Natalie Marlowe

New Bed, Princess Time, and 21 Weeks!

2012-02-08T16:25:00.002-05:00

Last week after Mom's doctor appointment I got my new big girl's bed delivered. I have a pretty new twin bed, nightstand, and dresser!

Mom and Dad had to put a bunkee board under the top mattress and store the boxspring, or I was going to need a ladder to get in!

Posing awake....

...and asleep! I really like the new bed. The only downside has been that I have been getting up REALLY early a lot lately. I still got to bed at 8:30 and want to get up and play at 6 (or sometimes even earlier.) Mom and Dad don't seem to appreciate my new early bird hours!

Last week I got a Valentine's Day present from Grandpa and Grandma Hiatt. My favorite part was the grandma and grandpa dolls that go in my dollhouse!

This past weekend I wanted to play princess. Here I was in the whole getup!

I had a hot chocolate party with Mom. I am more about the marshmallows than the hot chocolate :)

Yesterday was 21 weeks for Mom and baby...

Here's my pose! I like seeing Mom's tummy getting bigger and watching the baby move!!

Baby Skosh Pics!

2012-01-31T21:19:00.002-05:00

Today was the big 20 week show! I went with Mom and Dad to the doctor's this morning and got to see all sorts of pictures. Here's the highlights...

Profile and some hands in the mix.

Bent like a pretzel! I guess Mom and Dad have a picture of me just like this :)

Waving at the family...

The finale......feet!

My Day with Lindsey

2012-01-28T21:43:00.003-05:00

Yeah to the Roberts! They closed on their house this past Thursday and are prepping for the big move. I got to have Lindsey come and visit for the day. Here is a photo essay of the happenings....

We started the day with some princess coloring.

We were both very studious....

Then we launched into the cooking portion of the morning. I let Lindsey borrow an apron, even if it was a little big.
Lunch time was a success. Mom made very good peanut butter and jelly sandwiches (which I had ALL over my face) and some raviolis.

The Barbie jeep is still a hot commodity. Lindsey drove me all around Toledo !

After nap time we made a tunnel and tent. We had our snack back in there and did lots of playing.

Plenty of blankets to make it cozy!

As always, the doll house was a big hit.

Mom frosted the cake for us, but then we got to add the sprinkles.

On to chicken bake dinner! We both were hungry and really looked forward to cake for dessert!
Things got crazy after dinner.....we may have been a little messy so we stripped down and headed upstairs for a bath. Lindsey loved wearing the swim goggles and poured lots of water on me (which I loved!).
We snuggled on the couch for a bit before it was time for Lindsey to go. I really liked having her visit, can't wait to see her again soon!!

Snow Day!

2012-01-21T11:43:00.002-05:00

The last day brought some snow! It's also still very cold out.....

Here I am with Daddy, all bundled up. It's about 17 degrees out plus some wind!
Daddy was shoveling and I wanted to shovel too. Turns out that beach toys make good snow toys too!

I felt bad for Obi....so we found a way for him to come out and play too!

Work between the play ;)

Since the ground is frozen, we decided to play out in the backyard too.

I wasn't too excited about my sled. Mom gave it a run down our small hill. I laughed at her a lot! I did like trying to make a snow angel though. Hope you liked my snow day!!

17 Weeks!

2012-01-11T21:35:00.002-05:00

Here's 17 weeks with me (Nat)............And 17 weeks now!

Looks like Mommy's carrying the same :)

Snow, Please??!?!

2012-01-10T22:28:00.002-05:00

I'm ready for the white stuff!

Took a ride on my bike today in my snow boots. They haven't got much action yet. And these great snow pants are fun in the house! My poor sled hasn't gotten any use yet......I'M READY FOR SNOW!!!!!!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T21:28:00.005-05:00

Merry Christmas everyone! It was a wonderful day....here are a few pics from my activities!

The tree was stocked! I had presents from Santa that were delivered in a sleigh...

I got up a little bit before 7 this morning. I was excited to run downstairs and check on the cookies I had left for Santa. It looked like the reindeer liked my carrot too!
I had presents to open from Aunt Coco and Chase too! I got a great book and board game and more!

Coco also sent me a Rapunzel set, complete with crown, purse and necklace!

Santa also brought me a Rapunzel doll and dress.

Here I am enjoying my new doll.....in a sled! Too bad there is no snow yet :)

Some of the aftermath!

Look at my new snow boots! !

Dress modeling, note the classy PJ pants and snow boots.

More dress modeling...

Rapunzel has a beautiful crown.

I made a great present for Dad!

I was waiting at the airport for Grandpa and Grandma tonight! I talked Grandma's ear off the whole ride home. I can't wait for it to be Christmas again tomorrow!!

Merry Christmas (Eve)!!

2011-12-24T21:59:00.003-05:00

Well, it's been a busy month....as December tends to be! I've had a great time seeing friends and family and spending lots of time with Mom and Dad. I really love baking cookies for my friends and myself! I LOVE to lick the spoon :)

Last weekend I got to get all dressed up for the Roberts Christmas party. I really liked my fuzzy dress and fancy shoes.

Yeah, a good family picture! Thanks Kevin!

There were a lot of friends at the party. Chelsea is 3 months old already and did really well hanging out all night.

Here's the gang of younger kids.....Matthew, Lindsey, myself and Madeline!

The kids were fueled by snack foods! Lindsey and I were loving cake pops made by Lori. Of course, Lindsey was all silly faces!
The next day, on Sunday, we met the Roberts for some zoo lights. You'll have to trust me, it was beautiful even if I don't have the pics to prove it! I was all bundled up in my big coat, gloves, and fuzzy blanket as Mom and Dad strollered me around. I really liked the big blue tree and the singing lights.

Today is Christmas Eve and the family got all dressed up to go to church.

Me with Dad and Obi. The Christmas service invited the kids up to the front for the Christmas story. I really enjoyed the angels and singing happy birthday to Jesus. I made it through the entire Mass, only some minor fidgeting!
I also got to stop by the Lourdes campus today and see the creche. We didn't stay long to look at it, too cold!
I got a plate of cookies and milk for Santa and a carrot for the reindeer. I can't wait for him to come!
Mom and Dad let me open my stocking tonight. It will hold me over until Christmas presents in the morning!!!

M&Ms!

A Clifford animal....then it was time for a bedtime story and sleep! Santa will be here in no time!!!

Florida!

2011-11-28T21:33:00.007-05:00

I went on a family vacation with Mom and Dad to Florida from November 11th to November 18th! We went down to Orlando to see the sights and hang out with the Daniels.

This was the first flight that I had a seat of my own! I had a great time and it was a short enough flight that I didn't get bored.

I even had a time to sneak a quick cat nap.

I got to sit in the window seat too!

Florida weather is different than Ohio weather. I had a chance on the first day there to go to the playground.....and wear shorts and a t shirt!
That Sunday we went to Sea World. We got there when the park opened and stayed until it closed. I got to see almost all of the animal shows that day.

The big Shamu show was fun to watch.

But the people around us we watching me and Parker!

Sea World had some fun rides for kids too.

Dad was happy that I found a manatee to ride.

Strangely enough, even with the 80 degree weather they were decorated for Christmas and playing Christmas music!
I had reached a point at the end of the day when I was really tired! I won an otter at the games and Parker had a giant penguin pirate.
Believe it or not, I also went on this tall ride! I am getting quite adventurous!

More Christmas decorations, and a rare group shot!

The following day we went to Universal's Islands of Adventure. The big attraction there was Harry Potter. Here I am with Amy, Parker, and Dad in front of the Hogwart's Train.
There was a huge Dr. Seuss area too. Parker really liked the Cat and the Hat, but I wasn't so sure.
The Suessical Carousel was lots of fun! I rode a Horton hears a Who elephant...

There was even a One Fish, Two Fish ride and it was plenty wet to cool us off.

I got a magic wand and here I am showing it off in front of the Harry Potter Castle.

Amy is showing off her wand and Matt is enjoying some Butter Beer.

It was a very long day......here Parker and I are leaving Universal.

I had a chance to go to the library with Parker and they had a play fire truck.

The local zoo let us feed giraffes crackers. They were very close to us!

Giraffes have long sticky tongues!

Thing 1 and Thing 2!

Parker's apartment complex had a nice pool. And even though it wasn't as warm that day, Dad took me for a swim. Here I am practicing my laps.
Parker was a daredevil and liked jumping off the edge. She was a good instructor. It was a great week full of fun and friends!!

