Our Thanksgiving travels

On Friday we all got back from a week long visit to Ft. Worth and Shreveport.  It was our first time to meet our niece, Maya, and we loved being able to spend so much time with her and to share Thanksgiving with Jeff’s family!  

Ford and I went a day earlier than Jeff so we could try to see as many friends as we could.  We spent some time with the Hotchkiss family on Wednesday afternoon and night.  Ford loved seeing all the Hotchkiss kids, as well as Milk Shake the dog and Zorro the cat (who he called “Zewo”).   Thursday we had a fun morning play date with some TCU moms and babies. 

Ford with Macy and Brooke

Ford wrestling with Luke (who we realized was two months younger than Ford is now when I first met the Hotchkiss family!)

Ford, Makenna, Charlotte, and Hogan (getting a picture with 4 one year olds is almost impossible)

We were able to see Laura for lunch at Chrissie’s house before it was nap time and were at Jason and Kari’s that evening before Jeff arrived.  It was a fun and busy day and a half. 

Playing with Thessalie at her house before nap time

On Friday we drove to Shreveport, as did Jason, Kari and Maya.  Ford was happy to see Grandad and to see his wagon waiting for him! 

We had a great time seeing members of both the Crane and Langford families.  Christmas came early for Ford and Maya at Grandad’s house and Ford definitely enjoyed opening presents and playing with all of his new toys and books.  Patti, Sandi and Michelle all stopped by to play for a bit on Saturday morning which was fun. 

Saturday night there we all went to a surprise 60th birthday party for Jeff’s aunt Susan.  Jeff’s Gramp had all of his grandkids there, as well as his three great-grandchildren, which was special to see.  All of the cousins had not been together in one place in at least ten years! 

On Sunday we went to Bass Pro Shop to see all the Christmas decorations and to see the alligators out front.  Ford definitely loved all the Christmas trees and lights!  

We also were able to spend time at Gram’s house as well that day.  Ford quickly discovered that she had treats and fun toys. 

Ford also loved his wagon rides at Grandad’s and enjoyed throwing acorns outside too.  He enjoyed spending time with Patsy, Jeff’s cousin Jay’s 8 year old daughter, and loved following her around when she came to play on Sunday afternoon. 

On our way out of town on Monday we all stopped by to see Gramp Langford.  Ford enjoyed going outside on his patio and loved when Gramp carried him around the house to show him all of the chiming clocks. 

Before leaving Ford enjoyed helping Aunt Kari with some computer work

We headed back to Fort Worth after our visit with Gramp and were able to stay until Friday afternoon.  We made a stop at the TCU bookstore to get some new purple Horned Frog gear before heading over to have dinner with some TCU friends.  Ford definitely enjoyed being with his friends!  At one point, the five kids were all upstairs in the play room running around in circles shreaking with delight.  It was a very cute (and loud) sight. 

Charlotte, Ford, Thessalie, Josh and Lillie

While we were in Fort Worth we enjoyed our time at Jason and Kari’s and loved holding Maya.  It was our first time to meet our sweet niece and we loved getting to see her, play with her and hold her.  Ford even became more interested in her as our trip progressed.  A lot of times he would tell us “Maya sleeping” or “Maya crying” or “Maya hold you.” 

Playing at Grandad’s house

We were able to visit TCU twice, once to say hello to a few people and the other time on Thanksgiving afternoon to walk around.  On Wednesday Jeff, Ford, Kari, Maya and I went to the Fort Worth Zoo which was a huge hit.  We all really enjoyed it and had beautiful weather.  Thanksgiving morning we headed to the Botanical Gardens before coming home to get the meal ready and meet Jeff’s dad who drove in that day from Shreveport.  We had a great Thanksgiving meal, followed by a walk at TCU.  We are still amazed at how beautiful TCU’s campus is and how much it has changed since we went to school there.  Ford liked seeing Frog Fountain, his Grandmother Patsy’s tree, and even sat on the statue of the Horned Frog. 

In front of the tree planted in honor of Patsy on TCU’s campus

Rubbing the Frog for good luck

Sitting with Maya before saying good-bye

During our Fort Worth stay Ford also really liked playing at the park that is literally in the back of Jason and Kari’s yard.  I think “outside” was the most frequently used word of Ford’s while we were there.  Our week was both busy and relaxing.  It was wonderful to see family and friends and we are continually reminded how blessed we are.

Thanskgiving is for sharing

Happy Thanksgiving!!  On this day, as every day, we are incredibly thankful that Ford is part of our family.  He adds lots of love, joy, and smiles to our days.  We are thankful for the heart and personality that God has given him and feel privileged to be his parents.

