little g

Calvin is saving the world, one diaper at a time ....

We're using g diapers, a flushable disposable alternative. If you have and incontinent kid (as Uncle Ryan says), I suggest that you check them out.

With a cotton pant holding a flushable / biodegradable liner, they're a combination of a cloth and a disposable diaper -- the best of both worlds. Not to mention, they're super cute!

The company is based in Portland, OR and while they're finding their way into stores nationwide, you can order them online. Check out their website for more info. Go ... go!

Half A Birthday!

I just can't believe it, Calvin is already SIX MONTHS OLD!

Suddenly my little peanut prefers to sit -- or even stand! From lying down, he'll grab your fingers and pull up at least to sit, and will even straighten his big, strong legs to stand. He can't do much once he gets there, but seems to enjoy the view just fine.

And he's quite the chatterbox. He's testing the full range of his voice these days, exploring the heights and depths of his little squalks. http://www.vsocial.com/video/index.php?d=39947

We couldn't help but celebrate such a milestone -- half of one year, gone in a blink. Eric met us in the park by the beach for a picnic dinner (complete with Cal's first pickle, thanks Dad), and a catchy little tune courtesy of the gals at daycare:

Half a birthday to you!
Half a birthday to you!
Half a birthday, dear Calvin...
Half a birthday to you!!

... and many more ....

54 Seconds One Wednesday ....

This blog tracks most of calvin's milestone moments, so it may be easy to forget that our days are still relatively quiet.

In a blink this little guy will be buzzing around the place. But for now our joy is in subtle developments -- little coos and sighs, and a stuffed duck.

It's easy to get caught up in a fast-paced lifestyle, but it's truly the calm moments with Calvin that are magical. It takes dedication to turn off the TV or leave the dishes for later, but he's worth it -- he's too good to miss.

Wanna see? Take a deep breath and join us for 54 seconds in Calvin's world. It's beautiful here. http://www.vsocial.com/video/?d=39158

Afloat

With temperatures approaching 100 degrees, we were glad to take advantage of our lake access.

Geneva Lake is especially delicious this time of year, and with Calvin dipped in sunscreen and affixed safely in a floaty, in we went.

Ahh ... the best.

In fact, it was so refreshing and relaxing, that the little guy fell asleep!

It's a Mouthful

Calvin plays with his spoon after he's done eating. He loves chewing on it, for sure, and it's good practice for finding his mouth on his own. Someday.

Who Is That (Un)Masked Man?

Those of us who have known Eric for more than six months have needed the time to adjust to his recently cloaked face, hansom as it is. But since Eric started growing his goatee during the first days after our son's birth, Cal has never known his dad without it.

Understandably, when Eric decided to shave after Cal had gone to bed one night, there was a stranger in the house when he awoke. But it didn't take long before Calvin caught on, and even pinpointed the exact change to his beloved father.

Remote Control

It's a rite of passage in every little man's life when his father relinquishes control of the remote.

Somehow, though Calvin isn't even watching TV yet, he managed to wiggle this from his dad's hands -- a feat I've rarely accomplished throughout our time together!

... Maybe I should try using it as a chew toy ....

Movin' On Up

I find myself hesitant to announce Calvin's developments, at least things like rolling over and sitting up. You see, I've never paid much attention to when these milestones occur in other children and don't know when they officially count. I mean, what's the criteria for sitting up?

Calvin has been itching to sit for a while now, but he doesn't have the stomach support to get there on his own. He does, however, stay balanced for a good while if placed in position. And it's definitely his favored vantage point.

So what do you think, does that count? I'll let you decide, but at least you're ITK (in the know).

A New Brand of Fireworks

This is a common position for Cal these days -- on his belly with a smile on his face.

That is, until he decides to roll over. Then he's on his back with a smile on his face.

To see Calvin roley-poley on the floor, click here: http://www.vsocial.com/video/?d=38991

Reach Out and Touch Someone

Calvin's hand-eye coordination is really developing. He has mastered the hair tug (can you sense my enthusiasm?) and has fortunately found more appropriate items within his grasp, too.

It's fun to watch the same hands that flailed senselessly just weeks ago now locate and land on a desired target.

The one-hand grab is easy -- it leaves the other hand as a chew toy. But if you're really special, (or if you light up when smacked) the two-hand touch might come into play. And that is truly a sight to behold.

(Picture to follow.)