Our Baby Story

Avery 4/5 Months!

2011-02-04T21:31:00.002-05:00

Avery is now 5 months old! What a crazy and wonderful 5 months it's been! We have survived an ear infection, crazy acid reflux, awful nights sleep and exhaustion all with the help of our bywonderfully pleasant Avery! She is such a doll and such a happy baby

Although Taylor was very active at Averys age she was content laying on her back and kicking away. Avery is the opposite. She started rolling at 4 months and hasn't stopped. She really spends very little time on her back because she immediately rolls to her belly. I predict that she will be crawling much before taylors ten month mark but I am really not encouraging it bc I know just how much crazier it will make things!

Because Avery has such bad acid reflux (evident by the spitting up and gaging not pain- thank goodness) we were directed to start her on cereal because it is supposed to help. Just like everything else, she loves it.

On to sleep-let's just say this Is rare.

And now on to my favorite part! Everyday the bond between taylor and Avery grows stronger and stronger. Taylor tells Avery, "I love you so much!" about 50 times a day and Averys face lights up whenever she sees or hears Taylor. It is awesome to watch them together and I couldn't be more proud of Taylor and how great she is with her little sister!

I'm Sorry Avery!

2010-11-24T20:36:00.003-05:00

where has all of our time gone? We are crazy busy. Too busy to keep up on the blog but not too busy to enjoy every moment with these precious little girls. I often look back at Taylor's posts so that I can remember what she was doing at different times throughout her first few months and to get ideas of how I dealt with certain things (SLEEP). I am so happy that I blogged so much because my memory has failed me on many occassions (and Mike's is worse than mine.) I am pretty disappointed that I haven't been able to keep the same details documented for Avery that I did with Taylor. I hope that I can get better at it for her sake. I have figured out how to do mobile blogging so maybe this will help. Fingers crossed!

Trip to Florida

2010-10-09T21:04:00.001-04:00

3 Months

2010-10-09T20:37:00.004-04:00

Three Months!! We are chugging along. Avery is becoming more beautiful and more pleasant everyday! From the moment Avery wakes up in the morning, cooing and babbling in her crib, until she goes to bed at night she is full of smiles. She loves watching Taylor and still enjoys the thousands of kisses she gets everyday. Taylor likes to immitate the sounds Avery makes, so it is not usual to hear screams and scretches as loud as can be throughout the house. I often wonder what my neighbors must think is happening in here!

Avery is rolling from her belly to her back and she is very close to rolling the other way as well. When she is on her belly she concentrates so hard on the toys in front of her. She really looks like she is trying to scoot towards them. Maybe an early crawler? Is it mean to say, I hope not??

Avery is still a good little sleeper. She usually goes to sleep at night around 7:30 and wakes up in the morning around 7:30, with one nighttime feeding. Unlike her sister, Avery can sleep without motion and takes most of her naps in her crib and usually falls asleep on her own. One thing I learned from Taylor is that all the rocking, singing, back rubbing, bouncing, jumping jacks, and head stands DO NOT create a good sleeper. So, while I cherish every moment that I get to hold Avery in peace and quiet, I try to lay her down before she drifts off to sleep!

We are so lucky to have these two little girls!

Nursery School

2010-10-04T17:33:00.004-04:00

She looks so grown up, doesn't she? I can't believe my little baby is in Nursery School. It has been a difficult transition- just as much for me as for her. Here is the story...

The first day the parents stayed with the kids so while it was an exciting "first day" it wasn't a REAL first day and I knew that the REAL day wouldn't be quite so happy and tearfree!

Day 2. Taylor walked in cheery, sat at the table, and began playing with the playdoh. I kissed her goodbye and left. The aide walked out with me and said that it seemed like she would be fine but if any of the kids get upset they would take them to the playground to distract them. Day 2 was only a half hour to help ease the kids in. I waited in the parking lot, holding back my own tears, thinking about how fast she is growing (dramatic, I know). I happened to glance in my rearview mirror only to see Taylor, on the playground, in the teachers arms and she was clearly upset. Even though I wanted to go and grab her, I knew it was best for me to stay put for the remainder of the 15 minutes of school. When I went to get her she was still sitting with the teacher but she wasn't crying. Her poor little eyes were red and swollen though. Before falling asleep in the car she told me school was "fun". Interesting reaction but one that provided a bit of relief. Pheww.

Day 3. Taylor had to be pulled from my arms by the teacher. It was awful. It was that dramatic scene that I was hoping to avoid. I waited in the car thinking that I scared her for life and sure that she was not ready for preschool. After about 30 minutes the teacher came out and said that she hadn't calmed down and she thought it was best if I took her home. Taylor fell asleep as soon as she got in the car. For the rest of the day and night whenever I brought up school she said, "i don't want to talk about it."

Day 4. I was sick all morning worrying about how this day would go and convincing myself that we were making the wrong decision sending her to school. Although Taylor said a few times that she didn't want to go, she willingly got in the car and was pleasant the whole ride there. We saw Ashlynne and Nolan in the parking lot and Nolan told Taylor how fun school was. We also brought an empty papertowel roll for the school's gerbil and dropped it off on the way to the classroom. These were good distractions because there were no tears until we actually got to the classroom... at which point Taylor turned and ran down the hallway in the direction of the frontdoor. The teacher went and picked her up and they said good-bye to me. Taylor was hysterical.

I waited in the parking lot for 20 minutes before I decided to call and check on her. To my surprise (I actually wasn't sure I believed them) they told me Taylor was playing and having fun. I knew that I should venture out of the parking lot but I couldn't bring myself to leave. I waited another 30 minutes and called again. I realize that this was crazy but like I said, I wasn't sure I believed them the first time. Again, they reported she was having fun and playing. I ventured to Dunkin Donuts and got a coffee.

Finally it was 2:00. I walked quickly to her classroom SO excited to see her. When she came out to the hallway she had the BIGGEST smile on her face. Not because she hated it and wanted to go home but because she couldn't wait to show me the painting she made and the lollipop she earned for no tears. What a relief. I realized at this point that we were making the right decision and I told myself that I WOULD leave the parking lot next time!!

Family picture

2010-09-16T21:35:00.005-04:00

Taylor is starting pre-school (more on this later) and one of the things she needs to bring on the first day are pictures. One of her as a baby, one of her now, and one of the family. I realized that aside from a not so great picture of us in this hospital we don't have a family picture.

So here were are. Our first family portrait- taken with the camera's self timer!

While taking pictures I also got my new favorite one of Avery

Soccer

2010-09-16T21:11:00.001-04:00

Taylor and Mike continued to play soccer this summer. I thought it was important for her to have some "Daddy time," especially with her new role as big sis. She really loves going and is so excited when she wakes up on Saturday morning and knows she has soccer. When I was pregnant I would crave a slurpee and a pretzel so they would always stop on their way home and surprise me with this as a treat. Now it is an every weekend thing. I think it is cute to have a little routine like this and it might be one of Taylor's favorite parts of the morning!

2 Months!

2010-08-31T15:42:00.008-04:00

Well we survived two months. This was just about the time with Taylor I started to come to life however this time around I have had to be "with it" from the beginning... quite a challenge.

Avery is wonderful. She is super pleasant and pretty easy going, minus the dinner time hour. She continues to get lots of love and kisses from her proud big sister. She really likes watching Taylor and listening to her talk. She is turning out to be a good sleeper which is a relief after almost a month of less than one hour increments. She is sleeping from about 8pm- 1 or 2am. I love the extra sleep but have to say I do miss my middle of the night trashy shows that I had been DVRing.

Having two children has proven to be a challege. Our laundry piles are bigger, house is messier, days are longer, and alone time has all but vanished. I do get overwhelmed at times but when I see the two girls together- how happy Taylor gets when Averys holds her hand or how happy Avery gets when Taylor kisses her... it makes all the craziness and dirty toilets worth it!

Photo Shoot

2010-08-14T21:11:00.003-04:00

We love when Danielle comes to take our pictures!!

Sisters

2010-08-14T20:41:00.003-04:00

I wish I could say that I am not surprised at how well Taylor has taken to Avery but honestly... I am. She is typically very possessive of her mommy and daddy and will have quite the two year old temper tantrum if anyone tries to get between her and parents affection. I guess because she knows that Avery is HER little sister she is willing to share us! Taylor loves her roll as BIG SISTER - which required me doing a lot of wash initially because for the first two weeks Avery was home Taylor would only wear clothing that pointed out that she was in fact a Big Sister.

Taylor's motherly instinct is remarkable. If Avery is napping in another room Taylor will stop playing every few minutes to check on her. She immediately tells me to feed her when she cries and loves helping with the care of her sis. She calls her "AE" and when asked what her middle name is, Taylor responds, "little sister." The hugs and kisses are endless...

Avery Mae Krepps

2010-07-18T14:28:00.003-04:00

Avery surprised us with an early arrival. The pre eclampsia stuck again and I had to be induced on 6/20. After a few short hours Avery was born on 6/21 at 5:11am. She weighed 7lbs 5oz and was 21 1/4 inches long. Not bad for two and half weeks early!

a little on pregnancy

2010-07-14T20:15:00.007-04:00

So Avery has arrived but I will get to that in my next post - first I should mention something about being pregnant since I have neglected to do that over the last 9 months!! Being pregnant and having a 2 year old is tough! There were a few months in the middle there that weren't that bad but between being exhausted in the beginning and being huge and swollen at the end- it was a challenge to say the least although one that was beyond worth it of course!

