Christmas Day in Pictures

Photo Slideshow!!!

Dylan’s Studio Session

Santa Photo

As promised, here is the picture of me with Santa:

Santa Claus!

Guess what, guess what, guess what???  I saw Santa Claus today!  And he was so cool.  He picked me up and put me on his lap, then asked what I wanted for Christmas.  Well, in response, I pointed at his beard and said, "That!"  Wouldn't that be something, me with a big white beard?  Mommy interrupted and told him I'd like some trains and blocks, but I really want that beard.  Jeez, Mom!

Pictures of Santa will be up shortly, but I do have pictures from the Enchanted Forest at the Pink Palace, which is where Santa was.  Here's a sample:

Zoo Lights!

Last night was lots of fun.

First, I met a friend at the new(-ish) Chick-Fil-A--you know, the one with the church facade and the only play area in town.

Then, I went with a couple friends to the zoo for Zoo Lights.  We played in the snow and saw the light displays and rode the train saw the reindeer and got to pet some of the animals.

But my favorite part of the entire night was the person in the timberwolf costume.  I don't know what it is, but I really like large fuzzy costumes.  It started with the Panda at Zoo Boo, then continued with at the St Jude Marathon.  And now it's a timberwolf.

I almost didn't make it home awake.

Tweet, Tweet!

I, your faithful blogger, am now officially a micro-blogger as well.

Yes, that's right.  Mr Pickle is on Twitter.  Follow me at @DylansPickles.  For those of you who don't know, that means http://twitter.com/DylansPickles.  So, now I can send you more frequent bits that normally would not make a post here.

But, as you may have noticed already, my Tweets will show up at the top of this page, where I've installed a new gadget.

Enjoy!

And We're Back!

No excuses, right, but the internet was down for over a week.  Too much happened over that time, so we won't rehash.  If you really want to know the missing details, just call.

But, I did participate in my first marathon.  Over the past month or so, we have been logging miles as part of the St Jude Marathon's Family Race.  On race day, we just did one mile.

The last leg of the race led us through the center field wall at AutoZone Park (home of the Memphis Redbirds, the AAA affiliate of the StL Cardinals).  I rode in the stroller until we arrived at the stadium, at which point I had to get out and push the stroller myself.  Once inside the stadium, the family course led us around the left field warning track, through the finish line, and then down the third base foul territory.

I forgot about the stroller as we crossed the finish line, as I was distracted by Rocky the Redbird.  He was so cool that I just ran and jumped up into his arms.

Take a look:

I really liked the big numbers on the wall in left field, too:

Thankful for...

I am thankful for...

• Mommy and Daddy,
• Grandmommy and Grandaddy,
• Grandma and Pa,
• Uncle Grant and Aunt Kelly,
• Aunt Hillary and Uncle Patrick,
• cousins Trevor and Jayda,
• Layla Dog,
• other family,
• all my friends,
• and, and...

MY NEW BROTHER OR SISTER!!!!!

That's right, I'm going to be a big brother in May.  And look at him/her:

Turkey Day Pics!

There are lots and lots of new photos over at the Flickr page.

Wait, you're still here?  Get over there now (NOW!) and peruse the pictures.

Click the link above or go to http://www.flickr.com/photos/dylanpickle/.

Here are some samples:

And here's a picture of Mommy and her bum knee:

(Not So) Black Friday

They call this 'Black Friday.'  Well, what do they know?

Today was a good day, a day that did not involve shopping.  I hear that's the thing to do on this day after Thanksgiving, but I beg to differ.  I have a few ideas as to how one should spend the day after Thanksgiving, thank you very much, and if you read on you'll find out what they are.

The first thing you should do, upon waking, is snuggle.  I prefer to snuggle with Mommy and Daddy and Layla.

When you've had enough of that, you should play until you work up an appetite, at which point you should drink some milk or some juice and eat a good breakfast.

Now, the next part is optional.  Me and Mommy and Daddy got our hair done.  This is optional for the day after Thanksgiving, but not optional for a visit to Grandma's house.

Next, you should get outside for a bit.  I chose to walk (er, ride in the stroller) to the playground, then push my stroller all the way back.

By this time, you should be ready for a nap.  So, go ahead and take one.  I take naps daily, but you may not be as lucky.  Thus, I suggest that you take advantage of the opportunity.  And, if anyone says anything, just tell them to come talk to me.

