Henry's 9 month check-up

Henry had a very boring 9 month well-baby check-up yesterday. Boring because he's doing well and is a healthy little guy (for which I am continually grateful). Here are his stats:

• Weight: 23 lbs, 4 oz (~90%)
• Length: 30" (~90%)
• Head: 19" (100%+)

The nurse took his head measurement twice because it was so far off the charts and it was such a departure from his previous trending. I don't even know why they measure their heads anyway. Anybody know?

There isn't much news other than that to report. We've been pretty low key this summer, which has been really nice. I guess the only exciting news (for me) is that I am going to Ireland in mid-August on a business trip. So, if anyone knows anything about the Galway area, then please comment on places I should try to visit. And, any words of encouragement for Super Dad while I'm away is also appreciated.

Fun with friends

We enjoyed a quiet evening with some friends and their kids on Saturday night. Henry got in on the pre-party action. He REALLY wanted to play with Mommy's hard lemonade bottle. The coldness of the bottle must feel good on his gums?

Here are the babes - Henry (8.5 months), Eleanor (7 months), and Abby (9 months). Henry and Abby have the same "aaagggghhh" language going on. Lots of "talking" going on between these two, and they bonded over their mutual love of playing in their dogs' water dishes.


And here are the big sisters, Emma (3.5 yrs) and Madeline (3 yrs). They play really nice together, but did have the typical "I want that" struggle. What is funny to me about this picture is that they are fighting over the shopping cart, which was only made available to appease the initial fighting over the pink stroller right in front of them. Madeline could use some more lessons about sharing - what a stinker!
We're glad you guys were able to make it!

Sassy

Ah, 3 year olds. Over the 4th of July weekend, I probably had my best Madeline showdown to date... It was a perfect storm really - when Mommy's deliberate decision to get tougher on discipline collides with the sheer will of a 3 year old over none other than the dreaded nap time.

Mommy: Madeline. It's time to go to bed. {Moving into position 3 inches from her face.} Madeline. Don't make me angry.
Madeline: {Maintaining impressive 3" distance.} Mommy. Don't make me nervous.

WHAT?? Did she really just say that? It took all of the strength I had not to fall apart laughing. But, I did it. I maintained my cool.

Mommy: Madeline. Lay down on your pillow.
Madeline: {Laying down and putting her hands behind her head.} Okay! I got it!

What a stinker!

Maple Grove parade

Madeline and I went to her first parade in Maple Grove. She loved the clowns and "princesses," but she hates loud noises, so the fire trucks and bands were tough. The candy was also fun to catch and eat. Thanks to our friends Alicia and Nick for teaching us all of the tricks of making the most out of the parade experience.

4th of July at Grandpa's Cabin

We had a great 4th of July extended weekend up north at Grandpa's cabin at Lake Kabetogama. Although it's 4.5 hours away, it's a beautiful part of the country and we look forward to this annual trip with my family. Aunt Amanda, Aunt Katie, Uncle Al, and cousin Landon also flew in from Indiana and Philadelphia, respectively, so the cabin was packed, the beer was flowing, and the fish were flopping fairly frequently into the boat.

Catching up with friends

It's been fun these past few weekends to catch up with my college friends and their kids. Here is Kelly and I with our kiddos. Stella is 4 and Charlie is ~2. Madeline is oh-so-cooperative for pics like this!









We also went to Holly's house for a BBQ that was a fun reunion for our kids. This was the Madeline with Emma and Hayley 2 1/2 years ago, and look at them now (joined by Hayley's little brother Hunter). The girls have so much fun together!