Throughout the pregnancy we talked with Taylor a lot about having a sister and what it would be like. She gets very jealous when Mike or I show anyone or thing attention so we thought for sure having a baby would be tough on her. We told her how much time Mommy would need to spend holding Avery and most times she responded with an emphatic "NO". I worried constantly about when Avery would arrive and what we would do with Taylor and how she would handle it. Mike just kept telling me to stop worrying because everything would work out but still it kept me up at night. Taylor is my baby and I didn't want anything to upset her life.

Needless to say I was praying for a healthy and early arrive... thankfully Avery agreed.

Soccer

2010-04-10T19:49:00.004-04:00

Taylor got her first pair of soccer shoes and pink soccer ball for her second birthday from her Aunt Jen. The following weekend she got to put her new kicks to use! We signed her up for soccer which we thought would be the perfect thing for her to do with her Daddy. Of course we were all hoping that she would love it but I didn't expet her to be such a natural :) She seriously got right out there and starting "dribbling" (not a word I knew/would use but apparently that is what it is called) up and down the field with Mike. She had a blast and I loved watching her... actually I loved watching them together!!

Two Already!?

2010-03-26T20:37:00.013-04:00

Woa, woa, woa. Hold on a minute. Wait just there. Back the truck up. This can't be. She's two??? How is that possible. How is it possible that two years - 104 wks - 730 days - have gone by so fast? Just yesterday we were in the delivery room. I blinked and Taylor went from her first birthday to her second.

What a year though. What a great year. The last time I blogged (this is daddy by the way), which of course was exactly a year ago (guess that makes this a tradition now), Taylor had just taken her first steps and just said dadda. Now she's jumping off furniture and talking her face off. At least she gives you warning before she jumps - "two, twee, two, twee." And you better be ready, because as she starts that count, she's committed to taking off.

How did we develop such a crazy monkey? Earlier today Jen noticed that Taylor had walked down to her room and was very quiet. Which anyone who has a two year-old knows is never a good thing. Jen peeked around the corner, and Taylor was standing with one leg on the armrest of the rocking chair (a rocking chair mind you) and the other leg on the railing of her crib as she was finding a way to climb into her crib. Where did she get that sense of daring need to climb and explore? I don't know, but I absolutely love that about her. And that example sums up Taylor to a T.

Forgive me for being cliche, but Taylor really is the light of my life. I love every second I get to spend with her and every single thing that she does. From five o'clock in the morning when she wakes up calling "daddy, daddy" through bedtime when she's saying "'un back, 'un back" so she can fall asleep with me rubbing her back. From the time I leave for work in the morning when she gives me a kiss, a hug, says "I wuv you," makes me give mommy a kiss, a hug, say "I wuv you," and then give the baby in mommy's belly a kiss, a hug, and say "I wuv you;" to the time that I come home and she gets so excited, screams her head off, and then runs in the complete opposite direction thinking she's hysterical. I love reading books with her, getting a ball to play "tetch" with her, and chasing her saying "I'm going to get you, and then I'm going to eat you" while she giggles uncontrollably. I love even when she's being a pain in the butt and we have to explain why you can't hit, why we need to go somewhere, why she needs to put clothes on, etc. No matter what she's doing, I am just overwhelmed by the emotion that she stirs in me.

And the emotion that her mother stirs in me too. I can't wait for the day when Taylor realizes just how lucky she is to have the mom that she does. Jen is awesome with her, and I love to watch her in action. Singing with Taylor, teaching her how to count, explaining how to behave, talking through their day and who she played with, etc., etc. Okay, maybe Taylor doesn't get to enjoy as much "straight juice" as any normal kid, but that's because her mother is always looking out for what's best for her.

There are so many cute things that Taylor does, and every day there is something new and different. From new words, to new facial expressions, to new preferences, she always has something that makes Jen and I look at each other and say "oh my god, she's so adorable." And then there are her routines too. How every morning she needs to brush her teeth ten times while mommy and daddy are getting ready. How she needs to go out with daddy to take Emma out in the morning and pick up the paper. Every Monday and Tuesday, when she realizes that she is going to Grammy's, she goes through in rapid succession, over and over again: "Nolly, Nolly? Ty, Ty? Geegee, Geegee? Pop-pop, Pop-pop?" Her need to walk out the door with her "gaggee" and as many other blankets or clothes as she can carry. Her need to take her shoes off as soon as she get buckled into her car seat. How she needs to watch Hi-5 when she wakes up from her nap.

It has been so much fun watching Taylor grow this past year. I am excited to see how she continues to learn and develop this year. I wish it wouldn't go so fast, though. But I do look forward to each new phase she is going to go through, however quick each one may come and go. I am so anxious to see how Taylor is with her little sister. I think she is going to be mesmerized with her, and Avery is going to have a great big sis to take of her and look up to.

Spring has sprung

2010-03-20T06:30:00.004-04:00

We had such a great day yesterday because the weather was beautiful! It is so nice to finally get out of the house and play... plus it is less cleaning up of toys I need to do inside!! When Mike got home from work we went to a park to enjoy the spring!!

It is easy to see Taylor's growth on a daily basis because she just changes to quickly these days but yesterday we were amazed at how different she is now versus the last time we got out to play!

This little move gives me a heartattack each time!

Who needs steps when we have ladders?

No more baby swings for this big girl!

We're Back- Promise

2010-03-11T22:24:00.007-05:00

I am back to blogging... and there is a new look too! The hiatus had nothing to do with motivation but rather just a lack of time. I have decided that this has to be a priority as it is the primary place that I document Taylor's daily life, milestones, celebrations, and growth. Mike and I don't want to forget a thing and with her rapid growth and daily changes combined with our lives being super busy it will be easy to forget the little things. I think we are both suffering from shock knowing that she will be two in two weeks and the time has flown by. So here's to a new beginning. Oh- and I am hoping to get a new camera for my birthday so there are sure to be lots of wonderful pictures!! Here are a few pictures from our trip to Islamorada in February.

18/19 months

2009-10-31T06:46:00.008-04:00

Clearly I am behind on the blog since last time I wrote we were wearing shorts and bathing suits and now we are wearing sweatshirts and jackets... time to catch up. Our lives are moving so fast right now but I don't want to forget any of the little things that amaze us about Taylor everyday!

Taylor's vocabulary is growing everyday. Her words are not always discernable to other people but generally Mike and I know what she is saying! The two cutest words she says are, "trash truck" and "Hi-Five" (the show). We have no idea why she started to say trash truck but when she hears it outside she "talks" about it. As awesome as it is to see her really start to talk, it is almost cuter when she is saying some thing that we don't understand. There is just something about her little face and expression when she is trying to tell us some thing and we just don't get it. Sometimes she goes in to rants, yelling at Emma or her cousins. She knows what they are and are not allowed to do and if they break the rules she tells them about it! It is awesome to know that before too long we will be having full on coversations.

Taylor is in LOVE with her cousin Nolan... and I think the feeling is mutual. Whenever they see each other they are ready for a full on embrace which usually leads to them falling to the floor. On Mondays and Tuesdays when I take Taylor to Grammy's as soon as we pull down her street she claps her hands and starts saying, "Nol Nol." It is so cute to see how excited she becomes just at the mention of his name and even more so when she sees his picture. Awww... too bad they are cousins!

Taylor loves her routines. Every morning she wakes up (earlier then we would like) and lays in bed and watches Sesame Street. After a few minutes she gets up and "helps" Mike get ready for work. She always brings him socks and shoes to put on... sometimes they match, sometimes they don't! Then they go downstairs, take Emma out, Taylor hands Mike his bag, says "bye bye," and shuts the door. It is not suprising that she knows this routine and does the same thing every morning, but what gets us is the little things that she picks up. For instance, this morning Mike started walking downstairs without his glass of water from the night before. Taylor started pointing to it and getting upset when she thought he wasn't going to bring it downstairs because she knows he usually does.

I know I should be encouraging her independance but it has been a tough road! Things that previously took us 1 minute could take us 10. Taylor has to put her own pants back on after the diaper change, she has to (try to) put her own shoes on, climb in to her highchair, put on her bib, feed herself, brush her teeth, and on and on. It seems like overnight she has decided that she just doesn't need us so much anymore. Sad.

Lake Wallenpaupack - Part 1

2009-08-29T20:32:00.006-04:00

We just returned from a vacation with Mike's family to Lake Wallenpaupack. This is quite a tradition for Mike's family. He has been going every year since he was 12 and I joined in on the fun about 9 years ago. We weren't able to go last year because Taylor was just three months old and I was too much of a worry wort to venture that far. Anyway, at one point while we were riding on the boat I started to realize that this could be the start of a tradition for our little monkey as well and it was nice, happy thought.

Taylor loved the boat, loved the beach, and loved spending time with her cousins. I learned a few things from the experience of spending a week with three kids under the age of four.

1) the concept of "sharing" is taught/forced about 10 times per minute

2) getting three kids to go to sleep at the same time and sleep past 5am is a challenge worth drinking too once accomplished

3) the combination of rocks and water will keep kids happy for hours

4) Whatever one does... they all have to do!

5) Grammy is wonderwoman, as it usually took three adults to watch the kids at any given time, and she does it twice a week, alone.

It really was so nice to see the kids experience new things, play together, laugh, run, and annoy eachother (only occassionally!) and know that they are memories formed and traditions beginning.

