Braeden the Blogger

Big-Hearted Braeden

2010-07-28T21:00:00.001-04:00

Retold by Mommy...

Story 1
At dinner with just the boys (Daddy and Braeden), they were eating chicken with honey and mustard mixed together. Braeden was not eating all his dinner, so Daddy told him that he was very lucky to have chicken and honey and mustard, since lots of little boys don't have such good food to eat.

Braeden: Why, Daddy?

Daddy: Because their parents don't have as much money as us, or a job, and they can't have the good food we have, so you should be thankful and eat all your dinner.

Braeden: Well, Daddy, maybe we could give them our honey and mustard.

Story 2
While Braeden and I were in CVS the other day waiting to pick up a prescription and standing by the card aisle:

Braeden: Mommy, we should get a card for Nana.

Mommy: OK. That would be nice.

Mommy (as we were looking for a card): Do you think we should send it to Poppy, too?

Braeden: Poppy already got a card! (Meaning he just got one for Father's Day)

Happy Birthday Little Jamie

2010-07-28T21:00:00.000-04:00

We celebrated Jamie's 1st birthday by giving her pretty flowers at her grave, thinking about her and missing her while at the beach in Niantic, eating a nice seafood lunch, singing happy birthday to her at her grave and before blowing out the one candle on the birthday cake Daddy and I made, and, of course, eating the yummy cake. It was a good day as a family.

We've been to the butterfly garden, Baby Wings, down the road from us a few times lately, and today we helped release some butterflies. The garden was created by a nurse at the hospital where Jamie and I were born who wanted to honor and remember babies like Jamie who died and others who never had a chance to be born. We really like that it is just a mile down the road from us. My favorite thing to do there is play hide and seek among the rows of rhododendrons and otherwise run up and down the rows.

Visit from the Willis's

2010-07-11T20:44:00.000-04:00

I met some wonderful new friends this weekend, Molly and Leah. My Mommy went to college with their parents, Betsy and Will. We all had a very fun time playing and laughing. This is us taking a ride on "James" at the Blueberry Festival.

Leah enjoying my slide downstairs.

Molly and I rowing in the boat.

Molly and I having a concert.

Leah and I seeing eye to eye at the Blueberry Festival.

It was a very short visit, so we all hope we can see each other again soon (at least more often than every five years).

Sister's Garden

2010-07-11T20:35:00.000-04:00

We spruced up Jamie's Garden on the side of our house by clearing out some overgrown brush, laying down more mulch, and adding a couple plants and garden decorations. The area looks much better now and is a more fitting tribute to Jamie Cakes.

The top part of the garden that we planted in the spring

A guardian angel added

Jamie's stepping stone made by Braeden. The stars glow in the dark, but we haven't gone out to see it in the dark yet.

Braeden's stepping stone made by the one and only.

New Summer Videos

2010-07-04T21:06:00.000-04:00

I knew my Mommy would forget to have me write some posts for a while. But here is the link to a few videos of me lately playing the drums (the one of me on the couch you can't hear the music), playing drums along with GranJan, playing at Babywings garden (a new garden that is being created dedicated to babies like Jamie), eating yummy S'Mores on the 4th of July, etc.

We have had a very fun and busy summer so far, and it is just beginning! Maybe we'll get to post some pictures soon.

www.youtube.com/braedentube

Oh, happy day!

Mom's New Job

2010-05-06T14:30:00.000-04:00

Just a quick note to direct you to Mommy's new business website. She is now an Usborne Books and More consultant. The books she sells are super fun to read and look at. Be sure to check her website out and order a book or two now or in the future.

www.myubam.com/h3222

Yippee, I'm Three!!!

2010-04-29T14:06:00.000-04:00

I sure had a terrific 3rd birthday. My grandparents were here for several days to celebrate with me, and I went to Miss Kate's to celebrate with my friends! I'm a lucky boy. I am very thankful for the many gifts I got from many people.

It was also a big weekend because we buried little Jamie's remains on Friday. It was a beautiful, sunny, and breezy day to lay her to rest. Everyone seemed a little sad, but we were all happy to be together as a family. I know my aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives, and friends were thinking of us that day. I do miss my little sister. In one of our gardens we planted some bushes to help remember and honor her.

Here are some pics:

Williamsburg

2010-04-07T13:52:00.000-04:00

I finally have pictures to show from my trip to Williamsburg, VA, to visit my family at the end of March.

Puzzles with Bridget

Carrying our loot from the Easter egg hunt

Watching the fife and drum parade at Colonial Williamsburg - my favorite!

My new bear I made

Practicing for the links

Our bright and beautiful Easter eggs

A Happy Easter It Was

2010-04-06T14:14:00.001-04:00

My first fun run the day before Easter

Easter morning reading my new The Easter Egg by Jan Brett

Playing my new fish instrument

Opening my baseball egg

Me in my spiffy Easter tie

Thomas the Train bubble whistle fun with Cousin Emmaline and Matt

Fixing the car with Cousin Ahren

We're ready!

Cousin Amelie looking for some eggs

Cousin Rory taking a break

We all need a break after that hunt!

Easter's on Its Way

2010-03-31T12:59:00.000-04:00

I can tell because I have been to two Easter egg hunts already, and I think Mommy said there is one or two more.

I got back from Virginia yesterday. The plane take-offs and landings were a little bumpy which I didn't like, but I had a super time with Nana, Poppy, Uncle Jim, Aunt Liz, and Bridget. I went to the Easter egg hunt in Bridget's neighborhood and found the golden egg! I saw a fife and drum parade at Colonial Williamsburg. I LOVED it because I want to be a drummer some day. We also went to Jamestown to see the ships and villages from a long time ago. We did some other fun stuff, too. I will show some pictures soon.

Before we left for Virginia, we had a crayon party here to make new fun-shaped crayons out of old crayons. We made the new crayons for Crayons for Cancer (www.crayonsforcancer.org) which raises money for the kids like Jamie who have cancer and go to the same hospital she went to. I like using the "crayon slicer". Don't worry; it was safe for even a 2 (almost 3) year old.

Spring is Coming

2010-03-13T16:08:00.000-05:00

Just a quick update to show a little of what I've been up to the last couple of weeks. The pictures show me decorating our window with some St. Patty's Day decorations, planting some seeds, and playing dress-up with a big roll of foam. Being almost three is grand.

March It Is

2010-03-01T16:14:00.011-05:00

We got back last evening from a fun weekend in Delaware celebrating Uncle Chet's 40th birthday! Great to see my cousins and grandparents, too! We even went bowling.

Potty training continues to go well. I'm pretty good at telling Mommy or Daddy, "I gotta go!" just like Grover in a book we borrowed from the library.

Using my watercolor paints and smock from Aunt Erin and Uncle Drew

Mommy and I stay busy during the day doing crafts, chores, playing in or outside, going to the library or to play dates, etc. We went to "Bounce Town" last week with a couple friends. I liked watching the kids (and Mommy) go down the huge inflatable slides, but I preferred running around the carpeted floor, sitting on the inflatable fish, and at then end bouncing in the castle. I'm looking forward to spring to be outside more. I've been dribbling the soccer ball in the front yard lately, and it's a lot of fun.

We will miss watching the Olympics, but we did manage to have a picnic dinner in the den while watching the Olympics one night.

I Have to Go!

2010-02-13T20:20:00.002-05:00

That is what I have been saying lately as I'm learning to use the potty all by myself! Mommy and Daddy said they are very proud of me, especially today because I didn't have any accidents in my undies. Today was my 3rd day of officially potty training.

Oh yeah, Santa fixed and brought back my Polar Express train, and I love using the remote control to make it go around the track.

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Back to Blogging

2010-02-07T14:25:00.002-05:00

Thanks to the folks at CaringBridge for providing an immeasurably useful communication tool. We'll be using blogspot again for updates. Starting a new chapter in our lives.

