Louisburg Cider Mill

We met the Gerritz family and Pam, Tracie, Avery and Gavin at the annual Louisburg Cider Mill Ciderfest after church this afternoon. Jake missed his morning nap and delayed his afternoon nap in order to see the festivities, so it was a short trip!

Jake was so tired. Poor Katie had to cover her ears he was screaming so loudly! Avery and Maggie looked on while Gavin checked out the pumpkins. We did manage some smiles after viewing the Cider Mill, looking at the artisans' wares, and drinking some sarsaparilla (mom and dad, not Jake).

Tiger Football Saturday in Lenexa

While we missed being in Columbia for the game today, it was nice getting some R&R at home! The family dressed in black and gold to watch the Tigers beat up on Furman.

Jake has become quit attached to this friend, whom we have creatively named "Tiger".

Lockton has me traveling for a few days at a time on occasion, which means Kris is a single dad during those times. He and Jake get along great! As much as I hate being away, it's easier knowing my boys are doing alright. Most of the time, they spend their bachelor hours watching sports. Forget cartoons - Jake only pays attention to the TV when a football or baseball game is on!

Jake is Eight Months Old!

Jake is keeping us on our toes - literally! He would rather stand than sit, so we spend much of our free time cruising around the house. He really likes walking along the couch and from mom to dad. Toys are not nearly as fun or challenging as walking is, according to Jake. Mom already has an exercise partner it seems! Jake is now drinking some formula everyday. Favorite new foods include pasta and cheese.

Otherwise, much is the same: Jake's a great eater, excellent sleeper (thanks to all that walking!) and is teething (four total so far, with two more on the way). 'Tis the life of an eight month old! Mom and dad haven't been great about taking pictures lately, but vow to do better this fall and winter!

Jake has had a lot of fun experiences this month: He stayed with the Westphal family while mommy and daddy went to the Mizzou/Illinois football game in St. Louis Labor Day weekend; and he and mommy met Elinor, daddy's great aunt, and her family.

Jake is Seven Months Old!

How quickly time flies! Jake is eating everything in site, sleeping more than the average kiddo, and is extremely laidback - most of the time. We are so spoiled! Baby proofing is in order soon because Jake is army crawling around the house. It's amazing how quick he is!

Ryan & Katie's wedding

We officially welcomed Katie to the Smith family in Manhattan this weekend! Following the rehearsal dinner at the alumni center on campus, Jake headed back to the hotel with grandpa Steve and grandma Sharon while Kris and I went to Aggieville with the wedding party and friends. Good times! Kris spent most of Saturday with the groomsmen while Jake and I rested up.

As Katie walked down the aisle with her parents, Jake clapped to show his excitement. His timing was perfect! He had seen enough, though, and was rescued by aunt Barb. The two of them walked and played in the back of the theatre during the rest of the ceremony.

Grandma Sharon bought Jake

a tux to wear to the wedding.

Little did we know that someone had switched the pants on the hanger. While the shirt, vest and tie were size 9 months, the pants were size 12 months! Jake literally crawled out of his pants several times during the evening. During the reception, we switched to his John Deere onesie so he could comfortably play and dance. Jake was a trooper, taking several power naps during the night and rallying for a dance here-and-there.

It was certainly a memorable night for everyone. We thank Ryan and Katie for including us in their special day and look forward to forming many more memories with them!

Jake is Six Months Old!

I can't believe how fast the past six months have gone by! Jake is almost sitting up without support, and is eating everything we offer him - almost.

Jake loves his cereal still, and usually eats it with half of a banana or some applesauce each morning. He screams whenever peas are put in his mouth, though. (He definitely gets that from mommy!) In the evening, he prefers sweet potatoes, green beans and either applesauce or banana again. Jake's two bottom teeth are in, and he's working on the top ones. Tonight was his first attempt at drinking from a sippy cup, which he mainly chewed. We'll keep working on that!

Jake is still long and lean, weighing in at 16 pounds, 7 ounces (32%). He is 28 inches long (90%). He loves tummy time scoots around on the floor easily. In a matter of weeks, we will be baby proofing the house as he starts motoring all over the place!

Tara & Craig's Wedding in Aruba

Kris and I left for Aruba Thursday morning. Jake and Spice were in great hands while we were away: Grandpa and grandma Auer kept them until Saturday morning, then grandpa Steve and grandma Sharon kept them at our house until we returned Sunday night! I was a mess as I said goodbye to Jake, but quickly got excited about our short but fun trip. Upon arrival, we met up with everyone for some Balashi and a quick trip to Senor Frogs.

Tara and Craig treated the wedding 

party and their significant others to a snorkeling excursion Friday. Neither Kris nor I had ever been, but both agreed it's a new beach vacation must. Kris flailed through the air on the rope swing, but I opted to stay on board to take pictures.

I spent Saturday morning poolside before getting my hair and nails done that afternoon as Kris and Shannon lounged. We had so much fun dancing on the beach at the reception! It was a beautiful wedding with fun friends in an awesome location. Jake greeted us at the airport Sunday night with a "Welcome Home, Mommy & Daddy!" sign and a bouquet of flowers. It was the perfect end to a fantastic trip!