Christmas 08

Levi loves his Nana

Stocking Time at Grandma Walston's house

Shootin' hoops with Aunt Quel

Levi loves his pony

Opening his first gift at Memaws

Baby Mozart takes a break for a photo op
Christmas has come and gone and now we stand on the verge of a new year. Levi would like to thank everyone for his wonderful presents. They are currently spread all over the house in various degrees of disarray, regardless of my efforts to tidy the joint up. As for me, I'm enjoying every single minute of Christmas break. Life with the Levi gets better every single day... Although, he is going to visit memaw tomorrow. There's no shame in that though, is there?

Tis the Season...

You know, I was a little hesitant to put up the Christmas tree this year. I knew that, with Levi's curiousity, it might prove to be more of a headache than it was worth. However, Levi has been surprisingly excellent. He hasn't really messed with the tree and presents much at all. Occasionally he might remove and ornament, but he usually brings it to me immediately and hands it over.

Levi opened his first Christmas presents of the year today. Aunt Linda got him legos and some baby cars. At first he wasn't too interested in the wrapped presents, but when we started tearing the paper he got more involved... I've got a feeling that, by the end of next week, he's going to think that opening presents is his day-job!

Well, that's all i have for tonight. Levi is very sleepy and just begging to go to bed early. He keeps trying to stand on top of his monster truck, which of course, keeps rolling out from under him. Now he's spinning in circles singing "ashes, ashes" until he falls down. Kids are weird. So what's my excuse? I'm still working on that one.

I almost forgot to upload some Halloween pictures. Here's the terrifying dragon that was seen destroying the neighborhood...

busy, busy, busy

I can't believe it's been so long since my last post! I'm so sorry everybody! We've been so busy around here, that's it's hard to keep up. I cleaned out the fridge today during Levi's nap and I found things in there that were unrecognizable. I'm pretty sure we had bred some new life-forms in there that merit scientific investigation.

I know you're just dying to know the newest brilliant activities of my boy genius. Well, apparently he's watching way too much daytime TV because he's recently starting singing the Jeopardy theme song 24/7. If he hears the word "jeopardy" he will start singing. He's also really learned the joy of dancing. When he hears fun music he'll start bopping up and down and laughing. he still loves to run in circles and tackle people. In church nursery, he's started trying to hug all the other kids until he knocks them over - he's really popular for this. They see him and start running. (already the playground bully :()

Well, I've had a few people hounding me for info on what Levi wants for Christmas... So, here's a few ideas:

- clothes size 18-24 months... jeans and such are always appreciated...
- shoe size - 5
- loves the alphabet...
- small, quiet toys (wait, that's what i like!)
- toys that involve music (now that he's singing the jeopardy theme song, it's becoming more and more obvious that he's musically gifted - he also loves to dance...)

A few neat toys I've spotted while surfing the net:
- Neat Mousepad toy - VTech A-Z Mouse Pad, $13, available at www.vtechkids.com
- Little Rocker Keyboard - http://www.parents.com/fun/toys/baby-toys/best-kid-tested-toys-2008/?page=4
- Leap Frog Fridge Phonics - http://www.parents.com/fun/toys/baby-toys/best-kid-tested-toys-2008/?page=16
Learn and groove Alphabet Drum - http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2310732

Santa is debating between these two toys: Your feeback appreciated...
http://www.parents.com/fun/toys/baby-toys/best-toys-babies-toddlers-2008/?page=11 (basketball hoop and slide - foldaway toy)
Bounce and Spin Zebra http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2298888

Pre-Halloween Festivities

Tonight we performed the annual Pumpkin Torture celebration (aka carving a pumpkin)... Levi's participation was limited to running circles around mom in attempts to make her drop her knife and posing for the occassional photo op.

It's been way too long...

Levi and I took a walk this morning down Phillips Drive. Don't tell grandma and grandpa Walston, but we took the wagon on a little "off-road" adventure through a corn field.

