Family Pictures/Showers Galore/Father's Day

Well I don't think we could possibly try to fit anything more into one weekend. Aside from having a slightly hectic schedule, we had a fun filled weekend. Friday night commenced the chaos — we had Young and Neulander family photos followed by Ari having his senior picture taken. Of course, it wouldn't be a family gathering if someone didn't get thrown in the pool. Uncle Brian, Pops, and Uncle Tito were fooling around (how unusual) and Uncle Tito ended up partially in the hot tub. After family pictures we had a small family dinner.

Saturday morning I met Jenna, Chantal, and Mimi at Lauren's bridal shower (my cousin Kiere's fiance). She seemed so happy and had a very lovely shower. After that we had a small reprieve, and then on to the baby party that we gave Brian and Chantal. Nonna joined us, which was great fun, as I love having everyone together. I think the party was a success as both Brian and Chantal were glowing, or maybe they just are happy they are still getting sleep. They also announced that they will be having a baby boy. Sophia was happy of this news, since she loves being the only princess.

Sunday we all convened back at the Neulander house to celebrate Father's Day. We also squeezed in celebrating Brian's 32nd Birthday. Wow—I am almost out of breath just retelling all we did. Sophia made her Daddy a handprint card—and of course, he loved it!

9 Months And Growing!

Everything continues to be on track as her nine month checkup confirmed that we have a healthy growing baby. She also has many new and improved skills. She is repeating syllables. Mostly she like the "ah" sound, but also fancies the "da" sound. I'm trying to get her to associate "da-da" with Sage, but I'm not sure it's working yet. Still, I am committed to using baby signs since Sophia understands these gestures—hopefully soon she will use the signs. She is crawling at a quick pace, as well as going from crawl to sit with ease. She has begun to pull herself up and will take a few wobbly steps with assistance. She can wave and clap her hands, but does these actions at her own accord. She has also been giving us a preview of toddler hood by throwing the occasional tantrum—she definitely knows what she wants and is persistent! Her bottom 2 incisors (teeth 7 & 8) are almost completely in. She continues to eat everything and anything and is and has been for over a month been eating "big people food."

Meeting The Muggletons

Finally, we made a long overdue visit to Bob and Ginny Muggleton. Sophia loved visiting with them! She especially enjoyed climbing all over the floor of their sun room as she tried to get into anything and everything in site. She also fancied playing with Bob's shoes and nawing on her yellow plastic silverware container — kids! Earlier in the weekend we got to see Uncle Brian for a quick second as he came into town for work. We also brought Sophia to her 1st Taste of Syracuse were we meet our friends Ryan, Sarah, baby Duncan, and baby to be — little Quinn.

Treman Park/Ithaca

Last Sunday we met Nonna at Treman Park and went for a hike. Afterward we headed to Ithaca Commons for a late lunch and stroll. The weather was just right and we had a great time!