Not only is Ford a loving and fun little boy, he also often thinks about others.  The following are two great examples.  Ford and I were spending time outside on October 28 when he decided he would share his crackers with Kitty.  She agreed to the sharing and quite enjoyed her pita crackers, and Ford quite enjoyed giving them to her.  Then a couple weeks ago I caught Ford trying to give Kitty a sip of his drink.  That’s our boy. . . trying his best to do a great job of sharing and trying his best to get in the Thanksgiving spirit.

Some current favorites

The books  “Llama Llama Mad at Mama,” “Stretch” (which has been a favorite for quite some time now), ”Put me in the Zoo,” and  ”Elmo’s ABCs”

Ford reading “Stretch” back in August

Loves to play with his trains and especially likes “Diesel” for whatever reason

Loves playing with the car and car garage (this new “play” started, along with the trains, about three weeks ago)

Lemonade (“memade”)

Chick-fil-a (or the “cow place” as he now refers to it)

His Disney cell phones from Wal-mart.  $2.98 each.  He now has a Cars, Nemo, and Mickey phone and loves them (with Mickey being the absolute favorite).

Art (painting).  He especially loves to paint the palm of his hands and fingers and press his handprint down on the paper.  Getting paint in his hair is also fun, as well as trying to taste the paint once in awhile.  Makes for a fun clean up.

He doesn’t watch TV much, but when he does, he loves Mickey Mouse Club House (on Disney) and Toot and Puddle (on Noggin about two pigs who travel).  He even says “hot dog!” like Mickey does, calls for “Toodles!” and dances during the “hot dog” dance at the end of every Mickey episode.

Getting treats- any kind will do.

Sitting on the couch to read, play on his phone, be tickled, or watch Mickey

And some of our of our favorites. . .  when Ford says “Momma hold you” or “Dada hold you”. . .  to see/hear this go to:   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCdr4-RQCNg

We love listening to Ford read.  After he “finishes” a book, he always says “the end.”  To see/hear Ford reading in his bed, being silly, a little drama, and saying “love you” after a nap on October 23 go to :  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nq1DlkOVUOY

Watcing Ford dance.  He likes all kinds of music and especially loves the Beach Boys song “Barbara Ann.”    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-RXf8OVl0Q

Brittany and Brian’s visit

On Friday night Brittany and Brian drove in from Indiana.  We were so happy to have them visit and to spend some time with them.  Ford loved playing with them and showing off some too.  On Saturday after breakfast my dad stayed home with Ford while Jeff, Brian, Britt and I drove around a bit and went to the bookstore for them to get some Gamecock gear.  Afterwards we all watched College Game Day which was at TCU!  Ford was supporting his Frogs and was just as excited to see them on TV as we were.  Jeff had to leave for work after Game Day ended so the rest of us decided to head to the park for a picnic and some playing which was a big hit (notice the switch to Carolina colors to support his Gamecocks too)!  When it was time for Ford to take a nap we had a sitter come so that we could all go to the Carolina vs Florida game.  The weather was beautiful and overall it was a great game.  Half time was awesome, paying tribute to wounded soldiers and even included a fly-over.  On Sunday my dad left early and after breakfast the rest of us went to the zoo before they had to leave to drive home.  Ford loved showing Brittany and Brian all around the zoo.  We had such a great time and are thankful they made the trip to see us!     

Having fun with Aunt Brittany and her phone while watching Game Day!