Change of Venue

2010-01-01T20:27:00.003-05:00

As most of you know, we are now posting on a different site to chronicle our journey through our daughter's cancer battle...please visit.

www.caringbridge.org/visit/jamieknotts

Planes and Boats

2009-09-26T20:17:00.015-04:00

Yesterday Mommy and I did a project. We made a cool airplane (out of a diaper box) that I can fly! Check out my flying skills below.

Today we stepped it up a notch, and I went canoeing with Daddy! It was my first boating trip, and it was great fun. I kept wanting Daddy to keep paddling. Our "new" boat is one that Great Uncle Dave made way back when. We thank him for passing it along to our family.

What a memorable Father-Son moment

Mommy and Jamie were planning on canoeing with us, but when we tried Jamie's new life jacket on...

"I'm not sure this fits, Mommy & Daddy..."

"Get this thing off me!!!!!!!!!"

Some Firsts for Both of Us!!

2009-09-25T12:30:00.006-04:00

Yesterday, Thursday, September 24, 2009, Jamie was officially 2 months old! Happy 2 mos. birthday, Sis!!! Believe it or not, she actually rolled from her belly to back in her crib the day before!! Mommy saw her do it.

I had 2 milestones yesterday, too. I learned to pedal my tricycle all by myself. My legs are actually long enough to reach the pedals now. My other big accomplishment, which I didn't think was that big of a deal, was asking the question, "Why?" for the first time. Mommy and Daddy thought it was a wow moment.

Jamie is watching me play these days. She never seemed to notice or show interest in me before even though I talked to her alot (sometimes too loudly, and she cries).

Some things I like to say or sing these days are, "No", "Yes, I don't", and"Baa, baa, black sheep..."

Enjoy the fall weekend!

Blessed Jamie

2009-08-25T13:57:00.011-04:00

My sister has arrived! July 24 at 11:47 AM is when I officially became a big brother to Jamie Lynne Knotts (We call her Jamie). There aren't too many perks quite yet, but I have gotten a lot of presents. We both thank you!! She was 8 pounds when she was born, but she looks a little bigger now. I have held her a few times on my lap, and she seems heavy to me. She can't play with me yet, but I am excited for when she can. I hope she likes trains, trucks, and playing in a band. Mommy has been very busy nursing, carrying, and changing her, so sometimes I can't play with Mommy as much as I'd like to. When Daddy is home, it's a little better.

I had great visits from my two sets of grandparents since Jamie was born. They were very helpful in taking care of me, Jamie, and Mommy & Daddy.

I hope to post more blogs this year, but being a big brother may take a lot of time.
Love and hugs,
Braeden

I can't always be the "big" brother!

Nana and Poppy's Visit

2009-03-01T12:24:00.012-05:00

Nana and Poppy came to visit us last week! I had not seen them since Christmas, so I had to show them all that I can do now.
I was trying to show them my golf prowess (as Daddy already has me out practicing), but it was a little tricky being that I don't have the correct set of clubs. You would think that since Daddy is a club maker he could at least hook me up with left-handed clubs.

I am getting very good at navigating our steep and uneven yard and am becoming a super stick picker-upper! I loved hearing Nana and Poppy read to me, and I showed them how I read, too. "The Mitten" and Curious George books are real hits with me.

I had my friend Marika and her mom, Helene, over one day to show Nana and Poppy I can share (usually). I got to show Marika my slide, too.
My construction abilities are improving, too. Maybe I can help Daddy and GranPops finish off the basement in April!

We went to the Lutz Children's Museum one day, and I had a ball riding the pony and saying, "Neeeiiiiigggghhhh!"
The big ship at the museum was fun to climb on and pretend I was driving the boat. However, I preferred blowing the fog horn (the button in my right hand).

Nana helped me go "fishing" from the top of the ship. All in all, I really enjoyed having them here. I miss them! The next time I see them, I'll be a big brother!!!

You are probably wondering how I am doing with the "going to be a big brother" thing. Mommy and Daddy keep telling me there is a baby in Mommy's belly and I have even kissed her belly a few times, but I'm not really sure what that means. They also said I will be getting a big boy bed soon, and Daddy is painting it this weekend. We have a few books about Mommy having a baby inside her and what it will be like when the baby comes out. I guess I'll just wait and see what all this is about.

Speaking of ships, GranPops just sent me this hand-carved boat to play with in the bath tub. He is good!!!

Happy March!

Braeden's February

2009-02-15T12:32:00.005-05:00

Hi all, it's been a chilly winter so far. Until recently, all the snow has been too dry and fluffy to make a "Frosty" (snowman). We finally made one, only to watch him melt in a rain storm. That's southern New England! Hope you all had a great Valentines Day! Can't wait till Nana and Poppy get here today for a visit!

It's called "radiant floor heating", Dad, look into it!

Decorating Valentines cupcakes

Helping out in the Kitchen

FROSTY!!!!!

Off the Radar

2009-01-09T12:53:00.006-05:00

Sorry it's been so long, I've been doing a lot of growing and advancing. This week my GrandPops came up from North Carolina and built me an indoor slide! Just like the one his Daddy built for my Daddy. What a great visit, Thanks Pops!

Here's some photos of Haloween through Christmas. We traveled to Delaware for Thanksgiving and Virginia for Christmas.

How many dalmatians?

Packing for Delaware

Thanksgiving Suede Vest Man

Cousin Bridget Saunders

Maine Weekend

2008-10-12T17:32:00.008-04:00

Nanna came to visit me this weekend from Virginia. She took care of me on Thursday and Friday while Mommy and Daddy were at work. She's fun! We had great times. I missed Poppy, he had to work at the winery this weekend, and couldn't make the trip.
We traveled up to Maine to see our friend Katie Pasini's wedding in Portland and Old Orchard Beach. Daddy grew up north of there, and it was good for him to get back.

That's me getting the dancing started at the wedding. I had fun dancing with my friends Cole, Elli, and Morgan.

That's us at brunch this morning, we had a great time racing in the halls of the hotel.

After brunch we drove to Cape Elizabeth and saw the rocky coast and lighthouses. The rocks really look like wood, but much harder. The water was calm and the sky was very clear and warm.

I'm about to have my first taste of lobster. It's really a bug that lives in the ocean, but people love to eat them, apparently. We'll see....

Of course, I'm not big enough to warrant the full market price of a lobster roll, so I got a taste along with my fish burger.

Mmmmmm - sorry you missed this, GranJan...

Yum, Lobster's gooooooood!

And woopie pies are pretty tasty, too. If you've never heard of one, you'll have to go to Maine to experience it for yourself!

My parents are pretty darn good to me. So I behaved well and was a good traveller for them. It didn't hurt to have Nana along, too, to help watch me. I look forward to the next trip!

Vermont Weekend

2008-10-05T18:02:00.018-04:00

I thought I would get ready for a weekend in Vermont by doing some weight training with a backpack...

We enjoyed a fabulous weekend in peak foliage at our favorite spot on Bromley Mountain. Thanks Lisa, Bob, and Justin Hoak for sharing Chester House with us again. Mom and Dad said we were up here last year, but I don't remember. At Dutton's farm stand, we got some apples and Grade B maple syrup for Daddy's special pancakes. Grade B is harvested later in the season, and is darker and bolder in flavor than the Grade A's you're used to.

The cat-people didn't have much to say...

After enjoying the Hilldean craft fair and some hot apple crisp, we were off to Mommy and Daddy's favorite restaurant, the Sirloin Saloon. (they ate there before Daddy proposed seven years ago). Here's me getting ready for my dinner...

And that's me gnawing on some terryaki beef skewers. Mommy and Daddy had some big pieces of cow, too. I had an ice cream sundae for dessert.

Today, we hiked up to the top of the alpine slide and watched some kids and adults sliding down. I cried a little because I'm not big enough to go yet. Next year...

Here's a picture of me this year and last year in the same spot.

2008

2007

Now we're back home and ready for Game 3 of the Sox/Angels series. Go Sox!

Fall is here!