Sesame Place

2009-08-07T19:59:00.003-04:00

We took our first of what I am guessing to be many trips to Sesame Place this past week. Ashlynne has season passes and was able to bring a guests so we checked it out and we had a blast. Taylor loved the pools, all of which were only a few inches deep so she could run around and play. She even loved "Counts Castle" which was basically like having a hose sprayed in your face the whole time! Although she was very happy to watch the parade she made it quite clear that she did not want Big Bird, Elmo, or any other happy character touching her. It was a great time and Taylor was zonked! We can't wait to go back.

Taking a break from swimming to have a delicious cupcake.

Waiting in line for the hot air balloon ride. When Nolan found out that Taylor was coming to Sesame with him he told Ashlynne that he wanted to take Taylor on the Balloons. What a cute date!

Eating dinner and waiting for the parade

16 Months

2009-08-07T14:35:00.006-04:00

I can't help but think in two more months (always thinking ahead I guess) Taylor is going to be a year and a half. That seems old- really old. I have had lots of friends having babies lately and not only does it make me want one but it makes me realize how big Taylor is. I still look at her cute little feet and think how small and adorable they are and then I see a newborn's foot and I realize that Taylor has "big people" feet. Everything about her is becoming more and more "big people" everyday. All traces of baby Taylor are slipping away. Boo Hoo.

That being said she is turning in to a fun and wonderful big person. She is so full of life and and super energetic. She could play at a park for hours going down slides and climbing around... no swings though, way too much sitting involved in that! We go for a walk with Emma most nights and now she prefers to walk/run instead of sit in her stroller. It makes the walk a little slower and a little tougher but seeing her running up the side walk chasing after Emma is awesome. She is a tough cookie too. All the running comes with a few face plants here and there and she gets up, wipes herself off, and keeps trucking.

Taylor is continuing to express her independence and her opinions(is that a nice way of saying it?). She doesn't want to hold hands in the parking lot or up the steps at the play ground, she doesn't want you to feed her the yogurt, and forget trying to brush her teeth for her. We went to Target the other day and she kept wanting Mike and I to switch who pushed the cart. Here we were, two grown adults switching pushing the cart every 30 seconds all for the sake of preventing a screaming child. I have a feeling this is just the beginning of the challenges in this department but she has given Mike and I lots to think about when it comes to how we deal with these little tantrums!

Taylor is starting to talk more and more. She has mastered quite a few animal sounds and is now saying new words all the time. I have started telling her to say things "with her mouth" and this has seemed to help. When she was a baby we would, say "say bye-bye" and she would wave so I think she might have been confused but once I said, "say ... with your mouth" she seemed to get the hang of it. Still, my favorite are the conversations that she has that sound like nothing but that mean so much to her I am sure. When we tell Emma to do something Taylor follows up with a long rant at Emma which contains no words but lots of inflections and expression. So cute!

Just for the record, we still can not believe that we are lucky enough to have her, we still miss her when she goes to sleep, and we are still in awe of her everyday!

Daddy's 30!

2009-08-07T14:25:00.006-04:00

Mike turned 30 back in July... I am really getting behind on my blogging. Busy Busy I guess. We had a nice dinner and cake at home on his actually day and then the following weekend we had our family and a few friends over for a BBQ. It was a beautiful day and a nice celebration.

One for me... and one for you

A perfect day

2009-07-12T14:45:00.005-04:00

So as previously mentioned Taylor's sleep schedule is being revamped and part of the revamping is her new love of napping in our bed. This is great because it leads to a 2 + hour nap but it means I am confined to the bedroom because I am afraid of her falling off the bed. In order to pass the time I usually fold the laundry, clean the bathroom, or nap myself... today I am updating the blog, bedside!

We bought a blow up pool for Taylor that she tried out for the first time today. It was a huge hit. The water was a little cold so it took some getting used to but once she splashed herself from the outside to the point where she was soaked she got it. She was a nut in there but she had a ball.

P.S. We are now working on a 2 hr and 45 min nap... so far!

Fourth of July weekend

2009-07-05T21:30:00.006-04:00

What a beautiful weekend we had! Mike had off on Friday so we started off with a little Giggleberry Fair in Peddlers Village. Mike and Taylor dominated Giggleberry Mountain, a four story jungle gym of cargo nets, suspension bridges, and very small holes for Mike to climb through! No time for Pictures... come on dad!

We spent Saturday with Mike's family prior to going to the Phillies game. Taylor was all dressed up in her stars and stripes thanks to an adorable outfit from Aunt Susan.

Sunday we went to Kids Castle with Maddie, PopPop, and Great Grandmom. It was our first time there and I am sure we will be back. It is so nice and Taylor loved it.

15 Months

2009-07-03T22:03:00.010-04:00

Just like each month prior, this has been my favorite month. Well, mostly, except for the sleeping aspect... but the good far outweighs the bad. I will start with the sleep just to get that out of the way and then move on to happier moments! Taylor has been transitioning from two naps to one. This is not an easy task. She was in such a great routine and one day, like the snap of our fingers, this all went out the window. She refused to sleep in her crib, the nap and bedtime routine took at least 45 minutes and many times ended with a car ride to force the sleep, and she was waking up at 4:30 AM! Ahh, a rough couple of weeks. I think the hardest part of all of this is just not knowing what to do but I think the only answer is just riding out the storm! Things have gotten much better over the last several days. We still have the early mornings but she has been getting in bed with us and sleeping for another few hours. She never really did this before so I have to say, for now, I kind of like it!

Taylor has become quite the little helper. She wants to wipe our noses for us, hold the phone to our ears, sweep the floor, clean the table, pick tiny specks of dirt off the floor and hand them to us, and she loves to feed us her food. Her poor cousin Nolan really sees the brunt of this as she forces cheerios or apple juice in to his mouth whenever they are together. She has also started being able to communicate her wants and needs in way other then grunting or whining - although she still does this too. She grabs our hands to drag us around the house pointing to what she wants. She has also started grabbing our feet and trying to put shoes on them when she wants to go outside.

On to the pacifier war... She still uses it and still LOVES it. We never gave it to her outside the house, other then in the car, but now we are trying to limit it to bed and nap times only. We have started telling her to leave it in her crib before she goes downstairs in the morning and after naps. She has really started to understand this and will walk in to her room and put it in her crib on her own. Every once in awhile during the day she she will sneak in to her room and grab it and suck away at it. It is like a little treat and when she comes running to me with it in her mouth she laughs because she knows she is not supposed to be doing it. It makes me giggle every time. During the course of our sleep struggles I would tell her that if she didn't want to take a nap she couldn't have her pacifier and most times she immediately took it from her mouth and chucked it across the room... such a smarty pants.

Taylor melts our hearts everyday. Whether she is giving us kisses or giving us hugs she is a real love bug. My new favorite thing is when I am rocking her to sleep and she reaches up, takes the pacifier out of her mouth, looks at me and says, "ma ma". Taylor says Ma Ma about a thousand times a day now, but it is something about they way she says it as she is falling asleep that is just so sweet. It is almost like what she really is saying is "goodnight mama, I love you."

We have been keeping ourselves very busy these last few weeks. I have loved having the extra two days off this summer to spend with Taylor. I joined a Mommies Group which has been a fun experience. Taylor has made some new buddies and I have gotten to meet some other Moms. It has been nice going on walks and trying out new kid friendly things to do in the area.

I can't believe how fast this whole experience is going. We are still amazed by her all the time. We sneak in to her room every night to watch her sleep and on a daily basis we talk about just how lucky we are to have her in our lives.

Rides, Music, and Junk Food

2009-06-22T17:06:00.006-04:00

We took Taylor to her first Carnival this weekend... in between rain storms. We immediately walked to the ferris wheel, excited to take our baby on a ride. As we walked towards it and watched it, we both started to feel really nervous about it. A ferris wheel, the most boring ride out there suddenly became too fast and too high. Ahh, I guess that is what becoming parents will do for you. We settled for a train ride and the giant slide, although Taylor was most impressed by the duck game.

After we rode some rides and watched the other kids we decided to eat dinner- Chicken fingers, french fries, and funnel cake! As we were eating a band started playing. Taylor LOVED it. She immediately started dancing and running towards the stage. Mike and I had to eat in shifts because she refused to be anywhere but directly in front of the stage, dancing her little heart out.

Taylor's Baby Dolls

2009-06-18T22:09:00.005-04:00

Taylor LOVES dolls. I don't know where she got this from because I don't think I ever owned a doll, and if I did own one, I certainly didn't played with it! Not my daughter. Taylor carries them around during the day, pretends to change their diaper, wipes their nose (she has had a lot of this done to her lately), feeds them her food, and puts them in and out of her booster seat. She has also started kissing them which is the cutest thing ever!

Today Taylor hit the lottery when Maddie bought her a coach for her dolls. It was nap time when I opened it. Mistake number 1. Trying to get her away from it was tough. Trying to get her to go to sleep was tougher. Keeping her asleep was impossible. I really think that she couldn't wait to get back up and play with her coach. She played with this thing ALL afternoon. It was adorable. Dolly went for rides all over the house, had lots of kisses, and even had some strawberries in her new ride.

P.S. Don't worry Krepps Family- she also LOVES soccer balls.