When you wake up, you will probably be hungry.  You could have leftovers, but I suggest that you save the leftovers for later (dinner, the next few days) and go out.  I had spinach-artichoke dip and sweet potato fries.

I bet there is someone you need to go see.  I bet there is someone who needs you to help them with something.  Go see that person.  Go help that person.  I went to Nane's house to visit and help with her Christmas decorations.

And I bet there is someone you could go see and have some fun.  Do it.  I went to the Babb's to see their animals.  I chased the chickens around, then I petted one.  I played with the puppy.  I petted the bunny rabbit.  And (Surprise!), Mr Railey was in town and drew a bunny on my hand, just as he's been doing for kids for forever and a day.

Being out and on the go will work up an appetite, so you should go home and make some leftovers.

Play some more and light a fire.  And skip you bath before bed.

(Oh, and if you have grandparents like mine who won't see you for Christmas but want to have Christmas with you, then you should have a mini-Christmas with them.)

I think the day after is pretty darn close to being as good as Thanksgiving itself.  I can't wait until next year!

Gobble, Gobble!

Happy Turkey Day!

We loaded up the car at bedtime and drove through Tuesday night to Grandma and Pa's house.

It took a long time (8 1/2 hrs, including stops), but I don't remember much of it.  The only times I woke up was when we stopped and the bright lights shined in my eyes.

I had a big day yesterday, interrupting my playtime (with Grandma, Pa, cousins Trevor and Jayda, Aunt Hillary, Uncle Patrick, Mommy, Daddy, Layla, Sugar) only for someone to wipe my nose, which is now running.  I didn't eat much yesterday, but my appetite was back this morning at breakfast.

Daddy's about to go get Nane and Mema is coming over soon, too.  And I can't wait for them to spoil me rotten.  (Grandma and Pa are already doing a good job of that!)

We're watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, but I really don't care about cheerleaders and musicals and Rockettes.  Bring on Sesame Street!  Bring on the Peanuts characters!  And bring on Santa Claus!  (Get ready, Grandaddy; we'll be calling you when Santa comes.)

This is not my first Thanksgiving, but I was too little to remember last year.  But I can tell that, by the smell of things, this is certainly a holiday for me!  I hope it's a good one for you.

Poor Mommy and Other Excitement

Poor Mommy.  She hurt her knee, a first degree sprain of the medial collateral ligament (MCL).  It happened on Tuesday and, although she is better, she is still having a hard time getting around.

Fortunately, we have great family and friends.

Grandaddy watched me and put me to bed while Daddy took Mommy to the doctor.  On day 1, Daddy had to take care of Mommy, while he and Grandaddy took care of me.  On day 2, me and Grandaddy had quite a day, as he used his day off to play with me.  On day 3, Grandmommy was back in town and she came over to love on me.  Mrs Carol, bless her, brought lunch.  Then, I went to my friend Michael's house to play.  Uncle Grant and Aunt Kelly brought dinner and played.

The weekend has been mostly me and Daddy, but I can tell Mommy is getting better because she is able to do more with me each day.  It won't be too long before she's on the floor with me again!  Oh, and Aunt Cathy came over last night with dinner and energy to play.

In other words, it's too bad Mommy hurt herself, but I've enjoyed all the visitors!

Don't be a stranger.  And don't wait until someone is injured or sick to come play.  You don't need an excuse to play with me and love on me.  Wait, I am the excuse!

Weekly Roundup

Sorry to be away, folks.  And, really, I don't have a very good reason for not posting in a week.  You know, just the ordinary business of being a kid.

That said, such ordinary business can be quite extraordinary, as was the case this week.

The weather--oh the weather!--has been so very nice.  A kid couldn't ask for better weather.  Maybe someone else could, but not a kid--at least not a kid who likes to be outdoors.  I went to the zoo...twice.  First, on Monday, with my friend Michael.  And then, today, with Evan.  And, on a few occasions, I got to walk Layla and run around.  And I got to swing in my tree swing and go on lots of walks.

Yesterday was a big day.  Mommy and me made a car out of a box.  (More on that later.)  Then, Daddy took me to another basketball game.  (Actually, make that games, with an 's' at the end, because we saw the last quarter of the girls and the first half of the boys.)  And, finally, we went to church for movie night on the lawn.  (Did I mention the weather yet?)

So, the reason we made a car out of a box is because it was 'Boxcar Movie Night' at church.  They were showing Horton Hears A Who! on the lawn, but everyone was invited to show up early to make cars out of boxes.  Why?  Well, who wouldn't want to sit inside of a car on the lawn to watch a movie?  That's what I thought!  I see all those hands.

