Video: Bikes, The Blakey Song, and Family

Our Blakey as he becomes a little boy....

and the funny things kids do.

Haitus

Sorry that I've been so bad about posting lately. Our little family has been busy, to say the least. Much like the rest of the world, I suppose. I haven't forgotten about you, just had to take care of some life.





We recently moved to a new house and after a month of stress and chaos, we are finally feeling settled and more at home in Austin. Our new 'hood offers a variety of boutique shops and restaurants that make us feel like we're back in LA and the neighborhood itself, with lots of trees and eclectic homes, draws us outside for plenty of evening strolls.

With the move, Blake graduated to a big boy bed. We purchased a much needed bigger car, which Blake insists on 'driving' every time we have to head out. He no longer sits in his high chair, but now prefers to eat all meals at the table. He has finally developed an interest in his radio flyer tricycle, but hasn't quite mastered the art of pedaling. Graham captured some video which I will do my best to post. All of us, including Pony, have already enjoyed many wonderful nights at the local dog park, playground, and especially playing on the swings. Life is good. Until soon, much love and peace to everyone!

Vintage Blake...

It starts at about 16 seconds, so please be patient...

We've been blessed with Blake for 17 wonderful months (on the outside anyway), and I will continue to cherish each and every passing moment.

I am convinced that parenting IS the GREATEST ADVENTURE on earth.

Milestones

I've been wanting to post this picture for quite some time, so although it has no relation to the topic of this post, it's just about one of the cutest pictures ever of Blake and cousin Bree, so I must share. Oh, and don't pay attention to the date, its obviously incorrect.

Blake has hit a couple of noteworthy milestones in the past few weeks. He is saying more words, selectively, but really understanding and able to follow directions, like getting a book before bedtime, brushing his teeth, cleaning up after himself, etc. Now starts the point in time when I have to be cautious of what I say because it's not uncommon for Blake to repeat the word. He can point to many of his or others body parts, including the nose, eyes, ears, head, foot, and mouth. It shows in his face how proud he is of himself. Apart from that, he is becoming increasingly lovable. He grabs your face now when he gives you a kiss and pats your back when embracing you for a hug. I can't get enough of him, he is the softest, sweetest, cutest little guy in the whole wide world. He LOVES the playground too, specifically the slide, so we spend a lot of time going to play. Last weekend I was the only parent crawling through tunnels, and going down slides, given that Blake insisted on playing on the "big kid" play scape. No complaints there, wEEeEeeeeee!

Hawthorne Montessori - "Hummingbirds"

I am often asked, "why Montessori?" We were first urged to look into Montessori by "Bubbie" Elaine, who heads a Montessori in Maui. That, combined with the timing of Hawthorne's grand opening, and most importantly the feeling we got from checking out the school, made it a clear choice. 10 months later, I would like to share ...

Top 5 Reasons 2 LOVE HAWTHORNE!

1. Blake LOVES it!!
2. When I drop Blake off, I often wish I could stay all day and play.
3. It's a second family, not a service.
4. It grows independent, creative, and thoughtful individuals.
5. The people who make Hawthorne what it is.

Top 5 BONUS Reasons 2 LOVE HAWTHORNE!

1. Blake is 15 months old and showing signs of readiness for potty training.
2. Blake eats with a fork and spoon, and drinks his water out of a REAL cup.
3. Blake LOVES to clean and help mom around the house, with a smile. YES!
4. Blake listens.
5. They do things like take class pictures, have Valentine's day tea parties, etc.

Move Over Tony Hawk

Blake has discovered the fun of traveling on wheels, thanks to a new mini-skateboard and a set of skates Graham purchased on eBay. We've been helping him stand on the skateboard while holding hands, and each day his balance improves, but after only the second day on skates he insisted on doing it himself, and as you can see he's taken to it with ease. I might have a heart attack as a result of him falling (twice yesterday), but hey at least he's having a ridiculous amount of fun!

Three Generations of O'Colmain's

Over the recent holiday season we were blessed enough to have the opportunity to see almost each complete set of Blake's grandparents. I say almost and blessed, in part because Bonnie couldn't make it this time around, and blessed because as is typical in a time with so many blended families, Blake has four amazing sets of grandparents who include, in no particular order: Augee Do Da, Bubbie, Grandpa Joe, Nana Bonnie, Papa Ron, Memo, Papa Peter, and Grandma Cher.....phew, now that is a mouthful, and is sure to keep Blake from ever wanting:) I think it's amazing that three generations of O'Colmain's were able to meet, and I can't believe that in February, when we take a trip to Arizona, we will have the opportunity to experience a rarity, four generations under one roof!!! *As always, click on the photo to view in a larger size