Please Touch Museum

2009-06-18T21:49:00.004-04:00

My mom and I took Taylor to the Please Touch Museum last week. I wasn't sure what to expect but I did hear great things about it. We were impressed. Taylor had a ball. I couldn't really even get any good pictures because she was moving from one thing to the next so quickly. It was great to see her exploring, learning, and mimicking and interacting with the other children! We ended up getting a membership so we know we will be back!

Our first (over) night out!!

2009-06-08T20:03:00.004-04:00

Well we did it... we stayed out of the house and away from Taylor for the first time. Our friends Erin and Rob got married on Friday night and we stayed overnight at the reception site. It was actually quite a week for use because Wednesday we went to the rehearsal dinner and Pop Pop and Great Grandmom babysat Taylor (put her to bed and everything!) Friday night we left Taylor in the trusted hands of Uncle Dave and Aunt Jen. Mike and I had a great time... it was a beautiful wedding and fun way to celebrate our 5th anniversary!

The bride, her husband, and her adorable baby!

Here we are... 1am... and instead of a baby in our arms we have a beers in our hands.

So as we were wrapping up the night I started to really miss Taylor and despite feeling pretty crappy in the morning we were up and ready to get home to our baby. After she refused to nap due to being way to exciting to see us we headed right for the park.

And if this face couldn't cure a little headache...

Catching Up

2009-06-08T16:15:00.005-04:00

Here are some pictures to show what has been going on lately... To start, last week Taylor got her first boo-boo. She took it like a champ and barely even cried. I am getting better at the "gasp" when she falls but this was a real doosy- she whacked her face right on the edge of a closet door. I think if it weren't for my gasp there wouldn't have even been a tear...

Taylor's friend Nolan was nice enough to give her a Spaceship that he didn't want anymore. She was very happy to find this under our deck the other day and has had a blast (off-ha ha!) playing with it! We also put a swing up under the deck which we thought she would love... and she does, in about three second increments!

Welcome Babies

2009-05-27T07:23:00.003-04:00

We had a busy weekend welcoming two new babies in to the world! On Friday Bryce Charles was born. He is adorable!
On Monday, Lisa Bradbury, Taylor's new cousin was born. I have to say, Taylor loves all the boys in her life, but FINALLY a girl! She is precious!

14 Months

2009-05-26T21:09:00.004-04:00

I am not sure where to begin with this one... there have been so many things going on with Taylor that it is hard to really capture just how much she is growing, learning, exploring, and understanding these days. It is so amazing to see her figuring out and trying new things on a daily basis.

(All the pictures are from a recent trip to Freddy Hill Farms where we had some ice cream, hung out with pigs, cows, goats, sheep, etc, and hit a few golf balls at the driving range- fun times)

Taylor is really in to sorting, stacking, and unpacking. She could keep herself busy for a VERY long time with things like a case of Sprite that can be unpacked, sorted, and put back. At two of our memorial day picnics she found enjoyment for at least an hour straight by getting ice from the chest, walking it to someone, handing it over, and going back for more. She also loves taking her clothes out of her drawers and walking them to our room and taking our clothes back to her room. This has been a favorite of hers for sometime now. I think I should give up on folding for a while since I hate to do it anyway, and she just rips apart whatever attempt I have made at keeping the drawers organized.

I love that I can have a conversation with Taylor and she can respond to what we are telling or asking her to do. We have started to teach her some signs and she is really using them to help us understand what she wants. The first sign she learned was "more". I think at first she thought it meant, "give me what I want" so she was using it when she was annoyed about having her diaper changed and wanted to get off the changing table, when she wanted to get up on to the couch, or when she saw food she wanted. I think she has now started to grasp the real meaning of "more" and has started using it specifically when she is eating. So far the few signs she has learned have been great to eliminate the pointing/grunting that she was doing previously

Taylor also starting to do things more and more that we haven't specifically taught her but she has figured out on her own... some good, some bad :) Recently she has figured out that if she takes a handful of Emma's food to Emma, Emma will eat it out of her hand. I appreciate her desire to feed Emma but on the few occasions that Emma declines her generous offer, Taylor immediately places the handful of dog food in to her mouth. Good thing we just upgraded Emma's food to a higher quality!

We laugh at Taylor on a daily basis. Her little sense of humor is great. Nothing beats her laugh. The thing that gets her belly laughing the most right now, is pointing a remote control at Maddie and pretending to turn Maddie on (she acts goofy) and off (she stops whatever she is doing). Ahh, it gets her every time! She also loves to walk around the house with her blankie on her head and we pretend we can't see her... hearing her laugh and pretend to walk in to us never really gets old!

Taylor's PopPop always says, "she isn't thinking about yesterday and she is not looking forward to tomorrow, she is just completely in the moment" So true and how great for her!

Two Days in a Row

2009-05-21T21:15:00.006-04:00

What a great week for Taylor... hanging with Nolan two days in a row! Ashlynne called and said that Nolan had been talking about Taylor for a few days and even said, "mom, I have to check my email, I think Taylor emailed me to tell me she loved me." Is that just the cutest thing you have ever heard?

All that playing makes these little kiddos thirsty and what a great place to take a break!

Taylor certainly isn't shy when it comes to expressing her feelings for Nolan!

What a trooper Ashlynne is... 9 months pregnant and hanging on the trampoline!

I love each of their expressions as they gaze at each other!

Mother's Day

2009-05-19T21:14:00.005-04:00

This was my present from my little Taylor on Mother's Day. I love it. Her little hand prints are so cute and to think of Mike getting Taylor to do this without me knowing, makes me smile.

I feel so lucky to be Taylor's Mommy. Everyday I fall more and more in love with her-this could be because every morning she wakes up cuter, smarter, funnier, and more beautiful then she was the night before. I squeeze her and kiss her about a hundred times a day and after she goes to bed at night I still get the desire to wake her up to kiss and hug her some more. I totally understand the saying "Momma squeezed the baby till her head popped off!"

Mike had a paper due Sunday night (obviously his professor has no Mothers in his life) so after making some pancakes for Taylor and I, he showed his appreciation of me by sitting at the dinning room table typing a paper all day. My mom and I went to IKEA. It was Taylor's first experience. I think she made out okay.

She walked right over to this chair and climbed in.

One quick smile to her Maddy while sitting in the chair and it was hers!

Taylor LOVES this chair and spent the first three days having it, taking every toy and book she owns to the chair, climbing on with the toy/book, and climbing back off. It was great entertainment, and come to think of it an extra little Mother's Day present to ME!

Nolan's Birthday Party

2009-05-12T15:29:00.009-04:00

This weekend we celebrated Taylor's cousin Nolan's first birthday. It was a beautiful afternoon and Taylor had a ball playing in Aunt Lynn and Uncle Jim's backyard. She was in to everything, loved the swing set, couldn't get enough of the playhouse, played a little soccer, and even did a nose dive in to a mud puddle and got up for more. There were lots of kids, lots of playing, lots of laughing, and by the end we had one tuckered out little girl! Greeting the Birthday Boy

Loving the playhouse... and still kind of clean

For some reason Taylor really enjoys going up the slides rather then coming down- who knows!

Is it in her genes? I know it is making her Daddy and the rest of the Krepps family proud!

I love this picture... especially her dirty little knee!

In the playhouse with Aunt Jen

Nolan was a trooper all day but by the time it was "cake time" nothing was making him very happy- not even the green icing smeared across his face.

Not sure what Tyler was going for here, but it is a cute face!

Some Tricks

2009-05-08T21:02:00.005-04:00

I really have so much to say about all of the things Taylor is learning and doing but due to having back to back illnesses in the house, first Taylor then me, our upstairs looks like a tornado went through it, so I must go clean. For now, here is a short clip of my little cutie doing a run through of her tricks!

MS Walk/ MS "it is way to hot to walk"

2009-04-26T20:12:00.004-04:00

Today was the MS walk in Perkasie. Katie and I have done it for the last several years with the team, "Irene's Spirit". Irene is the mother of an old co-worker of mine. We have walked in freezing weather and beautiful weather and today it was just plain hot- like 95 degrees hot! I'll be honest and say I was happy to have a prego and a baby with me because I could use them as an excuse to not really walk but instead sit under a tree and play. We did walk a little... but not much!

This is so much better then walking... who wouldn't laugh hysterically at this?? Katie is one funny mama!!

Gram Camp- A Real Workout!

2009-04-22T19:36:00.003-04:00

Taylor absolutely refuses to sleep when Grammy (Mike's mom) watches her on Mondays and Tuesdays. Taylor is lucky enough to spend these days with her two cousins, Tyler and Nolan, and she does not want to miss a minute with them. I always refer to her as the "last man standing" because she will not go to sleep unless the boys are already sleeping and even then it is a rarity. It is certainly not due to Grammy's lack of trying... it is all to do with Taylor's desire not to miss a thing!! Needless to say when I pick her up at 3:30 she is spent and falls asleep as I am putting her in the car seat. I usually let her sleep until 5, wake her up for dinner, and then this happens...

I think Spring is finally here!

2009-04-22T14:16:00.007-04:00

I have started to realize that as Taylor gets older and older the house is getting smaller and smaller. This is not just because she has more toys but because she is moving, exploring, and testing her limits. Her world is getting bigger, her attention span shorter, and the weather seems to be getting rainier! (Actually, that is a bit of an exaggeration, she has really started concentrating on certain things and you can just see her little brain working to figure out whatever it is she is focused on.) Anyway, we love to get outside and enjoy the fresh air and with there being several cold rainy days recently we really appreciate any sun we get. Here are a few pictures of Taylor enjoying the approaching spring! By the way, I am excited to be able to do "rainy day" activities with Taylor when she gets older, like arts and crafts, but for now her rainy day fun is making me chase her up the steps 100 times a day!