We made my car during the day because we weren't sure (a) if there would be enough boxes, or (b) if there would be boxes my size.  (And it turned out that there were plenty of boxes, but they were all too big for me.)  At any rate, no one had a boxcar quite a fancy as mine, which was decorated with wrapping paper and felt, as opposed to sidewalk chalk.

I had lots of fun (and ate lots of popcorn!), although I must say that the movie was not so good.  Now, the book is quite enjoyable, but the film version just tries way too hard.  We would rather kick it old school in this house!  (Take that, Jim Carrey.)

Oh, and before I forget, I posted some more photos on the Flickr page.  Here are a few.

Boy's Day

Mommy has been very busy this week making banners for the Missions Banquet at church.  And they are very nice.  Mommy is so creative.  So, anyway, they have to be done before tomorrow.

Plus, sometimes I like to give Mommy a break from me and sometimes I wish I had more time to spend with Daddy.  Therefore, we declared today a boy's day.

Me and Daddy played and read and listened to music and went to a basketball game and watched some college football.

With Daddy, I usually like to play with my balls or my cars or my blocks.  But, today, I was really into the wooden train set that spells my name.  I don't know why; I just was.

Grandaddy and Aunt Cathy got me some new books at the Scholastic Book Fair at church the other night, so I have new books to read, although that doesn't stop me from reading the old ones.  Actually, we don't so much read the old ones as much as I identify things on the page when asked.  I'm a smarty pants like that.

And Daddy has turned me onto OutKast.  I like their beats and especially enjoyed dancing to "Bombs Over Baghdad."  What?  Are you laughing?  We should have a dance off.  That'll teach you.

Then, me and Daddy went to watch his students play basketball.  The girls were playing when we got there, so we just found a spot in the stands.  Between games, though, we followed the girls to our school section and sat there while the boys played.  I know the girls were supposed to be watching the game, but that didn't stop me from distracting them.

After missing my nap during the basketball game, I was tuckered out.  I held out, though, until I couldn't stay awake any longer.  And I went from full speed to slamming on the brakes.  My nap my have been late, but it sure was long.

I was so excited when Mommy got home shortly after I woke up.  She missed me so, and I missed her, too.  In fact, just two minutes before she got home, I started saying, "Momma."

It was a good day!

Chickens!

trunk-or-treat!

Yesterday, we had Trunk-or-Treat at church.  What's that, you ask?  It's where people decorate the trunks of their cars and kids trick-or-treat from car to car.

It sure was fun.  And here are some pictures friends took:

Zoo Boo and Other Fun Stuff

My friends, Naomi and Fay (along with their Mommy, Aunt Sarah), were in town this week.  And we had lots and lots of fun together.

On Friday evening, we met up and walked over to the zoo together, in full Halloween costumes.  It was Zoo Boo!  Most of the animals were inside for the night, but we did get to see the farm animals.  That didn't matter much, though, because the zoo was all decorated for Halloween.

In fact, we had seen the decorations last week in the day when we took Grandaddy to the zoo.  But it was even cooler at night, with all the spooky lights.  There were skeletons and spiders and graveyards and ghosts and ghouls and fog and other fun stuff.  And there were trick-or-treat stations, although I didn't much care about them after the first couple.

Today, before they left to head back to North Carolina, we met up with Naomi and Fay at the Children's Museum.  I really liked being in the back of the cop car, but Mommy said that had better be the only cop car I find myself in.  I colored a picture for Daddy, played with the airplanes, and had fun with Fay in the toddler area.  I can't wait to go back!

Pictures from both trips will be forthcoming.

Loved One, Lost

One who was loved very much was lost this week.

Her name was Mrs Martin and she was special, so special that she would have been 1/2 of my namesake were I a girl.  And, if I ever have a sister, the name Margaret will be included in her name.

When Mommy moved to Memphis, Mrs Martin and her husband (and the Poples) acted as grandparents in this new place.  When Mommy and Daddy got married, the Martins (and Mrs Pople) served as honorary grandparents for Mommy.

That's how special Mrs Martin was.

We'll miss her terribly.  And we'll miss our date for next week to show her my monkey costume.

If only I can be as special as her one day.

15 Months!

Well, I turned 15 months old today.  And I don't feel a day older than 14 months.  I'm just kidding about that.  You know, people always say something like that and it's pretty silly.  And, well, I'm a pretty silly kid.