2008-09-28T13:19:00.008-04:00

I apologize for not being a very good blogger lately. Mommy and Daddy have not given me much computer time. Since I last wrote at the end of August, I have been learning and doing a lot at Miss Kate's. She's the wonderful lady who takes care of me while Mommy and Daddy are at work. I am the youngest at her day care; so, the other kids consider me the "baby". I love the attention. There is another boy who is a year older than me, a girl and boy who are 3, and two girls who are 4 and go to preschool in the morning. We always have playtime, circle time, outdoor play and/or a walk, nutritious lunch and snacks, nap time, etc. Miss Kate lives in the woods; so we can always find some cool toads, bugs, puddles, or sticks.

I am learning more and more words from hearing the other kids talk. Just this week I started saying the other kids names when my Mommy asks me to say their names (but not all the time). I am good at saying the sounds that animals make like, baa, moo, bauk-bauk, peep-peep, meow, quack-quack, uuuhhh (and thump my chest like a gorilla), and my parents' favorite, hee-haw-hee-haw (donkey). I recently learned to say apple, or "bapple", after many times playing under the apple trees in Miss Kate's yard and going apple picking twice this fall already.

Speaking of food, some other new words I say include broccoli, tunnel, and pasta. I now really like to dip my food when we have ketchup or some other sauce, or sometimes I use just my finger without the food. I am tall enough and understand enough to try to get water out of the water dispenser on the front of the refrigerator by myself. Usually I end up with water on me; so Mommy and Daddy still have to help (and will for a while).

I love to climb on things and try to buckle my different straps like car seat, stroller, and high chair. I can actually get the buckle clipped sometimes. Also at the top of my list these days is trying or pretending to put real keys in key holes and turning on and off the lights at the switch plates. I am tall enough now to reach, believe it or not, on my tip toes.

We have a few fun weekends coming up including a trip to Bromley in Vermont next weekend and a wedding in Maine Columbus weekend. Nana will be coming up for a few days for the wedding, too!! Yippee. The following weekend Daddy will be in a golf tournament, and then we will go to Cousin Christine's baby shower the next weekend. Halloween will be after that. No wonder I need 2-3 hour naps on the weekends....

Happy fall!

Petting the baby goats at Southwick's Zoo in Massachusetts.

Family Trip to Hickory, NC!

2008-08-30T14:10:00.016-04:00

I'm a little late in telling you about my summer vacation to GranJan and Pops, but I still hope to give you the flavor of our trip.
Day 1 - We arrived by plane pretty smoothly. I was a good boy and made it a decent flight for Mommy, Daddy, and all the other passengers. I wore my "Grand (old) parents" t-shirt, and GranJan and Pops recognized themselves on it. They laughed.
Note the pictures on my shirt are from when Mommy met GranJan and Pops at the airport for the very first time.

Day 2 - Daddy played golf on a really nice golf course while the rest of us went down to Lake Hickory for a boat ride. Well, I didn't get to go, but I found plenty to do on the shore, especially once Alyi found some rubber worms to play with. We relaxed in the afternoon and had a few drinks.

Day 3 - We went for a walk around the neighborhood and did some splashing in the sprinkler and little pool GranJan and Pops borrowed. We went in a big pool that afternoon at a friend's house. No brought their camera, so no pics for that.
Day 4 - While Daddy and Uncle Chet played golf and Pops went to work, the ladies and I went over to friends of GranJan and Pops to see their two fluffy and cute dogs. I really enjoyed throwing the ball and watching them run after it. In the afternoon some of us went over the the town pool to cool off. It was an unusual town pool because this one had a really long windy slide that I went down with Daddy, and Alyi went, too.
Day 5 - We has another easy morning and then went off to the science museum in town after my nap. Alyi and Almy made their own news broadcast. I missed that part. We all liked sticking our hands in the turtle and stingray tanks.

Day 6 - The whole gang enjoyed a peaceful hike in the woods. It was so calming that I fell asleep near the end.Day 7 - I went to another park with GranJan, Mommy, and Daddy while the rest took a little tour of Hickory led by Pops. We met up for lunch before heading home and relaxing.
Day 8 - This was our travel day back to CT. All went smoothly, and I enjoyed my plane rides once again. I loved seeing all the airplanes at the airport.

Other notes about our trip.
I had fun playing with and getting to know my grandparents, aunt, uncle, and cousins better.

We seemed to always have good meals. Almy had to remind me to only eat ONE at a time. I think I heard that alot...Alyi and Almy also wanted to try on my stylin' bibs.We danced alot, and the Delaware Knotts helped me learn my rhythm both dancing and playing instruments.
Thanks, GranJan, for changing my diaper so many times.
Overall, it was a very memorable, relaxing, and special time with my family. Can't wait to do it again!

Tractors, Teeth, and Tons of Fun

2008-07-17T12:55:00.007-04:00

OK, so it's not a tractor, but I have come to realize that Daddy is a ton of fun to play with!! He showed me how to ride my bike and do wheelies!! He also is great at chasing me around and around the living room couch and hiding sometimes. Also, his fondness of mowing the lawn has rubbed off as I recently learned the word lawn mower and loved having a chance to actually use one at a friend's house. Getting back to the tractor, I learned that word last week and love saying it and seeing one. I 'm not sure if Mommy got a truck&tractor book out of the library before or after I started saying the word, but either way, I really like reading that one.
I finally got a molar last weekend with another one coming very shortly. It has not bothered my eating, but enhanced my ability to chew large quantities of food in my mouth at once. I seem to enjoy playing with my food more these days ...Our summer has been wonderful so far. I get to play outside a lot, go swimming, help Mommy water the flowers, go in my swing, take rides in the stroller, climb around at playgrounds, play with bubbles, and play with many friends.

My buddy, Caden, and his Mommy came for a visit this week, and I showed him how to ride my bike. He liked it as well as my new toy trains that my neighbor gave me. He also liked digging in the dirt and playing with the water out on my back deck like I do.

I am really excited about my Uncle Drew, Erin, and Nana coming to our house next week. I have not seen my uncle in over a year, and Nana will be moving soon. I will be sure to have tons of fun with them all. My Mommy's friend, Lauren, and her two twin daughters are coming to visit on Tuesday on their way to Boston. I'm sure they will be fun to play with as they are a year older than me and know how to do and play a lot.

Keep cool!

Happy 4th of July!

2008-07-04T12:16:00.011-04:00

Not too much new to report this time, but I wanted to post of picture of my cousin Bridget and I. I forgot to include her and her first birthday party in early June. I think she had fun with her family, opening presents, and eating cake. She had a very cute duck cake that her Aunt Sarah made her. I know I liked playing with her and wish I could see her more.

This holiday weekend we do not have much planned other than maybe a hike and Daddy (and Mommy helping when she's not watching me) cleaning and painting the garage floor. It is one of the first steps in a long process of eventually refinishing part of the basement.

God bless America,
Mr. B

Busy Busy June Bug

2008-06-29T07:41:00.018-04:00

June has been a very busy month with growing, learning, celebrating, and visiting! I've had some super summer fun. I do not think my blog entry will be as long as the latest one of my Uncle Drew's and Erin's, but then again, I'm not traveling the world...yet.

Now that I am totally mobile and getting more and more agile, I love to climb into little contained spaces like laundry baskets, boxes, and even fallen over night stands.

One of the best parts of June is celebrating Daddy's birthday and Father's Day. This year, Daddy had both of them on the same day. How neat. I got him a calendar that had pictures of him and me from last year on each month. Daddy brought it to put up in his office at work. All the ladies at his work love looking at the calendar.

The next terrific celebration was a long weekend in Delaware with my cousins, aunt and uncle, and grandparents. We came down to celebrate Great Great Aunt Betty's 95th birthday!!! Wow, she is 95 years young. We all dressed in beach clothes because Aunt Betty has always been fond of the beach. We all really enjoyed her party as much as she did. Back at Uncle Chet's, I LOVED playing tea party in the pool with my cousins. They taught me how to slide and stir the tea. It was so much fun just to be around everyone at Uncle Chet's and Aunt Yaritza's and show them all I can do with signing, talking, playing, and otherwise being a little boy. Thank you, Uncle Chet and Tia Yaritza, for the tasty meals, and Pops, for the delicious pancakes! I can't wait for August when we are all together again!