Happy Halloween, Everyone!

2011-10-31T21:47:00.004-04:00

Here I am in my adorable pirate costume, getting ready to go and plunder the neighborhood of all its finest candies.

With sword.

With trick-or-treat bag - thanks Grandma Hiatt.

Heading down the cul-de-sac. I promise I have adult supervision.

With my friends The Grim Reaper and Batman (actually The Filatoff Boys).

Relaxing with Mom and Dad and eating a little candy post-Trick-or-Treating.

Noshing a muffin I stole from the kitchen and talking to G & G Hiatt on the phone.

Hope everyone had a wonderful Halloween. I know I had a great one. The pirate costume, and my family, has earned a well-deserved rest

Pre-Halloween Catchup

2011-10-29T21:06:00.005-04:00

I always make a point of telling Obi goodbye when I am heading out with Mom or Dad...

Here I am giving him a hug for the road!

A few weeks ago we had a power shopping experience at Ikea. Mom and Dad got some frames, a desk chair, and I got an awesome two step stool! It's heavy enough where Mom and Dad have to do the moving. But I love using it to wash my hands and do other stuff around the kitchen.
Here I am working on my cooking skills. I made a wonderful cake with Dad, complete with chocolate frosting, berries, and sprinkles!

Hard at work.....

The Boo at the Zoo was last week. I met my friends Lindsey, Ava, and Ian for some trick-or-treating fun. The weather was great and we all had a wonderful time!

Ava was a witch and Lindsey made a cute bumblebee.

All of the kids took a ride on the carousel, thanks to Mick!

There were lots of decorations around the zoo. Plenty of entertainment to keep us busy! I've gotten to wear my costume more this year. So far I am up to the zoo, library time, Kroger, and a trip to Panera for dinner (I was a hit!).
I'm always trying to keep in touch with my family. Here I am getting some Skype time with Uncle Matt.
Ahhh, the weekend! It's been cold weather. Time for grilled cheese, soup, and cuddling up on the couch!
Mom got a package from Grandma and Grandpa Hiatt today. There was a doll that played music (I called it sleep music) and I rocked her to sleep. The doll was from when Mom was a little girl.
Over this last week Mom and Dad finished my bird project. Here are three cages hanging way up high!

And my other cage on the opposite wall....

And finally, some birds hanging out on a wire (or my closet). It has been a relaxing weekend. Just saving my energy for Monday and some trick-or-treating!!!!!

Putting the Nati in Cincinnati...

2011-10-13T20:36:00.010-04:00

Mom, Dad and I went to Cincinnati, Ohio for the weekend and it was a ton of fun. Grandpa and Grandma Jackson came and stayed with me the first night and then we had a whole day and a half more of being busy. I was glad to get home and see Obi.

Getting ready for the drive to Cincy. I know my glasses are upside-down.

At the Newport Aquarium with Grandpa and Grandma Jackson. I got to see all sorts of fish, including a big shark presentation. Mom and Dad thought I did pretty good considering my newfound fear of flying sharks. I also saw lots of turtles, frogs and penguins. Here I am feeding a lorikeet some nectar that Grandpa bought. (That's his hand helping me hold it.)

Posing with my new penguin pals.

Day 2 - Went to lunch at a place decorated with firefighter stuff. I was cute and friendly, so they gave me a firefighter hat - then Mom stole it.

At the Museum Center. It's a really cool old building with a bunch of museums inside. I tried them all out!

Saying goodbye to Grandpa and Grandma J.

The museum actually had a cave inside. It was neat, but a little scary. I was brave though and went through, as long as Dad was holding me. Except for the really narrow parts. Then Mom had to hold me.

Can you find me and Mommy?

Posing with a dinosaur. Don't worry, he's not real.

Practicing living in a tower like Rapunzel.

Our family shot from the house we rented in Hyde Park. It was really nice and in a cool neighborhood.

When we got back, Dad and I got to work on the best Lego robot ever. Here I am trying to take a picture of it.

Happy Birthday, Uncle Matt!

2011-10-07T12:13:00.005-04:00

I just wanted to wish my favorite Uncle a Happy 30th Birthday today. Hope you have a great day. Sorry we couldn't be there to celebrate.

We all pitched in to help make the sign!

Aunt Coco's Visit!

2011-10-02T16:56:00.005-04:00

It's been a great week hanging with Aunt Coco! I got to go with Dad to pick up Coco on Wednesday. I've had a real love of airports and planes lately, so I was super excited to go up to Detroit. I saw her coming down the escalator towards baggage and held up my sign for her.

We had a fun pizza night on Thursday. We all made our own pizzas (I liked watching Dad make the dough). This is me with my pizza, Aunt Coco helped me load it up with pineapple, meatballs, and chicken!
I still like playing in my kitchen and serving food. Here I was enjoying some tea party time with Aunt Coco.
Since we have a gas stove now, we can make Smores inside! Aunt Coco made me my first Smore ever.......I was a bit of a sticky mess :)

Obi and Coco.....reunited! Lots of puppy love time around here!

This Saturday was a trip on the Blissfield train. I saw a train in downtown Sylvania not long ago with Grandpa and Grandma Jackson. I love things that go! So I was really excited to get on the train. I even got to hand the tickets to the conductor.
We had a nice 2 hour ride......Dad was a little disappointed that it was a slower pace. I guess this wasn't a bullet train!
This is my sign that I took to the airport. I love having Aunt Coco around!

Snuggle time while watching some TV.....

Here are a bunch of pictures from our trip today to the Erie orchards. I walked a ton! And then I was carried around a ton! The bag of apples ended up being 16 pounds. We are looking at fun new recipes to use apples too.....

Picking some tall apples with Dad!

Victory!

We may have eaten a few :)

I can't stop looking at my apple!

Some Halloween cheer...

Not only did I get to sit on the tractor, I fed the goats and deer AND ate donuts!!! What a great weekend!!

School Art

2011-09-25T18:36:00.002-04:00

Here's my artwork from Friday!! It's proudly displayed on the fridge.....

Friends, Family & Food

2011-09-21T14:41:00.011-04:00

Lately I've been missing all my loved ones. When I can't videochat with any of my Seattle family, or I'm told The Daniels or Grandpa & Grandma J aren't coming to visit tomorrow, I start to cry. Missing things is part of growing up, but that doesn't make it any easier for me (or Mom and Dad who hate to see me upset).

What does help is knowing Coco will be here in a few days to see me, and when that isn't enough, I snack on some of my favorite foods. So enjoy some of my favorite friends, family and food* pictures from the past few weeks.

Behind the scenes of my new reality show: Toddler versus Food. Don't worry, I didn't eat all of it. I hate pickles on my burgers!

Had a great time with all the Jacksons from across the continent. Also, learned what giving "bunny ears" is.

Sneaking a peek into my Lego tower (looking for fruit snacks, probably).

Grandma J makes a great Lego Train Tunnel.

Dairy Barn Milkshake with Mom at the Fulton County Fair.

Picking this year's Thanksgiving Turkey.

Cheers, it's TEA TIME!

Yogurt raisins are one of my favorite treats.

Don't mess with me and Obi.

Laughing and giggling with Ol' One Sock Lindsey.

The arms in the air and the big grin mean one of two things. Either I love my new big girl bed, or we're going out for ice cream!

A cookie cake to celebrate Mom's 8 years at MCO/MUO/UTMC last week. Great job, Mom!

And we'll end it with a picture from my first full day of pre-school. It went great...there were snacks!

*Despite what it looks like in these pictures, I don't just eat snacks all day. Mom and Dad make sure I get a nice balanced diet that includes things besides sugar.

Preschool Pic

2011-09-15T21:27:00.002-04:00

Last week was my first trip to Epworth Toddler Day Out.....it's my once a week school program.

Here I am all ready for school!

Dad was excited to take me to school :) I told Mom and Dad that I really liked the kids, play kitchen, and water table!
Uncle Matt and Aunt Jess were in town for a week visit to Toledo. It's becoming tradition to go swimming when I see them!

Here was Uncle Matt going done the giant toilet bowel slide!

We were busy all week with Matt, Jess, and Grandpa and Grandma Jackson. I need to get the pics from their cameras downloaded so I can share those too!

Playing in the super tent with Uncle Matt.

Story time and secrets with Mom in the tent!

Outfits x 3!