So, anyway, to celebrate my 15 months of life, I had to get 5 shots.  Yes, you read that correctly.  Can you believe it?  Five?  Five!  Seriously.

But I'm a trooper, a super trooper even.  And I should be, given how big I am.  I weighed in at 26 pounds and 32 inches tall, which comes out to be the 75th and 90th percentiles, respectively.

So, yep, I'm a big boy.  And I proved it by eating a house.  Well, again, not really.  But I did have half a burger and some fries for lunch.  Then, for dinner, I ate most of a huge Brooklyn slice of cheese from Little Italy.  Mommy can only eat one slice, they are so big, and that's what I almost ate.

What can I say, I'm a growing boy.  So, look out, because I may be towering over you in the very near future.  Enjoy being bigger than me while you can; it won't last long.

Pumpkin Patch!

We went to Priddy Farms and their pumpkin patch today with Uncle Grant and Aunt Kelly.  And we had lots of fun.  Don't believe me?  Look at these pics:

And look at the Flickr page for more photos.

Hangin' With Pa and Using A Spoon

Yesterday, we left Pa at the house for a trip to the Farmer's Market.  On the way, however, we made a stop to try the beignets at the Beignet Cafe.  And it was well worth it.  We may have to make that part of our routine.

We came back and had a nap, then took Pa to the zoo.  He hadn't been in many years and the zoo has changed a lot in the meantime.  He hadn't even seen the pandas.  And the latest exhibit, the Teton Trek, actually opened to the public yesterday.  Even Daddy hadn't seen it yet, though me and Mommy went during the member's preview last week.  The grizzly cubs are pretty cool, as are the timberwolves.

Pa wanted to try a new BBQ place and jumped at the idea of eating at Neely's, which is owned by that couple on the Food Network.  I didn't really want any BBQ, but I did discover that I like ketchup.  I wouldn't sit in my chair, so I was in Daddy's lap.  I saw him dipping fries in ketchup and tried it for myself.  I didn't know what I was missing!

Pa also wanted to try some Memphis chicken, so we went to Uncle Lou's after church today to get some of their Sweet Spice Love and honey buttered biscuits.

Oh, and guess what I can do!  Give up?  I can feed myself with a spoon!  I started with my morning yogurt, but it's been pretty messy, mostly due to the fact that I am still learning to use a spoon.  But, this evening, Mommy got all excited because I was using my spoon the correct way...for a while, at least.

Pa in Memphis

Below are a few photos we've taken since Pa arrived in town.  More will be posted on Flickr (that's http://www.flickr.com/photos/dylanpickle/) as soon as we can get them up.

Cousin Jayda

Like I mentioned, Pa is in town.  And he brought Grandma's camera.  And that means that we have access to the pictures she already had taken.

So, here's some pics of my new cousin Jayda (the last one includes cousin Trevor):

Busy Busy

So, it has been quite a while since my last post and everyone has been clamoring for an update.

Well, update, we are really busy around here.  My apologies.

A few highlights of things you missed:

• a wonderful Shell concert by The Prodigals, sponsored by our church and the first attended by Grandmommy and Grandaddy,
• half a weekend without Daddy, as he left me and Mommy to go to Pickwick with some guys,
• lots of fun with my friend Michael and our Mommies, since our Daddies were together,
• the Pink Palace Arts & Crafts Fair with Aunt Cathy (there was a petting zoo and I got a rocking giraffe!),
• a cheesy Shell concert for kids that sounded cool (dinosaurs!) but wasn't,
• lots o' rain, intermixed with some really nice autumn days,
• one evening per week with only Daddy as Mommy leaves us to tutor other kids,
• Read for the Record with Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar,
• some finger painting,
• Pa coming to see me(!),
• and Daddy on Fall Break!

There, that should catch us up to date.

Oh, did I mention that Pa drove up from the War-Town yesterday?  Well, he did.  And I am so excited.

Hilarious!!!

Guess what...I'm hilarious!

It's true.  And, while I think it must have been true for a while now, I just found out a few days ago.

You see, every once in a while, Mommy or Daddy or someone will laugh at me.  Well, the other day, Daddy laughed so hard that it made me laugh.  And now I laugh at myself all the time--because, you know, I'm hilarious.

And, when I say laugh, I really mean laugh hysterically.  I'm talking the squealing and screaming kind of laughter, when you lose yourself in joy.

