy scrunching it up.  Declan really did want to eat it though.  Declan was also very fascinated with Grandmas jewellery.  I am certain he'd have removed some if only he had the fine motor skills down.  Then onto Grandpa lap for some giggle time.  Grandma and Monkey were going in for Declan kisses while Grandpa held on tight.  Declan was giggling, squealing, flapping arms and kicking legs like the little nut he is.  It was wonderful for Mommy and Daddy to watch their little guy playing with his Grandparents.  Declan you are such a lucky little boy.  Although I am certain it is wonderful to have a large family with lots of people in your life Declan is lucky that he is Grandchild #4 on both sides and the only nephew to his Auntie T and Uncle Scott.  Declan gets lots of love and attention.  I'm so happy for him.

His Level

Declan's accomplishment tonight? Getting Mommy, Daddy, Grandma May AND Grandpa May down on the floor to his level to hang out.

Declan was a lucky guy tonight.  While waiting for his Grandparents to show up little Declan hung out with his Auntie T.  It felt like it had been a long time since he got in some good cuddle time with his Aunt.  After visiting for just over a half hour (which included a short nap because that is just what he does every time he visits with her), Grandma and Grandpa arrived.

Declan was in good spirits this evening.  He was very happy for all the attention and was quite happy for all the cuddles and play with his Grandparents.  Since they were here in the evening they had the opportunity to witness the little nut Declan becomes with his super leg kicks to Mommy and some little squeals of delight.  Declan even got to stay up a bit past 9pm just so he could see they off.  Such a sweetheart the little man went right down to bed after they left, no crying at all, no fuss.

Muscles

Declan is slowly getting stronger and working his muscles. He was in his excersaucer for a good length of time and he sat back in the seat with some pressure on his toes. Declan wants to sit upright and was crying a bit until I figure it out and helped him sit up. He is putting just a bit more weight on his legs when we try to get him to stand and continues to put in a wee bit more time on his tummy. Keep it up Declan, you're on your way to some independence if you can just build those baby muscles.

Baby Art Day

This afternoon was Baby Art Day!
Mommy and Declan headed off to Spencer Smith park with Hayley and Owen, Daniella, Chelsey and Abi.

Hayley brought some white construction paper and Mommy brought along some primary colour finger paints for the kids.
When the three little ones: Chelsey, Owen and Declan were first settled together the Mommy's had them stand in a little circle.  Declan did properly join in by putting some weight on his legs.  I think he didn't want to be shown up by the younger Owen who is a master stander in front of Chelsey.
Then we sat the three babies down in a circle where there was a lot of discovery, hand holding, reaching, foot examining...Declan was really fond of Chelsey's feet.  Chelsey was very interested in ripping Declan's ear off.  Owen and Declan held hands.

After some relaxing at the park the art work began.  Abi started it off since she's 8 and didn't need any Mommy help to create her masterpiece.  The three wee ones were d-i-r-t-y!!  All over hands, feet, clothes, Mommy's clothes, picnic blanket, what a mess.  Many a wet wipe was required.  Baby art was a success and now Declan has his very first piece of artwork.

Upon returning home Daddy got to see the finished work and what a crazy mess his boy had become.  A proper bath was in order.

Declan was in great spirits all day.  I had a blast with him.  He's really a wonderful little playmate.

6 Months

Well - that went fast!  I can't believe that we've been so lucky to have this little monkey in our lives for a whole half year.  I am very thankful that our government provides benefits for Mother's to be home the first year of their children's life and not simply 6 months as used to be the case.  I really miss work but I love spending time with my little guy.  It is very easy to loose an entire day just hanging with Declan.

How did we start the day? Well Daddy was at work so it was Mommy and Declan and day two of carrots.  Good news, the littlel muffin is eating them just fine.  It would appear that Mommy hadn't done a very good job of creating carrot puree on her own.  Declan will eat the store bought version.

After breakfast Declan had some time sitting up in his Bumbo and we played a game of "Mommy puts toys on tray, Declan knocks them off." Great fun.  I know this will get old for Mommy pretty fast but right now it's still pretty hilarious.

When Daddy got home from work we all headed over to Erin Mills Towncenter to run a couple errands and we stopped in the Toys R Us express and picked up finger paints and paper for a baby art date Declan has scheduled at the park tomorrow.  Declan was such a good little boy in the mall.  You should see how proudly Daddy pushes his stroller around with his little guy smiling away.