This past week we were busy traveling down to the Norwalk area to visit Daddy while he worked down there for a few days. Mommy and I went to see my birthday buddy, Caden, and his Mommy during the day, and then Daddy came over for dinner. Caden and I liked playing together, especially being goofy and running around together.

The next day, Mommy and I went to visit our cousins Carin and Emmaline in Darien. We played in Emmaline's pool and got to see Aunt Priscilla, too. In the picture below, I am not really trying to drink the water, but rather blow the water out through the bottom holes in the cup. I just discovered that trick that day.

On Friday, Mommy and I were back on the road down to Old Lyme, CT, to visit Mommy's college friend, Tara, and her two sons. Mommy doesn't have any pictures to share right now. I played with trains, cars, balls, and golf clubs with Wyatt while Mommy talked with Tara and held Baby Oliver. I liked seeing the baby.

Back home for the weekend, I have been enjoying bubble play, especially taking the wand out, watching the soap drip, and putting the wand back in the jar. I'm also now into mixing in a bowl (My cousins taught me this in Delaware, but I also think I got this gene from Daddy, Uncle Chet, and Pops. The shirtless summer cooking may have come from my Uncle Jim.).

July is sure to be filled with more excitement and learning. I can't wait to see Uncle Drew and Erin after many months of travel. I also hope and pray that Nana and Poppy get to move to Virginia very soon.

Live, love, and laugh,
Braeden

Mystic Aquarium

2008-06-05T19:06:00.010-04:00

Watching the beluga whales first

My first trip to an aquarium was a splash! I liked watching the sea lions best and would have liked to climb into the tank with them. They made some loud funny noises and rolled around in the water a lot. I got to put my hands in the sea ray tank, but they did not have any stingers; so I was safe. The best activity was toddling around inside the darkened aquarium in between all the big and little people and windows with fish behind them. It was so exciting!!! We saw beluga whales and little African penguins, too. The penguins were really cute, and Mommy let me buy a stuffed penguin that I kept grabbing off the shelf. It was a terrific and tiring day; so, I am going to bed early tonight. Enjoy the pictures. Good night.

Here's me playing in the ray tank.

" Braeden, Braeden, come see this!" said my friend Marika.

Here are the cute African penguins hanging out.

Come here, little penguins, so we can see you!

Here I am stopping for a moment amid my toddling to check out the BIG fish.

Wow, June Already?

2008-06-04T14:26:00.003-04:00

I can't believe it's June already. That means I get to go swimming soon! Yeah!! I actually went in my 2" kiddie pool yesterday for the first time and quite enjoyed myself. Being the beginning of June, that also means my cousin Bridget is about to turn 1. We are going to her birthday party on Saturday in New Jersey. I hope she likes her cake.

I've learned some new signs in the last few days. I think I'm getting the hang of it. I can sign bird, bath, and hat. I am pointing more at things I want and to tell Mommy and Daddy what I see. I am pretty good at saying and waving bye-bye now, too. I even wave and say bye-bye to the water when it drains after my bath.

Tomorrow, I'm going to Mystic Aquarium with Mommy and some of our friends. Mommy says there will be lots of fish and other sea creatures. I bet it will be really fun to watch the fish swim from real close, instead of looking at them in books. I'll let you know.

Bye-bye,
Braeden

Eating, Swinging, Signing, and Little Bison

2008-05-25T13:22:00.010-04:00

Did someone say I was a clean eater? What were they thinking? Yesterday, Mommy left my prunes on my tray, and I decided to help myself. I now really like eating my Cheerios with a tinch of milk to moisten them. I feel empowered feeding myself. This morning I enjoyed raspberry-ing with milk in my mouth. My, my, eating can be so much fun!

Mommy and Daddy did some yard work this weekend including mowing, planting flowers, and putting up my new swing. Weeeeeee!One of the coolest things that has happened recently is that I can sign to Mommy and Daddy when I want to eat something!!!! I have signed "eat" after my naps and before meals/snacks when they ask me if I'm hungry and want to eat. I put my hand/fingers up to my mouth and tap my lips to let them know I want to eat. I usually giggle, too, because I'm excited that we're understanding each other. Mommy and Daddy are so proud of me!

As you can see from the picture below, I'm studying already to maybe one day be a Bison like my uncles. Friends of ours from church went to their grandson's Bucknell graduation and bought me this hat while there. They knew my two uncles, Jim and Drew, went there. I hear it's farm country out there; so, I thought this book was quite appropriate to start reading. The hat fits great, and I don't mind wearing hats now.

Please have a nice Memorial Day and say a prayer for those who served our country and lost their lives protecting our freedom.

God bless you!
B

P.S. I LOOOOOVE walking!!!

I Dig Dirt!

2008-05-22T18:55:00.008-04:00

Today I got my first mouthful of DIRT! Rather than spitting it out, I savored the flavor. We went inside for a real snack after that because Mom figured I must be hungry.

I've been enjoying my new mobility and am discovering all kinds of new places to go.

Yesterday I went to Sturbridge to meet up with my pal Cole. He's walking very well and gave me some great stability pointers.
We saw goats, chickens, turkeys, and an emu. We also got to play on the kid playground. We pretty much had the place to ourselves.

Here, turkey, turkey, turkey dinner....

"And the Walking Man Walks"

2008-05-18T11:48:00.004-04:00

That's me. This weekend I finally started walking on my own initiative, and it's great!! I can tell there will be lots of falling, but that is one reason why I wear a diaper. Check out the videos. I can stand up from the ground by myself now, too.
Adios!

One Year Old!

2008-05-14T07:27:00.008-04:00

I'm one year old now and doing some great stuff. Sorry I haven't blogged in a while, but I've been very busy. I had a marvelous time celebrating my birthday at Nana and Poppy's. I ate my first piece of chocolate cake and loved it!! It was so sweet especially the icing. Thanks, Nana, for baking and decorating it for me. I was a pretty clean eater compared to many pictures of first birthday cake eating that I've seen.

Nana came to visit us the next week, and I had a very fun time with her. I got to spend some time with just her, no Mommy or Daddy. That was extra special for both of us. One day, Nana, Mommy, and I went the Lutz Children's Museum where I saw birds, turtles, rabbits, snakes, and some other animals. I loved the fan-tailed pigeon the best. I got to play in the farm room and pretend I was milking a cow. I wanted to lick the bucket, but Mommy wouldn't let me. We celebrated an early Mother's Day with Nana and Mommy one night. I am glad I have a Mommy and two grandmas who love me so much!

Last weekend was Mother's Day, and Mommy, Daddy, and I celebrated by going for a hike with our friends, the Ellis's, at a nearby park. On Sunday we went to church and then took a hike at nearby Case Mountain. Daddy carried me in the backpack both times. Thanks for the ride, Daddy! We had gorgeous weather both days.

In between all that activity, I'm learning to point at objects, walk, and eat with a spoon (and help unload the groceries as you can see to the left). Just this morning, Mommy asked me where the lady bug was in one of my books, and I took my pointer finger and pointed right to the lady bug! Last night, we played this fun game where Mommy and Daddy sat a little bit apart from each other and had me walk between them. They would catch me if I fell when I got to them. It was so much fun I was giggling up a storm. I think I'll try some more walking on my own. I've had a few chances to use a spoon to eat my own food, and I'm pretty good at it. Mommy helps put the food on the spoon, and then I hold the spoon and put it in my mouth. We've practiced with sticky foods like avocado and lasagne so the food doesn't fall off the spoon so easily. Oh yes, I did get my 8th tooth a week or so ago. That makes for easier chewing and biting.

I am excited to go hiking with our CT cousins this weekend. It should be another great time in the woods.

Happy 1st Birthday!