Simply Spring Photoshoot

2009-04-11T19:42:00.006-04:00

Last weekend our friend (and talented photographer!) Danielle took some amazing pictures of us at Valley Forge Park. It was perfect timing because she had arranged a weekend of "Simply Spring" sessions and we wanted some pictures to mark Taylor's first birthday. Danielle did such a wonderful job, as always. Not only is she a talent as a photographer but a natural with kids... Taylor was enamoured with her and hung in there for over an hour! Here is a small sampling of the many pictures taken!

Birthday Party

2009-04-03T06:50:00.005-04:00

So Taylor's first birthday party is in the record books. It was a great time and Taylor had a blast. She had all her favorite boys here to play with, tackle, chase after, and steal toys from. To me the party was a bit of a blur, it went so fast, and I don't think I really got to talk to anyone!

This is on Taylor's actual birthday... obviously she wanted to make sure she smeared the icing EVERYWHERE! She looks so pretty and innocent in her little dress- about two seconds after this picture was taken she was tackling Nolan to the ground. He is such a good sport though!

Taylor did great opening all of her presents and she had lots of help!

A little neater than the first time... I guess it was all the pressure

This has to be one of my favorite pictures. I love how protective Nolan looks of Taylor. Ashylnne told him to put his arm around her so she didn't fall off the back of ice chest and he is taking his job very seriously! What a sweet sweet boy!

Tyler couldn't wait for people to leave so that he could open the tunnel. He and Taylor loved playing in there. Which was awesome when we all needed to sit and take a break after the party. Here we are! We all survived the first year... bring on toddlerhood!

Happy Birthday

2009-03-26T22:15:00.001-04:00

Taylor, Taylor, Taylor, can’t you see, sometimes your words just hypnotize me.

Well, we now have a little talker on our hands. And, yep, she confirmed what I’ve known for a while – she likes her daddy best. Her mommy may argue that point, but why else would her first word be “daddy?”

This is my first time giving an update on the blog – mommy has provided all of the posts up until now. (And after starting out like I did, I realize this may be my last.)

But today is Taylor’s 1st birthday, and the excitement of the milestone and the astonishment that the first year has passed already has me feeling rather expressive. It has been a week of big milestones, and I’m so proud of my little girl. Saying her first word, taking her first steps, and turning one – all in the same week! Growing up so fast…

I almost want it to slow down so I can have a chance to soak up every moment and relish in every little milestone. But it just goes by in a blur. Just flashes of memories of Taylor sleeping on my legs no bigger than my forearm, afternoons of bouncing her in the bjorn to get her to nap, the nights of waking her up every couple of hours, her first bath, her first solid food, her first tooth, her first cold and how her parents completely overreacted, getting up on her knees for the first time, learning to wave, to stick out her tongue, to play peekabo… Like I said, a blur.

It feels like just yesterday we brought her home from the hospital. She has grown and developed so rapidly. And lord knows, she has not wasted a moment sitting still. The ultrasound techs tried to warn us when each time we went they commented about how active her legs were and how we were in for it. They’re good, those Abington ultrasound techs. But I wouldn’t want her any other way. So bright, and so full of life. Okay, so maybe a little aggressive at times – tackling her little cousin and trying to pull his face off every week she sees him at Grammy’s – but we can look past that, right?

As I sit here and reflect, what a rush of emotions. (One thing that’s been clear for a while now is that I have become a sap every since this whole baby thing started.) Everyone says that the day your baby is born is the best day of your life and that the feeling is indescribable. But until I experienced it, I had no way of really comprehending how breathtaking and overwhelming and special that feeling really is. Such a powerful experience, and I am so thankful for having been able to experience it.

Well, Happy Birthday Taylor. I love you, and your Mommy loves you. You have brought so much joy to our lives, and we look forward to every day that we get to spend with you and watch you grow.

New Kicks

2009-03-21T17:29:00.002-04:00

Maddie bought Taylor her first pair of real shoes today while we were at the mall. She looks so cute walking in them because she lifts her knees real high like the shoes weigh a ton. I feel like they instantly erased any trace of baby that she had left in her... it makes me a little sad.

11.5 months

2009-03-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

Busy Busy Busy... haven't had a moment to write Taylor's 11 month post but I don't want to miss it!

Is our Baby really almost one? I can't believe how fast this is all going and just like months past Taylor seems to be changing just as rapidly as ever. I don't even know where to start. She has been getting in to things and exploring her little world more and more and she is always so proud of herself. The kitchen and her bedroom are her favorite rooms in the house. She can pull her clothes out of her drawers for minutes (ha ha-a long time for her) at a time, put them back, and start again. Folding laundry has become an impossible task with her around. In the kitchen she likes to pull the sandwich bags out of one drawer and put them in another drawer. There is a method to her madness and if I could understand her babbles I am sure I would get it.

Save me from this grass

At times Taylor's energy seems to be endless and sitting still for 2 seconds is completely out of the question, but she is starting to become more and more of a cuddle bug. She has this ability to completely melt us when she is going, going, going and then crawls over to us and lays her head in our lap. It may only last for a few seconds but it is wonderful- Emma thinks so too! She is starting to love her blanky and will take a break from playing to grab it and hug it for a second. Ahh, adorable.

Taylor is really understand general conversation and is picking up on things and doing things that we haven't taught her. The first time she did this we said, "Taylor you want to go night night?" and she grabbed her blanket and dropped to the floor pretending to sleep. Mike and I both looked at each other like, "did you teach her that?" She amazes us with these things all the time now... wiping her nose with a tissue, putting phones to her ear, brushing her hair, and trying to use qtips. It is amazing how much she can pick up ( it is time to curb the potty mouth Mike!)

Taylor has shown little interest in walking. She can stand on her own when she doesn't realize that she is doing it but when I try to tell to stand and try to let go of her, she collapse with what I call "noodle legs." Just over the past couple of days she started reaching from one thing to another, tries to take a step, and collapses to her knees. I think she may finally be starting to realize that walking would be better then crawling. I have a feeling it is just around the corner since things seems to progress pretty quickly.

Mom, we want to go outside

One thing that Mike and I will need and will probably get much practice with is not laughing when she does things we don't want to perpetuate. She is starting to know how to make us laugh and unfortunately some of these things are not really socially appropriate behaviors. I was feeding her lunch the other day and she refused to open her mouth. After trying and trying I was about to give up when she opened as wide as ever and I quickly put a huge spoonful in... only to have her spray it back at me. It was as if she was saying, "alright mom, I will show you what happens when you force me to eat something I don't want." I couldn't help but laugh out loud all the while knowing I was making a huge mistake! I guess we will just have to keep working on this one!

Boat Ride (more vacation pics)

2009-03-18T15:21:00.004-04:00

Here is Taylor enjoying her first boat ride. She seemed to like being out on the water although the lifevest made any movements pretty tough.

Hats and sunglasses, always a good time.

Islamorada, Florida... to be continued

2009-02-25T21:44:00.008-05:00

We enjoyed a family vacation in Islamorada, Florida. It was wonderful. The weather was 75 and sunny, the house was beautiful, the food was good, and I enjoyed a margarita or blue moon everyday... most importantly we spent time with my wonderful parents, Grandmother, Brother, Sister-in-law, niece, and nephews. Taylor was loving life too... so much so she didn't want to sleep past 4:30 or 5am. The one morning I was walking around outside with her at about 4:45am feeling a little cranky about it and I realized that walking on the dock and looking up at the amazing stars was much much better than the alternative which would have been me pacing my hallways with her at home! Truth be told though, Mike was a trooper and got up with her the majority of the mornings!

We were so lucky to have a pool at our house because Taylor loves the water! It was a little nerve wracking at times since she is a speed crawler with no fear... bad combo!

Taylor's stranger anxiety was a little heightened being in a new place with some new people to meet but she took to the kids immediately. They were so great with her. I wish we lived closer... hopefully lots of visits in the future!

Although Taylor was beautiful in her dress and we got lots of great pictures it was a little frustrating for her because it is basically impossible to crawl in a dress. The poor thing had to lift her knees off the ground and basically walk with her hands down (can you get the visual?). I thought it would motivate her to walk but that wasn't the case!

This was early one morning while Mike was trying to quietly entertain her... a cell phone always does the trick!We went to a dolphin and sea lion show and Taylor was very impressed. Each one was about a 1/2 hour and she was completely engrossed. You can see the intensity in her eyebrows!

I have more pics to post and more to write but I haven't had much time... I will add more and do her 11 month post eventually!!

TLC

2009-02-13T10:48:00.003-05:00

Emma is recovering from a minor surgery to have two lumps removed. We are keeping our fingers crossed that she is healthy and that they are not cancerous. In the meantime we are giving her some TLC... which is always the best when it is coming from Taylor.

It is nothing that a little smack with a maraca can't help!

Sleep is good

2009-02-06T13:07:00.004-05:00

I think Taylor is finally starting to like to sleep and I love it because this has translated in to longer naps. Occasionally the longer naps are in my arms which I can't complain about... for two reasons- 1. it is the only time I get to sit during the day 2. there is nothing I love more than snuggling her in my arms and watching her sleep. As she gets older I realize that this isn't going to last forever. When she was a baby baby I used to panic every time I gave in and held her to sleep because I thought I would ruin all potential of having a good sleeper but now I just enjoy every moment that we get to cuddle!

