Sunday, August 30, 2009

Distractions from Teething...



On Saturday night, Mallory and I were invited to go to Mark and Mary's for a cookout. Since Marc had to work early Sunday morning, Mallory and I ventured out alone to the cookout. I was slightly hesitant about going at first as Mallory was teething and extremely grumpy that day. She was chewing on everything in sight and had a nose that wouldn't stop running. However, despite the crankiness and snotty nose, we decided to go out anyway. I am SO glad we did. Mallory had a wonderful time and it was the perfect distraction from teething. She got to meet some new people and spend some more time with Sarah and Kevin.

Although she enjoyed everyones company, I must say that I think that Kevin was her biggest distraction. He played with her through most of her dinner and she adored him. She was constantly smiling and giggling at him and when he would walk away, she would follow him with her eyes. Oh, and the first picture is one that he took, so I must give credit where credit is due. I know who to call when she is getting her next tooth!

Through the runny nose and cranky attitude, we are happy to report a total of four teeth all on the bottom. I really hope the next one is on top...

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Topsail, NC 2009

Last week Marc and I took Mallory on her first vacation to the beach. We loaded up the car and headed out on our 11+ hour adventure to Topsail, NC. Along with us, Aunt Lori, Uncle Mike, Cousin Ivan, Aunt Kelly, and Grandma and Grandpa Preston came along. We had a wonderful week full of sunny days, sand, salt water, and sunburns.

Mallory travelled well, thanks to the portable DVD player that looped Baby Einstein. We caravaned down there and arrived late Saturday night. The next day we went to the beach for the first time and Mallory seemed quite content there. She just sat in her tent picking up fist fulls of sand and throwing them. A giant sandbox for her to play with! When we took her to the shores edge and put her feet in the water, she shivered but seemed fine. However, the following trips to the beach, she was quite afraid of the water. She was fine as long as she was in Mommy or Daddy's arms while we stood in the water. She was mesmerized by the waves and the water hitting the sand on shore. Cousin Ivan was quite afraid of the water at first, but by our second trip to the beach he was out on a sandbar in Daddy and Mommy's arms. Mallory and I watched from the shore and waved.

I will say taking children to the beach is quite a lot of work! It is amazing how much you have to pack and account for. I know that Aunt Lori and Uncle Mike spent most of their time at the beach chasing Ivan as he chased seagulls! All in all we had a great memorable vacation and can't wait until next time. Enjoy the video, there were too many pictures to post!


Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Smiles on Sunday

Cute and classic Mallory smile
Grandma played horsey with Mallory and smiled for the camera.
Looks like Grandma is ticklish!
If this isn't hat hair, I don't know what is.
Oh my God, did I tell you? Ducky is the BEST TOY EVER. In or out of the bath. Can't you just see the excitement?
Okay, I know this isn't a smile, but Mallory is a very serious driver. She is totally focused on the road ahead of her.
Smiles amongst the flowers...

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Spolied with Attention



Aunt Erin and Uncle Todd came into to town this weekend to pick up some furniture they were storing here. Although excited and anxious to get their furniture home, they were forced to stay the entire weekend due to the UHaul truck. Apparently there is a huge difference in price when renting a UHaul on the weekend vs the weekday. So, Erin and Todd stayed with us through the weekend. Mallory was not upset by this because whenever Erin and Todd stay here, they absolutely spoil her rotten with love and attention. They also enjoy teaching her new tricks.

For example....
Saturday morning I was getting ready for shopping with Aunt Lori, and I heard some curious sounds coming through the monitor. Uncle Todd was watching Mallory and there was some slight banging coming from her bedroom. Concerned, I rushed in to see what the fuss was about. Uncle Todd was holding Mallory in the standing position on her changing table facing the window that overlooks the front yard. The blinds were up and Mallory was banging her fists and hands on the window as Todd was saying (in the best little girl voice he can do) coordinated with each bang, "get me out of here!" "These people are crazy, help me!" Needless to say, ever since Saturday, she reaches for the window while I am trying to change her. Thanks Todd. Just remember, one day you will have a child and I will be able to teach them tricks!

Sunday, August 2, 2009

Mallory & Edie




Mallory finally got to meet one of my best friends from high school this weekend, Edie. Edie resides across the country and as a result, we don't get to see her often. She had never met Mallory, but had kept up with her life through the blog and anticipated their meeting. Mallory took to Edie right away. She wasn't shy with her and was all smiles. We played outside in the swing, the grass and then it was time for bed. Edie came over twice to see Mallory and on Sunday we went over to Edie's parents house for some fabulous crepes and some play time inside.

It was so good to see you Edie, we love you and miss you!