colleen writes: September Stuff

September started with an unexpected long trip to Houghton Lake. We headed up on August 30th to stay through the long, holiday weekend. However, on Labor Day, I realized that I could stay up for another week due to the fact that I didn't have to work and Gabrielle's preschool didn't start until the 11th. Poor Adam had to pack it up and head home, but he joined us again the following Friday. The only real bummer was that I forgot my camera again, so I was rather annoyed with myself.

We came home to the start of a busy week and the beginning of our new fall routine. Gabrielle started dance on Monday and began her 4-year-old preschool career on Tuesday. She was super-excited for both to begin. Luckily for me, she skipped off down the hall as she waved goodbye to me. There seemed to be plenty of other crying kids saying goodbye to their moms, so Carter and I high-tailed it out of there before she could change her mind! Gabrielle is going to school for two full days per week. That means I pack both Adam and Gabrielle's lunch.... It is a long day without her, but it is good preparation for all day/everyday kindergarten next year. She hasn't complained about the long day, so everything seems to be going just fine!

Carter had his 15-month well-baby check-up on the 13th. He weighed in at 24 pounds, 2 ounces. (44%) He was 30.8 inches tall (39%), and his noggin is still in the 90th percentile at 19.25 inches! He doesn't look nearly as big as he did before he was mobile, and he has really thinned out, although I would never describe him as skinny! He's definitely solid and very healthy. I really wish I could just freeze Carter at this age. He's so sweet--quick to give hugs and kisses and snuggle up. He continues to be very verbal repeating everything as best he can. He's learning body parts such as eyes, nose, mouth, tongue, teeth, and tummy. He is also learning animal sounds such as that for a dog, cat, duck, and frog. He really loves dogs and bears. He likes to carry around those particular stuffed animals and snuggle and kiss them. He's very sweet. Every night when we say goodnight, he leans in for a kiss with a real pucker. He also will lean in for a kiss when we say good-bye, such as when we drop Gabrielle off at school. Again, he's a sweetheart. He likes to be rough and tumble, but he has a real tender side which is just the cutest thing ever.

Pictures are a little low this month although you may not be able to tell by this post. Happy fall, everyone. Looking forward to October!

Colleen

1st day of 4-year-old preschool!