2011-08-28T21:30:00.002-04:00

I wanted to wear my new "sparkle" shoes from Grandma and Grandpa Hiatt today.

You can't tell here, but when I dance around they light up!

Here I am working on my moves.....

Next outfit of the day. I wanted to try on some of my new clothes that Mom and Dad bought me. Here I am working in the kitchen.
Close-up! Can you believe that I told Mom I was cranky today???? (Note from Mom - Nat was indeed cranky at times)

More posing for the camera.

This was just too funny not to include. Just proves that there are always outtakes!

Looking at my flower.....

It's hard to tell, but I am rocking TWO ponytails!

Happy August...

2011-08-21T22:23:00.004-04:00

I've been off my game... I could blame it on lots of things, but I've just been busy, busy, busy! Here are a few pictures from the past few weeks :)

I like the locker/cubby area by the garage door. I do really well leaving my shoes and hats there. It's a great staging area! This particular day I was excited to have TWO ponytails.
Parker turned 2 on August 1st. The Daniels came to visit and check out the new house the weekend after her birthday. I had a great time putting the sprinkles on the cake.

The girls all got to wear princess crowns.

We both got all dressed up and I had to give Parker a great birthday hug.

I like wearing my tutu dress!

Here's the lake that forms when we get rain. Dad called the developer and they are supposed to come dig us a drainage ditch. I guess this is what happens when your house is the end of the road!
Last week I went with Dad to watch the elephants raise the circus tent. Maybe next year I'll go to the circus with Mom and Dad.
I just spent a busy weekend in Columbus. The Daniels had a party on Saturday for all of their Columbus friends. They are moving to Florida over Labor Day. I have already bought a plane ticket to visit in November! Looking forward to a fun visit in FL!
The bounce house was GREAT! Parker had me beat on the gymnastics. But I had a lot of fun (as did Mom and Dad).
Today I took a trip to the Columbus Zoo. We went to some new exhibits that I hadn't seen before. They had a great educational area. Here I am looking at the baby Cheetahs. I also got to get really close to a sloth, pet a snake, and watch baby penguins swim.
The Asia exhibit was also great. The elephants were moving around but the best part was the Tiger. It swam right towards me! I also got caught in a thunderstorm and we ran for cover. Good thing it was warm outside...
Me and my buddy at the zoo. I owe Parker a big thank you for letting me ride her bike around the zoo. After the zoo we went to downtown Columbus for fancy crepes at a food cart. It was a busy day and I loved hanging out with the Daniels!
This is me about 10 minutes after we left the Daniel's house. I fell asleep while drinking and snoozed most of the ride home. It was a wonderful weekend and I think I'm going to sleep hard tonight!

Major Catch-Up Part 2!

2011-07-27T21:53:00.005-04:00

I was going thru photos from Grandpa and Grandma and they had some good ones.....

Here's me and Grandpa mowing the sidewalks!

Daddy and me in the new backyard. There are lots of fireflies out there at night!

Grandpa and me with my box of Legos.

Grandma made me a great new apron and brought me some piggy kitchen utensils :)

Relaxing on the patio and soaking my feet.....it was really hot!

Making garlic bread with Mom. I wanted to eat the product as I was making it!

Out shopping and riding the big mower.....

MORE watermelon!

My favorite spot in Mom and Dad's bathroom.

Library time on Wednesdays with Miss Heidi.

A great dessert at Applebee's with Grandpa and Grandma. I ate a lot of mousse! More pics to come of the new house.....strangely Mom and Dad haven't taken too many. They are more concerned about unpacking all of the boxes!!

Major Catch-Up!

2011-07-27T21:00:00.006-04:00

It's been a whirlwind July.....I'm getting settled in my new house. But between moving I also had Grandpa and Grandma Hiatt out to visit (and really help!) then took a trip to Minnesota with Dad. Here's some highlights!

Grandpa and Grandma put up with the heat and took me out for some morning bike rides.
We took several rides to Wildwood park and I got to play on the slide and swings!
The first weekend that they were in town I spent a whole day with them while Mom and Dad went to a wedding in Cleveland. They dress up nice!

Mom and Dad at the Renaissance Center in Cleveland.

All the pretty ladies....this is Mom's work group of friends.

The guys looked great too!

As usual, I loved to tea party and dress up with my jewels with Grandma.

And there was always time for a quick book and snuggle :)

I've discovered a new favorite summer food. Watermelon! The bigger the better! I like to wear it from ear to ear.
Here was the garage right before we loaded up. Mom and Dad got the keys for the new place on the 15th. We spent our first night that Saturday!

Some UHaul time with Grandpa and Grandma.

Me driving the big truck!

I took an impromptu trip up to Minnesota with Dad the 19th. I was sad that we were going because Great Grandpa Opitz had passed away. But I was glad to go see my MN family. It was a long drive (about 14 hours), but Dad and I did it in two days. I was very excited to see the big Mackinaw bridge. Here's me enjoying the view.

Me and Dad in front of the bridge.

Here I was with Great Grandma Opitz at her house in Aurora. I also saw Grandma and Grandpa Jackson, Uncle Matt, and lots of other relatives.
Here I was outside of Great Grandma's house watching the train go by. The conductor even made it whistle for me!

One of my stops on the drive home.

Dad drove through the upper peninsula in Michigan and we went by the "painted cliffs." I want to go back again with Mom and Dad sometime.

Very pretty views.

With all of that driving I had to get some sleep. I got back this past Monday night. Mom and Obi were really excited to see me and Dad. You would think with all of that riding I'd be tired of the car, but I still asked Mom and Dad to take me out for a ride the next day!

Photo Catch-Up!

2011-07-05T21:10:00.004-04:00

I've been off my blog duties as I try to help Mom and Dad get ready for the big move. Even with all of that going on I've had a fun couple of weekends with the Daniel's too!

Parker and I are hard to get to sit still for a photo op :) Parker borrowed one of my hats, it was kind of big for her. She also loved my collection of necklaces.

Here's Amy and Parker at the Point Place fireworks party.

I had a chance to see sparklers.....Mom and Dad held it for me.

That same weekend we went out to Fallen Timbers for brunch at Granite City. The weather was great and I found out you can feed the fish in the pond. Also, a bunch of ducks came by to visit.
Mom, Amy, Parker, and I went to the zoo after brunch. I really wanted to see the monkeys, but we were also lucky enough to see the new baby elephant.
Here's the new baby. He walked right by me! He was about 250 pounds when he was born and here he is a few weeks old.
Snack time at the zoo. There is no picture, but I shared a great ice cream cone with Mom!
Hanging with mom....notice that these pants let my diaper hang out. They have been retired!

The concrete work at the house. Sidewalks in, driveway done, entryway done!

The view from the upstairs master closet.

Back patio!

I've had some time to sneak out on a bike ride when it wasn't too hot. I still really love my trailer!
I was down in Columbus for the 4th of July. Here we all went out to Northstar for brunch. We take up a whole big booth these days.....thanks for taking the pic Dad!
Parker and I played in a phone booth at Easton. We also looked at the fountains there and the outdoor train display.
BBQ food is fantastic! I had several pieces of watermelon that left me red faced and then followed it up with a red/white/blue popsicle. I had blue hands for quite a while!

The girls doing some reading.

Like I said, busy days! Here I am taking a nap in my box. Okay, just pretending. But it is a fantastic new toy!

Father's Day and More...

2011-06-23T20:39:00.003-04:00

The life of a busy girl.....here's what I did this past week!

Modeling my whale outfit, Mom's glasses, and a necklace.

I went to the park across the street with Mom and Dad and we fed the geese and ducks. I had to sit on top of the picnic table because the geese are rather adventurous!
Here were some of the babies, they were pretty quick to get the bread I was throwing.

I had a great time with Dad on Father's Day!

One of my new favorite activities....mowing the lawn for Dad.

I still love playing with my Duplos. Dad helps me make some great things!

Over at the house this is the built in "lockers" by the garage door/laundry room/half bath. Just my size!

Sporting my cute outfit :)

Getting ready to pour the concrete soon.....here they have the driveway, sidewalk, steps, and walkway blocked out.

The kitchen countertops are in!!!

Over by the fridge.

The countertop in the laundry room.

Master bathroom granite is in too. Who knows what will happen in the next few days? I love going for a ride when Mom gets home from work to see what's new!

Girls in Dresses...

2011-06-16T19:07:00.002-04:00

Mom went to a wedding this past weekend. I wanted to dress up too....