Busy, But Fun!

Yesterday was a busy, busy, yet fun, day.

First, we all slept a little later than usual.  Then, we definitely stayed in bed later--well, all of us except for me, but I stayed in Mommy and Daddy's bed.

Finally, we made it downtown to the Farmer's Market.  If nothing else, we have to go down to be around the people and pick up some tomatoes.  We also got some basil, snap beans, and ground beef.  And Ms Valerie June was playing lovely music, although she was on a break during most of our visit.

After a nap and lunch, we walked over to Clamjamfry and the Scottish Faire at the Presbyterian church down the street.  I was too small for most of the stuff for kids, but I was able to pet the sheep!  There were also some shepherds and dogs herding sheep in one area.  And that was pretty fun to watch.

We walked home and, then, drove over to the park for Nuts! Over Art.  Several artists had booths and quite a few even had hands-on activities for kids, but I was too little.  Mommy did find a nice print for me by Kong Wee Pang called Bird Tree.  It is an orange tree with brown leaves that slowly turn into brown birds flying out of the tree.

Then, we traveled over to Cooper-Young and walked around.  Mommy found a few books for me at Burkes.  One was Bear Snores On, the full sized edition of which I already have as a board book.  I also got Go, Dog.  Go!  P.D. Eastman's Book of Things That Go and It's Not Easy Being Big!, which is about Big Bird and Elmo.  (Add those to The Pigeon Wants a Puppy! and The Pigeon Has Feelings, Too!, both by Mo Willems, that Daddy brought home the other day and I racked up this week!)

We stopped by Young Ave. Deli before leaving for picnic food and headed back to Overton Park.  As part of Nuts! Over Art, the Levitt Shell was hosting the Memphis Symphony Orchestra.  First came the string quartet, who played some Mozart.  A librarian joined them and they accompanied her as she read a children's book.  Then the woodwinds took over.  Soon, the librarian joined them, reading How I Became a Pirate.

I didn't pay much attention, but ran around with Daddy, playing.  I did leave him a few times, though, to play with some other kids.  I also had to come play with Uncle Grant and Aunt Kelly when they arrived.  And, then, my friend, Michael, showed up and we played.

As you can imagine, I was pooped after such a busy day.  I almost didn't make it home for my bath, but Mommy said I was stinky and needed to get clean for church.  But she was even more pooped than me, so she went to bed and left me with Daddy.  She deserved an early night, though.

Mommy is such a good Mommy and I love being with her all day, but I need (and love) Daddy time.  And, any way, Mommy needs Mommy time sometimes.  It doesn't matter who puts me to bed, but Daddy can't sing like Mommy!

Memphis in September!

It's September in Memphis and that means it's Cooper-Young Festival time.  At least, that's what Mommy and Daddy have been telling me for a few weeks now.  And I was able to experience my first CYF today.  There were lots and lots of people.  And they were all over those few blocks around the intersection of Cooper and Young.

We saw some really cool art.  We wanted some, too, but it was out of our price range.  That's too bad, especially considering that Mommy and Daddy got some of our best pieces at the festival.  (Oh, I colored a picture the other day.  I'll have to scan it and post it tomorrow.)

Also, the smell of corn dogs and funnel cakes and crepes had me on edge.  I really wanted something, but then I filled up on Goldfish.  Oh, well; I guess I had enough at the fair.

At any rate, we stopped at the new Chick-Fil-A (the only one actually in town) on the way to yet another concert at the Shell.  Farmer Jason, of Jason and the Scorchers fame, was playing.  He was great fun, too, until the weather hit.  After a week of rain, you'd think the sky would clear up.  But, no.  And we didn't even get to hear "Punk Rock Skunk."

That's okay, though; it did give me an excuse to play in the rain.  I ran around, up and down the hill.  And I only did a face-plant once.  Then, in front of the stage, I found a big puddle.  Well, that was just too cool.  I stomped and danced around that puddle for quite a while.  And it made the rain stop, after which I continued to run up and down the big hill.

Then, I got to meet Farmer Jason.  He winked at me and signed my CD.  Too cool.  Too cool.

Grandmommy Time

Mommy had a lunch meeting today and needed to get some work done over lunch.  That means she didn't need to be chasing me around.  So, who did we call?  Grandmommy.

Thanks, Grandmommy.  I had fun and still took a nap.

