Bowling
6/19/2011: For Father's Day, we joined our friends and their family for some bowling. This was Skyler's first bowling experience and he had so much fun! He loved pushing the ball and watching it go down. He occasionally hit some pins and that was exciting! He had a little trouble with taking turns. He just wanted to keep on going, but he got the hang of it. We just let him play with his ball on the carpet area when it wasn't his turn. He thought that was just as fun!
Pony Ride
4/9/2011: We went to the taco festival today which was much fun in itself. But, the best part for Skyler was the pony ride. He got so excited just to see the ponies, we had to let him ride. He just loved it!
Climbing up the slide stairs
4/1/2011: Skyler has enjoyed going down the slide for quite awhile now, but has been too little to navigate the stairs safely. We've just carried him up or helped him crawl up the slide. He is now big enough and coordinated enough to climb up the stairs to the slide. He's been watching the big kids do this and has wanted tyr for long time. He is so proud of himself to finally be able to climb like the big kids.
Learning good habits.....
4/1/2011: At school, Skyler is learning good habits that he is bringing home. When he has trash, he will say "trash" and make sure to throw it away. He likes to get a kleenex and wipe down surfaces such as the coffee table or the walls. Just the other day, while momma was cleaning the bathroom, he grabbed a paper towel and started wiping down the cabinets. We've got quite the little helper on our hands!
Airplane Dance
4/1/2011: Skyler has developed an interest in airplanes. As we live near an airbase, we have many of them flying overhead. Whenever he sees one, he puts both his arms straight out and moves them up and down pretending to fly like an airplane! Its the cutest!
First Words...
4/1/2011: Skyler is beginning to express himself verbally. I think his first words were "Uh Oh!" whenever he made an oops followed by "No" when asked anything. Must have heard Momma and Daddy say those words one to many times. Words that followed are "nanna" for bannana and "shuss" for shoes.
Sailing
3/6/2011: Skyler went sailing for the first time today. He's a natural sailor and got his sea legs right away! He loved wandering around deck, checking out the lines, and watching the sea. Although, I think his favorite part of the day was taking the wheel with Daddy! Looking forward to many more sailing memories!
Amusement Park
3/5/2011: We arrived in San Diego this afternoon in preparation for our sail tomorrow. We visited Mission Bay and the amusement park there because Momma loves to ride the roller coaster. But, Skyler must have some of Momma's thrill loving gene because he wanted to ride the some rides, too. He rode the Merry Go Round with the biggest grin on his face. Next up was the submarine ride, which he found pretty exciting! Guess we'll be visiting more amusement parks in the future!
Pink Eye
1/31/2011: Skyler got sent home from school today with pink eye. Poor little guy. We took him to the doctor and got the drops. Thankfully, he doesn't seem to be feeling poorly or to be in any discomfort. He just has to miss a few days of school so he doesn't infect anybody else.
First Day in the 1 Year Old Class
1/20/2011: One of the requirements to move into the one year old toddler class, the Jack Rabbits, was to walk. As Skyler wasn't walking before the Christmas break, he had not been introduced to the toddler class. And of course he began walking on his 1 year birthday! So, on his return from break, Skyler began the transisiton to the 1 year old class. Apparently many children are a bit scared and anxious when introduced to the new class and the transition can be difficult. Not for our little Sky guy! The teachers were impressed at how happily he went to visits. We were worried because Skyler would now be napping on cot rather than in a crib. The way he fights naps, we weren' sure he would stay on cot. Today was his first official full day and he loved it! And he did well at nap time. He gave them a little grief, but apparently within a few pats on the back, he was out. Our little guy is growing up!!
Sippy Cup Battle of Wills
1/15/2011: A couple of months ago, we introduced Skyler to the sippy cup to which he took quite well. We used apple juice which was also a new experience for him, but he quickly decided he like his juicy juice. Drinking milk from the cup has been a whole other story. Skyler has been quite insistent that his milk be from a bottle. We have had quite the battle of wills to which Mommy usually succumbed, especially for the morning bottle and bedtime bottle. They seemed such a comfort to him. We brought this issue up with the doctor at Skyler's last wellness check and he told Mommy she had to toughen up and get rid of the bottles. So, she did. This week has been tough,especially in the morning. Mommy would offer him the sippy cup of milk, but he would scream and cry. It was so hard not to give in and break out the bottles again. Afterr a number of days of this, Skyler finally has come to accept his milk form a sippy cup. Surprisingly, now when given the choice between a sippy cup of juice and a sippy cup of milk, Skyler more often than not will choose the milk.
BBQ fan in the making
1/10/2011: Charlie has been practicing smoking his pulled pork for the Doctor vs. Doctor cooking competition. Charlie was mixing a large container at the counter and momma was holding Skyler watching. Skyler took one look at the meat and leaned over and grabbed a handful. "Mmmm...." he says and goes for another handful! Skyler couldn't seem to get enough of the pulled pork and Daddy couldn't be prouder!
Escape Artist
1/9/2011: Charlie got quite the surprise this morning when he went to get Skyler out of his crib.....Skyler greeted him at the door! The little escape artist had climbed out of his bed! Guess we'll have to lower the mattress.
