Three Day Weekend

Nona, Poppy, Uncle Cory, Aunt Kacey, and our cousins Ysabella and Anthony all came to NYC this past weekend. We kids got along famously, which was especially helpful since there were four adults and four kids staying in our apartment. Despite the tight accommodations and potential for disaster, the cousins really played well together.

With four kids' naps to consider, it was best to stay local on Thursday and Friday. So we played in the "backyard."

 On the roof terrace.

And we read lots, and lots, and LOTS of books. (Probably because it means I can cuddle up to someone, have my DogBunny, and suck my thumb--all of which I LOVE.)

Daddy took Friday off, making it a three day weekend for him too, and we had an impromptu picnic in nearby Fort Greene Park.

And somehow with the many moods, schedules, and big-family craziness, we still managed an adorable picture of the grandchildren.

(Pictures of our family field trip to the Bronx Zoo to follow...)

9.5 Months: Toothy and Curly

Big developments in the fast few weeks. 

1. Aiyana has two visible teeth (one top, one bottom) and two more about to make an appearance. 

2. My first steps were at 9.5 months, and Mommy and Daddy think Aiyana's are any day now too. 

3. Oh, and is that a curl in Aiyana's hair? Curls run in the family, it seems.

My Backyard

Some days we don't even leave the apartment, and it's okay because we have a little slice of heaven right outside our door. I've been calling it "my backyard" and it's my favorite place to play lately. I especially like to take my baby dolls out there so they "can feel the grass on their feet."

My friendAlec also likes to take my babies out for some fresh air.

And judging by Aiyana's expression, I think she also enjoys a little grass between her tiny toes.

Leftovers

As always, there are so many great pictures and never enough time to post them. Here are some the leftover shots from recent weeks, which also happen to be some of Mommy and Daddy's favorites.

Cape Cod Vacation

Carefree and color coordinated.

The rare family shot.

This one makes Mommy's heart skip a beat.

Picture perfect.

Pretty Girls in Pretty Dresses

Demure.

Girlie girl.

Signature style: Dress and Chuck Taylors.

Silly and Sillier

Have container, will drink.

Looking straight at the camera (for a change.)

Toothless Grin

I know this dress goes on my body somehow.

Time to put the lock back on the fridge.

Open mouth + Squinty eye = Classic Doron smile

Ethereal

Ethereal? Or kind of creepy?

The Sweetest Birthday

Happy Birthday Mommy dearest! 

Daddy, Aiyana, and I had so much fun "making you a birthday" yesterday. I hope it was everything you wanted it to be. I mean, what could have been better than spending it with your two angels and our wonderful Daddy, anyway? 

 Oh, and it didn't hurt that your best friend made a surprise visit to Brooklyn just to wish you a happy birthday.

Or that Aiyana and I picked out a special present--just for you!

Or that Daddy and I spent all morning in the kitchen making you delicious salted caramel cupcakes.

 And it sure was nice of me and Aiyana to sleep soundly while the babysitter was here so Daddy could take you out for a few drinks with your friends.

We love you Mommy and we hope that all your birthday wishes came true!

Noisy Toys

It seems my baby sister has found all the nosiest toys. And she uses them so unconventionally.

Quotable Quote

Sometimes Mommy lets me play with her hair. And sometimes I'm a little rough. Today I pulled Mommy's hair and she said, "Ouch." To which I asked, "Mommy, why'd you say Ouch!?" And Mommy said, "You're pulling my hair. It hurts." And I answered, "It's not Ouch, Mommy. I'm just makin' it longer!"

Cape Cod, July 2012

Two Peas in a Pod

Tandem Jump

The jumperoo served us all well, but now Aiyana's too mobile to be confined. One last bounce with Little Lamb, and then it's time to make room for some new toys!

Drinking Games and Other Silliness

According to our Mommies, Ollie and I can both be a little on the "moody" side (their words, not ours.) So even though we see each other often, it could take a few minutes (or a few hours) for us to warm up to each other. But once we do, we're like long lost friends. Or maybe more like siblings.

We make each other smile.

Play competitive (drinking) games.

We often look for one another.

 

And sometimes run from the other.

 

Stats and Recent Developments

Aiyana's growing, that's for sure. She gained 3.5 pounds in the last three months. Her thighs are a nice handful now, and she has at least two chins.

9 Months = 16 lb 3 oz (9%)

6 Months = 12 lb 12 oz (3%)

5 Months  = 12 lb 3 oz (5%)

4 Months = 10 lb 11 oz (4%)

3 Months = 10 lb 6 oz (10%) 

2 Months = 10 lb 0 oz (27%) 

1 Month = 7 lb 11 oz (11%)

Birth Weight = 6 lb 0 oz (10%)

9 Months = 27.3 in (39%)

6 Months = 25.9 in (56%)

5 Months = 24.5 in (27%)

4 Months = 24.0 in (42%)

3 Months = 23.0 in (33%)

2 Months - 22.0 in (34%)

1 Month = 20.5 in (25%)

Birth Height = 19.0 in (34%)

Her recent developments include new teeth. 

Actually, just one tooth, and it took nine months just to get that!

Clucking/lip smacking/kissing.

New skills include clapping.

 

 And motivational walking.