The other day after coming home from a busy day at Gram's Taylor was spent and she fell asleep in my arms as I was taking her out of the car seat. After an hour in my arms I laid her on the floor so I could start dinner. After about three minutes in the kitchen I walked out to check on her and this is what I found...

Sometimes Taylor takes a few minutes to adjust to being awake and there isn't too much that can make her happy. I love how annoyed she looks in the picture, like "why are you taking a picture of me mom, can't you see I am cranky?"

Daddy's girl

2009-02-02T17:41:00.002-05:00

Taylor has prefered me over Mike for much of her life so far but the tide is turning... She gets upset when he leaves for work in the morning and when he gets home she sprints (in a crawling position!) right towards him. This weekend we went for a walk outside and when she saw her Daddy working in the garage, and slightly ignoring her, she cried. He came out to show her the tape measure and she was surely impressed... like it was the coolest thing she has ever seen!

10 months

2009-01-28T08:29:00.005-05:00

Double digits baby! Taylor continues to become more and more adventurous as she becomes an expert crawler/walker along furniture. She moves around this house so quickly that I think in the last month Mike and I have sat down for a total of one minute. The other morning we were all in the kitchen and Taylor crawled to the oven, grabbed the door handle, and lifted her feet off the floor, like she was doing a mini pull up! Even though the house is full of toys Taylor continues to have a fascination for things that aren't hers! Baby proofing is a constant project as we are amazed at the things she can get herself in to!

It has been really cute to see Taylor spend time with other children and become more and more social. She loves watching older kids play and as she warms up she wants to be right in the mix. She loves spending time with her cousins although I think they are slowly getting sick her of her pulling on them, hugging them, and trying to suck on them!

Taylor is developing a little sense of humor as she is starting to find things that does hysterical. She loves to make sure you have seen her when she accomplishes something and always claps at herself after she notices that you have seen her. She continues to work on her verbal skill/mouth noises and occasionally they are in context but for the most part they are random MaMa's, Da Da's, Ba Ba, and so one. Occasionally when I ask her a question she responds with a "yeah" but I think it is a fluke!

As I continue to say Taylor amazes us everyday... can't wait to see what the next month brings!

(we don't usually stand this close to the TV but I thought it was a special occassion!)

Spring??

2009-01-23T20:41:00.005-05:00

While chasing Taylor away from Emma's bowls and dog toys has been a blast for the last several weeks...

We ALL needed to get out of the house and today was the perfect day! There was still some snow on the ground but it reached 50 degrees and sun was shinning. There is nothing more refreshing than a swing ride!

Snow baby

2009-01-19T19:57:00.002-05:00

Today was the first real snow storm that we have had since Taylor has been born. I had to bundle her up and take her out to experience it. I tried to talk her into building a snowman but she was more intersted in just sitting and looking pretty... maybe next time.

Littlest Fan

2009-01-14T21:39:00.005-05:00

I thought for the exciting occassion of the Eagles actually making it in to the playoffs I would buy Taylor her very own Westbrook jersey. At the time I was okay with the possibility that she may only get to wear this once however now I am feeling pretty confident that she will be sporting this on February 1st as well! Go Birds!

9 Months old

2008-12-29T20:47:00.004-05:00

This was a big month for Taylor... her whole world changed as she became mobile! She loves her new found ability to explore the world that she has been observing for the last 9 months. She is so happy to go after anything that we had not previously handed her to play with... shoes, newspapers, cell phones, tv remotes, the lap top, etc. I have to imagine that she has been sitting back waiting for this day to come!

Taylor also had a very bad cold this month. She was sick for about 10 days which was horrible. We felt so bad for her and sleeping was basically impossible. She coughed most of the night and frequently threw up (gross). I am making a note of this because this led us to pick her up and rock her anytime she cried in the middle of the night. While this seemed like the right thing to do at the time and probably what I will do in the future it completely sent all of our "sleep training" right down the drain. We now have a horrible sleeper on our hands. This coupled with her learning to pull herself up and stand in her crib is sure to be our biggest challenge for the month to come. Yea for us.

On a positive note Taylor has learned to hug this month. I think this is my favorite development so far. One night Mike was playing with her in her bedroom and he handed her her doll, who he named Madeline, and she grabbed her and pulled her close to her. It was the cutest thing in the world and of course we had to do it a hundred more time just to be sure it wasn't a fluke. Now when Mike or I pick her up she grabs our neck and squeezes. It is just the best feeling and probably what will get us through the sleepless nights ahead!

Christmas

2008-12-26T20:31:00.008-05:00

Santa (AKA - Maddie and Pop Pop/Grammy and Grandpop) was good to Taylor! We could benefit from a playroom at this point because our living room is no longer very livable! Most of Taylor's new toys light up, make noise, roll, bouncy, spin and do anything that one would think would be very appealing to a 9 month old...which makes it that much funnier when she completely ignores them for the rolled up piece of wrapping paper, cardboard box, or bow. We had a great day and are so thankful for our wonderful families. Here are some pictures...

Dinner out with the Krepps family... Pre Christmas Celebration

The Cousins

Christmas morning...The first of many things that kept Mike and I up until Midnight Christmas night untwisting twist ties.

Christmas morning with Maddie and Pop Pop

Way too excited to sit long enough to have her pants put back on

Loving Mommy

Daddy's prized possession... and Taylor

Christmas dinner at Grammy and Grandpop's

Loving Nolan

What a difference a year makes

2008-12-23T21:34:00.008-05:00

Last year at this time we were talking about all of our Christmas's to come and how different it would be to have children to celebrate them with. We were so excited to begin our lives as parents yet we had little idea what we had in store for us... the challenges, excitement, and joy. This Christmas we have out little girl here and we can't wait to celebrate the day with her. There is no doubt that she will have a ball and certainly no doubt that it will be our best Christmas yet!

Merry Chrismas

2008-12-16T20:16:00.001-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Party Hearty

2008-12-14T20:31:00.006-05:00

We had a busy weekend with lots of birthday parties... Saturday was Ashlynne's surprise 30th birthday party and today was Tyler's 3rd birthday. Taylor loved being with all the other kids and is now sleeping like a rock as proof of a great time!

Chase is adorable. After meeting Taylor he promptly gave her a giant bear hug, tackling her to the floor! Here he is taking some time to show her how to honk the horn on her bus. He is probably telling her in his own little language just how cool this really is.

Taylor and the boys... which one will she marry? Both wonderful choices in my opinion!

The birthday girl and her baby... who won't be her only baby for much longer!

Getting Tyler away from all of his toys to actually blow out his candles was tough but luckily he noticed that his cake was Thomas!

The making of an equestrian!

Meeting Santa

2008-12-12T15:34:00.004-05:00

We subjected Taylor to Santa last night. She was very happy standing in line waiting and watching the other children however things changed drastically when I tried to put her on his lap! I posed for a few pictures with her and then I did it... I left her there alone. Hopefully she won't have nightmares for too long!

It is clearly not the beard or the belly she is afraid of...

All I want for Christmas

2008-12-08T19:37:00.004-05:00

All Taylor wants for Christmas is her two front teeth! The poor little girl is miserable. Not only are her little gums swollen and sore she has a runny nose and low fever. Sleeping is tough and the last several days have looked like this...
I know it seems insensitive that I took a picture of the tears but rocking, singing, jumping up and down, and standing on my head didn't work so I thought I would try the camera!

It Fits!

2008-12-03T19:26:00.003-05:00

Ashlynne, Matt, and Nolan gave Taylor this adorable sweater and hat when she was born... it took 8 months but the weather and the fit are now perfect! I just think she looks adorable in it.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-30T07:47:00.005-05:00

We had a great Thanksgiving... I think these pictures sum up all that we have to be thankful for this year!

8 months

2008-11-27T22:07:00.007-05:00

Again, I am shocked that I am here, writing about another month that has gone by. Taylor has spent the last month amazing us... as usual. Even after 8 months, Mike and I can't get enough of her. Certainly there are times that we beg her to sleep more or hope that she will briefly entertain herself so we can quickly get something done, but most of the time we are chomping and the bit to be with her. Sometimes after I get her to bed and relax on the couch for a few minutes, I am ready to be with her again. Mike and I have even been tempted to wake her up to play and cuddle some more but we realize that would be a little crazy! Ahhh... we feel so lucky!

Taylor is really getting around these days... not quite crawling but working on it. She rolls all over and squirms to get wherever she wants. She loves to stand at her table and is getting pretty good at pulling herself up on to it. Taylor has a toy drum that we have been playing with for a few months and now she thinks that all surfaces are drums and pounds pretty much anything that she can get her hands on. She bangs in delight and in frustration, the differences are the squeals that accompany the banging! She has also started handing things to us. She loves when I take her pacifier out of her mouth, pretend to put it in my mouth, and then give it back to her. After doing this a few times she takes it out of her mouth and tries to put it in my mouth, all with a huge smile!

Still practicing crawling... not quite there but working on it!

Practicing this too...

