I ran into a friend a little while back, and she asked how Braden was doing. I told her he was amazing (of course). She then asked me how it was to raise a baby – but before I could respond she said, well actually it’s more like he’s raising himself. This comment really stuck with me. She is absolutely correct. He is raising himself. He’s teaching himself how to crawl, pull himself up, and stand on his own two feet. I am merely there for words of wisdom, kind encouragement and  loving guidance. I parent him, but I think it’s equally important to let him learn on his own. Of course, I am there for the falls, tears, hugs and kisses. But watching him learn to challenge himself to become mobile has been such a special treat.

I wasn’t expecting him to crawl at 6 months, but he was ready. Not long after crawling (on Christmas Eve!) he quickly pulled himself up and loves to stand! His favorite place to pull up is on the wine the cabinet. I think it’s because it’s glass; he can see in but also a reflection of himself or whoever is behind him. AND their is a bar he holds onto that he loves to gum on. It’s a great distraction when I am trying to cook!

 

 

Braden is officially teething! The top and bottom 2 teeth are coming in strong. I have yet to see any break through the gums yet, but they are making their way. Whenever I ask Braden to show me his teeth – he just sticks out his tongue. He’s still in love with tongue.

Speaking of his tongue….he gives me kisses now! It’s more like a French kiss, and you may or may not be stuck with a hickey afterwards, but regardless – they are kisses. The sweetest kisses I will ever know.

He was able to move up a level in Gymboree. I was so glad since he is just a mobile monster! He really enjoys playing with everything each week. His favorite is to climb up the cheese mat, crawl through the tunnel, listen to his teacher sing, and watch the tiny bubbles. I look forward to going every Thursday.

I am terrified that he may be walking at 9 months. What will I do?! I guess I will just have to wait and see. Such a strong and smart boy I have. But I am so grateful for every day. It’s a true joy to watch him grow and be more independent.

I love you so much my little cuddler. I look forward to your snuggles every day. What a love bucket you are.

your mama xox

The Holiday Season came and went – in a whirlwind! I swear I blinked and it was all over.

Thanksgiving was held at my parents house. It was supposed to include my cousin, his wife and their daughter – but their second baby decided to be born that day! So it was an unlikely small event. It ended up being great, as I could give my full attention to Braden on his first Thanksgiving. He enjoyed sitting up for everyone in the kitchen, while the grownups cooked. Once it was time to eat, we brought the bouncer into the dining room so he could be with us. We ate as we listened to the soundtrack of Braden babbles and bouncing legs. It made for a comical Thanksgiving dinner.

Christmas was incredibly special this year. Personally, I’ve never been too into the “Christmas Spirit”. But, with Braden here now I was anxious to experience it as if I were a child again. Christmas Eve is traditionally spent at my parents house. It is also my cousins Birthday, so we really like to celebrate! It was fun to see Elyse (my “niece”) run around, little Baby Jax (my “nephew”)  sleeping away, and Braden taking in all of the Christmas cheer. He really liked opening his presents. Of course, he really liked the wrapping paper more than the presents – but what can ya do!? I think the most special part of the day was when Braden crawled for the first time! It was truly a Christmas Miracle!

Christmas morning we woke up super early to see what Santa had brought! I was really looking forward to leaving out cookies and milk for Santa, but I totally dropped the ball. And I forgot to leave something for Braden in his stocking. Good thing he doesn’t have a clue what’s going on. I better get it together next year!

The morning is always spent surrounded by the tree while we open our presents. We then make our way into kitchen to open our stocking and enjoy a Christmas breakfast – Polish sausage included. YUM!

Christmas night we made our way down to San Diego to spend time with Braden’s dad. It was really special to open presents with his Aunt, Uncle and Dad. Braden also got to Skype with his family that lives in Vegas! I am sure they were quite amused with Braden’s antics as he opened their presents. He is so lucky to have so many people that love him!

Braden spent most of New Years Eve asleep, but he did make the giant leap into pulling himself up! It was an exciting December to say the least.

I think I lasted until about 10pm. Until then I enjoyed playing Cards Against Humanity with my family. We waited about 5 hours to eat Goose for the first. But after 9pm rolled around, we decided to call it a loss. This Goose would not cook. But hey, I’m not complaining – who eats Goose anyway!? Braden woke up just in time for midnight – for a cliche midnight feeding. I could barely keep my eyes open.

All in all I would have to say it was a very blessed and special Holiday season. I am looking forward to years to come and making more memories with Braden. He is one special little man, that I am proud to call mine.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

I love you,

your mama xo