Wow - he's growing and learning more every single day! You wouldn't believe everything he's able to do now! He runs through the house, chases the cat, brings us his cup when he wants more to drink. He's amazing. This weekend, Levi's going to spend the night with Nana and Papaw! He's so excited!

Yes, We're Still Here

I know it's been a while, but things have been MORE than hectic around here the last three weeks. All my school "stuff" has kicked in full force and our Tuesday/Thursday babysitter Linda has been unavailable because of family illness. Doesn't look like it's going to get any better this week either! If you're interested in "visiting" with the Levi-head this week, just give me a call. I know we can work something out!!! Now, here's some pictures taken in the last few weeks.

LOOK - He's walking! Does that tongue remind you of anyone you know???

More walking - He sure does LOVE his wagon! SWINGING :)

Levi the Baller

This past week, Levi played some scrimmage games with a few UK players. Here's a pic of him pulling up for a sweet dunk while guarded... (thanks Uncle Shane...) Gilespie has been calling every hour these days. I think we'll have to get our number changed...

Levi's First Lake Trip

On a whim, we took Levi down to Fenton this weekend. He laughed his head off the whole walk down to the water. As soon as his feet hit the pebbles, he took off straight for the waves. He conquered a log (carefully examined by mom for snakes first of course), a big rock, and then he walked straight out into the water as far as mom would let him go. Then, he started screaming his head off. I think he got some pebbles in his sandles. (Grandma Walston will be SO proud - we were wearing shoes!!!) So, it was a short trip - but a good one.

Levi is growing up more and more every single day. Today he started standing up on his own without pulling up on anything. He also climbed up on the bed and the couch by himself (and fell off by himself as well). We haven't quite mastered the dismount yet, but I know eventually he'll stick the landing. (What can I say, I've got Olympic fever.)

I've got to go make sure Levi brushes his teeth and takes his vitamins before he goes to bed. We'll write again next weekend...

Levi Walking

First Steps!!!

I think we've got a walker on our hands!! Levi walked the full length of the couch on his own several times tonight. He's also letting go of furniture and taking a few steps. What a big boy! I apologize that I haven't put pictures up in a while. Back to school season has me a little bit behind. Levi sends all his love and can't wait to show off his new mobility skills to all his friends and family.

What a GREAT Party!

Levi had such a great time at his birthday party! So what if my living room looks like a tornado hit a toys r us?!? We just wanted to thank everybody for coming and for all the cool presents. I think he's all set in the toy department (until Christmas that is).

I think he enjoyed the paper more than the toys though. For Christmas he'll be getting a few bags full of nothing but paper to play with! (Along with everything else of course...)

Birthday Party Invitation

Can you believe that Levi is almost 1 year old??? It just doesn't seem possible... In light of the first annual Levi-fest, we will be hosting a BIRTHDAY PARTY at our house next week! Here are the details:

When: Saturday, 7/26, 1-3 p.m.
Where: Dunnaway house - email or call me for directions...
Who: All our family and friends

Just give me a call or an email if you plan on coming so that I can have enough cake for everyone!

If you want to bring a present for Levi, here are a few things he loves:

- anything with a wheel on it!
- hard books - he likes books so much, he tries to eat them and rip them to shreds - they gotta be tough!
- big fan of the alphabet and the alphabet song
- Baby Einstein DVD's
- cash - Nana (tina) has a savings account set up for Levi. You can deposit directly into the account, but any cash he receives will also go into his account.

Don't feel obligated to bring a present though - Levi just looks forward to seeing all his family and friends and sharing his BIG DAY with everyone he loves...

Hope to see you there!

Back By Popular Demand

Here is a new video for all you Levi fans out there! This one is hot off the presses, taken just a few minutes ago. It proves once again the sheer genius of my offspring. I'd write more, but I've got a poopy diaper to change. You guys enjoy the film and have some extra popcorn for me!

1st 4th of July!!

We had such a wonderful weekend!

