We had a good Christmas here, and today we're enjoying a beautiful 75 degree New Year's day. Aaron's brother Jason and his son Anson are visiting for the week, and Anson got to go to baseball camp. The guys hit the trail this morning, and it's been mostly football since then.

We are at 31 weeks tomorrow, so the addition of our new little one is coming right up. I am definitely noticing my joints are more sore and lax, and I am more easily short of breath. No tough trails for me right now, that's for sure!

Happy New Year to all!!

December news

No time to download pics tonight, but I will update nonetheless. I started back to work 12/1, and so far it's been a nice, smooth transition. Luke and Zach hang out during the days we're working, and it's terrific for Luke to be able to stick to his routine.
We headed home for 10 days to celebrate Melanie and Michael's wedding (Aaron's sister), and to visit the fams for Christmas. It was a lot of traveling and Luke met a ton of new people and a few dogs. We were nervous about whether all that busy-ness would stress him out, but he did wonderfully. He is such a sweetie, and did well with everyone. Great-Grandpa Lee gave him a little harmonica to take home, because he clapped and danced and always wanted 'more harmonica.' It was BITTERLY cold, windy, and wintry while we were home, and it was nice to get back to warmer weather.
We'll try to add pics soon. We are looking forward to celebrating Christmas here with our boy!!

We enjoyed a nice Thanksgiving here, with plenty of turkey and mashed potatoes for all. Now we have leftover turkey soup for this week. Since I'm heading back to work, I'm looking for good weekday options so we don't have to start meals from scratch too much during the week-- turkey soup will be perfect. I think Zach and Luke are ready for their day together tomorrow, but I'm sure I'll be calling to check in frequently and will be anxious to get back home and see my boy.

Luke is initiating quite a bit more walking now. Not a majority of the time yet, but he does seem much more confident. It's fun to see him learning and progressing in so many areas.

Hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving, and had some time to reflect on all the things you are thankful for.

Uncle Zach has joined us here, and so far, Luke has taken to him pretty well. He is intrigued by the beard, as Zach predicted...

8 weeks

This last Wednesday marked 8 weeks home with our boy. As we looked ahead to that a few weeks ago, it seemed it would be a 'landmark' anniversary. I think it was. Not in a dramatic sort of way, but just in knowing that we've reached a small milestone of two months together.
Luke and mama hit the polls Tuesday, and it was particularly meaningful to reflect on all of the privileges, rights, and blessings we have that are completely foreign to men & women in other parts of the world. To be able to cast a vote without fear of violence or retaliation is certainly not universally possible, and I am grateful for that opportunity.

Luke had his 15 mo. visit today--gained some weight, not surprisingly, with his full adoption of FOOD over formula! He is walking lots with one-hand assist, and initiating some 2-3 step ventures between furniture. We are hopeful that the weather is finally, finally cooling off--below 90 today!