Snow!!!!
1/3/2011: We traveled to the White Mountains for a little winter getaway. It was Skyler's first time to see snow. At first he wasn't sure what to make of it. He was a bit uncertain of how it felt under his feet. But once he got used to it, he thought the slipping and sliding was fun! He also loved digging his little mittens into it and eating the snow. We even worked together to make his first snowman! Wonderful memories!
Using a spoon
12/24/2010: Skyler is becoming more and more independent. He loves yogurt and insisted today on eating it with a spoon all by himself. He was covered with yogurt from head to toe, but very proud of himself!
Milk
12/23/2010: We are trying to transition Skyler to milk. We've been trying the mix of milk and formula, but he is resisting. He is refusing to drink if it contains milk. The doctor told momma she has to toughen up and give him the option of milk or nothing at all. It has been very hard to have Skyler crying and so upset, but the advice worked. Skyler has finally decided that if he is thirsty enough he will accept the milk. Its been a struggle, but the transitionis complete.
Slides are fun!
12/19/2010: Skyler went down the slide at the playground today and just loved it! He was all smiles and giggles and couldn't get enough of it! After trying going down the traditional way (sitting up, feet first) he decided he had more fun going down a more untraditonal way....head first on his tummy! Just like his daddy, Sky has to do things his own unique way!
First Birthday
12/18/2010: We celebrated Sky's 1st birthday with a nice BBQ with friends (family was able to join via Skype)and a homemade strawberry peach cake with cream cheese frosting. He had a huge number 1 helium ballon with an assortment of 1st birthday colored balloons. Sky absolutely loves playing with helium balloons, so these were the best thing we could get for him for his party! Sky wasn't too excited about the sweet cake, but he sure did go crazy for (and make a big mess out of) the potato salad. Skyler enjoyed being the center of attention and playing with all his new toys. Particularly exciting, as noted in a previous post, Sky took his first multiple steps repeatedly on his birthday! How auspicious!
Skyler's first steps
12/18/2010: Skyler took his first steps at his birthday party. He was so pleased with the applause that he took short walks again and again. From his expresion, I got the impression that he was saying "I've been able to do this for months but didn't think it was that big a deal."
He also learned to make car noises from our neighbor "Red" as he pushed his new truck around.
Stairs!
11/9/2010: Skyler has been able to crawl upstairs for a few weeks now, but has steered clear of attempting to go down. His cautious behavior has made hanging out on the patio with him safe and easy. Today he braved going downward after a toy and made it down safely. Such freedom! The entire backyard is now accessible. So much for easily hanging out on the back patio! We are now chasing Sky guy all over the deck and yard!
Ring and Post game expert
10/24/2010: Skyler's hand eye coordination is really improving. He has become quite the little expert on the ring and post game and so enjoys playing it!
Teeth 7 & 8
10/24/2010: Skyler is cutting two more bottom teeth. Poor little guy having them both come in at the same time doesn't feel too good!
Skyler tries Salmon
10/17/2010: Auntie Erika is visiting and made salmon cakes for the family for dinner. We thought we'd let Skyler try it. He seemed to enjloy the salmon cakes but not so much the rice. Still, pretty good taste buds for 10 months old!
First "Real Meal"
10/17/2010: Skyler did a great job this evening eating his first "real meal". He had grilled chicken breast with peas followed by a dessert of applesauce. This is an exciting new step for our little Sky man!
First Real Meal
10/17/2010: Up to now, Skyler has been eating jar baby food as his main meals, with occasional snacking on adult food. Tonight, he had his first real dinner of baked chicken, peas, and applesauce. He loved it! And he insisted on feeding himself the chicken and the peas. Mr. Independent! No more mommy feeding him! He especially liked the applesauce (which he did allow mommy to feed him with a spoon, although he continually kept trying to grab the spoon!) Our little man is growing up!
Skyler discovers the toilet
10/9/2010: Today while scooting around the bathroom, Skyler discoverd the toilet. He has always loved water (the pool, the bath, the sprinklers, water fountains, etc.) so to find a bowl of water that he could splash around in was awesome! He was all smiles and giggles and he splashed water everywhere! Then, he thought it would be funny to unravel the toilet paper and put it in the toilet. What a mess! (We have since raised the toilet paper holders out of reach)
Sixth tooth
9/20/2010: Tooth number six is now coming in on the bottom right! Poor little guy is not feeling so hot!
Fifth Tooth
9/18/2010: Skyler's fifth tooth on the bottom left is making its appearance!
El Golfo
9/15/2010: Skyler visited El Golfo, Mexico this weekend. He has previously seen the beach at Ensenada and dipped his toes in the sand, but the water was way too rough and too cold to play in. In El Golfo, the water was warm and calm with lots of sandy beach. Sky got to sit in the water and play in the sand. He thought this was very cool and fun! He kept tasting the water, so he must have liked the salt! He enjoyed himself immensely, until the sand got in his eyes. But he quicky forgot about that experienc and was ready to play at the beach again shortly thereafter.
First Swing Ride
8/28/2010: Mommy and Skyler visited the neighborhood park for the first time today. Skyler tried out the swings and loved the ride! If Mommy let the swings slow down, Skyler would very vocally let Mommy know he needed to be pushed some more! He just thought the swing was tons of fun!
