World of Braden (and Ellison)

Bit O' Catch-Up

2010-05-23T22:18:00.003-05:00

We spent Easter weekend in Iowa with "Uncle Wuke & Aunt Chwistie".

The boys had a ball together!

Monkey see--monkey do!

Easter morning

Laughing at the "oof"--doggie.

Ellie had a birthday!

Lounging in the new chair.

All dressed up for the party. (That didn't last long)

"I want cake! I want cake! I want cake!" --Braden

Dinner And A Three-year-old

2010-02-03T07:03:00.002-06:00

We seem to have funny conversations over dinner, although not exclusively, but last night was no exception. Scott asked Braden what he wanted to be when he grew up. He started out saying, "oh, I'm gonna play all the sports, like...", then he paused. He asked, "which sports don't have mascots?" (Yes, the kid is still scared of mascots!) Evidently this is the criteria he will use in determining his life's ambition. We finally got around to golf not having mascots, so I guess that's settled!

Then, out of the blue, Braden asks, "why was I in Mommy's tummy?". Scott starts explaining that that's how God allows babies to grow. Then he goes on to tell him that he (Scott) was in Grandma's tummy before he was born and Mommy was in Grammy's tummy before she was born. Braden doesn't miss a beat and says, "wuhl, next I'm gonna be in Grandpa's tummy!". Poor kid asks us all the time, "why are you laughing?".

Cutie Girl

2009-11-25T22:29:00.001-06:00

7 months old

Fall Festival Fun

2009-11-02T22:25:00.003-06:00

The kids had a ball at the church's Fall Festival.

When we got out of the car, Braden said, "I want to pway hockey first!". (Guess what we did first...)

While Braden played hockey, Ellison tried the cake-walk...er...stroll. Thanks for the assist, Ms. Robbie!

Otherwise, this was as exciting as it got for Miss Ellie! She was a trooper.

Braden got in lots of jumping, sliding, and ball-playing (oh--and candy! He wasn't so interested in that with all of the balls around, however.)

Ellie helped her brother out when he got tired of the eye-black. She makes a pretty cute football player, doesn't she?

Who's Who?

2009-11-02T22:19:00.003-06:00

Looks a little backwards, right? Scott's colleague had a costume party with a theme...cross-dress! That's the best we could come up with--since we'd used that duo before (in the traditional way).

Tricks and Treats

2009-11-02T22:08:00.003-06:00

Getting ready to go trick-or-treating...Bray was sooooo excited!

Ellie was...well...just along for the ride.

Six Months Old

2009-10-22T17:17:00.002-05:00

18 lbs 12oz - 91%

27 inches tall - 87%

18 inch head circumference - 98%

Potty Trained?

2009-10-06T22:06:00.003-05:00

We purposely waited until after Ellie was born to start potty-training Braden. Even then, it took us a while to REALLY get down to business :). We had just been making him sit on the potty chair periodically throughout the day and had some success. Eventually came the chart and stickers. A couple Sundays ago, everything just "clicked" for him. He actually told someone every time he needed to go to the bathroom that day, and has done GREAT ever since!

The next challenge was getting him to stand up. That was remedied with a trip to the country to visit Grammy & Poppy. Thanks to whomever suggested to Braden that he "just go outside"! He's been standing ever since! (I soooooo hated emptying the potty chair!)

With all the success, Braden has gotten stuck in the bargaining phase. It's not uncommon to hear him say, "I'll poopy for that" about some random toy or game (usually sports-related) that he wants. We have sure accumulated quite a list of poopy prizes: basketball goal, golf box (still not sure what that is), horseshoes, croquet set, yet ANOTHER football helmet...

New Obsession

2009-10-06T22:00:00.002-05:00

I've been using Picnik to edit photos lately--it is so addictive and so much fun!

Dress-up

2009-09-24T00:20:00.002-05:00

Always Learning

2009-08-11T22:12:00.002-05:00

Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks?

I've learned quite a bit in the last few days from a certain two-and-a-half year-old.

For instance, did you know that Braden has a baby in his belly? I saw the big pooch with my own eyes! He claims its' name is 'Puddin'.

And another thing--if your baby is fussy, maybe you should try playing golf with your other child. I told Braden that his sister wasn't very happy and he said, "We should go play golf--that will make her happy!"

I'm not sure you would believe this last one unless I showed you proof. Here goes--girls are so much better at taking pictures than boys! Observe:

Guy's Night

2009-07-27T21:25:00.004-05:00

Tonight was Braden's first baseball game experience. Dad decided it was time to take him to watch the Wingnuts play. Braden was sooooo excited! He woke up this morning and told me, "Mom, I don't want to go back to bed. I want to watch baseball with Daddy".