Hey Ya, Chuck

Teeth

I have cut my molars...and a couple other new teeth.  Mommy saw the molars coming last week and then, today, she felt around back there and found more.

Fall Fun, Part the Second

Today was another big Fall day.

After sleeping extra late, we got up and went down to the Farmer's Market.  We didn't get much, but we did get our staples of tomatoes, basil, and honey straws.

Today was Wolf River Day at sites all over Memphis.  There were several clean-up activities happening all around and then several expos as well.

The youth at our church were helping with a group called SOAR, or Save Our American Raptors, so we walked over to see what was going on.  We were all excited about seeing the birds of prey fly around a gymnasium, but we got there too early and, by the time the program was starting, I was getting pretty antsy.  So, we had to leave.

Then, this evening, we were back at the Levitt Shell for another concert in the Fall series.  We really enjoy it there and I have so much fun.  The children's show was a performance by Rattletree Marimba, which is a great band that uses traditional Zimbabwean instruments and plays fun music to which to dance.  I ran all around and danced and played with a couple of my friends who were there.

It pooped me out, too.  It's been a big weekend already!

Fall Fun, Part One

Yesterday, we welcomed Fall with my very first trip to the fair!  You know it's Fall when the fair's in town.

The old Mid-South Fair has packed up and left Memphis for Mississippi, so we went to the Delta Fair instead.  Mommy and Grandaddy took me and we had a blast.

We (and that includes me!) ate so much junk.  Mommy said that's the main reason to go to the fair and the main reason Daddy doesn't care for the fair.  We had Pronto Pups (corn dogs) and Funnel Cakes and Cotton Candy and Fudge and, well, I can't remember what else.

I had two favorites.  One was the petting zoo.  I never did get the whole feeding-the-animals-out-my-hand thing, but that's what Mommy's for.  She fed the, while I loved on the animals.  And they enjoyed licking some of the fair food off of me, too.  The other was the life-sized Elmo.  I couldn't get enough of him.

Oh, and we ran into Edens and Mrs Carol.  Me and Edens played in a mud puddle together.

Anyway, we had lots of fun, but I was pooped afterwards.  Mommy had to give me a bath, though, to get all the dirt and grime off of me.  But I was in bed way early and slept over an hour later than usual, too.

I can't wait until next year!

Good Luck Charm

I am a good luck charm!

Daddy went to see his football team scrimmage and then went to their first game. Both times, they were beat pretty badly.

Then, he started taking me. And guess what? They've won the last two games just as badly!

Go Wildcats! Whoo-hoo!

Oh, Glorious Labor Day!

Thank the heavens for Labor Day!

Following up on my/our busy weekend, filled with all kinds of fun activities, the extended weekend proved a grand way to top it all off.

First, after Mommy convinced Daddy to get off the computer, we walked to the zoo. I got to see a lion asleep on his back, with his head back and mouth wide open. And the panther looked me right in the eye. (I wasn't scared, but that Panther sure did turn around and walk off!)

Then, in the farm, I tried to reach through the fence to touch the donkeys; they were pretty close, but they were preoccupied with eating straw off the ground. A couple chickens were out roaming around and one pecked on the footrest of my stroller.

The elephants smelled just awful and the polar bear didn't want to swim by the glass wall, but two black bears smelled my berries and came over to the fence. And they had a big sidewalk sale and Mommy picked my out an elephant puppet.

After me and Mommy took naps (separately), we gathered up our things and went swimming at Aunt Cathy's house, where we had dinner plans. I played and played around her house, had dinner, and played some more. Finally, I wamed up to Aunt Cathy and loved on her some. (You just have to smooze the ladies, especially when they have a pool and feed you good!)

Like I said, it was a good (extended) weekend!

Monkin' It Up!

I had a blast last night at the Levitt Shell! At first, it was a little low-energy, as the Tibetan monks started off with some meditative chanting. But, as the sun set, they started dancing. And that was high-energy and tons of fun. I especially enjoyed the Snow Lion Dance. I did't make it long past intermission, though, as it was past my bedtime.

Here's the best video of the Snow Lion Dance I could find on YouTube (the last couple minutes are the best):

For more, check out Daddy's post here.

Fun in the Sun!

We went to the splash park today at Peabody Park and Skinner Community Center for the Disabled, thinking that it would close Labor Day. However, we found out that we still have another week. We wanted to take some pictures before the end a summer, but our camera's not working. So, here's a generic photo:

My New Cuz'

Here is a picture of my new little cousin, Jayda:

Big Time Day

I had such a big time day today. And I had so much fun!