2008-04-25T08:27:00.007-04:00

Today is my birthday! I've been realizing the wonders of the outdoors and the extra fun I can have now that I am more mobile and more smart. Here are some pictures of what I've been up to lately. It's only 8:30 in the morning so we haven't celebrated my birthday too much yet. I did get 2 really cool (and cute, Mommy and Daddy said) outfits with fun socks from GranJan and Pops this morning before Daddy went to work. I really love the green rhinoceros t-shirt, green plaid shirt, and funky monkey and lion socks. We'll celebrate a little at my play group at Marika's house. Then we'll go to Nana and Poppy's for the weekend to celebrate my and Poppy's birthdays. It should be a blast. I'll tell you all about it when we get back.

Just to update on what I can say... I know Da-da (Daddy), gah (truck), duck (duh), and sometimes Ma-ma (Mommy). Since I love bread and milk, I have learned the signs for them, and Mommy doesn't even have to say the words. I get quite excited when she makes those signs. Mommy is positive that I was saying banana yesterday because I was saying "nanana" several times when we were eating one and she kept saying "banana".

Enjoy your weekend and the blooming world outside!

Vacation

2008-04-21T08:06:00.013-04:00

Vacation is always good! I had a blast visiting my Uncle Chet, Aunt Yaritza, Cousins Alyi & Almy in Delaware and Uncle Jim, Aunt Liz, and Cousin Bridget in Virginia. Mommy and Daddy said I did a terrific job in the car and with my sleep throughout the trip. Why that's a big deal, I have no idea.
At Uncle Chet's I really liked playing with the heavy rock eggs and balls and trying to climb their stairs. I don't have stairs in my house so it is always a treat when I see them at other people's houses. Alyi and Almi are getting so tall compared to me. I really like them because they play with and smile at me. On our way home we stopped at their house again. That time I gave Aunt Yaritza a few more smiles. I'll see them all again in June when we celebrate Great Great Aunt Betty's 95th birthday! WOW, she's had a lot of birthday parties! Lucky her.

When we got to Williamsburg, I was happy to be out of the car and to see another little person like me, Bridget. She had some very fun toys she shared with me the whole time we were there. The big cardboard box was lots of fun, and the fireplace was, too. I'm not sure Bridget was supposed to be playing with it, but I kind of ruined that. Sorry, Uncle Jim and Aunt Liz. I may have also taught her a bad trick by climbing up the stairs. They are just too hard to resist. Each morning we were happier and happier to see each other. Mommy and Daddy enjoyed their time with my aunt and uncle after Bridget and I went to bed. They could finally take a break and drink some wine. They celebrated Uncle Jim's birthday one night. It was a relaxing time and a great time to get to know my family a little more.

We were supposed to stop at the Willis's on the way home for a night or two, but they were sick. Daddy had a super idea to stop at Rehobeth Beach, Delaware for a night instead and then to Uncle Chet's again. It was sunny and pleasant at Rehobeth so I got to play in the sand a little and Daddy even put my feet in the chilly water. I think I like the beach. (I know that makes Nana and GranJan very happy!) I even got to eat a little bit of crab cake. Yummy!

Now that we're back, our next big event is my 1st birthday. WOW, my first birthday party! I wonder what they're like?

11 Months

2008-03-26T06:06:00.005-04:00

I've had a wonderful first 11 months of life! As they say, "Life is good!"

My latest tricks include taking a few steps holding on to only one hand of someone. Maybe I'm not that far off from walking by myself. I also learned how to put objects into something else and not just take everything out. I kept hearing Daddy talk about the object of some game was to putt the ball in the cup; so that is just what I did. I dropped the plastic golf ball I have into the red and blue cups that I play with. I guess I may be ready to go out and play that game with Daddy. He's been talking about it a lot lately because the weather is getting warmer.

This week it has been sunny and a little warmer so Mommy and I have been outside playing a little more in the yard. I especially like to take the wood chips and throw them out of the raised beds in front. When I see birds or dogs I grunt in excitement. Big news is that Mommy heard me say duck today a few times after we saw some on the lake and she called them ducks. That is one of my first words besides "Da da" and maybe dog.

I had a wonderful Easter celebration at Great Aunt Priscilla's and Uncle Dave's. It was great to see Nana and Poppy. Nana gave me my first Easter basket. Thank you!! I showed them in person how I can push furniture around (a play table). I got to play with my 2nd cousin Emmaline; we both provided much entertainment for all.

I am ready for my Daddy's family to come tomorrow. I have not seen them in a while so I bet I'll blow them away with how big I am and all that I can do.

10 Months and Crawling

2008-03-08T17:52:00.006-05:00

I've learned to crawl. My belly was getting worn down. Now my knees and shins are bruised, but crawling on all fours is a much more efficient way to get around.

I'm also getting stronger and can push furniture across the room (like the coffee table and kitchen chairs).

Today I went in the pool for the first time with Mom and Dad at Waterbabies. I think I liked it. I'm sure I'll like it next week when my stomach bug is hopefully cleared up. I may have been a little punky today.

Play Date with JP

2008-02-24T19:38:00.006-05:00

Yesterday I met a new little buddy, JP. Mommy's friend from her teaching work came over with her 8 month old son; so, we could play together. We shared our tricks with each other like him showing me how to clap and me showing him how I scootch on my belly. JP really liked my jumper; he was good at jumping and swinging because he had a lot of practice from home. Hopefully we can play together again soon.

Watch out, I am on the verge of crawling!
The last couple days I've taken a few crawling
movements before flattening out to my belly. I enjoy the military crawl and am reluctant to give it up, but I hear once I can crawl, I can get places quicker. That will be a thrill.

Time to get some rest. All this moving, reading, playing, banging, and growing makes me tired.

Even More Outstanding

2008-02-10T13:35:00.001-05:00

I can now officially stand up in my crib all by myself. I can do it while I'm supposed to be going down for a nap or when I am finished! The great thing is that I already know how to lower myself back down. Mommy says that is a good talent to have. Even since last post, I am much better at pulling myself up to standing. I really enjoy the exercise of up, down, up, down...no big falls...yet.

I am currently teething with my 7th and 8th teeth; so nights are a little stuffy and wake-y. That shall pass, and I will have more chompers to chew my food while Mommy and Daddy will get a full night's rest again.

Speaking of Daddy, he took the Patriots' lose in the Super Bowl pretty well, as did I. I didn't even get to watch it because I was snoozing away. Now Daddy is focussed on golf! He says he's ready for the season to begin. I'm not really sure how that game is played, but Daddy says I'll like it.

Have a happy Valentine's Day!

Outstanding

2008-02-06T14:47:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite things to do now is try to pull myself up to standing (and smiling at myself once I've done so)! I am getting very good at standing up in my "garden", but still have trouble on other furniture and people. Here are some of my other new favorites. Mom just loves to walk me around the kitchen in circles as I stick my belly out and swagger. (Mommy and Daddy say I have a long way to go before I walk.) I'm getting pretty good at making motor sounds (with my vibrating lower lip and lots of saliva). I still am very fond of eating wood or at least gnawing on it, especially the tasty church pew. Mom and Dad are slowly graduating me to big people food. I really like WHATEVER they are eating; so, they figured why not let me have that for dinner, too.

I met up with Cole and his Mom, Jill, yesterday for lunch in Sturbridge. Cole is about a week older than I am and doing the same things I am. Our mommies had a great time chatting and talking about us as we ate finger foods and dropped toys on the floor. Other diners complimented us on how well-behaved we were. We said thank you with our cute smiles.

Earlier today Mom and I hosted a play group, and it was lots of fun. I wasn't used to having other little kids in my house; so, it took me a while to eat my lunch. I didn't want to take my eyes off them. The kids seemed to enjoy my toys and books, and I think I did a good job of sharing them.

Last week, Mommy took me to my 9 month check-up. I'm doing just fine at 21.6 lbs. and 29 1/2 inches. I'm definitely a momma's boy these days, but that's natural.

Happy New Year!

2008-01-22T21:55:00.000-05:00

I'm certainly having fun watching the Patriots this year!

I like sledding...

I like walking...

I like having fun...