It was a beautiful day, which was lucky because the ceremony was outside!

I love to sit in this chair in the three season room.......and here I am almost blend in :)

African Safari!

2011-06-15T22:05:00.005-04:00

This past weekend I took a trip with the Roberts and Mom and Dad to the African Safari park in Port Clinton. It was quite the experience, you can see with all of my pics!

Lindsey and I got to share the whole 2nd row. Thanks to Mick and Maryanne for the great van!

The Mom's were in the back and Dad and Jim had the front.

This face may be explained by the fact that there were ANIMALS in the car with me. And not just small ones!

A very friendly moose.

We fed the animals carrots and grain.

I really liked this group of Bambi's!

A little baby sleeping.

Lindsey was a great driver, don't tell her Grandpa and Grandma!

Chomp!

We got rides on the Dad's and walked around some other animal exhibits.

I wanted to hold hands with Mom and Lori!

All I can say is WOW!!

I was all over the van. Had to look at the giraffes, zebras, buffalo and more!

Eating chocolate pretzels with Lindsey. She really liked them a lot! What a fun trip we had!

Last night we spent a little time at Pacesetter Park. This is close to my new house. I like the big playground they have. I got to see saw with a little girl and go for a run in the fields.
We finally got to go in the house again tonight. The tile on the first floor is all done. Waiting on tile for the upstairs bathroom.

It's starting to come along!

Jammin'!

2011-06-08T21:19:00.004-04:00

It's been really hot outside.....so a girl can't spend all of her time at the water table. I have been spending some quality time in the basement!

Natalie the drummer - Obi is my biggest fan!

Here's me returning the love :)

It's official - things are moving along! No closing date set yet, but hopefully by the end of June our house will be officially sold!!

Here's some updates of the new house. Fireplace is getting framed in, tile to come later.

The kitchen with cabinets! Mom and I are standing where the refrigerator goes.

The master bath.

My new bedroom!

And the stairs are getting less scary....

I also met the neighbors on our side tonight. They have an 18 month old boy and 7 week twins. Lots of buddies to play with!!

House catch-up!

2011-06-05T21:11:00.002-04:00

Dad tried to stitch together a picture, here's a panaroma of the kitchen/eat-in/family room.

My new water table! Fun times with Mom....
Front step with Mom!

Cabinets in the kitchen....

Natalie standing on the sub-floor, getting ready for tile.

Sorry, not too much time to talk. Mom called me "too smart" when I went to bed tonight, and I told her I was a smart cookie!

I'm tired.....

2011-05-31T21:28:00.007-04:00

So I was eating dinner with Mom and Dad tonight when I looked at Mom and told her I was tired. It was 6:00 at night, and apparently the week has caught up with me! I made it through dinner and powered through until bedtime, but it was a close one.

The wild hair is my post-nap look. It has increased in intensity as the humidity has gone up! The "look" is my "magazine face." Grandma Hiatt knows what I'm talking about...
Here my hair is much tamer. But if you look closely, something is off. I have an outbreak of the stickers!!!
I went down to Columbus on Friday night and had a fun-filled weekend with Parker. Here we were downtown Gahanna having a stroller race. Turns out Parker is much faster.

Parker posing for a victory picture.

Girls have got to take a rest sometime!

On Sunday morning we packed up early and went to the Columbus Zoo. It was very hot, but we were there early enough to enjoy lots of exhibits.

The turtles...

The world's stinkiest flower...

I also did the trifecta of zoo rides. Number one was the boat ride, it went through the monkey enclosure.

The Dads had their own row.

The Komodo Dragon...

You got to walk in an enclosure with the kangaroos!

Ride number two was the carousel. Surprisingly fast! Oh, and as Parker says, "up and down!"
I really liked the manatee exhibit. This manatee swam by several times and I would tell him hello.

The manatee tank also had lots of other fish and rays.

Ride number three was the train. Probably the least exciting of the three but a good break in the heat.

Parker and Amy enjoying the train.

Monday morning we went over to the Gahanna park. I was just melting from the heat, not too much shade on the playground. I was very cooperative and let Mom spray me with sunscreen all weekend. But I still get very flushed and sweaty!

Taking a walk at the park to go look for fish at the pond.

Mom and Amy had a little project in the basement. They organized two years worth of baby girl clothes! Turns out that Parker and I have had a very full closet these past two years! Watch out Katie, some of it is coming your way :)
One of the highlights of the trip was the pirate water table. We played almost every day. And though it isn't a swimming pool, I think I was just as wet!

What a wonderful weekend, no wonder I was still tired!!!

Wild Week...

2011-05-24T22:10:00.006-04:00

I guess it's the start of "summer," since I've had my first dip in the Filatoff's pool!

Here's me with Dad, Jacob, and Dennis.

Training to be in a potato sack race or just keeping my feet warm and my pillow naked!
Mom and Dad keep talking about moving. I'm starting to get worried that they are going to take my bed away. So I tried to take a nap in a laundry basket today. Got to be flexible.
So, Mom and Dad signed the official papers and put down the deposit today. Note the "SOLD" sign on the house! Now we have access to the build and will get to take pics of the progress. Mom went over tonight and took the first batch of pictures.
This is in the dining room. Kitchen through the curved archway and foyer to the right.
Family room with windows facing the rear of the property. There is a fireplace peeking behind the scaffolding. Tall 13 foot ceilings...
Standing in the family room, looking at the eat-in and kitchen. Slider to the back on the right.
Standing in the door from the garage. Straight view of the kitchen, eat-in, and family room. 1/2 bath would be straight ahead from garage and laundry to the left.

Den ceiling and window (facing front of the house).

Steps to the second floor, all bedrooms up here. There will be a "catwalk" where you can look down to the foyer.

Bedrooms 1 & 2, going right down the hallway.

Bedroom 3 with higher ceiling and facing the front of the house.

Master bedroom with window to the rear of house.

Side farm...I mean yard.

View from the back.

Rear of the house. Well, that's the walking tour (stage 1). Can't wait to see the progress!

Very Busy Day!

2011-05-21T22:19:00.002-04:00

I had a good day with Dad on Friday. I offered Mom a flower when she got home from work!
After a week of looking at houses and meeting with banks and our realtor, Mom and Dad put in an offer and had it accepted!

If all goes well, the house will be finished mid-July and we'll be MOVING!!! Our house sold a few days ago on Friday the 13th :)

Today we drove up into Windsor. It was beautiful, in the low 80s but not too bad on the waterfront.

A serious rider at the playground. I was disappointed that the swings were so busy.

Hanging at the visitors center. Smiled silly for all of my pictures and couldn't keep my eyes open!
In front of the Windsor Caesar's fountain. Mom snuck in and won enough money to fund our trip!
It was a long day and I really only had a chance to sneak a quick nap in the morning. I was really tired on the ride home. I think one of my favorite parts of the day was going through the tunnel from Detroit to Windsor. What a busy and fun day!

More 2 Year Pics!

2011-05-20T21:41:00.011-04:00

It was a fun photo session! Glad that it was nice enough to do most of the pictures outside!

2 Year Pic Teaser

2011-05-17T22:49:00.002-04:00

There's more where this came from!

B-Day Parties, Royal Weddings and Mother's Day...

2011-05-11T21:39:00.000-04:00

I feel like I've been partying for a month or more! With my birthday (which lasted almost a month!) and Mom's birthday it's been fun. I know how to sing Happy Birthday, and lots of times its "to Natalie." I'm also fairly good at blowing out the fake candle.

Looking cute for Daddy.

Everyone play sleep!

I watched some of the royal wedding with Mom and Dad. I learned all about fancy hats...here's my take on headwear.

Every single bow that I own!

Hanging out with Lindsey at Macie's 5 year birthday party.

Macie had a Spiderman themed party. I've been working on the Spiderman song!

Out on the farm with Hannah!

Mom was jealous and had to try it out...

I worked on a giant tower with Mom!

Birthday brownie with Mom.

Mom's new watch.

I liked the bows from Aunt Coco's present, they made great bracelets!

Dusting, a girl's got to keep her room clean!

Mother's day, I wore my fluffiest dress!

The end...squeaky clean and doing my "rockababy" with Mom.

ABCs

2011-04-30T10:22:00.002-04:00

Working on my masterpiece!