I got home from work and he and Daddy packed up for the game. They were meeting some of Scott's buddies for Guy's Night. Ellison and I settled in for some quiet girl time at home. In less than an hour at the ballpark, I get a call from one of the guys--Chris. He asks, "Are you busy? Can you come pick up the boy?" I said, "Seriously?" Evidently, Braden saw the mascot, and from that time on, had not let go of Scott's neck. He was scared of the "Skurl".

So, I loaded up Ellison and we headed to the ballpark. Daddy and Braden were waiting at the front gate. On the way home, I kept asking Braden why he didn't want to stay and watch the ballgame. The first answer I got was, "I wanted to eat supper." The next answer was, "The skurl didn't give me a baseball." When we got home, I asked him again and he said, "The skurl forgot to give me a baseball." He was almost tearing up this time and he kept repeating it. It about broke my heart! We'll see how long it takes us to get him back to the ballpark! That "Skurl" better give him a ball next time--I mean, C'mon!

Company

2009-06-27T23:03:00.002-05:00

Aunt Shannon, Grandma & Grandpa came to visit this past week.

Braden & Ellie had all kinds of fun and got all kinds of spoiled! I'm not sure if Grandpa put Ellison down once while he was here--she seemed to always be sleeping on him at naptime. We went to the zoo with Aunt Shannon on Thursday. Then Aunt Shannon and Ms. Kim took Braden to his first library experience on Friday. They have a summer program for kids--I guess he had a ball (Mommy was at work--wish I could have been there). He checked out 8 books and has a goal to read 5. If he does, he gets a prize at the end of the summer. I'm sure it will pay off--the other day he was quizzing Mommy on the letters of the alphabet. He would pull a magnetic letter off of the fridge and say, "Mommy, what's this one?". When I told him, he'd say, "good job, Mommy". He's going to be reading to me before I know it!

Just Because

2009-06-27T22:51:00.003-05:00

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T18:59:00.002-05:00

These were about the best we could do to document Father's Day 2009.

We kept hearing, "the sun's hurting me"!

What better day to get out the swimming pool than the first day of summer?

Slam Dunk!

Here's the little overachiever holding her head up like a pro! She did this for quite a while--of course--big brother was shooting basketballs in her line of sight. She really likes her big brother. She grins at him whenever he talks to her, and he thinks that's the funniest thing ever. It's so fun watching them interact.

Tennis, Anyone?

2009-06-18T22:00:00.003-05:00

Here's the most recent obsession...

(oh, wait--along with soccer, and baseball, and basketball of course!).

Two Months Old

2009-06-18T21:48:00.002-05:00

Ellie is growin', growin', growin'!

2 months old - 12lbs 4oz (85%) - 23 inches (76%) - 40.5cm head (88%)

Scott wondered who the baby-daddy was when he heard the percentile of the height!

Ellison is learning how to smile--it is definitely cute!

New Bedtime Routine?

2009-06-13T15:05:00.002-05:00

We always read a book before bedtime, then the hugs, kisses and "I love you's". Here's the conversation last night:

Mommy: I love you
Braden: okay
Mommy: Do you love me?
Braden: Uh-huh
Mommy: Can you say, " I love you, mommy"?
Braden: I love you, mommy... you're a joke.

Guess the routine was funnier than usual last night!

Translation, Please?

2009-06-08T13:28:00.002-05:00

Anyone want to learn some more "Bradish"?

Han-guh-ber = Hamburger
Croca-die-dle = Crocodile
Hunk-a-homa = Oklahoma (Where Grammy & Poppy live)
Eye-wah = Iowa (Cousin Parker, this one's for you!)
Bay Eh-son = Baby Ellison
Peep = Pee or Poop or toot (take your pick-he's used it all 3 ways)
Heem = Him
Canny = Candy
It scared for me = Anything he's scared of
MommyDaddy = Mommy & Daddy (we evidently really are One!)
Cob on the corn = Corn on the cob
Washcar = Car wash

I'm sure there's plenty more that I'm forgetting, but that should be enough for one lesson. Can't wait to see what "Bay Eh-son" comes up with!

Zoo

2009-06-04T08:20:00.004-05:00

We went to the zoo with Poppy and Grammy while Daddy is away.

Here we are watching the "eh-funts".

The bear statue seemed to be more interesting than the real thing.

This is what Ellison did the entire time-what a good girl.

Braden's favorite animal ended up being the monkey on the playground!

Ellison's Quilt

2009-06-03T16:06:00.003-05:00

Grammy finished Ellie's quilt. It is adorable!

I think Ellison really likes it--thanks, Grammy!

Just a random bathtime pic--what a pretty girl!

Family Photos

2009-06-01T19:04:00.004-05:00

Braden Conversations

2009-06-01T16:55:00.002-05:00

I picked Braden up from school and we had this conversation:
Braden: Where's my sister?
Mommy: Right here.
B: What's she doing?
M: Sleeping
B: Why?
M: Because she was tired.
B: Who made her tired?
M: Who makes you tired?
B: Daddy makes me tired.