My First Christmas

2008-01-06T19:20:00.000-05:00

My first Christmas was spent in North Carolina with my GranJan and Pops. I got to take my first plane ride there, and I liked it. My ears didn't hurt, and I slept for half of the flight. Of course, my favorites on Christmas were the ribbons, wrapping paper, and boxes. Actually, no. My favorite gift was the Braeden-size wooden spoon that Pops whittled especially for me after watching me struggle with the adult size one. I appreciate all the gifts I got from both sets of grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and Mommy and Daddy. I have been playing with, reading, and wearing them all! I even got my sixth tooth on Christmas Eve!

While there I met my grandparents' friends and took many walks around their neighborhood. It was warmer than CT. I had fun exploring GranJan and Pops house, taking baths in their tub, playing in the laundry basket, playing the piano, eating in the booster seat they borrowed, and sleeping in the crib they borrowed. It was a very comfortable and relaxing holiday. I miss them.

I traveled to Rutherford, NJ, on the 29th to see more family, especially cute Cousin Bridget. Uncle Jim and Aunt Liz were there, of course, and so were Nana and Poppy, Great Uncle Jack, Great Aunt Lisa and Uncle Bob, and Cousin Justin. Thank you, Terry, for hosting us all. It was a quick visit, but I enjoyed seeing everyone, and I think everyone liked seeing me.

Currently, I am being weaned off one of my annoying, early morning feedings. Mom and Dad are good about reassuring me that it's OK to stay asleep from 11:30 to 6am. So far, it's working and I'm only up one time, and even that one's getting shorter and shorter. I'm also not very content to sit in one spot, and am wanting to be helped with my walking. I still only skooch on my belly, but that's OK with Mom and Dad, I'm not that fast.

My mouth is fun and making all kinds of new word sounds. Moving my tongue in different ways makes different word sounds. I also whine more now, to let Mom know that I miss her when she leaves my sight, and let Mom and Dad know when I'm bored, hungry, or tired.

I wish all my friends and family a safe and happy new year. Special thoughts go out to Uncle Drew and Aunt Erin as they travel the globe and see how other cultures live and struggle. They remind me to be thankful for my loving family and all the resources they have at their disposal.

My First Christmas Tree

2007-12-02T14:28:00.000-05:00

Well it was a really cold day here, right around 20. But Mom and Dad took me to the tree farm to cut down my first Christmas tree.

Now Mom and Dad are putting up the tree inside the house. It's got lights and things!

Meeting Emmaline

2007-12-01T20:46:00.000-05:00

Today I met my cousin Emmaline today at my friend Caden's house in Norwalk. We had a super play date. Emmaline is a good babbler, and is working on skooching like me. We are envious of Caden's ability to crawl around so well. I heard Mommy and Daddy say that they were just fine with me not being able to crawl yet.....

She and Caden are still working on getting teeth. My third tooth poked through and a fourth is shortly behind.

Daddy uploaded some more videos to youtube. Check me out!

Braeden

My First Thanksgiving

2007-11-24T13:11:00.001-05:00

Nana and Poppy came to visit for my first Thanksgiving. We also shared it with our friends Lyssa, Jason, and Caden. Lyssa and Mommy ran in the 71st Manchester Road Race with 9,000 other people. They enjoyed their turkey trot. Daddy cooked one turkey breast inside and one outside on the grill. He said he's hooked on the grill and will do that from now on. Uncle Jim would enjoy that for sure on his big grill. Too bad I couldn't eat any of it. Maybe next year.

Nana and Poppy gave me some early Christmas presents, since I'll be flying to North Carolina for Christmas with GranJan and Pops. I finally got my Osh Kosh engineer overalls, some cool toys and books, and a warm snuggly snow suit from L.L. Bean, Dad's favorite. Thanks, Nana & Poppy!

We heard that Uncle Drew and Erin are doing well in Nepal. I wonder how they celebrate Thanksgiving there. That's really far away. Glad to hear they're enjoying their trek.

Lately I've been continuing my development by rolling all around, starting to skooch across the floor, and have more dexterity in my hands (vocabulary is coming along, too).

Love to all and check me out on YouTube - link to the right,

Braeden - 7 Months tomorrow!

Hey, my poop smells like sh&#*(Y%#!

2007-11-11T17:12:00.000-05:00

I overheard Dad saying something about installing an exhaust fan in my room... My poops are harder to push out these days. They are fragrant as well. Another milestone passed by.

I can also roll over with ease, both ways, and I scooched forward today, too. Mom and Dad will have to follow me around more soon.

I gave Mom a raspberry today with my slobbery tongue.

Looking forward to Thanksgiving, and remembering our veterans today.

Love, Braeden.

Around My 6 Month Birthday

2007-11-01T21:13:00.000-04:00

Lots has been happening lately, the biggest milestone being my 1/2 birthday. It is hard to believe I am half way through my first year of life! Wow!! With being 6 months comes eating solids, sitting up by myself, rolling from my back to front, grabbing and holding things pretty well, napping twice a day instead of 3, sleeping longer at night, babbling more as I discover new sounds my mouth makes, etc.
This milestone coincided with some other major events in my life. The Red Sox won the World Series against the Colorado Rockies in a sweep. Go Sox!! Halloween was a treat. I was a green costume earlier in the week to the 2 moms' M&M, and I got to visit 3 friends' houses to show off my costume. I was able to wear my groups Mommy and I are a part of. Sweet deal. One more thing, Happy Birthday, Nana! (Oh yeah, the Patriots are 8-0!)

Feeding Fun

2007-11-01T20:50:00.000-04:00

The world of "solid" food agrees with me very much! Well, I'm not exactly eating "solid" food as Mommy the science teacher says a solid is something that doesn't take the shape of its container. My food definitely takes the shape of my colorful bowls. Anyway, I started eating oatmeal about 2 weeks before my 6 month birthday. I did very well by not getting too much on my face and not spitting it out. I wanted to please Pops (my grandpa) whose favorite breakfast is oatmeal.
When I turned 6 months (October 25), Mommy decided peas should be my first vegetable. What a birthday meal!?! Actually, I liked them OK as Mommy made them from sweet frozen peas and not from a jar. Mommy and Daddy even gave me a tiny bite of the 1/2 chocolate cake they made. Get it, 1/2 a chocolate cake for my 1/2 birthday?? I think I'll take after my 2 grandma's and really like chocolate. Can't wait for my 1st birthday when I can have real bites!
My next veggie was squash, and I liked that, too. A little bit sweet and a great bright orange color. Mommy's going to give me pears next. Finally, the world of fruits. I bet I'll like them, too. A little aside, now that I'm eating solids I leave some treats for Mommy and Daddy in my diaper.

Colors and Cows of Vermont

2007-11-01T20:21:00.000-04:00

I made my first trip to Vermont to stay at Bromley Mountain, a family tradition, the weekend of Oct 19-21. Mommy, Daddy, and I had a super time seeing the beautiful colors of leaves on the millions of trees up there. On Saturday morning we drove to nearby Weston to go to The Vermont Country Store where there are always treats and treasures to look at. Then we walked across the road; so, that Mommy and Daddy could taste some really old cheese. They really like that aged cheddar stuff. We made one last stop on the way home at a farm to pick up some cider. When we came out of the store, Mommy and Daddy brought me over to see the cows and horses. I never saw those animals in person before!! I stared alot and didn't say anything as I was amazed at how big they were and how they ate hay. Yuck, they should try oatmeal.
I took my second nap, and then we hiked up the mountain a little from the condo where we were staying. (Thanks, Aunt Lisa, Uncle Bob, and Justin for letting us enjoy "Bromley".) I had quite the view from the Kelty pack that Mommy carried me in on her back. I could see out in all directions in one comfy ride. Life is good! Again, I was pretty quiet because I was just so amazed at all the colorful trees, wide trails, and huge mountains in the distance.
On Sunday, Daddy took me outside the condo to play in the leaves. Since I can sit up now, I was able to sit and swish the leaves all around me to make crunchy noises. I didn't even try to eat the leaves!
I am definitely looking forward to going back there in the winter, summer, spring, or fall. It was very quiet and relaxing for all of us.