First of all, I slept late. I'm a morning person myself, but I felt bad for Mommy and Daddy, so I decided to let them sleep in today. I'm a compassionate person like that.

Once we got up and moving, we trekked down to the Farmer's Market. That's one of our new Saturday routines, now that Daddy is down to only one job. But this week was extra special. Some friends of ours, who are part of a co-op with one of the farms (Whitton Farms), were out of town and gave us their weekly share. So we came home with a bounty of veggies, as well as a bouquet of flowers.

After a short nap and some playtime, Mommy decided we needed to get out of the house. So, the two of us went up to the church to play on the toddler playground, leaving Daddy watching football on the couch. Well, I think I tuckered Mommy out, so we didn't stay too long.

At any rate, we had to get home in time to get ready to go again. Like I said, it was a big time day.

Once home, we packed up a picnic and a blanket, then headed for the Levitt Shell. (In case you don't recall, the Shell does 50 free concerts each year, half in the Spring and half in the Fall.) We went to lots of concerts there in the Spring and the Fall season just started this week; in fact, today was the first children's show of the season.

The Billy Jonas Band played today and it was lots of fun--and the live show was way better than the recordings. All of us kids (and our parents, too) got to be part of the band. And we learned that almost anything can be a musical instrument, as Billy and his friends played trash cans and water jugs and all kinds of neat stuff. I danced and ran around, took a break to drink some juice, and then went back at it.

It was so much fun, a sign of things to come over the next month of free concerts. Tomorrow, we are going to see The Mystical Arts of Tibet, performed by Tibetan monks from Drepung Loseling Monastery-in-exile in India. Come out and join us if you can.

I'm A Maniac, Maniac...

I'm a maniac, maniac on the floor. And I'm dancing like I never danced before.

Yep, that's me, the dancin' dancin' dancin'...dancin' machine. And I dance like they do in Flashdance, all running in place and all, though sometimes I just stomp. Then, when I'm done running, I put my hands on my hips and shake it. I do this many times throughout the day.

Oh, and I'm especailly zealous in my dancing when Mommy lets me have half of her ice cream for desert--like she did tonight.

New Cousin!

I have a new cousin! Her name is Jayda, but we already knew that. She came yesterday and we can't wait to meet her.

So, welcome to the world, Jayda!

Ants in My Pants

I'm building character. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

I was playing with a puppy and we were both super excited. Well, she ended up jumping up and scratching my face around my eye.

Plus, I fell and fell again. And again. I got lots of bumps and bruises.

Today, we went out to Shelby Farms, a 4500 acre park at the edge of the city. I had so much fun running around the open spaces, up and down hills, through tall and short grasses...until I stopped in the middle of an ant hill. Fortunately, Daddy was there to scoop me up and Mommy was there to wash all the ants off quickly.

It has just been a traumatic few days. But, you know what, apple sauce makes it all better. Don't believe me? Stick your hands in some apple sauce and wipe it all over you face. You'll be better in no time, I promise!

Whoo-Hoo!!!

Daddy only has one job now!!! Whoo-hoo!!! Thursday night/Friday morning was his last commitment working at the airport.

And that means two things. First, it means that he will have more time and energy for me and Mommy, so he'll be a better Daddy and a better husband. Secondly, it means that he will have more time and energy to devote to his students, so he'll be a better teacher. (It also means that he will be able to sleep more, but he doesn't care much about sleep anyway.)

Anyway, me and Mommy (and Layla) are super excited to have Daddy home at night.

No Fear!

I am a climber. It's official.

First, I started climbing up onto Mommy and Daddy's bed.

The other day, Mommy walks in the living room and I'm standing on top of the coffee table.

Then, yesterday, at the park, I climbed up onto a picnic table.

And, today, I climbed up onto the seat of the step ladder in the kitchen. I was standing and waving my arms and squealing in delight. (We'll be giving that back to you soon, Grandmommy!)

Five minutes ago, I climbed onto the armchair and onto the arm, at which point I had to be saved from falling onto my head.

The list goes on.

I have no fear. I climb on anything and everything I can. So, you better watch out.

Spatial Skills

I learned a new skill today. Grandaddy got me some wooden 'Kathedral' blocks for my birthday. Usually, Mommy and Daddy will build things...and I will destroy whatever they build.