Good job, Daddy. Keep up the good work!

Daddy is at Falls Creek this week. I've been telling Braden he's on a trip to Falls Creek in Oklahoma. Braden's version... "on a tip in Hunk-a-homa". (I love it!)

Where Does He Get It?

2009-05-15T13:05:00.002-05:00

Mommy: I'm going to check your sister's diaper and then we'll get in the car. Do you need your diaper changed?

Braden: No... it's all good. We changed it yesterday.

Photo Shoot

2009-05-06T14:59:00.001-05:00

Sports Mania

2009-05-05T15:09:00.003-05:00

Braden's been practicing up on his sports lately.

Check out that step!

Home run!

Daddy took Braden shopping at the golf store. This was not a planned purchase, but Daddy said Braden was having so much fun that he couldn't resist.

We have a lefty, folks.

Like father, like son.

Always Thinkin'!

2009-04-22T11:50:00.002-05:00

Braden sometimes has an ulterior motive. The other day he was really just talking to himself when we overheard:

"Piderman (Spiderman) likes to eat candy. Piderman's mommy gives him candy."

What do you think that means?

Pretty Girl

2009-04-22T11:43:00.000-05:00

Proud Big Brother

2009-04-18T10:53:00.000-05:00

2009-04-18T08:49:00.002-05:00

Ellison is Born!!! April 17, 9:58 AM

2009-04-18T08:40:00.002-05:00

7 lb 14 oz 20 inches long

Ellie's Room

2009-02-19T21:56:00.003-06:00

Mommy wanted me to show you what she's been working on all day. (With Grammy's help, I might add.)

The top is part of the crib skirt (I'm told), and the two pieces on the left are part of the bumper pad (once again, I'm told).

Here's the curtains, too--but don't let her fool you--she didn't make those!

Baby Ellison

2009-02-16T23:14:00.001-06:00

Here's a picture of Baby Ellison. The Peters' nose is still alive and well, I've been told.

Talkin' Up a Storm

2009-02-16T23:03:00.002-06:00

For some reason, Mommy thinks the things I say are funny. I like to make her laugh, so I thought I'd share some things I said tonight with you.

For instance, I was in the living room and heard the microwave timer go off--to which I immediately responded, "Mommy, my supper's beeping"! Mommy thought this was hilarious, but she would like you to know that she was actually cooking supper that night, not nuking it.

When I sit close to Mommy's tummy, sometimes she'll say, "Baby Ellison's kicking you, Braden". Tonight, I replied, "She kick me, Mommy. That's not very nice"!

I've been informed that sometimes I make bad choices. When that happens, I either have to go to "time-out" or I get a "spankin". Tonight...needless to say...I made a bad choice, so Daddy gave me a "spankin" and Mommy began to explain why I was getting it. I just kept saying over & over, "Daddy hit me. He hit me. Daddy hit me." I think Mommy & Daddy looked a little worried.

Tell Me About It!

2009-02-16T22:14:00.004-06:00

I know, I know--Mom's such a slacker! I'll try to catch you up on my life since--let's see--November!

I had a birthday--I'm 2! See one of the neat-o presents I got?

I love what it does to my hair!

I got to hang with cousin Parker over Christmas. We absolutely LOVED copying each other! Mom says we'll grow out of that.

We also like to copy Poppy and walk with his canes. Notice that Mom cropped Poppy out of the shot, since we left him on the floor over there...

Look what I found on Christmas morning!

Aunt Shannon helped me read one of my new books.

And yes, the family photos are a must, I'm told. Here's Aunt Shannon, me, Mom, Grandpa, Grandma & Dad.

Then there's Grammy, Parker, Aunt Christie, Poppy, me, Uncle Luke, Dad, Mom & Aunt Andi. Whew--what a day!

Look Pretty Good, I Do

2008-11-24T21:33:00.002-06:00

I dressed up as Yoda this year for Halloween.

Where's my light-saber?!

Grammy & Poppy helped me celebrate at my church's Family Fun Night. Poppy could hardly contain his excitement!

I did manage to play every game that involved a ball. I'm pretty good, too. I won candy every time!

Punkin Patch

2008-10-25T21:36:00.002-05:00

I went to the "punkin" patch today--I had such a good time!

Here I am sittin' atop a big pile 'o' punkins.

I showed Mom & Dad the way through the corn maze. (They really should believe me when I say, "dat way".)

I played in a big box of corn.

I rode the "motorcycles"--with Dad's help.

Had a nice little swing with Mom.

And, we finally rode home on the bus.

What a full day!

Playin' Catch-up

2008-10-23T19:44:00.002-05:00

Over the past month I have...