Getting ready to go swimming

Here's too a busy month of decorating, shopping, and meeting Santa!

a growing friendship

2008-11-22T13:46:00.004-05:00

I think I have said before that Emma has been feeling a bit neglected since Taylor entered our world... poor thing. Anyway, she has now figured out that hanging out with Taylor is a sure fire way to get some attention and is basically on top of her all day long. Taylor loves it and thinks that pulling her collar, grabbing her ears, and getting kisses is super fun.

This is just after Emma lands a wet one right across Taylor's face

Determined to get the collar

Taylor thinks rolling on top of Emma is pretty fun these days too.

Soccer Game Sundays

2008-11-12T15:02:00.004-05:00

Taylor and I have been going to Mike's soccer games on Sundays for the last several weeks. She is actually quite content sitting and watching the action about the first half and then we have to come up with things to do to pass the time. I can't wait until next year when she is running around kicking the ball with her daddy! The weather so far has been nice but I think we may be running out of days warm enough for her to be outside for an hour and half so I wanted to make sure to get some pictures this week.

Self Feeding

2008-11-08T14:33:00.004-05:00

Well Taylor's arms are now long enough to reach her bowl even when placed at the very edge of the highchair tray. It use to be safe there but no longer. I turned my back long enough to get a glass of water and she got in to her breakfast! We let her keep playing with it for awhile to see what she would do and I think she had fun "self feeding".

Bookworm

2008-11-08T14:19:00.003-05:00

Thanks to our friend Ashlynne recommending five books (at least!) a day from day one Taylor has become quite the bookworm! We mostly get them in before naps and bedtime because that is generally the only time she is willing to sit still in our laps. She has her favorites and I think I have the majority of them memorized. I sometime find myself walking around the house reciting "Hands Hands Fingers Thumb"... I think it might drive Mike crazy... when I do it out loud!

So many choices

Yes we are standing up!

Taylor and her Buddy

Emma isn't really excited by the same book over and over again

a day in the life of a pumpkin

2008-11-02T20:58:00.004-05:00

Halloween was a busy day for our little pumpkin...

posing with her other pumpkin friends

hanging with her cousin Nolan

Tackling her cousin

playing with Dr. Atkiss, Dissectologist (Aunt Jen in Costume)

Finally, scaring all the trick or treaters

She IS a little fish!

2008-11-02T20:40:00.004-05:00

We started swimming lessons on Friday. We almost missed the first one on account of the Phillies parade but at the last minute I thought it was a better choice to go swimming. Mike chose the parade... we forgive him... it could be a once in a life time event!

Anyway Taylor seemed to love the giant bathtub that she shared with her momma! It was nice that we had Pop Pop and Great Grandmom there to watch too.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-30T21:04:00.005-04:00

Although I love the fall, I am not a big fan of Halloween... in fact I usually can't wait for the day to be over. I know I sound dramatic but I really don't like to be scared! I know it is important for Taylor to enjoy the fun of dressing up and getting candy so I will do my best not to let my irrational fears rub off on her! Isn't she just the cutest little pumpkin!

7 months

2008-10-28T20:02:00.004-04:00

7 Months and changing and growing so much. Everyday seems to be somthing new for Miss Taylor. Just last night she started "ga ga ga ing" and hasn't really stopped except when eating or sleeping. I think she may have gotten sick of her own shreks and is happy to be able to make a new noise. When Mike and I heard this we began clapping and she looked right at us and brought her hands together like she wanted in on the clapping action too. After celebrating these new developments, I sat on the floor with her and she reached forward to grab my shoe lace and inched forward in the crawling position. I wouldn't really consider it a real crawl but it was the first time that she really made an attempt at this. After all this happened we were on development overload and started telling her to slow down! I remember when she was first born and although we appreciated every moment I couldn't wait for her to start doing something... anything...and now I am starting to feel a little sad when I experience all these new things because this is all going too fast!

Go Phils!

2008-10-24T13:10:00.001-04:00

More Pumpkins...

2008-10-18T13:31:00.003-04:00

I have decided that babies and pumpkins make really cute pictures. We stopped at a local farm stand this morning to pick up a few more little pumpkins and a mum and of course had to snap some pictures.

Practice Practice Practice

2008-10-15T11:07:00.003-04:00

No movement yet but we are practicing!

Family Weekend

2008-10-14T21:22:00.006-04:00

This weekend Mike's family from down south came up due to the untimely passing of his uncle. It was a very sad weekend but we were able to spend a lot of time with family that we don't often get to see. It was fun to see Taylor, Nolan, Tyler, and Jaden(mike's cousin's son) all together. Jaden is adorable and got so excited whenever he saw Taylor. He immediately pointed her out to everyone, affectionately referring to her as "baby". Taylor thought he was pretty cool too because he loved giving her the pacifier and this is an immediate plus for anyone she meets.
Here are some pictures from the weekend. We spent some time at home relaxing and catching up. We also went to Merry Mead Farms which was absolute insanity but a nice way to enjoy the fall. Gram and Grandpop were the baby holders while the rest of us played.

The best way to make friends with Taylor

Baby Holders Extraordinaire!

The most perfect pumpkin in the patch

2008-10-04T15:25:00.004-04:00

We picked up an old tradition and added a new member today! Taylor, Maddie, PopPop, Great Grandmom and I all went to Solly's to find the prefect pumpkin and to enjoy the beautiful fall day. Taylor was taking it all in as usual. She didn't mind posing for a few (or a thousand) pictures or walking and walking until we found a perfectly round, perfectly orange pumpkin.

Some Pre Pumpkin Picking Pictures

I can't take my eyes off of all these pumpkins!

Did we find it?

Lets inspect it closely...

We have a winner!

It was a tough job but some one's got to do it!

Chompers

2008-09-30T19:28:00.004-04:00

Here they are, finally you can see her pearly whites in a picture ( I do realize that they are barely visible)

6 months

2008-09-27T15:21:00.004-04:00

The past six months have been so wonderful and watching Taylor grow and learn everyday is just amazing. Taylor's personality is really developing. She constantly wants our attention and has learned to scream at the top of her lungs in order to get it. When you finally look at her she gets an embarrassed look on her face and gives a little shrug and smile. It gets us every time. She is also getting much more personable. For most of her life she was very comfortable in mine or Mike's arms and wasn't too happy to be passed around however she is a getting a little more adventurous these days. She is very happy to spend a time with her Gram and Grandpop, she loves to visit with her Pop-Pop and Great Grandmom, and the other day she was totally cranky in my arms and actually reached for and wanted to be held by her Maddie. Mike and I are happy to finally share the love of our little baby!

Taylor has really grown to love Emma. She is so fascinated by her and watches her every move. Emma is sure to get a giggle out of Taylor whenever she comes near her and especially if she barks or growls while playing. Taylor likes to reach for her ears, nose, and collar and poor Emma is fairly tolerant... I am sure she is just happy to have some attention after 6 months of basically being ignored (we still love her!)

I have to say the best part of this month was Taylor's progress in the crib! She has become such a good little sleeper (for the time being). We broke down and used the "Ferber" method. It wasn't as bad as I thought and it has surely paid off. For the past week and a half Taylor has slept 11 -12 hours straight. We are all much happier!
Here's to the next 6 months and all the "firsts" it will bring!

I swear she is happy to have us as parents, even though she looks less than thrilled in this shot!

Cozy girl

2008-09-27T15:02:00.004-04:00

I put Taylor down for a nap this afternoon and checked on her about 15 minutes later and this is what I found. She had her 6 months shots yesterday, it is damp and rainy out today, and apparently this is how she is coping with it. Looks good to me! I had to snap a picture of her adorable little face all snuggled up in the blanket.

Chuck E Cheese

2008-09-24T13:08:00.003-04:00

This afternoon Ashlynne and Nolan and Taylor and I went to Chuck E Cheese's for lunch. Taylor was in awe of the lights, sounds, and the entertainment of watching Nolan, Nolan loved putting the tokens in the machines and collecting the tickets(after Ashlynne and I worked hard at winning them) and Ashlynne and I loved the pizza! We were a little reluctant to go because we weren't sure what to expect but it turned out to be a great time. We even got to meet the very creepy life size version of Chuck E and get our picture taken on a ride!

Girls Day Out

2008-09-17T21:12:00.005-04:00

Every year since I was little my mom and I have gone to Peddlers Village to look at the scarecrows. Last year I was pregnant and we talked about how fun it would be this year when we would have Taylor with us... well she didn't disappoint us! We had a great time riding the carousel, shopping, looking at the scarecrows, and eating lunch. Maddie bought Taylor her first doll baby which she picked out by grapping it and sucking on its head.

The best laugh there is!

2008-09-15T21:39:00.004-04:00

Good vs. Bad

2008-09-14T19:58:00.008-04:00

Pears Good...

Green Beans Bad...

Pears Good...

Green Beans Very Very Bad...

I think the pictures speak for themselves, Taylor doesn't like green beans. I wish the last picture had sound so you could hear her gagging as she tried to swallow them. Tomorrow we will have the video camera out for sure! Poor thing.

buddies

2008-09-10T19:26:00.001-04:00

This has officially become my new favorite picture...

We all made it out in one piece.

2008-09-04T20:26:00.003-04:00

This was a big week for Taylor and I... I started working again and I have to say, it wasn't that bad! I will only be working 14 hours a week but after not leaving Taylor for more then an hour (very rarely) here and there, I was afraid this was going to be unbearable. The whole process has been made much easier knowing that Taylor is in wonderful hands with her Gram and because I am really excited about my new job. Today Mike took off to watch Taylor because it is not a normal day that I will be working. I was so jealous this morning as he lay in bed cuddling and playing with her and I got ready to go to work. I had to remind myself several times that poor Mike has been dealing this for the last 5 months. I know that he and Taylor had fun today and I guess I can share her every once in awhile!