Today, though, I discovered that the cylindrical blocks will fit through these other blocks with a hole cut out of the middle. You know, round block fits through the round hole. And I spent the next fifteen minutes practicing my new skill with Mommy before proudly showing Daddy.

Recognition Skills

Guess what! I am so smart.

Mommy was reading a book today and came to a page with a dog and a cat and a bear. She asked me where the dog was and I pointed to the dog.

My recognition skills are getting better by the day.

Outside

We have a little cold/cool front coming through the MidSouth, which means that being outside is suddenly tolerable again. So, we are taking full advantage of the situation.

Yesterday, me and Mommy went swimming with my friend, Michael, and his Mom.

Then, today, me and Mommy and Daddy went to the big park (that would be Overton Park). We had planned to meet up with Uncle Grant and Aunt Kelly, along with their new puppy, Maya. It turns out, they invited a few friends, who also brought their respective doggies. Plus, several other dogs at the park decided to come say hey. So, I ended up playing with lots of dogs.

And, in addition to running around the large greensward, I figured out that I can (and like to) climb on picnic tables. This morning, I discovered that I can climb onto the coffee table and, of course, I had to apply my new skill in a different context. Mommy does not like me using my new skill.

The Ultimate Showdown

Vocabulary

My vocabulary is increasing, along with my recognition of objects. When I see a dog, I say, 'dog.' When I see a duck, I say, 'duck.' (Really, it's more like 'dah' and 'duh,' but they are different and distinct from each other and from 'dad.')

Also, I am learning sign language, which helps me not get as frustrated because it allows me to communicate what I'm feeling better. So, I can sign for 'more' and for 'please.' We're working on 'all done,' but I'm not quite there yet.

I'm over saying, 'bye bye,' but I still wave on occasion. And I like to clap at things that make me happy.

And, of course, I like to run around the house, screaming like a crazy person. It's so much fun. In fact, you should try it. It's so much better than antidepressants!

'It Was A Good Day'

To quote Ice Cube, 'I got to say today was a good day.'

Me and Mommy got up and played this morning ('Just waking up in the morning, gotta thank God'), letting Daddy sleep in. And we made blueberry muffins for breakfast ('And Momma cooked a breakfast with no hog/I got my grub on, but didn't pig out'). Then, we woke up Daddy and the two of us played while Mommy got ready for church. At church, I got to sleep in Ms Jobe's lap. They say she is spoiling me, but I don't mind.

After church, we went to Central BBQ and Mommy tried to feed me food from home. Well, I wasn't having any of that! Would you? I wanted some BBQ. And I got some BBQ!

Mommy and Daddy had to do some shopping and drug me around the mall all afternoon. That wasn't very fun at all. But, on the way home, 'saw the police and they rolled right past me/no flexin', didn't even look in a [toddler's] direction.'

On the way home, though, we saw some friends playing soccer ('Which court, are y'all playing basketball?...um, I mean, futbol) and Daddy told me he would take me up there after we dropped off Mommy. We didn't play any soccer, but we sure did play! Well, at least I played. Daddy just talked to a couple of friends while I ran all over the big field.

I played with Lockard a little, but only from a distance because he has a runny nose. Then, I played a little with Edens and Will, but they are a little bigger than me. And I played with a big dog some, too. But, mostly, I just explored the huge sideline area of the soccer field, getting some much needed independent time.

Back at home, Mommy and Daddy let me play with my food tonight! And I wiped apple sauce all over my face and all in my hair! It was way fun! You should try it.

I tell you what, 'Today I didn't even have to use my AK/I got to say it was a good day.'

New Member of the Family

Uncle Grant and Aunt Kelly got a puppy yesterday. Her name is Maya and she is a mix between American Bulldog and Labrador Retriever (and possibly something else, considering her resemblence to a Pit Bull). I like her very much. She is a lot smaller than our dog, Layla, so I had to be careful around her. Maya is very pretty, almost as pretty as Layla.

Farmer's Market

This morning, me and Mommy and Daddy got up and went to the Farmer's Market downtown at Central Station. It just may become a regular part of our weekly schedule, now that Daddy is working during the daytime.

We saw quite a few of our friends and listened to some good acoustic music. And there were many great vendors, one of which gave me a popsicle. How cool is that?!? It was yummy, but I was so tuckered out afterwards that I crashed.

Oh, and I should mention that my friend Preston from back in Atlanta, who is two weeks younger than me, is now a big brother. So, congrats to Preston and his (ever expanding) family!