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!

first steps

Luke got decked out in the Tigger suit over the weekend and hit the base Halloween party. It ran over into bedtime, but he did well.

He also has taken his first steps independently. Mostly between mama and dad, just one or two at a time, yesterday and today. He also took a couple steps between furniture yesterday. I'm not sure that he knows that he's doing so yet. His typical reaction to 'no hands' is to sit down, but once he figures out that he is actually mobile, he'll be cruising.

He's such a sweet boy--we are so thankful to have him here!

First hike! And fun visitors...

We enjoyed a long weekend of visitors: my mom, Joan, was here for a few days, and some Ohio friends, Isaac and Sara, also spent the weekend with us. With all that extra attention, Luke got to work on his one-handed-walking quite a bit, and has become much steadier. He's now letting go just BRIEFLY when standing. With his increasing mobility, we are also having more wipe-outs (all minor, but I hate to see the little tumble, followed by big cry, and sometimes accompanied by a little cut on the inside of his lip). I guess it goes with the territory.

Luke also learned a good 'cheese-ball' face this weekend--see above pic:)

We decided to head to Sedona with the guests, and rented a sweet Toyota mini-van for the trip. Despite Aaron's initial resistance, he actually was quite fond of the vehicle. I'm sure we'll have to upsize soon, if we plan to ever have anyone ride with us anywhere. Time to start checking options. We hiked at Cathedral Rock. Beautiful day, great hike. If you look closely, you can see Isaac and Aaron walking. We can call this Luke's first hike, though baby Allgood has already done a couple since moving here.

Our US this morning looked great--all the parts are in place and look normal.

Home 5 weeks today! Luke has had a stuffy nose for a couple days, which explains the restless nigh Monday. Since he is very interested in 'teeth' right now, and loves to stick his finger in our mouths to point out 'teeth', I hope we can ward off the germs he shared:)

We are looking forward to a visit from Grandma Joan and our friends Isaac & Sara from Ohio this weekend. The weather has heated back up, so they may get some mid-90s while they are here. I think the cooler weather is right behind, and here to stay for awhile soon.

Some of these pics are from Grandma Becky's visit. His first experience with lasagna was a big hit... until a little tummy-ache at bedtime reminded us all about the importance of portion control:) He tried on his Tigger outfit, getting ready for Halloween. He also shows off his 80's hair band 'do in the upper right picture, and the last one appears to be trying out moves for Melanie's wedding.