Playing at the park

At the Riverbanks Zoo

Papa’s visit

My dad came for a visit on Wednesday night and stayed through Sunday morning.  As soon as we told Ford that he was coming we heard a lot of this: “Papa hold you,” “zoo, Papa,” “Papa, park, zoo,”  “Papa giraffes,” “park Papa” etc.  Non-stop.  It was a little much and made us realize we should have kept our mouths shut a little longer about his upcoming arrival then we did.  However, we were able to mark off all of Ford’s list of to-dos once Papa was here.  We were able to go to Little Gym on Thursday and Ford was more than happy to show Papa his latest tricks, like hanging on the bar and dropping while laughing the whole time, and walking on the balance beam (with help).  We were also able to go to Gymboree for open gym since it was very rainy on Thursday.  Ford enjoyed the slides and just running around with both Momma and Papa there watching.  Thankfully the rain stopped and on Friday we were able to take our trip to the zoo.  There were many highlights for Ford.  He was not too sure about the two huge gorillas right by the glass window so we stayed back, but once we left the exhibit he talked about the gorillas the rest of the time.  He loved the giraffes of course and liked being in Papa’s arms while Papa fed her lettuce (Ford was not into feeding the giraffe himself).  Papa even got a kiss on the neck from the giraffe (the volunteer held food right by my dad’s neck in order for him to be “kissed”).  Next up were the two ostriches.  He was very into them this visit and has mentioned them since.  Another highlight was the carousel.  Ford preferred sitting on Papa’s lap on the peacock bench rather than being on one of the moving animals.  He enjoyed the ride though and wanted to go again.  The last highlight was definitely feeding the Koi fish some food.  He and Papa both threw the food pellets into the pond where lots of fish gobbled them up.  Papa’s trip also included two trips to the park, some snuggling on the couch, and lots of reading and playing with trains.  Papa loves trains too so it was a great match.  My dad even helped me set up the train tracks in a new design.  Late Friday night Brittany and Brian drove in (more about their visit in another post) and overlapped with my dad on Saturday.  We all watched College Game Day at TCU and then when Jeff had to leave for work the rest of us had a great picnic in the park.  Ford had a babysitter Saturday afternoon while we all went to see the Gamecocks play Florida.  After our game my dad, Brian, and Jeff watched the TCU game.  It was a very fun-filled three days and we are so glad that Papa was able to come and visit. 

At the zoo 

having fun at the park

Papa taught Ford how to “ride” the green machine and he loved it!
 

Fall

I love the fall and I love the fall we have in Columbia.  The trees actually change colors and the air gets crisper.  The dogwood trees are always the first to change, the first to drop, and are my favorite.  Our dogwood tree out our back is my favorite.  It was just as beautiful as always and we enjoyed watching it change colors (almost all the leaves have dropped now).  With the nicer weather Ford has been able to spend more time outside, which he loves.  We have gone to Heathwood Park a few times, meeting up with friends, and have gone to Citadel Park as well.  Ford always enjoys the park, especially the swings and the slides.  With the fall also comes more yard work.  Jeff has done a great job keeping up with all the leaves and pine needles and Ford has done his best to help his Dad out as well.  While Jeff is outside blowing the leaves or raking Ford will “mow” with his lawnmower, help Jeff pull the wagon with the leaves to the curb, pick up sticks, and do just about anything else he can think of.  Yesterday after raking a pile of leaves we showed Ford how to grab a handful and throw them up in the air.  He joined in on the leaf throwing, but kept his Nemo cell phone in one hand at all times.  The fall has been going fast, but has definitely been a great one for our family. 

Henry’s birthday party

On Sunday, November 1, Ford was able to attend his first birthday party for a friend!  His friend Henry from Little Gym turned 2 and invited Ford to join in on the celebration, which also happened to be at The Little Gym!  Before we left for the party Ford was carrying Henry’s birthday present around our house so proud.  He even tried to put a few extra toys inside it.  Jeff took Ford to the first half while I drove my mom to the airport and then I joined them for the second half.  Ford discovered the water fountain and spent quite a bit of time drinking from (and unfortunately, licking) the water fountain.  He had fun running around, swinging from the bars, and eventually even enjoyed walking/running on the air mat.  His favorite part though was the cupcakes!  He had eyed them throughout the party and was happy to partake in the birthday sweets!  All in all, Ford had a great time at Henry’s birthday!

Carrying Henry’s present around the house

Having so much fun with Dad!

Running on the air mat!

Time for cupcakes!

I love this picture of Ford and his friend, Isabel.  Look at her checking out how Ford is about to grab his cupcake! 

Henry and Ford.  A typical picture of two toddlers together.

 

Gramma’s Visit

Last week my mom came in for a visit.  We kept very busy going to Ford’s  Gymboree and Little Gym classes, as well as our Halloween events I already posted about.  We also took a trip to the zoo on Saturday, ran errands, and still had time to play at home.   Ford enjoyed reading with Gramma (especially his new book “Llama Llama” ) and playing with his trains and with his car garage with Gramma.  Ford loved having her here and knew exactly who to go to for treats.  In fact, on our way home from the fall festival the night she left he was wanting a treat and we said no.  So then Ford proceeded to whine “Gramma, treat.”  She had already left, but he was still trying to get her on his side.  The funny thing is that he hadn’t had that many treats.  It just happened that when he did get a treat, Gramma was the one who helped him with it.  Our visit went by fast, but was sure a fun one! 

 Gramma playing along with one of Ford’s new games. . .pretending to be asleep

More pretending he is asleep-  and the way his leg is crossed is often what he does when I put him in his crib for a nap or at night (so cute!!)