Skyler plays on the swings at the playground
8/28/2010: Skyler and Mommy went to the little neighborhood playground today. Being pushed in the swings brought out some good giggles from Skyler! He loves being thrown around and swung around, so to be swing independently must have been exciting! While there, Skyler also looked interested in the slide (in the shape of a dragon!) but it was too hot to test it out. Maybe when the weather cools.
Top Teeth make their debut!
8/28/2010: Skyler's top two teeth have been working their way out for a couple of weeks now. Skyler's been a much better sport about the whole experience this time around. Now, the two teeth have cut through the gums and are adding more glimmering white to his smile!
First Thunderstorm
8/26/2010: Yuma got its first thunderstorm since Skyler was born. Skyler, who has always enjoyed watching the water from the sprinklers, seemed to really enjoy watching the rain from the security of the covered back porch. The thunder and lightening startled him at first, but then he was fine with it. He just had this rapt expression on his face while taking it all of the sights and sounds of this new experience in.
Macaroni, beef, and vegetables
8/19/2010: Skyler has begun to eat stage 2 meals, rather than just the single variety (vegetable or fruit or meat) stage 1meals. He is absolute favorite thus far is Macaroni, beef, and vegetable. Others he nibbles on, but this one he gobbles up!
Icky Fruit
8/18/2010: I guess Skyler has not inherited his mother's sweet tooth and love of fruit. We have tried bananas, pears, mangos, strawberries, fresh banana,.......Skyler just purses his lips and turns up his nose at all of it. I suppose we should be happy that his favorite foods are healthy vegetables!
Art Project
8/18/2010: Skyler brought home his first art project from school today. He did a beautiful job with fingerpaint on construction paper. The two masterpieces now take a place of honor on the frige.
Is this my child?
8/18/2010: Cheese is Mommy's absolute favorite food. I probably loves it more than even Chocolate! Mac-n-Cheese is the best comfort food! Skyler, however, turns his nose up at the taste of any cheese. We've tried Mac-n-Cheese which he just lets dribble down his face rather than eating it and the little bits of mozzerella we tried to give him get spit out. Hmmmm....how could my child not love Cheese??
Skyler Crawls!!
8/13/2010: Skyler has been doing the combat crawl for a bit as his mode of mobility. Today he figured out how to get up on his knees and use his legs to get around. I think once he gets a little practice under his belt, he'll be crawling around like a pro! I guess Mommy & Daddy better get ready!
A new favorite......
8/9/2010: Since trying the bland chicken and then the bland turkey, we tried a mixture for dinner tonight. Macaronni, Beef, and vegetable is a definite favorite!
Cheerios!
8/6/2010: Skyler tried Cheerios today. What a hit! He loves them! I suppose from now on we will travel with a supply of Cheerios!
Skyler tries chicken for the first time!
8/5/2010: Skyler tried his first meat today! We fed him some chicken. He found the chicken interesting, but was not enthusiastic. Can't say that I blame him after tasting it myself. Blended chicken alone is a bit bland. But, we'll try some other variations and see if we can't find something a little more appetizing.
Skyler stands up in his crib!
8/2/2010: After a wonderful long weekend in Ensendada, Skyler spent his first night back in his own crib for what we hoped was a good night's sleep. But the little guy must have had other ideas as he greeted us the next morning by standing up in his crib. That must have taken him some work and practice during the night!
Moving On
8/1/2010: Skyler joins us in Ensenada this long weekend with grandparents. It's startling to see how clothes that looked large are now a tight fit.
As usual, he's a charmer.
Skyler is so close to crawling, he does a "combat crawl" where he move at some speed across a room while still on his belly.
This afternoon, he stood up by pulling himself up on the legs of two chairs that were at just the right placement.
Moving On
8/1/2010: Skyler joins us in Ensenada this long weekend with grandparents. It's startling to see how clothes that looked large are now a tight fit.
As usual, he's a charmer.
Skyler is so close to crawling, he does a "combat crawl" where he move at some speed across a room while still on his belly.
This afternoon, he stood by pulling himself up on the legs of two chairs that were at just the right placement.
Skyler sits up all by himself!
7/20/2010: Skyler must have wanted to impress Grandma and Granpa. They arrived to little Skyler sitting up all by himself in his crib for the first time to greet them! Since then Skyler happily moves from his tummy to sitting and back again with ease!
Sky Dude Does Vegas
7/11/2010: Skyler added another state (Nevada) to his list of visited places today. Daddy is presenting at a conference is Las Vegas and Skyler and Mom are providing moral support.
We took the scenic route on our drive and went through some wonderful country. Skyler seemed interested in the drive but the bright lights of Las Vegas are far more interesting.
We think he has an amazing capacity to focus on his environment. He pulled his first all nighter helping dad to be bright and fresh.
Holding his own....
7/8/2010: bottle that is. We've been practicing, but today was the first day Skyler was able to hold his bottle all by himself! He's by no means an expert yet. Skyler has a little trouble figuring out the whole angle thing when the bottle is not full. But, practice will make perfect and knowing our little independent son, he will continue to practice until he can truly drink an entire bottle without any help.
Model Baby
7/3/2010: Skyler scored his first modeling gig today. A friend of ours makes her own soaps and will be marketing them at a large exhibition fair in Tuscon. She has a soap that she calls "Awesome Baby" and wants to use a picture of Skyler on the label. So Skyler's smiling face with his naked bum will be advertising some soap soon!
