8-months (and a few extra days)

It has been a while since I've had time to write. We've been busy moving, getting settled, starting new jobs, and starting the new school year. The good news is that we're making it so far. We're also pretty well settled. Most boxes are unpacked and the things that aren't unpacked are work resources that we both have to figure out if there is a place in our offices for or not. Well enough about us, on to Ian.

Ian transitioned well to the new house and he loves making his way to the hardwood floor and hitting his hand on it. It of course makes a different sound than hitting the carpet. Ian continues to be his regular smiley easy-going self. He's really getting around now but he does not seem to see a need to get his belly off the floor. His sitting on his own without a problem. I can't think of anything else new that Ian has been doing. Here is a video of his most recent giggle spree.

1st Tigers Game

At the new house before the heading to Ian's 1st baseball game

Ian giving Dad "Thank You" kisses in front of the big Tiger

In front of the stadium

The Fam

Ian experienced his 1st Detroit Tigers Game last night. We also celebrated Joe's 30th birthday with 12 other close friends and family and Joe was completely surprised by everyone showing up. Ian "enjoyed" the game for the most part until it got well past his bedtime and everyone cheered - then he screamed his head off. I'm pretty sure that Joe enjoyed sharing the evening with Ian more than anything else.

Packing Up

We're moving! Joe and I close on a new house in Allen Park tomorrow (Friday). As soon as we close the moving begins. The official move won't be until the following Saturday. Ian has been helping us pack. He's read to move to his new house.

Up-North Mini Vaca

Ian listening to music in the park (we should be in the restaurant but it was super loud inside)


















People watching in Charlevoix - Yes I know he has a Petoskey sweatshirt on


















Tired after his very long day

Ian and I went up-north after visiting Dad on his birthday at band camp just north of Grand Rapids. Ian was a little under the weather but that did not keep him from having a good time. He was exhausted every day after all the people watching in northern Michigan.

On the Move (Sort of)

7-month update

Wow! 7-months! Before we know it, Christmas will be here and Ian will be turning one! Ian is still the greatest kiddo ever (I'm just a little biased). His best smiles are in the morning. He's so happy and ready to tackle the day. I wish I woke up with no worries and in a state of happiness. He starting to get himself across the floor. It won't be long before he gets his legs into it and really start moving. Right now I'm just enjoying the time he'll sit in my lap because I know it won't last long.

Best Little Trooper

Ian has been quite the trooper the last week or so because so many things have happened in the last week to two weeks. Where to start.

1. Joe got a job with South Lake High School and has jumped in with both feet already. The celebration of Joe's new job lasted about 15 minutes and that lead us into the second adventure.

2. We immediately started the house hunt since we realized we had about 45 days before we start school and thus needed a place to live. Joe accepted his job offer last Thursday, we met with a real estate agent on Friday (Ian stayed with Grandma, Grandpa and Aunt Caroline), explored neighborhoods on Saturday (Ian joined us), saw about 14 houses on Sunday (Ian stayed with Aunt Steph, Uncle Andrew, and Cousin Owen), revisited 2 houses and saw 1 new house on Monday (Ian went with us - after his doctor's appointment-complete with shots), made an offer on Tuesday, accepted the counter offer on Wednesday, and completed the house inspection today. WHEW!!! Just summarizing it makes me feel exhausted.

During the whole process Ian also started daycare and through it all he cut his first tooth and smiled almost the whole way through. He's just such a happy little guy. Joe and I could not ask for a better son. Love you Ian!

Here are more pictures of Ian and Owen playing.