Jacob Speaks

I got the wild man to sit still long enough to show-off a selection of his animal sounds (and listening skills). We didn't make it to owl, bird, or pig before I lost his attention.

Fall Fun

Jake and I have tried to take advantage of all of the fun fall activities that Eastern Iowa has to offer. The extended warm weather was a help. We have visited a local pumpkin patch (which had pony rides), trick or treated at my workplace and around the neighborhood.

While at Bart's Farm, Jake made friends with Ned (the pony). He was so relaxed "riding" around the pasture that he only had one hand on the saddle horn and he could have cared less if I was standing near him. So I took the opportunity to step back and capture some memories. They also had a nice little area set-up specifically for pictures. Following our photo opportunities, Jake went into the yard where pumpkins were organized by size. He picked out a sincere little pumpkin that was just his size and he is still rather proud of it.










Our next adventure was Halloween. Jake was the cutest sea otter that I have ever seen. I took him into work to "trick-or-treat" where he managed to charm everyone and wasn't afraid to run around like a crazy man in a quiet, professional environment. That weekend we went door to door around our neighborhood. Since he couldn't say trick-or-treat, he got his candy by yelling "boo" at all of the home owners. He even managed to high jack a sucker that Scott had stolen out of his bag. It only took about an hour for him to get tuckered out, which is funny since he was riding in the wagon!!

An Evening at Noelridge

I was able to pick Jake up early today and with the weather being so nice, we decided to make a trip to Noelridge Park. While there, we fed the ducks and geese stale snacks from home. At first, he tried to feed them the treats nicely like he does the dogs. It took a few tries before he learned he had to throw it. Also, when feeding the pinwheel treats, Jake felt it necessary to "sample" each one before pitching it.

Once the snacks were doled out, we moved on to the playground. Jake surveyed the scene, tried a small swirly slide, and then he eye-balled the tallest slide in the park. I took him down it the first time, but he is far too independent for Mom's help. He climbed all the way to the top, flopped on his bum, and flung himself down without hesitation. He is such a big boy.

His little legs ran him around the park for about two hours before they couldn't go any longer. I packed him in the car and we headed out to find dinner. As we were leaving, the little voice in the backseat proudly proclaimed, "Bye-bye, Chicken". I reminded him that they were geese and ducks, and then I heard "Bye-bye, Geese. Bye-bye, Duck" (Repeat until we got to the restaurant).

I hope we have more opportunities to enjoy the park!!

Definitely Not a Dalmation

Jacob is currently obsessed with anything motorized/mechanical: airplane, combine, skiddy, et al. As you can imagine, he is quite elated with the life-like fire engine that was borrowed from Uncle David. The beagles, however, are not so elated.

Jake and the Fat Toad

Jake and Grandma found a toad. While Jake was very curious, he was also a little nervous and quite squirrely...below is the result. I apologize for the darkness, but that is when the toads come out!!

An Overall Bad Day

While today started out as any other (at 6AM), it wasn't until after 9AM that I knew we were in for a rough one; the rain should have tipped me off.

Scott had errands to run and kindly took Jake with him so I could get housework done. Immediately after they left, I started the vacuum. Soon, there was a knock at the back door...it was a sopping wet hubby and baby. Turns out the truck died right in front of the fire station. So, with Scott's arm close to falling off from carrying Jake all the way home, we drove the "good" truck to tow the other home. I must say it was my first experience towing anything other than a sled; it was quite interesting.

Fast-forward to 4PM...Without sun to provide afternoon warming in the house, it got a little chilly. I thought it would be a perfect time to start a small fire to make the place feel cozy. We did our best to squelch Jake's curiosity, but I took my sights off of him for a split second and I heard the worst scream ever. He had touched the glass on the fireplace door. Being trained in first-aid, I rushed him to the sink and held his hand under the water. That seemed to cool the burn and the tears. After a few minutes, he just started playing in the water, so I figured it was time to move on. I was wrong. He essentially spent the next 2 hours screaming with his fingers under water or on a ice pack. When neither ibuprofen nor dinner nor distraction seemed to help, we headed to the ER.

As soon as we got in the car, he asked for "Bob" as in "Bob the Builder" DVD. So we moved to the truck and were on our way. Jake proceeded to scream over the DVD all the way to the hospital. Screamed in the waiting room. Screamed for his initial exam. Really screamed when they put the bracelet on his ankle. But minutes before the doctor came in, the screaming subsided and the child was laughing and playing. I know it was better to be safe than sorry, but that really burned my butt (that pun was intended). Turns out, Jake has mild, second-degree burns on two fingers. Doc gave us some good tips on burn care and ointment to prevent infection. Forty minutes later and feeling a little foolish, we grabbed some ice cream and went home.

Ironically, we put in a Dr. Seuss DVD and one of the sketches had a campfire. Jake pointed and said "hot owie". I really hope this lesson is imprinted in his little brain.

Upon returning home, there was only a slight fight when trying to bandage the "owies". I attribute those tears to tiredness. Mine, on the other hand, were caused by the frustration of trying to wrap wriggly little finger tips only to have the bandage ripped off within seconds of letting go.

Thankfully, he is fast asleep with fingers wrapped and healing. Here's to hoping tomorrow is a lot brighter!!

Catching Up on Pictures

Sorry for the delay in posts. I live with a very busy 17 month old that won't come inside unless hungry or tired. Regardless, here's what you've been waiting for...

My white-knight with his balloon sword (courtesy of the clown from Applebee's Family Night)


Jake has found new interest in topping Wrigley, which she hates. So we must move swiftly when we hear "Giggy On" or else...





This is what I found when I heard Scott say "Dude, you're not a dog."





Scott running Jake around in his wheel barrow.




Jake's version of camouflage. And yes, he is playing with a fly swatter. It is new, clean, and taught him the color purple...don't judge me!




Cozied-up on his bean bag with milk, blankie, and boof.

Old McDonald Took a Bath

And this isn't even the extent of all of his words.

Bubble Boy

Nothing is more fun than fluffy dish-soap bubbles...

He Get's Louder

But he is still just a menace.