Taylor's favorite sport

2008-08-31T16:26:00.005-04:00

We introduced Taylor to what is sure to be her favorite sport (until of course she gets a pony). She was really excited to be sitting in the grass... she is a full fledged sitter now... but she was even more excited to see the soccer ball.

If that is not a perfect foot for soccer, I don't know what is... I do think it will look better in a riding boot though.

A Morning in the Park

2008-08-31T16:08:00.007-04:00

Even though it is August it has been feeling like fall in the mornings. This morning we decided to enjoy the nice cool weather and take Taylor to the park in our neighborhood. She had her first ride in the jogging stroller (although we walked) and she had her first swing ride and slide experience. She loved all of it!

Uncle Doug

2008-08-29T14:35:00.002-04:00

Taylor met her Uncle Doug this week. He came to visit us for a day and it was great to see him. We can't wait for her to meet Aunt Susan and her cousins, Brooke, Corey, and Christopher in February.

yummy... cardboard

2008-08-29T14:26:00.003-04:00

We made the decision to start feeding Taylor last week. We started with rice cereal as "they say" you should. I made Mike taste it first and even after the gross face he made I decided to taste it too and it was foul. It really tasted like cardboard. Anyway, we still fed it to Taylor and she was just as thrilled as can be to have the spoon in her mouth. I don't think she cared what was on it as long as she could chew on the soft rubber (note: she now as a tooth, at the time we didn't know but two days ago we began to see and feel the little white sharp tooth!) We have been eating for a few days now and she is starting to get the hang of it although most of it ends up on her face, hands, and bib.

Almost 5 months

2008-08-25T15:44:00.010-04:00

Taylor will be five months tomorrow... crazy. I am taking the opportunity to blog about it now since she is napping. Taylor has taken a liking to napping in mommy and daddy's bed. She likes it so much that when she naps there she usually sleeps for 2 hours. I have also taken a liking to this since in her crib she lasts for 30 minutes , max, on a good day.

Taylor started rolling over this month. Belly time hardly exists anymore! She hasn't figured out how to go from her back to her belly yet but I don't think she is in a rush to pick this up since belly time has never really been her favorite.

Taylor is continuing to enjoy the use of her hands. She reaches for everything and is not happy until whatever she sees is in her mouth. She really enjoys remote controls, cell phones, water bottles, and other peoples fingers. She also loves standing and pulling things off of the coffee table. Here you can see how excited she gets when she sees the remote.
Taylor continues to amaze us everyday. Even though we have only known her for 5 short months we can't really remember what life was like before her!

school spirit

2008-08-11T16:16:00.003-04:00

Taylor was able to sport her Delaware pride last night. Taylor grabbed a glass of water off the table and dumped it on both of us so we needed to change. The weather was stormy and cold so I thought a sweatsuit was a good cozy choice.

This is Taylor trying to grab the camera out of my hand and put it in her mouth.

Like looking in a mirror

2008-08-08T20:56:00.006-04:00

Taylor spent some time today with her cousin Nolan. They were so cute laying next to each other and holding hands, rubbing each other's faces, and sucking each other's fingers.

Ummm... you guys are cousins...no flirting

I don't blink so I will totally win this contest

three hands are better than two

Monkey see- Monkey do

A Walk in the Park

2008-08-06T15:34:00.004-04:00

Taylor and I went for a walk at Peace Valley Park on Tuesday with Monique and Michaela. Michaela just celebrated her first birthday and is adorable. I faced Taylor forward in her stoller because I thought she would enjoy the view. She wasn't too impressed and I think it just made it harder for her to fall asleep although by the end of the walk she was out.

Hangin with the Fam...

2008-08-06T15:25:00.004-04:00

We had dinner with Great Grandmom, Pop Pop, and Maddie on Sunday. It was a beautiful afternoon. Taylor was a big hit as always. Whenever I ask, "what can I bring?" The answer is always, "just bring Taylor."

Not a fish

2008-08-03T21:25:00.005-04:00

We tried swimming again at Ashlynne's last week...Taylor still doesn't like it as evidenced by this beautiful face she is making. I think we are going to try swimming lessons when she is 6 months old so hopefully by then she is more interested in the water! We also hung out with Nolan and Michael... they are so adorable! Ashlynne does such a great job with those two very active boys! She fed Michael yogurt, cut Nolan's pizza, clean spilled carrots off the floor, and ate her own pizza almost simultaneously. She also spent much of the afternoon running up and down the hallway with the walker every time Nolan signed "more." We got to visit with Dawn who also joined our lunch date. It was a very nice afternoon!

4 Months Old

2008-07-26T22:01:00.005-04:00

Four Months... wow. Taylor is becoming more and more of a little person with her own (some times very strong) personality! When I think about the last month I can't help but mention our complete lack of sleep. Taylor has decided that she prefers getting all of her calories in the middle of the night. She has no interest in eating much during the day but once the sun sets , boy, she is ready to go and wants to eat every two hours or so. I think I am getting less sleep now then when she was a newborn and I certainly have less adrenaline! On a positive note, every morning Mike goes to get her and brings her in to our bed. Even after the hardest night, when I hear her over the monitor, cooing and ahhing to him when he says good morning to her and then when I see her smiling face in his arms I feel revived! She is so pleasant in the morning and talks so much that she can make even the most tired person feel ready to party! We have experienced lots of "phases" with Taylor so I am hoping that this is just another one and soon she will be back to her old sleeping self!

Aunt Jen and Uncle Dave's Wedding

2008-07-26T20:37:00.005-04:00

After 8 years Aunt Jen and Uncle Dave are married! The bride was beautiful, the groom handsome, and the day couldn't have been more perfect! Here are some highlights...

Jen looked amazing! Taylor was happy to pose with her!

The married couple strolling to the limo

Thank goodness that Maddie was there to help

Some cuddle time with Mommy after a long day! It was good for both of us!

Today we spent the afternoon at Dave'e parents house. It was a nice relaxing day. Taylor was able to spend some time with the newlyweds!

Holding on!

2008-07-10T16:26:00.004-04:00

Taylor is really getting to love her hands and all that she can do with them beside chew them. She likes to hold on to her toys and she has started reaching for her toes. I have no doubt that these too will be in her mouth soon.

Teething??

2008-07-07T15:23:00.005-04:00

Taylor has always liked putting her fingers in her mouth. She used to just put one or two fingers of one hand in while rubbing the back of her head with the other hand and it seemed to relax her. Recently this has changed and she has started shoving both hands in her mouth, gnawing away at them, and drooling like crazy. Today I noticed little bruises on two of her fingers where she apparently chewed a little too hard. I am not sure if this is the start of teething or just her exploring but tonight she had a low fever and a runny nose. Does this mean no sleep?

Why bruise my fingers when I can chew on Mommy's?

Swimming

2008-07-03T13:48:00.006-04:00

We went to Ashlynne's sister's house Wednesday to go swimming. Taylor had a brand new bathing suit, swimming diapers, and a sunhat... we were prepared, however despite the preparation she wasn't a big fan and we only got to break in the hat. I dipped her toes in and she didn't seem to enjoy it. The water may have been for bit chilly for her and she does not like to be cold. We will try again soon!

It was so nice to hang out by the pool and Taylor loved watching Katie, Robbie, Nolan, Ashlynne, and Matt swimming. She is definitely entertained by other kids and whenever we are around Nolan she can't take her eyes off of him! He is a great little swimmer and I am sure next year he will be able to teach her a few things.

3 Months

2008-06-26T12:45:00.003-04:00

Taylor is three months old! On one hand it seems like she has been here for ever and I can't believe it has only been three months, and then other times it seems like three months has flown by. I was filling out her baby book the other day and I realized that I have very little recollection of April or May even happening. June is much clearer, as we settle in to this parenting thing! First time in her highchair

This month was a busy one. Mike's classes are two nights a week and it is shortened since it is the summer so an entire semester of work has been crammed in to five weeks. He is doing a good job of spending time with Taylor whenever he can... even if he is studying and she is sleeping.

Taylor has mastered a few things this month. For one, she is sleeping like a champ. She has been pretty consistently sleeping for 7 hours, then eating, then sleeping another three for about three weeks now. It has been wonderful to sleep this stretch of time again, it has been almost a year since getting this much sleep! Of course just as things seem to be going perfect we started putting her in her crib this week. The first few nights I had to check on her a million times so I was back to functioning on little sleep, but I had to make sure still there and still breathing. I had to take the bumper pads off last night because the night before she scooted to the side and I found her pushed up against them. Last night she woke up screaming after hitting her head on the rails... I have already purchased breathable bumpers. We learn quickly around here!

Unfortunately, she hasn't quite figured out how to fall asleep and getting her to close her eyes has become a huge challenge. She screams and screams until finally falling asleep. I have taken to pacing our back deck as the fresh air seems to speed up the process.

Taylor has also mastered the art of melting our hearts with her adorable smile. She smiles so big that her little shoulders pull up to her ears and her head goes back and forth, like she just can't get enough of whatever you are doing. She has let out a few small giggles, mostly when we make funny noises with our mouth, but we are still waiting for that all out belly laugh.

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