New Favorite Food
7/1/2010: After the carrots went over so well with Skyler, we have been trying a variety of vegetables including green beans (definitely not a favorite!) and squash (he thinks its okay). Today we tried Sweet Potatoes and Skyler just gobbled them up with a big grin on his face! He loved them! So, carrots have now been surpassed by sweet potatoes as the current favorite food!
Gardening
6/30/2010: We put in a small herb and vegetable garden which needs to weeded regularly. Skyler enjoys helping in this chore because he gets to play in the dirt. He just loves digging his little hands into the dirt, picking up handfuls of dirt,and eating it, too!
Six Month Checkup
6/22/2010: Skyler got his six month check-up today. He's average for height and weight. His motor skills are at the top of the chart. Dr. Crawford found no health issues and Skyler took his shots like a champ - he cried for about a minute but found time to smile for the nurses as we checked out.
Tooth #2
6/2/2010: Wow! No wonder Skyler was in such pain. Tooth number 2, his bottom left, broke through today! He now has two shiny choppers to show off with his big grins!
First Tooth!!!
5/30/2010: Teething has been long, difficult, and painful for Skyler (and Mommy & Daddy), but he has been a real trooper through this whole process as we tried everything we could to try to soothe him (frozen rings and washclothes, hurricane gel, teething tablets). But, today made that whole process worthwhile as the shining white of his bottom right tooth broke through the gum line! Hopefully, this also means the pain and discomfort will abate for Skyler as well.
What a wonderful day!
5/23/2010: Skyler loves music and singing. Thank goodness he isn't discriminating and doesn't seem to mind how off key mommy and daddy are. He enjoys all kinds of music and songs (even the made up ones!) But, his favorite song seems to be "What a wonderful day". The "Zippity do dahs, Zippity a's" really make him smile! Even if he's being a bit grumpy, if we sing him "What a wonderful day" he forgets to be grumpy for a little while and even breaks out the grins.
Super Sky Guy!
5/23/2010: We have discovered that Skyler's absolute favorite game is "Super Sky Guy". This game involves throwing Skyler up in the air thus being "Super Sky Guy!". This game just gives him such giggles! He lets us know that he is ready for "Super Sky Guy" time by jumping up and down and if we don't clue in he can get a little annoyed with us. I guess this love of flying through the air is what happens when mommy rides roller coasters while pregnant!
Sitting Up
5/23/2010: Skyler has been working on sitting independently. With help getting into the sitting position, he has been able to sit without aid for a couple of weeks now. He likes this new view of the world!
Big Boy Pool
5/22/2010: Today Skyler went swimming in the big boy pool and loved it! He likes his floatie in which he can kick and move about. Mom pulls him (and the floatie) along as she swims laps in the pool and he thinks this is quite the adventure! Another trick Skyler finds pretty amusing is underwater peek-a-boo. Mommy goes under water and jumps up and Skyler justs laughs and laughs and laughs!
Second Day of Lab School
5/18/2010: Skyler is going to the AWC/NAU lab school as of yersterday. The school is superiour to day care in that they work hard to develop him and know what they are doing.
Skyler's teachers report that Skyler is very advanced when it comes to muscle movement and attention. More importantly, he is a very happy baby and charms everyone who meets him.
First Pool Adventures
5/16/2010: Skyler was introduce to the jacuzzi now renamed kiddy pool today. He seemed to enjoy it once he got used to all the protective gear. I suspect he'll be spending much time in the pool this summer and perhaps even learning how to swim.
Let's play some music!
3/31/2010: Skyler has been practicing grabbing at his hanging toys in his bouncy chair. Today he was able to grab, grasp, and pull the handle to play music. It was music in more ways than one to Mom and Dad's ears! Once he discovered this new trick, the music began to play pretty continuosly throughout the afternoon. I'm sure at some point it will become monotonous for us to listen to, but right now every time we hear the music it just brings smiles to our faces!
Just like Dad.....
3/31/2010: We see a lot of Charlie in Skyler. Daddy is in Skyler's expressions, his features, and his smiles. But one of the cutest traits Skyler gets from his Daddy is his love of being naked! Skyler gets so excited, just giggling away, when we take his clothes off. He is just as happy as can be in just his diaper. It is when we put the clothes back on that he complains just a little to let us know his preference!
International Traveler
3/31/2010: Skyler returned home last night with a little pink in his cheeks from his first visit to the beach in Ensenada, Mexico. Skyler proved to be an excellent car rider, sleeping most of the way down. Skyler seemed to find it fun to be in a new place with new sights and smells. Lots of laughs and smiles! He got to visit the fish market and various taco stands as well as the beach. He of course charmed all the locals, especially Ms. Lisa, the owner of the camp at which we stayed. He also seemed to have no issue with the food as Mommy enjoyed spicy tacos, oysters on the half shell, and lots of other seafood (shrimp especially!). As for the beach, the Pacific was a bit cold, but Skyler got to dip his toes in it! The days were spent reading, eating, and watching the surf. All of which Skyler was content to be a part. On the ride home, Skyler maintained quite the monologue regaling us with tales about his adventures we assume!
Bigger Diapers