Bye-Bye, Uncle Drew and Erin

2007-10-12T16:41:00.000-04:00

I got to hang out with my Uncle Drew and Erin one last time in New Jersey before they leave for Seattle and then on to Hawaii and beyond. I won't get to see them until next summer when they return from their trip around the world. By then, I will be running all around and talking. Remember to check out their blog through the link on mine. We went for a little hike with Nana, Poppy, Drew, and Erin, and I rode in the Kelty pack. However, I soon got hungry and was not having it. Mommy and Poppy walked quickly back toward the car, but I needed food faster than they could get back. Hence, I cried and got pretty loud. It was a beautiful day nonetheless, and we all enjoyed the sunshine and fresh air.

Last week was a pretty big week for me in milestones. I cut my first 2 teeth!!! They didn't really cause me much pain that my parents could detect. We both are thankful for that. I also stopped feeding during the night; that sort of just happened. I still wake up during the night (1-3) times, but I usually go back to sleep pretty quickly. Lastly, I am down to 2 naps a day. That makes planning a little easier for Mommy. Overall, I am good sleeper. (I'm a little playful in my crib as I often find myself calling for Mom because I got my legs and/or arms stuck between the rails. I just love doing crib gymnastics, though!

Mommy and Daddy have decided I should start solids a little sooner than the 6 months they intended to wait. I will start tomorrow. Here are some photos that show a little bit of my eagerness for solids!

Bon appetit!

Christening

2007-09-22T09:59:00.000-04:00

I was very fortunate last weekend to be baptized!! Many of my family came to witness and celebrate this special occasion with me. All my grandparents, my Uncle Jim (my godfather), Uncle Chet, Aunt Yaritza (my Christian witness), and Cousins Algi & Almy came to stay with us for the weekend. I missed seeing my Aunt Liz and Baby Cousin Bridget, but it was too long of a trip for them. I totally understand that as a 5 month old!! There were many other family and friends who came on Sunday to be with us. It was a beautiful ceremony, and I did not cry when they put the water on my head. I am blessed to be one of the newest members of the St. Bridget Church community.

Over the weekend I got lots of quality time with the grandparents and cousins. Someone was always there to hold or play with me. I even got to sit on Algi's and Almy's laps while they read to me. Pops took me outside to feel the different plants. I especially liked feeling the mum. There was always so much going on with all the people at our house, but I still did great with my naps and bedtime. It was so quiet when everyone left on Monday.

Mom brought me to the mom's group at the hospital on Tuesday, and I weighed almost 17 1/2 pounds. Maybe that's why it's so hard to roll over... I roll over from belly to back in my crib when I scooch my bum under me while trying to fall asleep, but I forget how to do that when I am anywhere outside my crib. Time to go; I've got more tricks to learn.

4 Months Old

2007-09-10T16:31:00.001-04:00

I actually celebrated my 4 month birthday down in Williamsburg with my whole family. However, my 4 month doctor visit (9/5) was actually when I was 4 months and 2 weeks old, and my stats are 16 lbs.,5 oz.; 26 in. long; and healthy! I was a bigger boy taking my shots this time as I didn't even realize the first one went in, I cried a little for the second, and I wailed for only 15 seconds with the third. My legs remained sore for a day or so, and I was a little cranky the next day, but not too bad Mom and Dad say. My legs didn't hurt that much because that evening I discovered I could grab my feet with my hands and bring them to my mouth for a little suckling. You should see how flexible I am now.

I am borrowing a couple toys from my friend Luke, and I'm quite enjoying them. The play mat lets me pull toys from the arches or grab for toys/fixtures when on my belly. I'm trying to get the hang of the jumpster, but I like being in there to do pirouettes for now.

Williamsburg - My Biggest Road Trip

2007-09-02T18:54:00.000-04:00

So it isn't as far as my Uncle Drew is travelling, but my trip to Williamsburg was the longest for me so far. We went south to visit both my mom's and dad's families (Aug 21-28). Stopping in Bear, Delaware for a night, I got to see my cousins Algi and Almy and my Tio (Uncle) Chet and Tia (Aunt) Yaritza. I love when my tia says, "Hi, Baby!" with a huge smile. It was a short stay, but always good to see my family. We arrived in Williamsburg the next day where we stayed for several days. I loved meeting my little cousin Bridget who is 6 weeks younger than me (2 1/2 months old). She was very kind to let me play with and drool all over her toys. I especially liked her play mat with toys dangling down for me to grab and try to put in my mouth. Bridget was baptized on Aug. 26, and I was glad I could celebrate that with her and watch how it is done since I will be baptized soon.

There were plenty of other people who I was glad to see: Nana & Poppy (who will be moving to Williamsburg), Uncle Jim & Aunt Liz (whose house we stayed at), Uncle Drew and Erin (who left for St. John this week and will travel around the world after that - check out their blog that I have linked to mine), GranJan & Pops (who came for the weekend from NC), and Terry (Bridget's other grandma). With all those people we sure did have a good time, and I got to be held and played with LOTS! The men (besides me) played golf one day while the moms cared for Bridget and me, and then the next day the mom's went kayaking while the dads watched Bridget and me. We were super both days.

They all seemed to eat very well each night and had lots of celebrating with Erin's birthday, Nana & Poppy's 40th anniv. (which was actually in June), and Bridget's christening. My family sure knows how to have a good time.

People were taking lots of pictures; so even though we

wished we could have stayed, we have photos and memories to remember the reunion. Well, maybe I won't remember. We headed back to Delaware to break up the trip home, and that was a fine idea by me. It is not that fun to sit in a car seat facing backward for 5 hours. I do appreciate Mom trying to entertain and play with me while Dad does his best to avoid traffic. Those 2+ hour snoozes aren't bad, though. Overall, I thi

nk I was a good little traveller adjusting to sleeping in my pack-n-play, being in a different home with lots of people around, and being in the car for long periods.

I will see most of my family at my baptism in the middle of September; so, that made it a little easier to s

ay goodbye. Can't wait to show them how big I am when I see them then.

Nana's Visit

2007-08-05T13:29:00.000-04:00

Nana (Mom's mom) came to visit this week and just left today. I am sad that she had to leave because we had a great time together. She watched me last night while Mom and Dad went out to dinner. I was a good grandson for her. I babbled a lot for her, giggled a little, and felt comfortable when she held me the whole time she was here. On Friday, Nana, Mom, and I went to Magic Wings and the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art up in Massachusetts. Magic Wings is a butterfly sanctuary with butterflies from all over the world. It was amazing to see all the beautiful colors flying around us. I enjoyed watching them as I sat in the Kelty Kangaroo carrier on Mom. Then we went to see the bright and colorful artwork of Eric Carle. I wore my "Hungry Caterpillar" onesie just for the occasion. Of course, I had to poop in it part way through; so, I had to take it off. Anyway, Eric Carle illustrates and writes such appealing books both with his art and stories. Nana bought me the Hungry Caterpillar, and she read it to me last night for the first time. I think I'll like putting my fingers in the holes where the caterpillar ate once I have better hand-eye coordination. Overall, it was a great day out with Mom and Nana.

Some updates on my development...I slept for 8 straight hours last night! That was a first. I can find my thumb regularly and even use it to soothe myself sometimes when I need it. I still use my pacifier, but I hope to have my thumb do the trick once I can keep it in my mouth. I haven't rolled over since that one day, but I scooch my legs under my butt more now. Maybe I will roll again soon. Like I mentioned before, I talk a lot now, and I enjoy hearing my voice. I can grab things much better now and even reach out to grab things. I hold my body up better when in the sitting position and don't have my head falling down so much that drool cascades down. Oh, I still drool a lot; so, bibs are a common piece of my daily ensemble. We're off to a picnic today; so, I'll sign off. Bye bye.

I'm 3 Months Old!

2007-07-27T21:26:00.000-04:00

Wowsers! Turning 3 months old this week brought with it lots of growth for me. Mommy and Daddy keep telling me what a great job I am doing. I giggled on Sunday for the first time, found my thumb on my own Monday, turned 3 months Wednesday, and rolled from my tummy to back three times Friday (today). I weigh 15 pounds and am about 25 inches tall. That puts me near the 90th percentile for boys my age. Uncle Drew, I'm catching up to you in height. I like to play in my exersaucer these days, too. It lets me stand a little instead of having to lie on my back or be seated all the time.

