Long Time, No Write!

Long time, no write. But, I have a good excuse. Actually, I have good excuses (plural!). One, I've been jetsetting all around with my supermodel son and just returned from sunny Hawaii. Two, this growing a baby stuff is hard work and I'm one tired mama! So, do forgive me!

This blog is about Jon David's buddy, Tyler. While he has many a girlfriend, he's never had another guy to just hang out and, well, be guys with! Along comes Tyler! Though 48 hours younger, Tyler is one big dude. He outweighs Jon by at least 6 or so pounds and I like to affectionately call him DW (double wide). He's terribly cute with the biggest brown eyes and one snappy dresser. We are loving his hand me downs. Apparently Tyler has quite a fan base who keeps him dressed in fineries from babyGap (a plus!). He even owns a pair of Crocs!

Tyler and his mommy (Kim) came over last week to play. The guys did a good job with "parallel play" and seemed somewhat interested in each other. You'll notice Jon in one picture wondering who the big guy is in his rocking chair. All was going well until Jon decided to take Tyler's pacifier away from him. That's a play date party foul. Funny thing is, Jon does not like pacifiers. I even tried to give him one on the plane because I was told to have him suck on something during take-offs and landings. Oh well.

What's super cool is that Tyler and his mommy will start taking Little Gym classes with us next week! So, here's our new pal, Mr. Tyler (DW).

Toddling at Gymboree

We tried a new gym today, Gymboree. Jon had a great time and greatly impressed Mommy and Daddy with his climbing abilities. He is a little Spiderman, just a-climbin' along. It just so happened that it was all boys today but most of the kids were younger than Jon so I had to keep an eye on him. He looks at people just like he looks at walls, furniture and his parents... a means by which he can push off and stand/walk. So, this does not work so well with a little 9-month old who is just happily sitting by himself. Still, it was a fun day and it's just great to see Jon taking risks and doing so well.

Now, That's Some Bear!

The babyGap bear for Jon finally arrived! Wow - what a bear! These bears were specially made for the semifinalists and cannot be purchased. They are one of a kind (like our boy!). The box is so big that it did not fit into our front door. The bear weighs over 50 lbs and is quite sturdy. Jon loves to climb on it and attempts to eat its nose. I do believe a special friendship has begun! Now, just don't tell the lovey of all loveys, the cow, about this new addition as Jon and the cow have a VERY special thing going on!

Big Day at the Little Gym

What a big day for Jon David! We went to the Little Gym for a trial class as we are searching for a fun thing for the two of us to do each week together. It'll be Little Gym, Kindermusik or something of the sort. Anyway, as a special treat, Daddy was able to join us and serve as the official photographer. I had no idea how Jon would take to the class or the other kids but he really did great. He was one of the smaller kids though I don't think he knew it. He walked around like he owned the place - little chest in the air, right arm slightly raised (for balance)... very cute! Of course, the instructors were appropriately smitten with Jon, especially his infectious giggle. He did his first forward tumble and even hung from the uneven bars (with help, of course). It was such a joy to watch him explore and, even better, to not have to tell him "no, don't touch that." It was just one wide open space of padding, free of the daily temptations such as power cords, electrical outlets, etc. We try another place next week and can't wait for that! Such a fun day!!

Can you keep a secret??

We need to keep this on the DL (that's down-low in case you didn't know) but our very own Jon David, Jr. is the babyGap Casting Call winner! He and a super cute little girl will be together for a photo shoot in Hawaii on January 19th. JD, Jon and I leave on Tuesday the 16th and return the 20th. We just are over the moon with excitement! And, we have to give all thanks and glory to the Lord for His goodness! Here is the "winning" photograph...