Just after dinner Declan put some weight on his legs, well for a mere 3 seconds but Daddy witnessed it too.  It's important to note that just because he isn't interested in standing does not mean he is lacking in leg excersise.  Declan laid between Mommy's legs on the floor and proceeded to kick feverishly for nearly an hour...an HOUR!  Nutter.  He was having such a good time Daddy had to get down beside him to join in on the giggles and craziness.  All in all I'd say Declan had a very nice 1/2 year birthday.

Oh, except for the toy on head incident.  But then again he barely even noticed.  OK, so he was laying on his back and I dropped a plastic toy on his head.  I resisted the urge to react or pick him up, just waited...and nothing.  He simply blinked his eyes when it hit and then it was like nothing happened.  So he's tougher than I expected. (sorry bud)

Shy Monkey

Mommy and Daddy learned something about their little prince today.  Declan is shy.  We'd noticed different behaviour before but only today really understood the connection. 

Today Declan's Grandma and Grandpa May stopped in for a few hours to visit.  Overall Declan was pretty calm.  He didn't have any of his usual squeals and no laughter.  His behaviour is rather sedated.
In the evening when it was back to just Mommy and Daddy Declan was back out of his shell and babbling away, kicking legs furiously and there were the high pitch squeals.  Both Declan's Mommy and Daddy were shy little kids so it would make sense that our little guy would be the same.  We'll have to see what happens as he grows up.

 

6 Month Growth Spurt

It would seem that our little man may be experiencing his 6 month growth spurt.  Ever since Friday he's been extrodinarily whiney and fighting every nap time.  Declan will be laughing and giggling and then just start crying and then back again to giggles.  He does seem uncomfortable sometimes as well like he might be feeling growing pains.  Poor little guy.

Today Mommy went out for a few hours with Declan's Grandpa Gale so it was Daddy - Declan Day! Daddy was very patient with his little guy but Declan didn't nap at all the entire 4 hours Mommy was gone.  It was tough for Daddy but he loves his little man.  Finally just as Mommy was getting home Daddy gently tickled Declan's arms and he closed his eyes and got in a tiny nap.

Our little man - 6 months on Tuesday. Hang in there buddy and the growth spurt will be over soon.

Wash Giggler

We already knew he had ticklish ribs and we've recently learnt that he has a ticklish back but today a new spot. When Declan has his bath we always start by washing his face and hair. Today every time Daddy tried to clean little Declan's neck he would giggle.  He didn't squirm or pull away just stare up at us with a full hardy giggle.

This evening Declan took his after dinner nap in his bouncy chair. He was sound asleep but for some reason he kept jerking awake and then falling right back to sleep. What could little babies possibly be dreaming of?

Grandpa, Grandma, Cousins...and a Bear

Just a note to start: today was the second day that Declan had Butternut Squash for breakfast and he does like it.  Yay - we're going to get vegetables in this kid yet!!

Declan's social calendar was very busy today.  Grandpa Gale came to visit this morning.  Declan was napping when Grandpa arrived but he woke up soon after.  Big eyes staring at Grandpa when he woke and then smiles.  It was a good visit.  Declan was in great spirits.  He had big smiles for his Grandpa.  Showed him how good he can sit up, even righting himself a few times as he tilted.  Declan sat on Grandpa's knee and he got lots of kisses. 

A little while later Grandma Gale came by for a visit herself.  Declan was also very happy to see his Grandma.  It really was smiles all around.

Now Declan had quite the unusual visitor in the afternoon.  Daddy brought Declan home a new toy - Bear in a Stump.  Declan absolutely loved it!  Daddy was worried that it might scare little D because it is a puppet but quite the opposite our little man was thrilled with his new buddy.  There were repeated squeals of delight and he was reaching for it.

In the early evening Declan's cousins Madison and Nick as well as Nick's girlfriend Jayme were out for dinner and Mommy had a chocolate craving.  After sending a text requesting that they bring home dairy milk chocolate they agreed so long as they could have baby time when they got here.  Certainly!!  So Declan had some time playing with Jayme, Nick and Madison.  It started off slowly because that's three people holding and playing with him with Mommy and Daddy at a distance but after a little bit Declan got comfortable and was giggling and squealing with them.  Bear in the Stump was involved as was some giant dragon head thing that Nick used to pretend to eat Declan.  Also met with squeals of delight. 

...and the chocolate bar was yummy.