Two Year Appointment

2011-04-26T22:34:00.002-04:00

Quick update on my stats. I'm about 28 3/4 pounds (75th percentile) and 34 inches (50th percentile). I had a good visit with my doctor and did very little crying. I even told Mom and Dad that I heard another sad baby (next door). Took my shot like a champ and waved goodbye to the nurses. So things went well. And I don't go back until I am 3!!!

Photo Catch-Up!

2011-04-26T21:54:00.005-04:00

I have a ton of photos from this past few weeks, during all of the birthday bonanza. Here are some of my favorites!

Obi and I fight for Mom's attention sometimes when she gets home from work.

The weekend before my birthday I had Lindsey and Parker over to help celebrate. We played hard!

The three girls (all looking at different people).

Getting ready for my birthday cupcake.

I tried to blow out my candle...

Lori and Lindsey enjoying cupcakes!

Parker and I had to jump in the bag the next day. Recycle!

Oh no, fairy dust made Obi sleepy!

This is me before my first official dentist appointment. I did pretty good and got to take home a toothbrush and prize.
I got a great package the day before my birthday from Aunt MaryLyn, Uncle Bill, Elyse, and Ryan. I spent a lot of time trying on my new clothes.

Model pose.

It's my actual birthday!! Even though I've been celebrating for a month.....had a fun dinner at Red Robin with Mom and Dad.
My new bike from Mom and Dad. I've taken it on several runs around the house and I'm waiting for better weather so I can hit the neighborhood.
I Skyped with Grandma and Grandpa Hiatt on my birthday. I also got to video chat with Aunt Jess and Uncle Matt. Along with phone calls from Aunt Coco, Grandma and Grandpa Jackson, and Gigi (Great Grandma Matelich).

Being 2 means no more highchair....here I am in my big girl chair!

Okay....so the converse shoes are great. Mom and Dad stole that idea from Lindsey, she's the inspiration!
The 22nd was Grandma Jackson's birthday. G & G Jackson came to visit and celebrate her birthday and Easter.

We both got to open gifts!

Playing with Grandma...

Had some outside time on Saturday. Finally, out in the yard! Blew bubbles and watched Grandpa fly a kite.

Wild woman!

Grandma gave me an assist, otherwise I do roll back on the driveway :)

Happy Easter!!!

2011-04-24T10:56:00.003-04:00

The Easter Bunny came!

Chocolate bunny, all I did was lick it.

Party dress!

Back in Time!

2011-04-19T19:43:00.004-04:00

Dad got some pictures off of his phone from my pre-Easter festivities in Columbus a few weeks ago.

I was excited to have a bag to put my eggs in.
I was a bit slower than some of the other kids on collecting eggs....Parker was a machine!

But I enjoyed every find!

Parker planning her next move.

My section was roped off for the little kids...

Playing out in the woods, the weather that weekend was nice! We had snow here yesterday. I'm ready for sunny weather and a chance to wear all of my new clothes!

Parker and Amy.

Being a goofball........

We were the talk of the town! We all went out for breakfast. It was a little restaurant in German Village, turns out it wasn't really kid friendly but we won them over with our great looks. Parker and I drummed up some business on the sidewalk for them.

Well, tomorrow is my birthday! I've been practicing singing "Happy Birthday" all month and blowing out candles. Dad keeps telling me that most kids don't get to celebrate their birthday 5 times :) It's been a busy and fun month, looks like being 2 is going to be lots of fun!!

5000 miles??

2011-04-12T22:10:00.005-04:00

Dad and I were trying to figure out how much I've traveled in the last few weeks....

1. Round trip from Detroit to Seattle (1,900 miles each way)

2. Drive from my house to Grandpa and Grandma Jackson's (225 miles each way)

3. Visiting Parker last weekend in Columbus (145 miles each way)

4. My trip to the water park in Sandusky (75 miles each way)

5. Plus the miscellaneous trips...museum, dog drop offs, etc.

I have determined that I most definitely get credit for a 5,000 mile month, if not more! I guess I will call it my pre-birthday tour!

This past weekend I had a good time with Parker in Columbus. I forgot my camera, but maybe I can get some pics from Parker of our egg scramble. We both had a good time, although I think that Parker was the quicker egg gatherer. I was happy to just gather and dump my eggs and start all over again.

Dad and I picked Mom up from work last night and we had a family overnight trip at the Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky.

We got to our room at 7PM and the waterpark closed at 8PM. Plenty of time to go for a dip! I had a good time previewing the pool....promptly lost one of my sandals. Mom and Dad are promising me Crocs...

Storytime was at 8PM and there was a 9PM show in the lobby. I came in my pajamas.

Turns out I don't like animatronics. Didn't stick around for the whole show.

Our room had a little living room with a half wall. I didn't want to sleep in my crib when I knew Mom and Dad were right across the wall. They thought it would be fun if I slept with them. Little did they know that I toss/kick/turn all night! The queen bed hardly had room for me to sleep horizontal on the bed - let alone my puppy and blanket!

After breakfast today we packed up the car, checked out, and went back to the pool!

Family shot!

Posing on a rock...

After almost 3 hours of slides, water basketball, and the lazy river.

I loved swimming with Dad!

Dad is under the big water dump! Every 15 minutes or so there was a bell and people gathered underneath to wait for the waterfall. I got close a few times, pretty gutsy for a 2 year old!

Mom and Dad had to drag me from the pool...what a fun trip!

Style is...

2011-03-31T17:07:00.002-04:00

Moi

Fingernails: the Horror Movie

2011-03-30T21:30:00.003-04:00

Yeah, I'm not always an angel...

I like to follow up traumatic events by saying "it's fine."

Adventures at Home

2011-03-30T21:22:00.002-04:00

I've gotten back to east coast time and am settling back into my routines...

Here was me with Dad on Saturday night when I first got back. He had a new Star Wars shirt (which I ask for, along with Star Wars music - must like John Williams) for me and a cool little balloon.

Dressing up at home with my new sunglasses!

Tuesday I ate my breakfast in my high chair and then wanted to eat Mom's cereal too!
Arms up! It's a dance celebration! Must have been all of my fun time at the library storytime today...

Trip to Seattle

2011-03-28T23:11:00.005-04:00

It was a very busy trip...I went out to Seattle last Saturday and spent a week at Grandma and Grandpa's house.

Grandma and Grandpa put out Mom's table from when she was little. I loved playing tea with everyone and reading books.

A girl has to take her sunglasses when traveling...

Last Sunday was a big party for me turning 2 (okay, 23 months to be exact). I had a great time with family and friends.

This is Trey and Izzy, my second cousins. They liked my table too!

After all of the singing I enjoyed my carrot cake and cream cheese frosting. I mostly ate frosting and was pretty dainty about it, using my fork.

Tala and her son Trey (19 months), Jess and Izzy (2 in June), and me with Mom.

Post-party reading with Uncle Matt and Aunt Jess.

Mom trying to tickle me as I get a ride on Uncle Matt. Aunt Jess playing spotter!

Got to go up to Bellingham with Aunt Coco and stay one night. I liked the view off her balcony. I could watch the boats in the bay and yell out to the runners and dog walkers! Not too mention a few dance parties on the balcony!
Aunt Coco took me to a cool toy shop in Fairhaven. I pushed around a shopping cart for awhile and she bought me a fairy wand for my birthday. It's come in handy for dancing and watching Abby on Sesame Street.

Hanging at Aunt Coco's!

While touring Bellingham I also went to Aunt Coco's friend's coffee shop called the Black Drop. Met a little girl named Mia and wandered around the shop like a little hipster.

Lots of coloring.....and reading "Soup Day!"

It was a rough wake-up from my nap, I really didn't want to get moving.

Some furniture shopping with Grandma and Grandpa Hiatt. I tested some chairs and tables at Ikea and picked the ones I wanted at home.

Thursday was concert time at the Covington library. I would call it my first rock concert.

Kids lining up...

Getting my dance on.

Caspar Babypants! Yes, that's the name....the lead singer is from the Presidents of the United States of America (which Mom and Aunt Coco seemed excited about). They didn't do any old songs like Peaches, but they did cover Nirvana's "Sliver!"
Using my duplos with Grandpa. I learned all about the zoo and animals. By the end of it I could stack several on top of each other.

Playing with easter eggs. I just wanted to crack them and put them back together.

Uncle Matt and Aunt Jess promised me swimming. The Federal Way Community center is a lot of fun. They have a great kids area and I even got to do the lazy river.
I warmed up to the water.....tons of fun and I cried when Mom made me get out. It was a very busy week. I was excited to get back home and see Obi and Dad. I'm pretty much back on East Coast time....maybe I never left it! There were plenty of days when I got Mom up before 5 or 6!

