Update on the 'First Words' Post

Last night Aaron said "Mommy," so not too far behind "Daddy". :) Mike was even there to witness it. It may have been a fluke, though, 'cause he hasn't really said it since.

(Sorry, this is kind of serving as my online journal, too, so I'm posting things that are probably of little or no interest to some of you! Thanks for humoring me.) :)

Mike's Trip To Utah

Mike just returned from a quick trip to Utah to see his Grandma Mathis. The night before he left, we all drove north together to see our wonderful friends, the Oshitas, who were visiting the area. They were in town doing the D.C.-touristy thing, so we had them over for dinner at my parents' house. I met the Oshitas on my mission, and we all ended up in Roseburg -- go figure! It was so great to see them, and their daughter Jaime, again. Brought back so many great memories -- from both my mission and from living in Roseburg.

Mike's parents were able to join the bunch for dinner, too. It worked out perfectly, because a highlight of the evening was seeing Aaron take his first steps! Three or four consecutive ones! It was perfect timing since we were all there to witness it. (Frankly, I think Aaron hammed it up for the audience!) ;) He looked so cute doing his wobbly walk. It was bittersweet seeing him walk for the first time. So cute!

The next day Mike left and had a great visit with his grandmother in Green River. (Mike's family grows and sells the famous Green River watermelons, if you've ever heard of them.) I'm glad he was able to see her again. He also spent time with his brother and sister and her family, among other relatives. He also saw our dear friends from Roseburg, the Ambrose family, who moved to Salt Lake about a year ago. He greatly appreciates everyone's kindness and hospitality. He was sad to leave but of course happy to see Aaron (and hopefully me) again! ;)


Oshitas


Mike and his Grandma Mathis


Mike's sister, Ann, and her son, Jacob


Ambrose family

Evidence That Fall Is Upon Us

I love this season! Nothing says fall like a little (literally) sweet potato pie. Yum. And I noticed today that our gorgeous leaves are already changing to vivid shades of red, yellow and orange. (This also means insane leaf raking is upon us!) :/ My favorite season is here. Besides fabulous food and spectular fall foliage, I love the glorious weather; the crispness in the air; the sweet, cozy sweaters; fall festivals; the anticipation of upcoming holidays; hot apple cider; and my absolute fave, pumpkin pie. Happy autumn!

What does your fall look like?

p.s. I found this charming, shabby chic entry table for super cheap at T.J. Maxx. :)

Our First Run-In With the Local Authorities

This morning I saw a sheriff walking across our yard, and then he starting pounding on the front door. When I went to answer the door, he said, "We got a 911 hang-up call from this house."

"Oh that must have just been my son playing with the phone. I apologize," I said. Sure enough, I turned around to see Aaron playing with the phone. "When did you receive the call?" I asked. "Just a few minutes ago," he responded. "We tried calling the number back."

Oops!

Those police sure are responsive!

When I told Mike about the incident, his response was, "Well, did you offer them breakfast?"

Well, no. Was I supposed to?? :)

First Words

So Aaron's been saying things like "hi" and "hey", especially to cashiers and people in public. At least that's what it sounds like he says. But tonight he started saying one word over and over again, consistently: DADDY!!! What? you ask. Not mama? I know, I was shocked too. :)

It's still up in the air, but we think he might really understand who "Daddy" is ... when Mike was using the facilities tonight, Aaron kept banging on the door saying "Daddy" (his funny version of it) over and over.

It's funny to hear words come out of such a small person! He's growing up too fast!!!

Maybe someday he will say "Mama" too. :)