Listening intently to Gramma’s reading

At the zoo

Can you see the sticky, chocolate fingers on our boy?  He had just finished a treat with Gramma

Giving hugs and kisses before Gramma left

A busy few days for our skunk

First of all, Ford was a skunk for Halloween (as you may know if you saw some of our earlier posts).  He was called a few other animals in addition to skunk, mainly cow and one lady even called him a squirrel, yes, a squirrel.  In fact, she just kept saying how cute the squirrel costume was and how she hadn’t seen a squirrel costume before and on and on.  Too bad he was a skunk and not a squirrel.  And I will say he was the cutest darn skunk I have ever seen in my life.  And, a very smart skunk who would say “pee-you” whenever he was asked what we say when we smell a skunk.

The skunk costume definitely got its fair share of usage.  Boo at the Zoo Sunday night started it off.  Then on Thursday night, October 29, Ford was able to dress up for the “Cocky Party” as Ford called it (which sounded more like “Cocky Potty” than ”party”)  but was actually the Jr. Gamecock Club party at Frankie’s Fun Park.  My mom was in town and was able to go along with us which was fun.  Ford is still too young for the things at the fun park, but enjoyed walking around, seeing Cocky (from a distance of course), and even eating some candy.  He did get to “play” his first video game- one where he sat and “drove” a car.  It definitely made Jeff, my mom and I laugh a ton to watch Ford crash his car more than he drove it.  Ford seemed to enjoy driving though and I think he had no clue that what he was doing with the steering wheel had anything to do with the tv screen in front of him.  All in all it was a great night. 

Checking everything out with Grandma

“Hi Cocky!”

On Friday the skunk came out again.  This time for a Little Gym Halloween party.  He saw a few friends from his class and had fun running around, climbing through the tunnel they created with the mats, and going down the mat slide.  He “won” a Little Gym water bottle which was a huge hit!  Jeff was able to meet my mom and I there and take part in the party as well which was great. 

Hitching a ride on Momma while she did the crab walk

 

Saturday afternoon we had a neighborhood event down the street from 4-6.  Everyone who came brought a dish and they grilled hot dogs and hamburgers.  Ford loved playing with the kids and was such a sweaty boy!  I forgot to mention that it was in the 80s on Saturday and as humid as it could be.  Basically, it was miserable.  Terrible weather to be a skunk.  After the neighborhood get together we headed to our friends Montague and Lauren’s house to go trick-or-treating to a few houses with them and their son, Monty, and also with Spann, Elizabeth, Lownes and Lucy.  Since it was so hot, Ford was not able to wear his full costume.  Instead he was half of a skunk, only wearing his hat.  He looked pretty funny in his regular clothes and his hat, but he wore it proudly.  He loved holding his pumpkin bucket, saying “trick or treat,” and getting more treats!  Ford also enjoyed riding in the golf cart at times between some of the houses.  It was cute to see the three bigger kids riding with Montague down the street in the cart.  When the first house opened the door Ford walked right on inside.  We forgot to tell him how the whole trick-or-treat thing worked.  Oops.  All we told him was to say “trick-or-treat,” which he did.  At the second house they weren’t coming fast enough I guess so Ford decided he would try to open the door himself.  He also tried to nab a few extra candies out of the bowels as well.  All in all, Ford had a fabulous first trick-or-treat experience.

Our “half-skunk” with Lucy, Lownes and Monty

Trick-or-treating in style. . . on the golf cart with Montague, Monty and Lownes

Checking to see what treat he just got!

Heading for the last stop on the trick-or-treating tour. . . ours!

 Trick-or-treat Gramma!

Checking out his treats

Enjoying one of his treats with Gramma

On Sunday afternoon after my mom left we headed downtown to a fall festival.  Our friends Jennifer and Bobby and their son, Trace, invited us and we all had a great time!  It was a much cooler day so Ford was able to wear his skunk costume yet again!  Ford enjoyed playing some of the games, like fishing, catching ducks in the baby pool, and the bean bag toss.  He wasn’t shy about going to the candy buckets and picking himself out a treat or two, and even conned some sweet ladies into opening a huge bin filled with treats for him to choose from.  They had a real John Deere Tractor which might have been the highlight, along with the two firetrucks (one of which he got to sit in).  It was a fun night and great way to end the skunk wearing festivities!

Checking out the fire truck

Tractor time!

With Jennifer before we left (Ford had his eyes on the tractor and wanted another turn)

Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween from the cutest little stinker around!