Thursday we had supper with Nana and Papaw and Uncle Curtis. Other than the fact I'm the world's worst rib-griller, we had a blast. Levi loved the opportunity to take all the company for many walks around the house.

Friday, we went to Memaw's for some pool time. We had a really nice and restful afternoon and supper until it was time to break out the fireworks! (sorry all - I couldn't resist) I was a little worried that Levi would be scared, but he didn't mind the fireworks at all! Next year, we'll have him shooting bottle rockets out of his diaper (just kidding - no phone calls please!)
Saturday we hit the parade in Murray. Once again, the loud noises didn't bother Levi in the slightest bit! Let me remind you, my child is no normal kid - he's a man! Tell him that enough times I guess and it starts going to his head! He loved the parade, but got a little tired toward the end. He also loved the fireworks in Murray Saturday night. They were, might I add, the best fireworks display yet. Very cool show this year! I think they heard Levi was coming and they wanted to do a super-great job for his first 4th of July!

(Levi driving around town - he's pretty good with the steering wheel - it's the pedals he has problems with)

Well, I've got to go get some pictures uploaded and printed off! If you haven't heard yet, www.snapfish.com has a special going where they will print prints for 1 cent each!! Just gotta order 50 - no problem here! It's a really great website - I've used them before so, no worries. Give them a try - they have some great specials! (You do have to pay shipping, but it's not much at all!)

Here are some pictures to hold you over until you have some prints in your hand! Enjoy! Oh, and Levi says "ne oh hi ho ooo" I think that means, "I love you all" or "I'm a man" - something like that!

Family Fun

I realized that I hadn't put any family pictures up in a while. Yep - dad and i still exist, contrary to popular opinion that Levi is the only person of value in the world. I'm wiping the tears here. Pity party time!!!

Play Date!

The Smee's came over last night for supper and a play date! Here are some pictures to prove it!

Latest Accomplishments...

It's pretty weird watching a baby turn into a real person. I mean that in the nicest way possible. It seems like just yesterday when Levi was just a person shaped blob of humanity that could only eat, poop and cry. Well, eating, pooping and crying are still pretty high on his list, but he can do a ton of other stuff as well!!! Here's a quick list of Levisms as of the last few days:

1. Still loves Wheel of Fortune - also enjoys Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Jeopardy.

2. Wants mom and dad to "walk" him everywhere. He grabs our fingers and takes off.

3. Favorite place to walk: anywhere painful. Gravel, mulch, hot concrete. No grass here.

4. Doesn't want to eat baby food anymore. Wants mommy's food.

5. Can drink out of a straw!!!!! And loves it!!!

6. Working on drinking from a cup. We practice in the bathtub (not with bath water!) He's progressing nicely.

7. Likes to grab Turbo and SQUEEZE.

8. Can crawl up steps... down is a different story...

9. Can dismantle office chairs.

10. We're working on saying, "John McCain"...

Picture Update

I know I've been a little late in getting some of these up - but they are worth waiting for, if you ask me!!! Here's Levi after eating a cookie yesterday...

Here's levi in his pool. This is the funny face he makes when he's trying to make a point. i think he's got water in his eyes...

Here's our very first hair cut! He wants to eat the scissors. luckily, we pulled this off with no major incidents...

Here he is about 10 minutes before his first haircut. one last reminder of what the Shaggy Levi looked like. I really like his hair cut :)

More video coming soon... he's been up to more cute stuff then I can keep up with!

Pool Time

Levi got his very first kiddie pool today. He sure did have a fun time playing in it. I'm hoping this video works, but if not, i'll have pictures on later. He also got his very first haircut today!

Uncle Curtis - add us on Facebook!!!

Memorial Day Weekend

The weekend started with a cookout at Memaws house. Then Levi spent the night with Nana and Papaw and got to spend some quality time with his uncle Curtis. I'm not sure who wore who out - but I think Nana and Papaw need a nap. Here's some pictures from the weekend adventures:

Summer Break!

