Spencer is getting bigger!

Spencer continues to grow and develop. He is becoming increasingly vocal. He likes to say "nana" for banana at breakfast. His favorite expression is "Yeah!" He throws his hands in the air when he says it, too, with much feeling. He also says "get," "girl," "no," "book" and "Elmo." He enjoys saying "mama" or more likely "ma-ma-ma-ma-ma." And he likes noodles (as you can see) as well as green beans, asparagus, watermelon, cantaloupe and corn. He also likes Girl Scout thin mint cookies! He experienced some snow in January during a visit to Pennsylvania. He seems to have a sweet nature, but if he doesn't get his way, he will throw a little tantrum that consists of stomping his feet and making some angry sounds. And watch out; he just may bite you!

Spencer's trip to Disney World

Spencer enjoyed a recent trip to Walt Disney World. We went to the Magic Kingdom so that Spencer could have his first haircut at the Harmony Barber Shop on Main Street U.S.A. While waiting in line, Daisy Duck suddenly appeared outside! Spencer was pleased to make her acquaintance as you can see from the photo. You also can see how long and somewhat curly his hair was getting. The hairdresser covered him with Mickey Mouse stickers before cutting his locks. She mixed his hair with pixie dust and put it in a small bag as a keepsake. He also received a certificate and a small pair of mouse ears with "First Haircut" on the back. Spencer's sporting his new haircut in the family photo in front of the Christmas tree. He looks like such a big boy now! And very handsome, too!!! He definitely has the genes for good looks. :)

Spencer is such a big boy!

Spencer is getting bigger, more active and curious! He started walking in September and he really has the hang of it now. He enjoyed trick-or-treating at Halloween. Last week he was teething again with a few more chompers coming in on top. His hobbies are: turning the TV off (particularly if someone seems to be enjoying a program), flushing the toilet and removing people's sunglasses. His favorite foods are French bread, mushrooms, asparagus tips and gingerbread. He has moved on to cow's milk and refuses baby food and formula. He uses a "big boy" sippy cup. We are very proud of his progress! But where did our tiny baby go?!

Spencer's birthday party

Here are some photos from Spencer's birthday party in Pennsylvania. He had an Elmo-theme birthday cake and Elmo even made a special appearance at the party! A magician performed as well. It was a very special day!

Happy birthday, Spencer!

In our family, it is a tradition to have your photo taken on your first birthday. So Spencer was no exception. Spencer was a natural in front of the camera. There were a few challenging moments (particularly when he was posing on his back), but overall, he was easier to handle than his sisters. Spencer had a lovely birthday party with about 40 people in attendance -- plus a furry red monster from Sesame Street. Yes, that's right, Elmo accepted our invitation! He came to the party, danced, led some games and acted as a magician's assistant. A good time was had by all, just as Spencer is loved by all. (I think it is those blue eyes that make even strangers melt.)

Approaching age 1

This photo was used on Spencer's birthday party invitations. He'll be celebrating his first birthday in Pennsylvania with many extended family members. He'll be thinking of ALL of his friends and loved ones in Florida and wishing them well on that happy day.

Spencer is an active boy. He loves crawling and putting things in his mouth -- all very normal behavior. He slept through the night for just the third time earlier this week.

We love him so much!!!

Spencer crawls and has two teeth!

Spencer was teething for at least a month. Then two little teeth popped through! He learned to do the "commando" crawl about a month ago, and for two weeks he has been doing a "proper" crawl. He dislikes sitting still; he loves to squirm. This makes bathtime and changing time a challenge. If he doesn't get his way, he emits a high-pitched squeal -- like that of a piglet. He also can coo and whimper. He desperately wants to learn to walk. He can get into a standing position all by himself and walk from one end of the couch to the other while holding on. He enjoys being around people, and he smiles a lot. Now if only he would sleep through the night ...