Lincoln National Forest

Jackson's first black eye

So, Jackson got his first shiner while we were in Ruidoso. It wasn't too bad. He bonked his head on an open dresser drawer. He cried for a few seconds but Daddy took him outside and he got over it really quickly. It was a little cut that turned into a bruise. I'm sure it will be the first of many with our wild little man!

Jackson tinked on the big potty!

Jackson isn't even 15 months old yet and he peed on the big potty. We are so excited. I couldn't stop smiling the whole way home from daycare. I am just so darn impressed. When he moved to Nursery III, I told the teachers we were expecting Baby #2 and it would be helpful if they worked on potty training. They already start potty training in Nursery III but, with Jackson being so young, I didn't want them to hold back. I also learned that Jackson doesn't like the little baby potty. So, I need to get him the baby seat that attaches to the toilet. I am so grateful to the teachers for figuring out Jackson's preferences!

Here is how it happened: At daycare, they have two "baby" potties and a baby seat attached to the big toilet. Two other little boys were on the "baby" potties and Jackson was where he preferred - the big toilet. The teacher said she was talking to the three of them for 4 or 5 minutes when one of the little boys, Valor, tinked. She said, "yeah" and started clapping. She said they all laughed and then Jackson tinked. Jackson likes the applause so maybe he was envious of Valor's praise. Hey, whatever works. We are just so proud!

We are also proud of the artwork Jackson brought home this week. Believe me, more crayon ended up on his clothes than on the paper! Nevertheless, we think it is beautiful. I especially like the "bite" taken out of the corner of the page. He is so artistic!

Jackson is going to be a BIG brother!

That's right, we're pregnant! Jackson will be a big brother very soon. Baby Solomon #2 is due February 12th. So, it looks like we will have a Valentine Baby! As for the doctor, we obviously, had to find a new OBGYN since we moved after Jackson was born. We are very lucky. We love my new doctor. I have had three doctor appointments (the last one this morning) and all is well. We are 10 weeks and 2 days at this point. We are SO excited about our new addition!

The apple tree

So, this weekend, we discovered that we have an apple tree in the yard. I was quite excited but I want to know if they are truly edible. They look really good. We even cut one open. So, does anyone know if there is any harm to eating apples from a tree in your yard. We didn't plant the tree so I don't know if they used any chemicals or anything. I don't exactly have a green thumb so I am not sure how that works, obviously! We would love to have some snacks but I certainly don't want to give any to Jackson until I have made certain they are okay to munch!

Jackson's finding lots of new hangouts!

A sweet surprise

When we got home from Austin, Jackson had a package from his Great Aunt Trish. It was this pillow with the picture of Russell on the tractor (this pic was used in some Case advertisements, btw). The back had the cutest fabric with red tractors. I love thoughtful, personalized gifts. It is something Jackson will have for a very long time. Thanks so much, Aunt Trish! What a creative and special gift!

Nursery III

It's official, my baby will be moving from Nursery II to Nursery III. We got the news yesterday when I picked him up from daycare. I must admit, I shed a few tears with the news. My baby is growing up! I'm not sure why I was emotional, we knew this was coming and we were actually excited about the move since he will be with bigger kids that he can learn from. We are sad to leave his teachers but we will pass by their class everyday and he will see them during some outside times. The transition will also be easier since two of his classmates will be going with him. Sometimes the children are transferred one at a time so we are glad his friends will be making the move with him. So, this morning, I tried to snap a few pics of Jackson headed to his first day of Nursery III. He actually will only go 1/2 day today and tomorrow and full day starting Monday.

AUSTIN for the 4th

Here are some random pics from Austin. Getting ready for the parade . . . see those pics below.

Mimi bought a new bike with a baby seat. Russell and Jackson loved it.

Poppy pulling the wagon . . . Jackson's favorite activity, as you know!

We had too much fun in Austin. Mimi and Poppy kept us so busy. Jackson had three naps today and still was asleep by 7:30!

Dinner at the Domain

Saturday night

Dinner at the Oasis on Lake Travis (gorgeous view and yummy Mexican food) and then home to play on the patio with the pups . . . oh, and some bubbles.

Pool pics

4th of July BBQ

The lake

Happy 4th of July

We flew to Austin to spend the 4th of July with Mimi and Poppy. We have been busy since we got here. Yesterday morning, Jackson was in the neighborhood 4th of July parade. Mimi went to great lengths to get Jackson the wagon, decorations and even the red, white, and blue jon jon. She even bought him red, white and blue bean balls to toss out but we never really got around to that. Ms. Pat came down to see Jackson and to walk with us in the parade. Someone from the social committee took a picture of Jackson in his wagon (probably because he had the best decorated wagon and because he is the cutest)! We think he may be in the next neighborhood newsletter. After the parade, Jackson made some friends who let him sit in their BIG 4-wheeler. I guess we'll be getting one of those some day. We hope everyone has a great day and we will post many more Austin pics soon!