Introducing Ethan James

Todays post is very fitting. Not only is it to introduce all of you to Ed's grandson; Ethan James but it's also Christina's 30th birthday. Happy Birthday Christina!

In case math wasn't your strongest subject, Christina is Ed's first child. Marcella is his second (she's 24) and the kids are his third, fourth and fifth (He's such a good Catholic).

On September 8, 2010, Ethan James came into the world. In the short time that we've known him, it's evident that he loves to laugh, smile, babble and is a generally happy kid. He looks a lot like his Dad (Christina's husband Adam) and is almost the same weight as Artemis.

Yesterday we had a playdate and Max and Artemis liked touching Ethan. Ethan didn't seem to mind much, even when they poked him in the eyes (oops). When he cried (which wasn't much), they didn't really seem to notice. Ethan is very good at sharing his toys (unlike another little rascal I know, but that's another post).

Ethan's birth means that it's now "Uncle Max" and "Aunt Artemis". No matter what they're called, we just hope that they all grow up to be friends.

Here are some pictures of the day.

Remembering those that are Gone but Not Forgotten {Loss}

If you know someone who has lost a child, and you're afraid to mention them because you think you might make them sad by reminding them that they died--you're not reminding them. They didn't forget they died. What you're reminding them of is that you remembered that they lived, and that is a great gift. --Elizabeth Edwards

I came across this today. I couldn't have said it better myself.

  Besos, The Zoo

If They Could Talk...

Let's let the dogs out.


What are you laughing about? Mmm, I love peas.


You can't be serious, this is cruel.


Let's help Mommy (un)pack.

The Shoemakers Son

The shoemakers son has no shoes – Unknown (to me)

In our house it should read; the security guy’s house has no security. Well, that’s about to end.

In case you were trying to get in touch with us, we lost internet on Wednesday (and in turn the phone) and have just gotten it back (sporadically) today.

Update: Nipissing Developmental Checklist for 12 Months

Over the past year, I've been regularly referring to the "Nipissing District Developmental Screen" . I'm not sure how long they've been used in Ontario or if they're standard. However, our Doctors compares the kids actions to a set list of milestones based on their age; 1-2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 9 months, 1 year and annually up to 6 years).

Seeing as the kids are 9.5 months (adjusted) and 11.5 months (actual), they are currently working off of the 1-year milestone list.

From the very beginning, they have always been exceeding the milestones for their adjusted age and have almost been meeting it for their real age.

Things have changed for the one-year milestones.