3/27/2010: In preparing for our trip to Ensenada, we had to stock up on diapers. We had a surprise in for us. According to his size, Skyler has graduated to size 2 diapers. Oh! Boy! Where did the time go? He is growing up quickly!!
Sleeping through the night!
3/27/2010: Skyler slept for 7 ½ hours last night! Yippee!! Mommy and Daddy are pretty happy! We hope this trend continues!
Hungry Boy!
3/25/2010: Skyler's eating habits have increased dramatically this week. Today he began to eating six ounces in per sitting! Wow! This appetite means he has graduated to the big bottles! Our little guy is growing up!
Skyler rolls over!
3/24/2010: Skyler figured out how to roll over from his back to his tummy in the middle of the last night. Although he knows how to roll from his tummy to his back (thanks to tummy time practice), he seemed to forget this skill and initially got scared. Adjusting to this new talent made for an interesting (long) night. Skyler would cry because he was on his tummy. Mommy would roll him back onto his back and Skyler would immediately roll back over to his tummy and cry. Mommy would roll him over….Repeat for hours. Skyler finally accepted the concept of sleeping on his tummy (or was so worn out he couldn’t fight it anymore). He continues to want to immediately roll over whenever he is laid down on his back, but doesn’t fuss as much about it anymore. We’re still very proud of him as this is a 5 month old skill.
Skyler Knows His Chemistry
3/20/2010: This week I was reminded of my college chemistry by another speaker in the "Future of the Future" symposium. Today I was thinking a bit about Skyler and chemistry. I realized that he was doing organic chemistry or O-Chem from day one but what really caused me to grin was that he also has the much harder P-Chem down too...
I suppose you can tell there is not much news. Skyler remains happy and healthy.
Skyler is no longer a baby
3/18/2010: Today is Skyler's three month birthday and he officially became an infant. He's in great health, full of smiles, and is liking his day care where he has charmed all the ladies.
A Good Turn
3/7/2010: Skyler is now rolling himself over at will. Perhaps because he's not particularly happy with "tummy time" Skyler is now turning himself over on to his back or side when placed on his belly.
He's also sleeping on his side where up to this date he had been sleeping as placed on his back in the "surrendering man" postion of both hands up.
Sky Travel
3/5/2010: Skyler left Yuma, AZ at seven this morning and arrived at Jacksonville, FL after midnight today. He was a charmer the whole way with just a little bit of fuss towards the end of his journey. Everyone around earned smiles, giggles, and the occasional bubble. Skyler has become very vocal and speaks to one and all in a very serious tone.
The not-so-secret to keeping Skyler happy is food. Like at home, if Skyler begins to fuss it most likely means he's hungry. Give him a bottle and he's good -- he doesn't care what milk temperature is.
The airlines make it somewhat easy by letting us bring the stroller right up to the front door of the plane.
Mom and Dad were excited to find Popeye's chicken in the Atlanta airport.
Skyler Rolls Over
3/4/2010: Skyler rolled over on his side while sleeping for his first time last night.
Skyler's First Day of School
3/1/2010: Today, March 1 2010, is Skyler's first day of school. He went to "Bright Beginnings," a small school just a couple of blocks from our house and across from the college.
Alex and I had checked it out weeks before and the school looks good but just not as good as the Lab School which is on the NAU/Arizona Western College campus.
Skyler thought it was all very fun as he usually does to anything new. Alex didn't cry much.
Skyler came home happy.
Skyler Speaks!
2/26/2010: Skyler speaks, babbles, gurgles, laughs out loud, mumbles, and otherwise is doing his best to communicate with the world. He has the most intent expression as he vocalizes then waits for a response after which he vocalizes again.
We're told that this is a bit advanced for his age.
Skyler Wants to see the World
2/26/2010: Skyler has decided that he prefers to be held in such a way that he can see the world instead of the person who is holding him. He is endlessly fascinated with his surroundings and happy to give some smiles to the person who is holding him so long as he can see what else is going on.
At least that is his usual mode. Today, when he got his immunization shots and was in pain, he was also asking for the more intimate comfort of being cuddled face to chest.
He is a charmer.
Skyler gets his shots
2/26/2010: Skyler got his first round of immunizations today. Three shots and an oral vaccine. He was not at all happy getting pricked but, with the help of some infant Tylenol, he was soon his cheerful self. That is until the Tylenol wore off. Much like clockwork, he needed Tylenol to calm down every four hours for the rest of the day.
Both the doctor and the nurse noted that he was a very happy well behaved baby. The doctor was very impressed by how well he behaved while getting his shots and noted that today's vitals put him in the 75th percentile of growth!
Skyler's First Airplane Ride
2/15/2010: Skyler and mom went to Florida today to be with Alex's dad who is very challenged health.
Much thought went into deciding travel gear. We eventually decided on the stroller, car, seat, triple equipped diaper bag, breast pump, and a variety of clothes. Oh, I think Alex had some clothes too.
Planning seems to have worked as the trip was mostly uneventful. Skyler charmed crew and fellow passengers and was mostly a delight until the third leg of the trip where he was a bit fussy. Alex things he was just tired and over-stimulated. No problems.
The gate checked stroller made within airport travel easy except to discover where the elevators hide.
Week 8 Update: Size, Sleep, and Feeding
2/13/2010: More smiles, size, sleep, feeding, and burping are the weeks news.