...had school pictures taken,

practiced for the new baby with Grammy's help,

hung out with the "Sooner" family (Parker, Uncle Luke, Aunt Christie & Aunt Andi are shown here),

played & played & played with Parker,

actually fell asleep (sitting up...in the moving wagon) at the zoo,

measured up to a penguin,

and kicked it with my homie, Na-nah-nee (whom I still talk about at least 4 times a week)! Whew! I've been busy!

Big News!!!

2008-09-18T22:19:00.000-05:00

No problem!

(Due date's April 20)

Sooner Mania!

2008-09-07T21:54:00.001-05:00

All Day, baby!

Friendly Visit

2008-09-07T21:47:00.002-05:00

My friend, Nan-a-nie (Natalie) stopped through for a visit the other day.

I had all kinds of fun showing her the ropes. We had a lesson on the proper climbing technique...

...and I gave her pointers on what makes a truly amazing work of art! She was eating it up, I tell ya!

Weekend Visitors

2008-08-21T17:22:00.002-05:00

Grandma & Grandpa came to visit last weekend. They brought me this cool trike that talks to me & plays tunes. My legs still aren't quite long enough to reach the pedals, but who has to worry about that with Grandpa there to push!

We had a fun-filled day at the zoo--the weather was perfect. I was so excited to see the Eh-fants, but I was tuckered out be the time we made it around to them.

I did enjoy the Penguins tremendously, even though I had to point them out to Grandpa as they were swimming in the water.

The lion gave me a good idea--I was ready for my afternoon nap, too!

No More Mumbo-Jumbo

2008-08-14T21:21:00.002-05:00

I would like to share some of my favorite words and phrases at this era of my existence. Mom will translate some of them for those of you who aren't yet fluent in Bradish.

Bankie = Blankie (yes, this has slowly progressed from 'geeky')
Pooder = Computer
Awtch oovie = Watch movie (some of my favorites are below)
Eh-fant = Elephant, for Ice Age, The Meltdown (Mom hasn't been able to convince me that's a mammoth, yet.)
Gackoo = Racoon, for Over the Hedge
Bob = Bob, for Veggie Tales
Daddy woowk = Daddy's at work
Daddy eewr = Daddy's here (this turns into a game Mommy & I play daily)
oos-joos = Juice-juice
Ahh-unt mock = I want milk
Ah uv ooo, Mommy = I love you, Mommy (incidentally, this one is Mommy's favorite)

Tennis, anyone?

2008-08-14T21:17:00.001-05:00

Dad got me a tennis racket that's just my size. That was after I kept pulling his racket out and swinging all over the house. Unfortunately, by the time we got home and headed outside for my first lesson, it was pouring rain!

VaVaVBS!

2008-08-14T21:06:00.002-05:00

This is the first day of Vacation Bible School. The theme was Outrigger Island, so I had to get decked out in my surfboard shirt.

Mommy helped teach the music, so I learned some of the songs. My favorite was the rap song--everybody say yeh yeh yeh yeh YES to va va va VBS!

After the program, I made my way on stage to try out the ukelele.

Dad even came up for the grand finale and showed me how to end the show with a bang!

Celebrating the Fourth

2008-08-14T20:51:00.002-05:00

I spent the Fourth of July at Grammy & Poppy's house.

I just had to get "upere upere upere" (up here) with Poppy when he was rocking on the porch.

I met the resident cow. I always get asked what a cow says--to which I emphatically reply, "Mmmmmmm!". (Everyone should know that.)

I got in a little swimming, or screaming--take your pick. Mom now says those words mean the same thing for some reason.

This pool was much more my size! Aunt Andi said I could get in with the "goggies"--It's okay, Grammy.

Weekend Project

2008-08-14T20:42:00.002-05:00

Well, maybe not an entire weekend project, but Dad & I finally spent some time assembling my boat from the Home Depot.

Dad kept saying what a big helper I was! I kept asking why he wasn't wearing his orange apron too.

This would be me--telling Dad where to put the glue. I did NOT like that sticky stuff on my fingers!

TaDa! The finished product--sailing the wooden waves. I'll try it out in the real water later.

Surf's Up!

2008-08-14T20:30:00.002-05:00

Mom!! Enough sunscreen already.

Who could have guessed that Mom & Dad would get me a pool with hoops--I was soooo excited!!!

The slide was also a big hit! Yet another chance for me to say, "Ready, Set, Go"!

Needless to say, I was tuckered out after all that fun in the sun!

Ready, Set, Go!

2008-06-17T22:15:00.002-05:00

Mom gets such a kick out of hearing me talk! I had to repeat this over & over!

Skills

2008-06-09T22:57:00.003-05:00

Dad & I like to work on basketball drills. Who says you have to be tall to shoot hoops?!

Zoobilee

2008-06-09T21:57:00.004-05:00

After the picnic on Saturday, Mom & Dad took me to Kid's Zoobilee at the Zoo. I had great fun seeing the animals again. There were a lot of things to do, but my favorite was the water table.

