Madeline's First Winter

Valentine's Day

Madeline experienced her first Valentine's Day today.  Despite her not knowing about it quite yet, she seemed to enjoy herself and even found time to get her mother and father a lovely card.  What an intelligent, young darling.  On an unrelated note from the holiday, Madeline has been sprouting new hair growth and it looks as though she is going to be unfortunately gifted with her dad's 'poof' factor but thankfully blessed with her mom's 'blonde' radiance.  Happy Valentine's Day!

Days with Daddy

Lately, I have been fortunate! As you all know, I am lucky enough to be employed as a teacher in the Portage Public School District. Now, despite what some may think, it is a lot of work to teach. And, it's no secret that maintaining this occupation has some perks like working regular hours during the day and having summers off. Another major advantage about teaching is having snow days. This past week, Kalamazoo has been getting hammered with snow. I was lucky enough to have two snow days, which meant two days off, one of which was yesterday, a Friday. Needless to say, I was a happy camper! Furthermore, this meant that I had two extra days at home with Madeline! I wanted to show two pictures to you all of me and the "Bubs", one of which is slightly unfortunate yet an actual experience anyone will have assuming the position of 'parent'. Enjoy!

Taking Over

It's no secret who runs the show at our humble household these days. We believe that this picture proves that already obvious point. Madeline likes to be in control and she isn't afraid to take charge. I thing she gets that instinct from her mother. We are loving the constant action that unfolds right in front of our eyes through Madeline!

Food Introduction

For nearly two weeks, Madeline Jean has been filling her tummy with actual food. We introduced her to rice cereal mixed with some soupy bananas, which she doesn't find too appealing but chokes it down slowly behind a cringeful smirk anyway. After cereal, it was sweet potatoes, which she found most delightful! Following that, we fed her applesauce, with which she puckers through. All in all, she seems to be enjoying her new endeavor of food tasting!

Weekly Update

As I write this, I realize this picture is already over a month old. You can see the Christmas tree to the left! To the right is Madeline's bouncy seat which she LOVES! It's funny to watch her move around in it and "push" the buttons. I'm not fully convinced she does it on purpose yet.

I'm back to work as many of you know and it's very bittersweet, but mostly bitter! I hate being away from her, but thankfuly my mom and husband watch her while I'm gone. My mom keeps telling me it's good for both of us, but I'm not convinced. If anyone has any work at home suggestions, let me know!! All the moms at work tell me it gets easier with time. Thankfully it's only two days a week...but twelve hours a day!

Madeline is now eating sweet potatoes (which she INHALES), cereal and applesauce. I know she's only about 5 months, but she started grabbing for my food about 2 weeks ago so I decided it was time! She still prefers milk but likes the switch-up. We hope all our friends and family are doing well, especially the ones that are not near us...we love you all!