Skyler is in his third week at 22.5 inches long. I suspect this stasis is a combination of slower growth, optimistic earlier measuring, and conservative current measuring. His weight has gone up a few ounces to 11 pounds 11 ounces.

He's very healthy, active, and full of smiles for the world. We like to think he has special smiles for his parents but Lagniappe, the ceiling fan, and some artwork get smiles too.

Sleep schedules have become better with routine sleeping of five hour stretches. Except for night, we continue to feed on a four hour schedule often supplemented when he seems hungry. Skyler is routinely consuming 3-4 ounces of Mom Milk at a sitting and burps like a champ.

We pretty much just have to place him vertical to get a burp.
Ninja Dad
2/13/2010: I have become Ninja dad! I know the secrets of the Art of Sleeping Dragon to strap and unstrap a sleeping Skyler into a car seat without waking; Bottle Chi the art of feeding with one hand while typing with the other, Smile Fu able to bring giggles with the smallest touch, Master of the Ceremony of the Winds (nuff said), Blanket Kune Do to create a swaddle that resists the fiercest kicks; Hung Fut Diaper to create not a trace of diaper rash, Sleep Not to wake and respond then sleep again; Shh Shu to quickly comfort the crying child; Peak a Boo to play games that make him laugh, and most importantly Love Yu to give you all the love you deserve as we introduce Skyler to the skills he'll need for this fascinating, wild, fun, and sometimes scary place.