The Home Depot supplied me with this nifty work apron, and then sent me home with a boat kit that Dad is supposed to help me build. (Where have we heard that before? I may have to rely on you, Poppy!) I also got some cool animal mugs with bendy straws!

Ok, just as a side note... Mom wanted me to ask...

Who thinks I look like Uncle Luke in this picture? Anyone?

Picnic

2008-06-09T21:45:00.002-05:00

Mom, Dad & I went to a picnic on Saturday with the daycare I go to. They had a big moonbounce that Mom & Dad could hardly get me out of! I had sooo much fun...

bouncing

gazing

falling

sliding

and recovering!

I also had to explain to Dad that those big orange round things in the lake weren't "buoys", but "balls"! Give him a break--he was so close.

Zoo Anyone?

2008-06-09T21:36:00.002-05:00

I went to the zoo last Thursday! I even took Mom & Cousin Rachel.

This would be Cousin Rachel getting mauled by the sheep when she foolishly decided to put a quarter in that little machine you see behind her. This would also be my motivation to stay in the wagon!

I was out of the wagon for the penguins, however. They were taking a "bath"!

Always time for a little rest.

Always time for a little exercise, too!

Memorial Day Fun

2008-05-27T22:39:00.001-05:00

What did you do over Memorial Day weekend?

Well, here I am--chillin' out on the drive to KC. I loaded down Mom's car with all of my stuff (no joke) and we took off with Aunt Andi to meet Uncle Luke, Aunt Christie & cousin Parker in Kansas City.

Here we are hangin' out while Parker teaches me the little piggy thingy--whatever.

I was more interested in practicing my swing. Look at that form! You can never start too early, I say.

I met some other new friends, too. Yeah, that's me with the drool-drenched shirt--chics dig me! Then you have Parker, cheesin' for the cam, along with Gabby & Reagan (Parker's other cousin).

Parker & I were both sick (each in our own way), but we still had a ball with each other. We mostly tried to copy what the other was doing. What fun!

I helped Parker play one of his favorite games, TickleTickleTickle, with supervision from his mom. But that's only because the first time I tried it, no one really explained the rules, see. And we were standing up, and there was this part where he fell down as I was trying to tickle him, and--well, you get the point.

There evidently always has to be a "cousin picture" at these get-togethers. Someone should really tell parents that they will NEVER get all parties involved to hold still long enough.

Better get a faster shutter speed, Mom!

Green Thumb

2008-05-20T23:05:00.003-05:00

Well, it's evidently true when Dad says the work around the house is never done. The planting continues!

But, where else would you get to wear this awesome dirt goatee?

Sometimes I think Dad doesn't know what he's talking about--this really doesn't seem to be that hard!

Playground

2008-05-18T22:58:00.000-05:00

See my new toy? I absolutely LOVE it!

I love to climb, crawl, tunnel, hide, slide--you name it!

I've even expanded my word count with things such as: "Ready, set, GO!" & the ever-so-popular "Wheeeeeeeeeee".

After a while, though, it's back to the old standby: throwing rocks!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T22:55:00.001-05:00

Please join me in wishing my Mom a Happy Mother's Day!

I think she really liked the flowers I brought her.

What Happens When...

2008-05-10T21:51:00.004-05:00

I would like to finally take some time out to show you "what happens when..."

Such as: What happens when Mom asks me to stand still so she can take my picture?

Or, what happens when someone asks me where Froggie's eye is?

You may ask what happens when Mom tells me not to play with the shovel. I usually pretend I didn't hear her.

In that case, what happens when Mom wasn't kidding and she takes it away? You guessed it--major fit-throwin'!

What happens when Mom asks me to help plant flowers?

Well, the dirt tends to end up all over me & in my mouth, and I seem to get distracted easily.

Finally, here's what happens when Dad gets to change my clothes. He thought this was hilarious!

New Friends

2008-04-15T22:52:00.003-05:00

I met some new friends while in Georgia...

This is Allie--"Gacky's" little sister. I really didn't pay much attention to her (unless Mommy was holding her), but when I did notice her--I giggled & giggled (unless Mommy was holding her)!

I also met Nathan. Since he's a little younger than me, I decided to show him what I know. For example--that's a ball on his shirt--I certainly know that one!

I hammed it up when we had to leave Nathan's house--blowing kisses, giving hugs--I pulled out all the stops!

Travelin' Man

2008-04-15T22:35:00.004-05:00

I recently got to tag along with Mom when Dad had the opportunity to go to the Masters for a day! I had great fun with my friend Zach (whom I like to call "Gacky"). Check out some of the things we did...

We played ball, of course.

We pretended to go swimming.

We had fun together in the sand--got in trouble together in the sand, too. FYI, kids--it's evidently not good to throw sand at your friends. Lesson learned.

Sometimes I had to wait patiently to go "Sow-side". (I really picked up quite a few words this past weekend. Trying to keep up with Gacky, I suppose.)

