Time to get my feet wet!

On our way out of town, we stopped by the Lake and took Eli to the water for the first time. However, this water was much colder than the "pool" water that he's used to. But the day was clear and bright, and Eli seemed to appreciate the fun, even if he seemed a bit overwhelmed by all of the people, noise and activity.

Check out the splish splash below ...

Rewards of a Day well had ...

Tahoe Vacation

Taryn and I had been wondering where we were going to take our first real family vacation, then it just so happened that the cabin in Tahoe became available, so we jumped at the opportunity. We love spending time at the cabin. Tahoe is absolutely gorgeous, with plenty to do. And it's a great place to relax and get away from it all. We'd never taken Eli on such a long road trip, and weren't sure how he would react. He's pretty good in the car - he likes the white noise and is usually asleep in no time. At first, he was very excited at the prospect of taking a trip, and was having a go at his toys, with gusto.

Once the novelty wore off he was out. He slept the majority of the 3 hours that it takes to get there. We weren't complaining. Kendall had decided to make the trip with us, so we were knee deep in car games and Journey.

Then we arrived. Magic.

Eli was very impressed. We'd noticed how much he enjoys being outside with the breeze on his face, and the smells and sounds in the air. But standing with him at the windows in the cabin's family room, or standing with him out on the deck was a whole new experience. He was enthralled. It was pretty incredible.

And then, of course, there's the first morning after. We were all up late playing board games (and generally causing a ruckus), but we all woke up on Eli's schedule (which means early). I put him in one of the onsies that I found at Rock Star Baby (thanks Niser!), being the first time that the weather was cool enough to permit long sleeves. We made breakfast, had coffee, I read the paper, Taryn enjoyed the deck, Kendall played video games - then Eli really got moving for the day and shennanigans ensued.

And by shennanigans, I of course refer to Big Bird ...

We're big fans of the fall/winter seasons. So it was a lot of fun to be in a place where it was cool enough to get bundled up, even in the middle of summer. Taryn and I were wondering if we would get a chance to dress Eli in this hoodie before he outgrew it (the kid's a monster!).

Here's the Booger with his nephew. Too bad they don't get along so well ...

We took some time to try and teach Eli to crawl. He had been practicing with his Uncle and Grandpa. Here are a few shots of the Biddles in action ...

Eli had a great time hanging out on the deck with his Momma. Taryn loves the view of the lake from the cabin, and it was really special to see her share that love with her Lil' Man.

We even had a chance to see Alex - Taryn's cousin and Eli's "Uncle Alex." He mentioned that he was nervous to hold the Biddles, because babies are generally pretty sketchy around him and tend to fuss a lot. But Eli took to him immediately, and merriment ensued. Alex was on his way to a Bob Dylan concert (nice!) and we were lucky enough to see him both before and after.

Attack of the Big Yellow Plushy!

It's a dark and stormy night, but the Biddles is safe at home, warm and happy, wrapped in his comfiest pajamas, wiggling on his mat with all of his closest friends. Mommy and Daddy are sitting nearby (probably sharing a bottle of wine), looking down with pride on their beautiful baby boy.

But wait ... what was that sound?

Something isn't quite right. That was no noise I've ever heard before. But what could it be?

Oh no! It's a Big Yellow Biddles Eater!

It's hungry for boogers and it's coming for you!

No! No! NOOOOOOO!

Fin.

Eli Meets Big Bird

During a recent visit by his Nonni and Grambot, Eli made a new friend!

With the women together, everyone decided that it was necessary to make a trip to Nordstroms (of course). The 4.5 of us were headed to lunch in their cafe when we passed through their children's section, and Eli's Nonni happened to notice a big, plush, squishy Big Bird Doll. Taryn had a similar doll as a baby, and to pay homage and keep tradition, Nonni just couldn't pass it by. It was a nice surprise for Eli, especially because he responds so well to the bright colors, like Big Bird's yellow.

Here are some shots of his initial reaction, starting with surprise, followed closely by over-excitement, then finished by acceptance and contentment.

And of course, once something new has been introduced, then accepted, Eli moves quickly to putting that new something in his mouth. The taste test is very important to a Baby's learning process and development ... I hope ...

Then kisses.

Then hugs.

The Biddles loves his Big Bird. Thanks Nonni!