I am fortunate that my wife is also a past master in these arts and a baby who has been very forgiving as I've learned my skills. Skyler was eight weeks old yesterday. I smile and cringe a little as I think of the skills our Ninja son will soon learn.
Skyler Moves Into His Own Room
2/12/2010: Skyler moved into his own room today. He mumbled something about if you parents are going to get all lovey dovey, I'm going to give you some space.
The Sky web cam is now in place and trusted folks will soon get passwords allowing nursery viewing from anywhere with an Internet connection.
Why so many sleeping baby pictures?
2/6/2010: I noticed today that the majority of Skyler's pictures are sleeping shots. I'm not entirely sure why this is put offer three theories:
1) There is something about a sleeping baby that is very cute.
2) Sleep is a relatively rare state for Skyler and we tend to take pictures of the rare instead of the usual.
3) We are too busy playing with Skyler when he is awake to take pictures.
First Mardi Gras Party
2/5/2010: Skyler went to his first street Mardi Gras Party today. He mosty had much fun but, after considerable investigation, came to the conclusion that his beads were not edible. This may require further research.
Skyler loved the crowds, the noise, and the music. He was constantly turning his head to stare at this an that for minutes then switching to something new. See the movie of Skyler dancing with dad. He was very frustrated with us for taking him away and was eventually calmed with some loud rap on the car radio.
We went on to have his first meal out at a resteraunt. We went to La Flor our local favorite. He was very good and once again very attentive. The waitress commented on how large he had become.
Week 7 Update: Size, Sleep, and Feeding
2/5/2010: Skyler weighed in at 11.5 pounds today. He remains at 22.5 inches length. Lots of smiles this week and Skyler joined me in class and, on another day, went to the AWC Chili Cook-Off competition.
His sleep has become more regular which is probably due into part to our enforcing good sleep patterns. We had been hanging with Skyler as long as seemed to want to. It seems Skyler would much rather hang out than sleep.
He gets that from both his parents.
Skyler Wins Chili Cook-off Costume Contest
2/4/2010: The AWC Chili Cook-off had a contest for best dressed in red (to draw attention to Woman's Breast Cancer) and Skyler won. His first Chili Cook-off win!
Skyler continues to love outings he pays close attention to new people and things and often receives comments about how attentive he is.
He seemed to enjoy the Chili much later after mom had prossessed it but something gave him much gas. A whole lot of gas. He sounded like a little put-put train as we wheeled him down the aisle at the grocery store some hours after the cook-off.
Skyler's First College Class
2/3/2010: Skyler hung out today while dad lectured. Alex had a doctor's appointment and, because of concerns of catching the flu, babies are not allowed in the doctor's office. So I got to take care of Skyler at my office and bring him to lecture.
Like many of my students, Skyler mostly slept through a lecture on Operating Systems. There was a difficult moment when Skyler decided he was hungry (despite being fed just before class began). I managed to feed him a bottle and keep talking.
I actually juggled as in juggling balls (to demonstrate multi-tasking) a little later in the lecture so perhaps my ability to feed Skyler while lecturing is not so impressive.
Week 6 Update: Size, Sleep, and Feeding
1/30/2010: Skyler weighed in at 10 pounds 13 ounces and 22.5 inches. That's up 11 ounces and an inch from last week. That puts him in about the 60th percentile on both the weight and length charts.
Growth spurts make Skyler hungry and it has been hard to have a firm feeding schedule. We are getting much better with sleep which is mostly due to Alex and I realizing that he'll happilly play with us all night long if we let him. We now put him to bed around seven where he cries for about five minutes then falls asleep. We feed him every three hours even if we have to wake him to do so. Of course he gets fed more when he lets us know he's hungry as he often does.
5 Weeks Old
1/22/2010: Sklyer is five weeks old today. He remains 21.5 inches long and now weighs 10 lbs 2 ozs. I trust the weight measurment more than the length as he tends to wiggle a bit when we get the tape measure out. Weeks three and four also had the same measurement then he jumped an inch in a week. Maybe next week he'll be another inch.
His measurements are completely normal.
Attitude
1/21/2010: Skyler is showing good attitude and we're learning to be better parents. We were getting smiles from almost day one but we were also beginning to get some crying. We're just learning that after we're sure he's fed and has a clean diaper a little crying is OK.
It took just a couple of hours for him to learn that he got more attention with smiles than he did by crying. This is much better all around.
On a related note, Skyler loves to travel, see new things, and meet new people. He looks from face-to-face and shares some smiles.
Right Hook
1/21/2010: Skyler is beginning to show a little control of his movements. His baby bouncer has some hanging stuffed animals and I was watching as he consistently waived his right hand to hit one animals then watched it swing. When the swing stopped he'd hit it again. He didn't always get it first try but intent and success were definitely there.
Doctor Visit
1/18/2010: Skyler had is one month visit with the doctor today. They found him to be 21.5 inches long and 10.1 lbs which is pretty much what we were measuring. He routinely consumes about three ounces of milk which would allow for much variation depending on when we weigh him.
We got some medication for a blocked tear duct and some stuff for diaper rash should we need it. Nothing even bothersome on those fronts.
We also get the results back on the full range of genetic tests for possible problems. Absolutely nothing to worry about there either.
Legs Support Weight
1/17/2010: Skyler has little sense of balance but, he is supporting the weight of his body with his legs. He holds the position for a few seconds and then we repeat. After about ten reps he's ready to do something else.
Week 4 Weigh In
1/15/2010: Skyler weighed in today at 9 pounds 14 ounces. That's up six ounces from last week. He's 21 and a half inches long (tall?) which is a one inch gain. Skyler's measurements are just slightly above average according to the CDC US government charts on baby size by age.
Sleep is not an option
1/15/2010: Skyler continues to have his dad's sleep habits. We've had a couple of nights where he slept in a three hour stretch but he's mostly been awake through the night and day. Mostly he'll appear to sleep for about twenty minutes then open his eyes. In the rare moments when he's not hungry, he'll happilly wave his hands play with his feet and such. Otherwise he's vocal about his desire for a snack.