Glad I got to see lots of you when I was home!

My first haircut...

2011-03-19T10:37:00.002-04:00

This morning I went with Mom and Dad for my first haircut. I did really well and only got antsy at the end. I was excited that there were so many people around getting their hair done.

Stephanie cut my hair, she only trimmed the back up a little.

Didn't want to eat my special snack during my haircut....

Watched some in the mirror.

I got to take a few curls home for my baby book!

Quick Update!

2011-03-18T22:00:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow I head to Seattle with Mom for a week! I have my suitcase packed...can't wait to see all my family out there! I was looking at the pictures on the camera and here's the past week or so.....

Checking out a grape sucker. I got this when I had my ultrasound appointment.

Pretty happy with myself!

Riding the bug :)

It's a very busy crib these days.

Snuggling with Mom.

Checking out the goodies from Grandma and Grandpa Hiatt. I got a new backpack for my trip out to Seattle.

Also, a new book for the plane and a few snacks.

This was my wild St. Patrick's day outfit. The glasses and hat really make the outfit...

After my nap I told Dad that I wanted to read Seuss. Sometimes I surprise them with new words that they didn't even know I knew!! Had a great day with Dad and Obi. Went to the library, the park, and even took Obi for a walk in the neighborhood. I'm very good at telling Obi to come to get his leash to go for a walk. Then we finished the night with ice cream at Handel's. What a great day! Can't wait to head out tomorrow, a whole week in Seattle!

How many bites....

2011-03-15T17:03:00.001-04:00

It currently takes me 5 to 6 bites to eat a small peanut butter ritz bitz cracker. Just imagine all of the crumbs! Plus, at this rate, a small snack of 6 crackers takes at least 30 minutes. Yeesh!

I'm the Boss

2011-03-07T20:23:00.005-05:00

This past weekend was kind of quiet, still trying to make sure that everyone feels good. Hard to believe that plugged up ears and coughs can linger so long! On Sunday I ventured out with Mom and Dad to look at an open house in Sylvania. It's official, our house is up for sale, complete with sign out front. Right now we are just looking, waiting for someone to bite on our place first!

This morning I had an ultrasound appointment at Toledo Hospital to check on my kidney. I wasn't happy, but Mom and Dad had predicted that. In between the screaming (and frothing at the mouth) I did yell, "okay, okay" which kind of made the ultrasound technician laugh. When things were all done there, I got off the table and took no time at all to pull on my hat and make demands to get my coat on. I was worried that Mom didn't have her coat on and I made sure she had her's on too so we could make a quick getaway. The dora sticker and grape sucker helped too!

After all of the drama, I got to go to playland in Sylvania for an hour. I'm not the most adventurous, but I really like the swings. The bounce house is fun too if I'm with Mom or Dad.

All of that activity really tired me out. So here's a pic of me, sleeping beauty...

Family Feeling Better...

2011-03-03T21:06:00.003-05:00

The whole family is recovering from various sicknesses.....but here's some pics from the last week!

Coloring very diligently. Can't decide if I am a lefty or righty!

Snack time, making sure my wild hair is out of my face!

Making OJ with Dad! I even went to the cabinet and got the juicer myself. My favorite part is smelling the oranges :)

This day I was only feeling so-so, but I did enjoy running around in my strawberry shorts.

Everyone sacked out! Lots of sleep and cuddle time to make everyone feel better.

This is how Dad found me this morning. Not upset, just entertained that I had managed to turn my shirt around.....and work at getting my diaper off (with my pants still on). You never know what you're going to get when you come get me in the morning!

It's not easy being green...

2011-02-23T10:53:00.001-05:00

Has anyone seen my green crayon??? Oh, that's right.....Obi ate it.

Pretty day.....

2011-02-22T22:22:00.002-05:00

Since I've been sick, I've been trapped inside the house. This is the tree outside of my window. It might be hard to tell, but the tree has a pretty ice layer.

See, winter can be pretty! Just a few inches of snow on the ground right now...

My sick chair. Got my tea party and kleenex!

Balancing my pretend cookies (handmade by Aunt Coco!) and serving Mom food.

Even when I'm not feeling great I manage to stay pretty happy!

Blah!

2011-02-21T22:54:00.003-05:00

Just saw it's been 9 days since my last post.....getting very negligent. It was a busy weekend, I took a trip with Mom and Dad to Cleveland and Columbus. Pictures to follow....may have contracted a bug from the Daniels family. Dad is definitely down for the count, I'm sick, and Mom is undecided.

I leave you with this cute picture from December 2010. I thought I looked fabulous!

Snow, Superbowl, and Birthday Parties!

2011-02-12T22:19:00.004-05:00

Last Saturday Mom went to work and was really surprised to come out and have 5 inches of snow on her car. I've been tracking the snow's progress and this is the first time the fire pit ring has been completely covered!

Lots of snow on the ground!

Dad had to shovel off the steps so Obi could get out of the house. I liked watching him hop like a bunny through the snow!

Handsome snow puppy.

I've been very attached to my puppy this last week. I like to sleep with him (Mom gives him a kiss before I go to sleep) and just recently I discovered that he likes chocolate bunny crackers!
Last Sunday was the big Super Bowl party at my friend's house. This was Matthew and Madeline's house and they let me play with their tea set.

I was sleeping hard. Sometimes Obi does the dirty work and comes to wake me up!

Mom and Dad were feeling generous.....this is my first happy meal. Chicken nuggets which I loved dipping in ketchup and apple slices. The slices were very yummy because they came with caramel dipping sauce.

I really needed a bath that night! It's been a messy eating week, spaghetti too :)

Dad came in with this present for Mom. It was a huge icicle from our front. Mom threw it like a javelin and I was impressed by her distance!
Aunt Coco sent me a wonderful new book and homemade (play) cookies! I was impressed with how great the cookies looked and have already read my book tons.
Today was Lindsey's birthday party! It was at a hall in Point Place and everyone had a great time running around. There were lots of kids under the age of 5.....and we kept each other entertained.
Lindsey in her birthday wheels. She was generous and all of the kids got rides. I have to thank Ian and Ava for pushing me all around!

Macie and I spent some time playing in the tent.

I was interested in all of the presents. I kind of wanted to help Lindsey open some of them, but I had a water and cake pop and watched her open most of them.

Lindsey's pretty winter cake made by her mom.

Once Lindsey got started she did a good job of eating her cake.

I was up early today, 6:30, and didn't nap at all. This is me on the ride home at 5 PM. I fell asleep holding my balloon. When Mom got me in the house the first thing I asked for was my balloons!
It was a busy day.....tomorrow we are going to celebrate Valentine's Day early! I want to help Mom and Dad make homemade pasta and red velvet cupcakes. Can't wait!!

One year ago today...

2011-02-03T23:50:00.002-05:00

Just thought it would be fun to see how much I've changed! I found this picture on Dad's cell phone :)

Snowtropolis!

2011-02-03T23:31:00.003-05:00

It's been a cold and snowy week! Here's some highlights...

These are my PJs from Grandma and Grandpa Jackson. I was hitching my socks up high and when I got Mom's phone I tried to take her picture!

I've been working on my ponytail. It's coming together nicely!

Tuesday night was the big snow fall. Dad went out and cleared the driveway that night so Mom could get up and go to work.
It was a level 3 emergency, so the roads were very clear for Mom's drive in. She was surprised at how many people made it in for their surgeries.

Dad had to clear some drifts away from the back door so Obi could go out to play!

The driveway before the next round of snowblowing.

Obi declared it a lazy day.

Mom was looking forward to having today off with me. It was a girls morning! Here I was reading before we headed out.
Mom and I went to the Carter's outlet and shopped like crazy! It seems like someone shrunk all my old clothes and now I need a 24 month or 2 T. I liked helping Mom look and made some executive decisions on the clothes. I especially liked the butterfly pants (on the right, tan/pink/white). We were really good bargain shoppers and got everything for $62 bucks!
Then Mom and I had lunch at Panera's and I decided I was having so much fun that I didn't even need a nap today! It was a busy day and I was ready for bed when Dad put me down tonight...

