We're Walking!!!!!

When all the baby books say kids do things at their own pace, on their own time and when you least expect it, they're right.

After weeks (more like months) of waiting for Anna to take the big plunge into walking, even calling the pediatrician and booking a physical therapy appointment, our baby girl took off today! At almost 16 months old, this was a little late, but all good things are certainly worth the wait.

Right after lunch we were playing in the kitchen and she let go of my finger and walked the entire length of the kitchen, turned the corner and walked the entire length of the living room. It's like she'd been doing it for months. It was an amazing thing to be here to see a little human make that big of a milestone right before my eyes.

She's still a little wobbly, but she's only been walking for less than a day. She's got a lot of time to perfect the skill. And, I have a feeling, she'll perfect it fast and I won't be able to keep up.

Here's my theory: Anna has been so intense and observant since the day she was born. She always has to understand her environment before making any "moves." She has to be comfortable and confident before taking on a task. It's not so much shyness or being timid, but rather being intellegent enough to make good decisions (a mother speaking). I think her late walking was more a product of her personality than anything having to do with her physical development. For whatever reason, she felt comfortable enough today to give it a try and she certainly did succeed.

We love you and are so proud of you, our little walker!

Thank GOD I'm able to be home with Anna to witness these "firsts." Therefore, I was able to capture part of the moment on tape...enjoy!

Ahh Yes, Marco Island...

This was Anna's second trip to Marco, my ninth and Billy's, 25th. I look forward to going every year, but this year was extra special because we had Anna and my parents coming down with us. It was nice for my parents to finally experience what Bill and I have always talked about. They had a really good time with the Whelan's and we had a good time with them.

Besides Anna's persistant sleeping issues throughout the week, the trip was a blast. The weather was nice even though it was on the cool side (I didn't care...65 degrees is SO much better than 20 degrees any day of the week). We all enjoyed getting outside and Anna just loved playing with all of her cousins.

I've attached pictures of the trip and video of Anna's first time at the beach...not a fan of sand.

Some More Notable Firsts!

The holidays brought many firsts for Anna, but two notable ones were her first day playing in the snow and her first time on Santa's lap...the first more enjoyable than the last.

Her first time experiencing the lovely Chicago snow was mid-December. I took her outside to our very tiny backyard and met our neighbor and her little boy Ben. We shoveled, made snowmen and took LOTS of pictures and videos. It was actually a lot of fun and Anna surprisingly loved the snow (the snow suit...not so much).

Anna's first Santa experience was not as enjoyable, but still fun for me (I was laughing the entire time). Anna and I spent the day at the Chicago Children's Museum and then decided to head on over to the line-less Santa stage. Classic Anna...she had a furrowed brow and was very skeptical about what was about to take place. I took her up to the Santa stage and sat her on his jolly little lap. At first I thought things were going to work out and then the meltdown happened. The pictures don't even do it justice.

Enjoy!

We Have a Walker (or at least a stepper)

Anna finally took her first five to ten steps while we were in Marco Island over the holidays. Although she is still not "walking," we're just happy should took the initiative to take those steps...it was an oh-so-sweet moment.

I'll continue to provide updates as far as the all-out walking goes. It could be a couple more months. :)

Holidays Galore

This years holiday season was even more fun than last year becuase Anna "sort of" knew what was going on and could sense the excitement in the air.

We spent Thanksgiving with the Dorn's, had numerous holiday dinners with friends, attended the Whelan Family Christmas and spent Christmas Day back with G. G. Dorn before we left for Marco Island.

Once again, Anna was showered with gifts from all of our friends and family...and I can't thank any of them enough for their love and generosity. She (and our family) is so blessed to have all of these wonderful people surrounding her and loving her so unconditionally. It's very humbling to see it all as a parent.

Enjoy various pictures from the holiday festivities as well as a video of the "highlight" of Christmas for Anna...Katie and Steve's doggie bed for the beagles. That definitely was her favorite toy. I'm considering picking one up for her.