Speaking of snacks, Alex is doing a great job keeping up with milk demands. We have a few days supply in the freezer and a couple days supply in the fridge.
Skyler is no longer a newborn
1/15/2010: It's official, at 28 days newborns become infants. Skyler made a small bubble when asked to comment on his new status but would not further comment. I suspect that he was pondering if it was the right moment to ask for the car keys.
Just a little coordination
1/15/2010: Skyler is showing just a little eye hand coordination. He's got a little seat with hanging stuffed animals. His wiggles and waving arms will occasional hit one of the stuffed animals causing it to move. Skyler is fascinated by the movement and seems to entertaining himself just a little.
Skyler slept for more than three hours last night!
1/12/2010: Skyler slept from 1 AM to 4:30 AM last night. Similar nap times were observed a couple of times during the day. He was on about an hourly cycle for the first few weeks and gradually lengthening. While too soon to be a pattern, his parents (particularly Mom) are excited and more rested.
Forget the Swaddling Thing
1/10/2010: Skyler has decided that arms need to be waived and he can no longer abide with being swaddled. He continues to be very hungry with demands for feeding at least hourly. The combination his waving his arms in front of his face combined with a strong need for the bottle makes for some interesting conversations.
The conversations get repeated often as he has not clued in that waving means loss of connection with the bottle -- at least until he can be reconnected.
Feeding Thoughts
1/7/2010: Alex is heroically continuing to produce all the mother's milk that Skyler needs but we began to experiment with formula yesterday. Formula travels much better and we tried some yesterday when Skyler visited Dad on campus. He was not thrilled (taste?) at first but he slept for hours after getting his fill.
Hours of sleep is a very good thing so we tried him on some formula again later in the evening. He wouldn't take it. I tried a taste and agreed with Skyler that it didn't taste as good as Mom made. Fortunately we had some other formula around the house and he did like the powdered kind, specially when mixed with Mom made.
Alex's sister says mixing formula with mother's milk is a nanny "trick" to get babies to sleep. That part didn't work last night as we had our usual fuss from ten thirty to one before Skyler would surrender to sleep.
I think that there's just so much to learn about life that he just doesn't want to end the day. At least that's what happens with his dad.
Two Week Old Weigh-In
1/1/2010: At two weeks old, Skyler weighs 8.8 pounds and is 20.5 inches long. According to the US Goverment growth charts, Skyler is at about the 75th percentile for his age.
Sounds
1/1/2010: Around about this time, Skyler's supposed to be making distinctive sounds for when he's hungry, needs a diaper change, wants affection, etc. He is making different sounds but all of them seem to indicate that he's hungry.
We decided to be proactive and check diapers on a regular basis so he may not be sitting in stuff long enough to get really irritated. We are also using Butt Paste and Skyler remains rash free.
Growth Spurt and Eating
1/1/2010: The charts suggest that Skyler is ready for a growth spurt about now. Sure enough, he's decided that feedings should be hourly if not more often. He'll eat till he's absolutely full then want more in twenty minutes.
I'd guess he's eating (drinking?) about 20 ounces of milk a day and Alex is procuding about an ounce an hour so we are freezing some.
What it's like
1/1/2010: Being a Daddy is neither the thrill nor the horror that others suggested. Mildly tedious best describes my current experience. Life is mostly catching what I can of Alex's burden which involves a lot of feeding.
Alex is pumping so I can feed with bottles. Even so, she still has to pump every three hours.
Random smiles are great. Changing diapers is a non-issue.
Skyler heavier than at birth
12/27/2009: Skyler was a typical baby and lost significant weight shortly after birth. As of today he has passed his birth weight. I calculate that, if he keeps gaining weight at this linear rate, he'll be about my weight by the age of ten.
Watching the mirror
12/26/2009: Skyler loves to see himself in the mirror. We can't be sure if this means he likes seeing himself or the sight of another baby. But he is noticing.
First Social Smile
12/26/2009: I think "social smile" is the correct term. Skyler displayed his first smiles in response to events today. He reliably smiled when daddy pressed his nose. He also smiled at people he recognized -- most notably mommy.
Lift and move Head
12/23/2009: Skyler is lifting his head and turning his head to track objects. He'll stare intently at things for some time. Favorites are the Christmas tree (probably lights) and ceiling fans but people get some attention too.
Responding to Voices
12/21/2009: Skyler is responding to voices sometimes to move his head and stare for a bit but often with eye contact.
Skyler Born
12/18/2009 3:14:00 PM: Skyler was born at 3:14 today. Due to a hospital mistake, Mom didn't get her pain meds but she stuck with it. Skyler appears healthy with no obvious defects. Proud parents are already seeing signs of advanced development.
Eyes Tracking
12/18/2009: Skyler's eyes were tracking shapes and sounds from just after birth.
Skyler is very late
12/16/2009:

Skyler is very late. Alex is healthy, glowing, and impatient.

current plan is to persuade Skyler that the time is now on Friday if he doesn't decide on his own before then.

Skyler Balch was due on 11-Dec-09

Skyler is Late
12/12/2009:

Skyler is late. Or is that Alex has not decided to push?

Alex remains very healthy and glowing. Last night we had fun dancing at the AWC/NAU party to the point where we were warned that if Alex gave birth we would have to buy another ticket.

Last week the doctor said that he'd induce on Monday if everything did not happen before then.

Skyler Balch is ddue on 11-Dec-09.

Not Looking Good
12/5/2009:

It's not looking good. Sky boy is confrontational already and we were hoping for an early achiever.

I can't count the number of times that his mother and I have told Skyler to come out of his womb but he's not obeying. He's spouting some sort of nonsense that he's not scheduled till the 11th.

All is good, Alex and Skyler are healthy. Alex is radient in the way that only a happy mother to be can be but very ready to not be pregnant. I think she misses seeing her feet...

All Good
9/2/2009: ll good news. All tests are positive and Mom is radiant and happy. Skyler Balch is due on 11 December 09.