Summer vacation is finally here - Yippee! I'm ready to kick up my feet, rest and relax and...wait a minute! I can't do any of those things - I've got a 10 month old! I guess I'll be spending the next couple of months chasing Levi around. He's getting into everything lately. he's finally started pulling up and started about the serious business of teething. No little gems yet, but they should bust through any day. Oh boy. He's going to stay with his Nana and Papaw this weekend, any takers for next weekend???

First Presidential Visit

Yesterday we went to see Bill Clinton speak at the Playhouse in the Park in Murray. I'm not a big Clinton fan, but famous people don't come to Western Ky very often. As a Social Studies teacher, I just couldn't pass up the opportunity.

We snapped some quick pics (like the one above - nice, right?) and then headed out after about 10 minutes. I think he spoke for about 2 hours.

Levi was very excited about the wind in his hair, but completely oblivious to Bill. I'm kinda glad he didn't get anywhere near him. He would have chewed on him or pulled his nose. gotta go, Poopie Head just made a doozie of a mess! Any Volunteers?

Pictures from Levi's Dedication - What a great night!!!

So Sue me...

I'm a day or so late in the update, but I forgot that I had the speech banquet last night! Levi weights 21 pounds! He's 29 inches long and right on track for his age. He slept through the night last night!!! Miracle of all Miracles...

Here you go - Curtis!

I was trying to wait to update until I could figure out how to get the video to work, but SOMEONE I know who is my brother is getting a little bit antsy for news about his nephew. Well, Levi's doing great. We go for a well-baby appointment today So i'll get back with you with that news later on today. Levi loves to walk but he needs some help with balance so we have to hold his hands. He's going to figure out this walking thing soon and just take off, I'm afraid!

What's New!?!?!?!

Lots of news to report on the Levi-front! He slept through the night a couple of weeks ago and started pulling up this weekend. Today, he finally starting experimenting with the notion of crawling! I thought he was going to go straight to walking, but I think he'll crawl after all! I'm working on adding video, but it might take me a while to figure out all the technology!

Sunny Day

We took full advantage of the beautiful day yesterday and got in the yard to pull some weeds from the flower beds. Levi supervised from the comfort of his wagon. He even took a ride in his wheelbarrow.

Funny Levi facts for today:

- he loves Wheel of Fortune. Even on the grumpiest of days, he will sit quietly and watch Pat Sajack and the spinning wheel. He still cries during commercials, though. Goal for today: record Wheel fo Fortune so we can fast forward through the commercials and play it day or night.

- green veggies give him gas! I think I've figured out that the green veggies were keeping him up at night. Since we've cut them out, he sleeps much better.

- He can hold his own bottle now. Why does this make me sad? i should be happy...

- He's almost crawling. SO CLOSE! Goal this week: Levi-proof the house.

- He loves to be outside. I've got to go get some sunscreen!

That's all for now, but I have a feeling there'll be more by the end of the week! I'm on Spring Break this week - yippee!

Easter

The Easter Bunny was on vacation in the tropics to get away from the frigid temps, but Levi had plenty of grandma's around to fill in the gap! It was a cold day for hunting eggs! Luckily, Nana hid all of Levi's eggs on the front porch at Grandma Walston's house. The first Easter wasn't quite as grand and glorious as I had imagined it would be, but it was fun nonetheless. We started the day off running extremely late and didn't stop running til we hit the sack that night. Luckily, Levi's too little to remember how grumpy mom was on his very first Easter Sunday... Maybe I'll do better next year.

In other news, Levi is SOOOO close to crawling. He can pull up on all fours, but hasn't quite conquered forward motion yet. It should be anytime now... He's still not sleeping great, but that's a whole nother "grumpy momma" story...

The pictures are of Levi and his first Jello egg (sitting in my old high chair), Levi in his Easter best (grandpa hat and all) and Levi taking a break from egg hunting.