And, it was only fitting to have my first golf lesson--Masters, here I come!

Update...

2008-03-20T21:49:00.005-05:00

Yes, yes--it's been awhile (seriously, tell it to my Mom!). Let me just tell you some things I've been up to. I've been under the weather lately--ears, again--and I have to get tubes on the 26th of March. I sure hope that helps (so do Mom & Dad)! When they did the hearing test, they said I had lots of fluid sitting in my middle ear, so Mom thinks I'll be able to "eenunseeyate" (you, know--say words) better once I get tubes. I keep telling her that I know exactly what I'm saying and don't know why she can't figure it out!

Speaking of words, I've been chatting up a storm lately. Here are some of my favorites:

"dawl" = ball

"uff-uff" = woof woof

"welwo" = yellow (which I say whenever I want to color)

"ouw" = meow

"rol rol" = cinnamon roll

"nana" = banana

"ush" = juice

"naw" = no

Ok--now I'll show you what I've been up to for the past month.

I went to Grammy & Grandpa at the end of February. One of my favorite things to do is climb into things. Usually it's a laundry basket, or my toy box--but on this occasion, I found this very small bowl under Grammy's coffee table and just had to try it out. Surprisingly, I fit quite nicely once I got sat down.

Mom, Dad & I went to the zoo (my first time) a couple of weeks ago. It was extremely windy, and I wasn't feeling all that great, but I toughed it out.

I did make it out of the stroller to see if I was taller than some of the penguins--YES!! I might make it past Dad after all!

Here I am with the "poor-man's building blocks". What's a kid gotta do to get some blocks around here? What's that? Just go in the next room, you say? Guess someone could've told me that sooner!

In preparation for Spring--Mom & Dad got me this nifty T-ball set. I'll use the word "set" loosely, because this particular one didn't have the bat included. We did return it for a complete set later, but in the meantime we had to break out what Mom & Dad call the "redneck bat"--an empty wrapping paper tube. Unfortunately, Mom busted it while hitting a pop fly over Dad's head. Fun while it lasted, though!

Why a Spoon, Cousin?

2008-02-14T12:56:00.002-06:00

Watch out for Mr. Independent!

2008-02-14T12:50:00.002-06:00

Last Sunday was pretty nice, so after church we headed outside for some fun!

I'm such a big boy--I like walking by myself, some.

Dad & I got in a game of catch. I'm starting to pick it up really well, now.

"How big is Braden"?
In case you didn't know--I'm THIS BIG!

Big Boy

2008-01-23T14:21:00.001-06:00

It was finally time for the big haircut!

Check out before...

...and after...

Looks pretty smart, huh?

More Christmas

2007-12-29T12:40:00.000-06:00

Okay, so maybe it took me awhile, but I finally figured out the present thing. When Grandma & Grandpa T. came to visit--I opened my presents along with Mom & Dad's. Grandma started to pull another present off of the table for me when my eyes got big & round, and I said, "ooooooh!". I get it--I really do!

Christmas

2007-12-25T12:29:00.000-06:00

Christmas was a whirlwind.

There were the family photos...

the reading of books with Uncle Luke & cousin Parker...

more reading of books with Grammy & cousin Parker...

and even more reading of books with Grandpa. (We like books around these parts.)

Parker & I played together...well, not much--this is about the most we payed attention to each other.

2007-12-18T12:20:00.000-06:00

Just to show you that the previous post pic wasn't staged--take a look at my moves to the hoop!

One Year Old

2007-12-15T12:10:00.000-06:00

Yippee!! Now that I'm one, I'm such a big boy! Cake wasn't all that appealing until Dad gave me my spoon. "Dig in!"

Opening presents wasn't really my forte either--Mom had to help out a lot.

But, boy--did my eyes light up when I opened this one! I knew right away what it was--and I started telling everyone, too! "Dawl" (That's 'ball' for you folks who haven't ever heard me say it.)

I also knew just what to do with it--must be all those games I watch with Dad.

Guess Who's Walking?

2007-11-29T23:02:00.000-06:00

Check out my steps! I really started moving over Thanksgiving. I'm getting pretty good, if I do say so myself!

Been a While...

2007-11-29T21:14:00.000-06:00

So, I know it's been a while--but that's what happens

when you're too little to run the computer.

I suppose it won't be long,

but in the meantime...here's an update--finally!

I love to play in the tupperware cabinet.

Today, I happen to be sporting my new winter hat.

I was sick over Thanksgiving--this is basically all I did during the day. Night, however was a different story--screaming at the top of my lungs, we'll call it.

I got to go to cousin Parker's 1st birthday party. It gave Mom & Dad a good idea of what I might like for my birthday...

because I definitely tried out everything I could get my hands on!

I'm told it's not very easy to get a good picture of me & Parker together. I guess we just can't sit still long enough. I'm pretty sure Grandpa was enjoying the experience just as much as we were.