Vegas Vacation - Part 2

2011-01-30T20:17:00.006-05:00

So now that you saw Mom and Dad's side.......here's a little taste of my week with Grandpa and Grandma in town!
I ate really well for them. Mac and cheese is always a good stand by. I think my favorites though were the spaghetti and chocolate ice cream! Grandma told Mom and Dad that I did my best to lick the bowl clean!

Plenty of outings and drives around the area. Hit the mall to walk around and did some window shopping.

Practiced on my phone so I'd be ready when Mom and Dad called from Vegas.

It snowed some and gave Grandpa and Grandma a taste of Ohio winter. I got to watch Grandpa use the snow blower from the window.

Had some arts and crafts time with Grandma (when I wasn't dancing!).

Plenty of reading!

Even made it to the library for story time. The Sylvania library is really busy, but this group at the Holland library was only 5 kids!!

Grandma did a good job punking up my hair!

Grandpa bought me a new toy. It's a leaptop and it lets me learn about letters, animals and play music! It knows my name and has emails personalized to me from Grandma, Grandpa, and Aunt Coco!

I got a welcome home balloon for Mom and Dad. The funny thing was that it had a hole in it and had to be patched before they got home. It still floated.....kind of!

Apparently I have really long arms. I have been raiding my book shelves during nap time!

More dancing! I took a turn with everyone! Enjoying my tent. You should have seen it when I had Mom, Dad and me in there all at the same time!

Wow, I look tall! Sunday with Grandma and Grandpa before the airport run.

Back with Mom and Dad again! I'm glad they had a good trip and I had a great time with Grandpa and Grandma!!!

Vegas Vacation - Part 1

2011-01-29T20:35:00.004-05:00

So, Grandpa and Grandma came into town last Saturday and then Mom and Dad turned around and left for Vegas on Sunday. I had until Thursday to hang out with Grandpa and Grandma....lots to tell about my adventures, but first here's Mom and Dad's trip.

Pre-trip, a little fun with Obi and hair design.

There was lots of walking around in Vegas. Mom and Dad stayed at the Mirage and had a great room. They got to travel with our friends Greg and Ally. Here Mom and Ally are in front of the Treasure Island ship!

Dad and Mom.

The biggest and best hot chocolate in Las Vegas.

Crazy chicken and waffles.

Everywhere you looked there was a celebration for Chinese New Year's.

The Beatle's "Love" show at the Mirage.

Night view from the 26th floor at the Mirage.

One night Mom and Dad ate at the Paris hotel, here was the view. They were also able to watch the Bellagio fountain show from their dinner table.

The Venetian boat ride.....

...complete with singing!

Last picture in Vegas!

I had lots of dancing time with Grandpa and Grandma during my stay. In fact I may have tired them out!

Breakfast this morning with Mom.

Showing off for Grandpa and Grandma. I was holding my Vegas purse from Mom and Dad and hanging out in Dad's shoes! I drove up to the airport with Mom and Dad this afternoon to make sure Grandpa and Grandma got off okay. It was a fast visit, but easier since I know that I'm going out to visit in March!

This was part one of my week.....I need to go through the pictures from Grandpa too and I'll post more about my time with them :)

Wild Bath Time!

2011-01-20T22:09:00.003-05:00

Everyone survived.........the floor did not.

21 Months!

2011-01-20T22:03:00.002-05:00

I had a nice day today with Mom and Dad. Got a fun surprise in the mail....thanks for the great pj's Grandma and Grandpa Jackson! Obi shared in the opening, but I was lucky because he was more interested in the envelope. Hard to believe that I am going on 2 years old!! Mom and Dad took me to Johnny Rockets today. My favorite part was dipping my french fries in ketchup. Or just sucking ketchup off my fingers. I also liked that they gave me my own hat! Otherwise, I was at home watching some of the snow come down. It's a cold one out there...

Columbus Trip

2011-01-20T21:42:00.003-05:00

I've definitely been off my blogging game...but that's just because I've been helping Mom and Dad get ready for Grandpa and Grandma Hiatt's arrival on Saturday! I can't wait to have the whole week with them and I'm sure Mom and Dad are going to enjoy their trip to Las Vegas!
This was from last week. My favorite Ann Arbor mall has a cool kids play area. Lots of soft stuff to climb on. Had my first encounter with another girl who was a "hitter." Mom came to my rescue (the little girl was persistent!).

Last Friday we drove down to Columbus. I hadn't seen Parker since Thanksgiving! We celebrated our reunion with a matching pj and glasses picture.

As always, I can never get enough of Parker's car. I think that Mom and Dad are happy that it lives in Columbus :)

The weather has been cold, so indoor activities are good. On Sunday we went to COSI, the Columbus science museum. Parker and I found lots of things that were good for kids our age.

One of my favorites was the little house that was my size. I could walk up the stairs, play at the sink, and turn a light on and off!

Aunt Amy warned my Mom about this part, so I had a change of clothes ready. It's a giant room full of water activities!

Parker was smart and brought her raincoat.

Even with all of that water time we were still up for a bath.

The ride home on Monday. Another successful trip!

It's Snowing!

2011-01-11T20:49:00.003-05:00

Today I had both Mom and Dad home. We ran a few errands and even went out to our favorite Mexican place for lunch. Then I watched Dad clear the driveway and I went outside to try playing in the snow. I wasn't too sure of myself. Maybe it was how bundled up I was or just my general cautiousness. I think that I need to get a sled, being pulled around may be more my style!

Playing on Mom and Dad's bed this last week.

Opening our Christmas box from the Jacksons! I got a great Winnie the Pooh puzzle, potty book, and light up kitty.

Braving the cold weather a few days ago.

Just discovered that I like to wear sunglasses. I would refuse to wear them up til now!

My new hat, Mom was bargain shopping!

My new crazy sunglasses, love the Children's Place!

Today, all set to head outside....

I just wanted to walk on the cleared part. When I hit the "end" of the road I would stop!

Walking with Daddy....

Our winter wonderland!

Morning Work!

2011-01-02T12:01:00.002-05:00

Mom and I went out to spend some of my Christmas money this morning. I love playing with my new kitchen set. So I decided to buy myself a shopping cart.

It's a stylish Sesame street model. Complete with jam, mustard, dish soap and hot cocoa.

Cooking away.

Loading my groceries.

Oh no, the phone is for me!

New Year's Giggles

2011-01-01T20:49:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year's!

2011-01-01T20:38:00.003-05:00

Welcome 2011! I did not make it up to celebrate the New Year's start.....which I think Mom and Dad were thankful for. Maybe in a few years :) But I decided to give my blog a new fresh look for 2011!

Bath time on New Year's Eve.

Christmas has been all month! I got a present from my friends the Filatoffs today.

A new puzzle type toy. Lots of fun!

The couch makes a good table.....

I also spent much of the day playing with my kitchen set. Here I am cooking my doll's hat!

Acting silly with my slippers and wild hair.

Mom and I had crazy hair time together tonight. It helps with my puzzle skills..... Hope you all had a great New Year's! I skipped my nap tonight and dragged through the rest of the day. Mom said that I could hardly keep my eyes open for my books at bed time. But that didn't stop me from asking for another story!

December in Pictures!

2010-12-26T14:09:00.012-05:00

Well, in all of the Christmas excitement I have been off my blogging duties. I was out in Seattle from the 10th to the 20th and had a great time with family and friends. One of the big highlights was going to Uncle Matt and Aunt Jess's wedding! So follow me on my trip in Seattle and Christmas in Toledo...
Grandpa and Grandma had a beautiful tree. I liked to look at the ornaments and did a decent job controlling myself :)

Grandma and Grandpa gave me some toys for my visit. This was an Elmo kitchen toy that hung on the fridge. My favorite part was the boiling water noise.

I got to see both Great Grandma Hiatt and Great Grandma Matelich. Here I am with Great Grandma Hiatt playing with my nativity set. That glass table saw a lot of fingerprints!

Uncle Matt keeping me entertained!

Plenty of book time and "ball" (watching football) with Grandpa.

Breaking in my new tent.

Reading my Christmas Story book from Great Grandma Matelich. It's been a favorite!

Maybe I could just take a little nap?

My first Taco Time experience. And my first dipping with ketchup. I really liked the mexifries!

Coloring with Grandpa.

The indoor park at Kent Commons.

Uncle Matt got his exercise and I enjoyed the view.

Still, I was tired after the indoor park.

Hanging with Aunt Coco.

Loving my blankie.

Aunt Coco, Mom and me at Uncle Matt's new house.

