Two Front Teeth

Trying to get a picture of Rhys's new front teeth is much harder than you would think. My latest attempt resulted in lots of open mouth photographs - but not much sign of those cute bottom nippers that caused so much commotion a few weeks ago. Only 28 to go!

I'm a Green Monster

Who knew feeding a baby could be so much fun. Dom and I get a kick out of it every night. Rhys started a new trick a few nights ago that had us laughing - hope you enjoy it, too!

What do you call a Grandpa?

Meet dziadzia,(pronounced ja-ja, I think?) otherwise known as my dad. We have tried to find a cool, hip grandfatherly name for him...and for now it is Dziadzia, a Polish derivative.

My dad is a quarter Polish - making Rhys 1/16 (if my math is right?). The rest of his genetic makeup is English (1/2), German (3/16 or thereabouts), Swedish (1/8), Czech (1/16), and Irish (1/16).

Dom has some Scottish and Indian blood - but we are already splitting too many hairs as it is.

I remember when I visited Germany 8 years ago, that some of the Germans I met thought my heritage was unbelievable. I wonder what they would think of our adorable mutt?

Summer fun in Chicago

Everyone who lives or visits Chicago regularly knows that you have to fit all sorts of outdoor fun into four months. Being Chicago, there are festivals for everything - and every neighborhood seems to host at least one. We took visiting family to one in Lincoln Square hosted by the Old Town School of Music. Lots of "kid" and adult friendly activities.

Baptism or Christening - you choose

Well, whatever you call it, we had a lovely time with family and friends celebrating at Fourth Pres. The "big boy" did quite well and seemed to enjoy the attention - and only had to leave the service a mere three times. Thank you to everyone who made the trek to Chicago! Dom and I appreciate it.
P.S. A quick note to send our prayers to our Nolidan friends this week. We love you Patrick!

Sophie

On various parenting tip blogs, you read about something called Sophie the Giraffe by Vulli. This French handmade toy (in the Alps no less) was created in the 60s and became an instant hit with the teething crowd. I have to admit I was skeptical - mainly because of the hefty price tag. Fortunately, Jonas had one first and Rhys loved it. So, $20 later we have a happy teether - as you can see.

Everyone loves a parade

Rhys, Dom and I enjoyed a bit of suburban nostalgia at the Hinsdale Fourth of July parade. Lots of Americana, marching bands, and even civil war reenactors. We followed up the parade with a good Fourth of July BBQ with friends - who tried to slip us some real estate material on our way out. As nice as Hinsdale is, I think we are sticking with the city for the time being.

Off to work

Rhys is dressed up and ready for the office today. This little one has grown quite a bit in the last six months - as you can see in his regular photo op place - the living room chair. He used to barely fit in this chair - and now he owns it. Cup of coffee anyone?

35 years of history

This kitchen table has seen quite a few baby bums over the years. Already an "antique" when purchased by my mom and dad, it is now one of my favorite possessions. I treasure its scratches, nooks and crannies. Let's hope it holds many more babies over the years. (Dom - don't worry, not ALL the babies have to be ours).