Family Fun Night

2007-10-28T22:19:00.000-05:00

Ta-daaaa! Yes--it's the amazing lion once again!

I had a good time at Family Fun Night at church.

I went bowling...

... and rolled the dice--wait, what?!

I did say we were at church, right?

But I was not impressed by the inflatables. In fact, I was down-right terrified! No, this is not a look of elation--it is in fact the very moment before I started screaming for Mom to get me out!

Mom & Dad, however, enjoyed the obstacle course very much. Here's Mom celebrating as Dad comes in a distant second place. (By the way, I am still screaming in the background--no sympathy!)

Trick or Treat

2007-10-25T22:13:00.000-05:00

We went trick or treating at daycare. Here I am with

my buddy, Myca.

He's so silly--he asked me if I ate the tin-man!
Are you trying to say I'm chunky, Myca?

KC Park

2007-10-20T20:36:00.000-05:00

We had a fun day at the park in Kansas City.

This is one of my favorite things--the never-ending tunnel!

Here I am hiding--what a great spot, too!
It took Mom & Dad forever to find me!

The slide is another favorite of mine--I can't wait
until I'm big enough to go down by myself! Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Sooner Day

2007-10-20T17:25:00.000-05:00

What a good-lookin' bunch of Sooner fans!

Here I am with Mom, Dad, Becky, Nate and my new friend Natalie.

(Natalie's Dad scares me sometimes.)

Pumpkin Patch

2007-10-19T22:13:00.000-05:00

Well, It's that time of year...you know--pumpkin time!

I was excited to visit the pumpkin patch while we were

in Kansas City meeting my new friend, Natalie.

No one told me pumpkins would be this heavy, though!

And, boy--were those horses huge!

I had alot of fun with the goats. Good thing Dad was holding

on tight--I think those goats were pretty hungry!

Chillin'

2007-10-06T22:09:00.000-05:00

Here I am hangin' out with Aunt Andi--we
had a great time at the playground that day.
Of course, it was during half-time of the OU/Texas game!

Trikemania

2007-10-05T22:38:00.000-05:00

Dad & I had our first building project together.

We assembled a tricycle!

Here I am--always the jokester.

Don't worry--we did remove the sticker before assembling.

It took a lot of supervision on my part--I had to
keep Dad focused!

Whenever he needed something, for example--the seat--I was
right there to hand it to him.

It all paid off in the end! Check out my new wheels!
(well, technically it's still a rocker, but let's just keep that between you and me!)

Balloon for Braden

2007-10-02T13:32:00.001-05:00

First of all--let me tell you what started the madness:

I got my first 'real' pair of shoes the other day.

Here I am sporting my new kicks in my Sunday best!

Anyway, when Mom & I went to pick up my shoes--they gave me a balloon.

They said I was the most well-behaved little boy they'd seen in a long time!

Or, something like that--I was a bit suspicious when I saw another kid

walking out with a blue balloon!

That darn balloon kept trying to float away, so I tried everything to

keep it in line. I tried biting it, which was quite tasty--although I couldn't

figure out why Mom & Dad were trying to get me to stop.

They kept saying "it's gonna pop!"--whatever that means!

I even tried tackling it--which was not as easy as it looks!
Kids--don't try this at home.

Whatever I tried, the balloon kept floating away!

I'm definitely open for suggestions so I can prepare for

my next great balloon adventure!

Aunt Shannon

2007-09-26T20:47:00.000-05:00

Aunt Shannon came all the way from California to visit me!

She came bearing gifts, although the tissue paper was

much more exciting! She brought me some of her favorite books

from when she was little. I'm sure to like them too!

Of course, anyone who feeds me is A-ok in my book!

Picture Day

2007-09-20T09:59:00.001-05:00

They have picture day at daycare--just like school!

So, Mom got me all dressed up in my new jeans and shirt.

Here I am practicing for the perfect shot. Tell the truth--

Is my smile too fake?

I had to find the mirror--just to make sure Mom did okay.
Wow, what a handsome fella! Way to go, Mom!

Progress

2007-09-18T15:39:00.000-05:00

Here I am hanging out with Mom after the theater chairs arrived.

Well, they had to inform me that it wasn't a trampoline--I do get

confused on that point. Lots of things are good for jumping!

Thank you, and enjoy the show!

Can Someone Say "Climber"?

2007-09-11T08:47:00.000-05:00

Oh yeah--that's me--I'll try to climb anything!

I'm just not too sure about how to get back down.

Luckily, Dad has always been there to help me so far!

Boomer Sooner!

2007-09-11T08:41:00.001-05:00

It's college football time! I'm all ready to watch the Sooners!

Dad's basement is a work in progress, but he made sure the big

screen was up to watch OU vs Miami

Of course, I "watched" with him--exciting game!

No nail-biters here! Sooners pulled it off: 51-13!