Nana is coming to see me this coming week, and I can't wait to see her. I'll show her all my new tricks. That will warm me up for when I get to see the whole family in Virginia in a few more weeks.

Mommy and Daddy are doing well. Daddy and his partner are leading their company's golf league. One more "regular season" match and then the playoffs. Mommy joined a group of other mommies who ride bikes, run, and swim together. She met up with them for the first time last night, and I stayed home with Daddy.

Life is good.

Return to Fenway - 1st Night Out Without...

2007-07-21T10:30:00.000-04:00

Friday night was Kurt's return to Fenway after 25 years. The Sox needed a little boost and got it, winning 10-3 after an exciting game. Kurt's lower half made it on the SportsCenter highlight reel.

We dropped Braeden off in Worcester with cousins (Aunt) Laura and (Uncle) Tom. After some brief instructions we hit the road for Boston.

Kelly felt a little more tug during the evening than did Dad, but chalk it up to being in the best ballpark in the best city in the country. We left the game after the 7th and were back in Worcester by 11pm to find a soundly sleeping son and a note exclaiming what a super easy baby he was, taking two bottle feedings and being easily put to bed. (shoulda stayed for Lugo's grand slam in the eighth, but that's another story).

Laura cooked us an amazing breakfast (we recommend it to anyone) and we enjoyed our visit greatly. Our next night out will be even more enjoyable knowing Braeden will be just fine in the care of great family and friends.

New Jersey Trip

2007-07-08T19:44:00.000-04:00

I went to New Jersey this weekend to meet some people my own age. I met Cole Fredriksen, Lexie Flamm, Spencer Brooking, and Morgan and Elli Pursel. This picture is of the girls from my Mom's neighborhood who would get on the bus together. They all have little people like me now.

It was good to see Nana and Poppy again, and feel their new carpet on my feet. Poppy is nice to sleep on...

While Morgan was sleeping, Elli found a Guinness bottle with a plastic widget inside (an Irish Rattle). That was fun to watch. We had a great time at the picnic and saw Jill and Joe open their shower presents. Joe was so excited to start using Cole's toys. And we saw Katie Pasini and Matt Miller open their engagement presents. It was a great weekend.

On the way home we stopped in Norwalk to see Caden Freyre and see his new condo. Very nice, with a view of the pool. We'll have to go back there! Caden's dad won a bike race today, too. That's great!

It's good to be home, and I look forward to my next adventure strapped into my car seat.

Great Grandpa

2007-07-01T06:58:00.000-04:00

Well, I met my great Grandpa Johannessen yesterday down in Fairfield. He was SOOO happy to meet me and introduce my parents and I to Merna, his wife. We all had a grand time hanging out on beach front property on a beautiful summer evening for his brother's 80th birthday (my Great Great Uncle Hugh).

This was my first time dipping my toes in the chilly Atlantic.

I also got to meet Aunt Lisa, Uncle Bob, and Cousin Justin Hoak. Yeah, I have a boy cousin!

On the topic of sleeping, two nights ago I beat my record and slept 7 hours straight. Yahoo! (But again, last night, not so much.) I am strarting to move more in my crib and stick my legs through the slats. I think Mommy and Daddy should put the bumper in the crib before I get stuck.

2 Months Old

2007-06-29T16:04:00.000-04:00

I turned 2 months old on Monday, June 25! That means I had to go to the doctor's the next day to get my first shots. They really hurt, and I cried the hardest I ever have. But I didn't cry for too long. Daddy held me tight and calmed me down. My doctor is still really nice even though he has to poke me with those needles. I weigh 13 pounds and am 24 inches tall. I forget how big my head is (pretty big), but I do know that I am in the 75th percentile for weight, height, and head circumference. That's why I'm already wearing my 3-6 months clothes.

I started noticing my feet this week, but I still cannot figure out how to move them on command. I'm working on that. I'm also working on my night time sleeping. I slept 6 hours straight on Wed. night, June 27. Of course, I didn't do that last night, but maybe soon. I only feed once each night even though I still wake up one or two other times. I'm trying to work on that, too; so, Mommy doesn't have to get up so much in the night.

Our friend, Kristen, came over yesterday to hang out with Mommy and me, and guess what? I pooped all over her shirt. That was a first for me. She said it was OK and will still come back.

Lots of new things now that I am 2 months old. I love being me!!!

June Chills and Good Sleeping

2007-06-23T07:02:00.000-04:00

Hey, what are these things on my hands? Oh, Mommy said Daddy refuses to turn on the heat in June. It's 44 degrees out this morning, and my hands are freezing! Daddy says I have to get used to it.

I'm getting to like my swing more these days. Thanks, GranJan and GrandPops!

Last night I almost slept through the night. I went to bed at 7:30, woke up at 11:30 to feed for 5 minutes (mindight snack), and didnt feed again until 6am. I just need my pacifier a little bit more.

Thanks Aunt Bonnie for the Papelbon T-Shirt and cool pants! Go Sox!

First Baby Sitter

2007-06-16T17:46:00.000-04:00

I had my first baby sitter today. My friend Kristin came over and my parents went out to get my Dad's birthday present. He got a cool fire pit so we can roast marshmallows in the back yard and make smores.

I had fun sleeping in Kristin's arms today. We'll have to do it again some time.

Unlce Drew's Visit

2007-06-12T16:34:00.001-04:00

June 12, 2007

I was so happy to see my Uncle Drew for the first time these past few days. He flew in from Boulder, CO just to see me. Wow, he is tall; so, I got to see things way up high when he carried me. He calls me Mr. B. We went to Aunt Priscilla and Uncle Dave's house on Sunday and saw Nana and Poppy there. I was glad to see them again to show them how much I've grown. Today we went for a hike, and Drew carried me in the Kelty Kangaroo carrier. I slept the whole time. Drew works for Kelty, and it was the first time he ever used Kelty KIDS gear. It was a huge surprise for me when two big boxes came in the mail today for me. He sent us a jogging stroller and bigger carrier for when Mom, Dad, and I go on longer hikes. I sat in the jogging stroller already and LOVE it. I can't wait for Mom or Dad to take me for a ride. THANK YOU, Uncle Drew. We dropped Uncle Drew off at the airport a little while ago, and I already miss him. I know I'll have lots of fun with him when I see him in August in Virginia. Please bring Erin along that time.

Welcome, New Cousin!

2007-06-07T16:30:00.000-04:00

We're so excited to welcome Bridget Hartfield Saunders to the family! Braeden can't wait to see her and congratulate Uncle Jim and Aunt Liz! She was a little smaller than Braeden when she was born at 7 lbs. 6 oz. She is REALLY cute and beautiful. The two cousins will meet in August down at Jim and Liz's. We hope Mom and Dad are getting some sleep between the hours of admiring their precious daughter.

http://members.cox.net/jsaund72/baby/index.html Videos of Bridget.

Welcome to Braeden the Blogger Blog

2007-06-07T09:22:00.000-04:00

Braeden wanted a new format to communicate with family and friends near and far. So here we are, on the blogging blogosphere.

Braeden - I made my first trip up and down the New Jersey Turnpike last weekend. Sure wasn't very exciting, but I liked the Delaware Memorial Bridge. Mom fed me at the Clara Barton Rest Area. Apparently, she invented first aid. I got to see where the dogs do their thing. The best part was getting to Uncle Chet and Aunt Yaritza's house and meeting cousins Almy and Alyi, and seeing GranJan and GrandPop. Chet's family is going to Venezuela for the summer to see the family. That should be fun. Uncle Chet is crash coursing on Spanish!

We had a real great time at Great Aunt Liz's house celebrating birthdays. Great Great Aunt Betty had a "meet the family" hat that had pictures of all the relatives on it. She's a load of fun, and full of bad jokes.

I was sad to leave, but look forward to the next time I see everybody.

Love,

Braeden