Family pic!

Hanging with the family (when not looking for Mittens the cat).

The view from Uncle Matt's and Aunt Jess's place. Yup, that's Mt. Rainier!

Daily book time.

All dressed up for the wedding. Dad was the best man!

My handsome Uncle Matt and beautiful Aunt Jess!

I had my very own special niece dance. To "Somewhere Along the Sea."

I was all over the dance floor! And made it the whole day with NO nap!

Getting ready to leave with Aunt Coco.

December 19th.....or when Christmas happens at Grandpa and Grandma Hiatt's house!

Decked out in full party gear.

Looking at Dad's Jack ball.

Juice break, there were a lot of presents.

My fancy Christmas dress.

The Tickle Monster book from Aunt Jess and Uncle Matt. You had better watch out, I'm a pro!

December 20th, trying to unload Seattle Christmas at home!

I like wearing my Santa hat. Even if I don't really like the Big Guy yet.

Christmas Eve I went to the Winter Wonderland with Mom and Dad. Maybe next year I'll be able to ride the train.

I ran around a lot at the Winter Wonderland. Fell asleep on our way to lunch and our traditional Chinese Christmas Eve meal became take-out!

Obi showing off his skills and fluzziness.

Waiting for Santa...

In the North Pole in my igloo.

With Mom and Obi on Christmas Eve.

Wearing my new Hello Kitty slippers and Mom's new gloves.

Santa came! And brought me a wonderful new kitchen! I spent most of the day playing with my baby doll and kitchen set.

Then it was off to Mick and Maryanne's for dinner and playing with the Cable twins.

I had a wonderful Christmas! Hope you all had a great day with friends and family too :)

Getting Ready for My Trip!

2010-12-07T21:30:00.002-05:00

Well, sorry about my lack of blogging. I've been helping Mom and Dad get ready for our trip out to Seattle! We leave on Friday for 10 busy days! Can't wait...

It's been cold in Toledo. I had to dig through my closet to see if I had any hats that still fit.
This past weekend I went with Mom and Dad and the Roberts to Wildwood's Manor House. There was a great display of trees and lights. My favorite room was the baby doll room! Plus, I really liked the train display in the basement.

The whole gang.

Like I said, getting ready for my trip! Mom wanted to see if I could carry my little backpack. Who knows, maybe I'll have to carry stuff in the airport :)

2010-12-02T14:22:00.001-05:00

Contest details

Nineteen Months!

2010-11-21T20:50:00.004-05:00

Hey there, just a few pics from the last few days.....

I still like to have fun. I don't sit still for Mom to do my hair, but I will let her get an occasional crazy head band in!

My close-up.

Reading my Thanksgiving book from the library.

Saturday I turned 19 months old! I had a good day with Mom, Dad was at the UM vs Wisconsin game that day. We got up and met Lindsey, Maryanne, Jenny and Ava for an impromptu morning playtime. All the girls had a great time!

I love my little snack cup.

Dad got home after the game in time for dinner and bathtime. It was a celebration and he gave me LOTS of bubbles!

My bubble hair!

Today was very warm and Mom and Dad took advantage of it during my afternoon nap. Now I have 1300 LED lights plus snowflakes in the tree outside my window to look at! We got to leave them on to enjoy tonight, but then I guess I have to wait until after Thanksgiving for nightly shows......

Library Morning

2010-11-17T12:16:00.004-05:00

Well, it's been several days but the family is starting to feel better. Mom and I ventured out some yesterday and this morning. It was nice to get out of the house!

During my "lockdown" at home I had lots of reading time in my fuzzy Dora chair.

One night we had an emergency dinner run, nothing left to eat. So this was my fashionable ensemble that Mom pulled together for me! Mom hopes that I learn to love my apple hat.
More book time on the couch. It's hard to run around when you are coughing and wheezy!
See, I do clean up pretty good! Yesterday morning I went out with Mom to Hallmark and the pet store. I impressed the Hallmark lady with all of my "pleases." Mostly because I wanted to get out of my stroller and look at everything. Mom didn't give in :( I really enjoyed the fish at the pet store and had a good time looking at the birds too.

Me being goofy at home while Mom and Dad were making dinner.

So this morning Mom and I went to the library story time. There were probably 15-20 babies between the ages of newborn to two years. I liked the songs, learning about stars, and clapping my hands. There was a loud lady who read a book about why animals shouldn't wear clothes. I even met another Natalie who was almost two years old. I did NOT like learning about feet and trying to trace mine. Maybe I'm ticklish? The group takes a break for the holidays and I'm hoping to go back in January! When we got home from the library I got the mail and was excited to find Mom's new Parents magazine. Maybe I can pick up some new activities in there!

My New Chair

2010-11-10T14:55:00.002-05:00

This past weekend Grandma and Grandpa Jackson came to help celebrate my Dad's birthday. I had a great time playing and entertaining them! They also spoiled me too. I got some new fuzzy monkey pjs, a festive t-shirt, and this great Dora chair (early Christmas!).

I really like the chair, it's soft and has Boots on it. I love monkeys and make an "ooh ooh" noise when I see one.
More monkeys, I'm sensing a theme! I think this is almost a tree pose from yoga :)

Attitude. I took Mom's hat when she got home from work on Monday.

Snacks, a chair, and my hat. What more can a girl want? I promise to get more pics from G & G Jackson's visit. I think they are on my other computer. What can I say, I'm a busy girl who loves her electronics!

Halloween!

2010-11-03T22:02:00.004-04:00

I had a great time celebrating Halloween this year. I spent some time walking around the neighborhood and then hanging out at our place to see all of the other kids come by. Parker and her parents were in town for the weekend too, so we got to model our costumes for each other and run around the house some.

This past week I used my stool for a chair lots and did some reading

I also stole Mom's purse, but I held it very nicely.

I had a great Halloween shirt from Parker. I think that Mom washed it almost every day so I could wear it tons the week of Halloween!

Parker and her Dad, all dressed up!

Cute ducky...

We practiced our sorting techniques, no candy eaten!

I was kind of striking a pose for the camera.

Our favorite place to hide out, in the dog crate!

Little piglet bouncing on a ball.

Helping Mom with some lights.

Piglet on the loose!

Posing with my buddies the Filatoffs.

Piglet and spiderman!

Piglet on the move...

I stayed in my costume for almost the whole time! By the end of trick or treating I was tired and ready for bed...can't wait for next year!

Hope you all had a great Halloween!

18 Month Stats

2010-10-26T22:06:00.002-04:00

I went to the doctor's today for my 18 month check. I seem to remember the place from my last few sick visits and wasn't too happy to be visiting again. But all was well... I'm 24 pounds and 12 ounces (a little above 50th %), 32 1/2 inches (75th %) and my noggin is 75th % as well. Everything is going well and I get to avoid them until my two year check!

My new step stool. I have a strangely hard time just sitting down on it.

Yes, sometimes this is what it takes BEFORE I can sit down!

Getting ready for Halloween!

Very spooky...

Babysitting Parker!

2010-10-24T20:10:00.002-04:00

I spent the weekend down in Columbus with my buddy Parker. Parker's Mom and Dad had a busy weekend working so we got to fill in. It was a fun-filled weekend and I was VERY tired by the time I got home today!

Saturday morning....one highchair and two babies! We both did a good job sharing the highchair time.

Parker Jane...baby model.

On Saturday we also took an adventure. Hard to do when you have two babies on different nap schedules. It was pretty wild having two carseats in the Honda.

Looking up at Mom and Dad.

We did lots of things together. Parker showed me her music toy and we both pushed around the cozy coupe.

Nope, it's not a two seater!

Help Dad! Come push me around!

Parker was happy to see her Mom on Saturday night.

Sunday morning....we were playing in Obi's crate.

Like I said, it was a busy weekend and I managed to get a wink on the drive home from Columbus. Thanks for the fun Parker!

Guess Who's 18 Months??

2010-10-21T11:24:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was the big day! I celebrated with a little bit of a cold. But overall it was a good day.

I harassed Obi by laying on his pillow (quite soft).

And after dinner I got a cupcake to celebrate. Remember how clean I was with my 1 year fish cake? Not tonight! I showed Mom how I could squish frosting, and then run it up into my hair...

A pretty tasty cupcake.

For my 18th I got a set of blocks. I think I'm going to have to watch Obi, he was awfully interested in sharing....

The (Cute) End

2010-10-18T21:25:00.001-04:00