2007-08-28T08:38:00.000-05:00

I decided I better show you what I've been up to lately...

Like, showing off my guns in the muscle shirt that Nate & Becky gave me.

This one's for you, Natalie!

I've also discovered that I can do ANYTHING with my tongue sticking out...

like, crawling...

Or just sittin' around.

But, I can't figure out why they treat me like a caged animal around here!

2007-08-22T06:51:00.000-05:00

Well, I busted my face at daycare the other day.

You may have to look close--under my right eye.

It's okay if it leaves a mark, though--I've heard that chics dig scars!

Family Reunion

2007-08-14T12:33:00.000-05:00

I went to a family reunion last weekend.

I was glad to see my cousin Parker, since they'll be

moving away soon.

Uncle Luke always said I would beat up on cousin Parker,

but...

as you can see...

Parker started it!

We also found some old snapshots of distant relatives that seem

to resemble us quite a bit! Hey, wait a minute...!

New Game

2007-08-07T09:07:00.000-05:00

This seems to be Mom's favorite game.

Let me show you how it goes:

Mom says, "Where's the ball, Braden?"

I immediately spot it, of course, but that's not enough.

Next, she says, "Go get the ball, Braden!"

So I go get the ball--just to humor her.

But then, I show her that I know what to do with it:

I eat it!

Teeth

2007-08-07T09:05:00.000-05:00

See my pretty teeth? I mean, I'm not eating steak or anything,

but I'm working on it!

Take it slow, Joe!

2007-07-30T22:39:00.000-05:00

Yeah--I've done it--I mean, who hasn't crawled?

I've been crawling for a good 2 weeks, now.

It's time for some more excitement!

I need to stand up, I tell ya--stand up!

Okay--who can tell me what's next?

Young Skywalker

2007-07-30T22:35:00.000-05:00

Dad calls this my light saber for some reason.

Don't tell him it's really just a pen--I think it would break his heart.

He seems to enjoy making these weird sound effects when I move it around!

Vacation Bible School

2007-07-22T22:27:00.000-05:00

This was my first Vacation Bible School, and I had a great time!

Mom helped with the music, and I got to greet the kids at the door

when they came in.

I loved to cruise around in my stroller and visit the classes--

especially the music class!

Dad helped me model my VBS t-shirt.

We took a family photo, too! The theme was Game Day Central.

Right up me and Dad's alley!

Dad took me on the moon bounce--but I wasn't quite ready for that.

Close Encounters

2007-07-22T22:23:00.000-05:00

Aunt Andi's dog Maggie thought I needed a bath.

I wasn't so sure about that.

Milestones

2007-07-19T13:27:00.000-05:00

I've been hitting milestones recently! Friday the 13th was a BIG day!

I started crawling like nobody's business, and I got my first tooth.

I'm such an over-achiever--I've already gotten another tooth since then!

Check out what I've been doing recently:

I had a good time playing on the deck with Mom

(while Dad worked in the yard).

There were too many mosquitos out that day, or I would have been in the grass.

Daycare thought it would be fun to spike my hair with gel.

Mom, what's metrosexual mean?

This is Dad's least favorite outfit of mine, but Mom likes it.

Guess who dresses me!

This is what happens when Dad feeds me!

I think I'm so big--I love drinking out of Daddy's cup!

Fourth of July

2007-07-07T11:10:00.001-05:00

I had a great first Fourth--even though I slept through the loud fireworks

in my neighborhood.

Silly Grandma! That's not the way the book is supposed to go!

I love hanging out with Grandpa!

My buddy Chris let me borrow his hat. Fits pretty well, don't ya think?

Grandpa let me take a spin on his new bike--pretty brave Grandpa!

Shades

2007-07-03T11:25:00.000-05:00

My future's so bright, man!

New Toys

2007-06-28T19:29:00.000-05:00

I've been having a good time playing with my new toys!

I love my new "lovie". (Thanks, Rebecca!)

Me & Teddy just hangin' out

Dad better watch out--I found the remote!

Hey--who took the batteries out of this thing?

Balancing Act

2007-06-19T07:12:00.000-05:00

As you can see, I like to keep my core toned and trim. Here are the different stages of my balancing exercises. Do this every day, and you'll soon be sitting up like me!

Believe it or not, I did not fall over! (This stuff works, I tell ya!)

Headin' South

2007-06-12T14:47:00.000-05:00

Cousin Parker yelling at me.

My first trip to Texas with Auntie Andi.

Chunky Monkey & Skinny Mini

Meet my new friend--I call him "guh" (but that's what I call everything).

Grandparents

2007-06-12T14:43:00.000-05:00

I recently got to spend time with my Grandparents. What fun!

Grandpa & Grandma T.

Grandpa & Grandma P.

Sittin' Up!

2007-06-06T21:49:00.000-05:00

I'm such a big boy!