Under the Bed

On his belly, Calvin scooches backwards across the room. Such behavior lands him in interesting places -- like under the bed.

One of these days he'll learn that he can move forward, too.

Four Generations of Anderson Men

The men's retreat at Covenant Harbor brings the Anderson fellas together each fall. It's a special treat to have Grandpa (Ken) Anderson in from Pennsylvania for the festivities.

With Calvin around this year, four generations on Anderson "men" gathered in Lake Geneva.

Sounds like a great time for a picture.

Two Front Teeth

They're on the bottom, but Cal now has his two front teeth.

Old World Wisconsin

Old World Wisconsin sits about 30 miles northeast of us. It's a snapshot of life for some of Wisconsin's early settlers. The Anderson trio set off to explore it.

We scoured the Norwegian farm first, snorting at the pigs and "bah-ing" at the sheep. From there we found the Caldwell House, (how 'bout that?) with an American flag and albino cows! What a combination.

The Apple Barn

I attended my first MOPS (Mothers of Pre-Schoolers) meeting this week. MOPS "helps moms through relationships established in the context of local groups that provide a caring atmosphere for today's mother of young children". In short, it's a place to connect with others like me.

Still, after nearly eight months of motherhood, it's strange to think that I "qualify" for attendance at such a gathering. Nevertheless, they didn't kick me out, and I did meet some women.

And the results were immediate. Before leaving, Cal and I were invited to the Apple Barn, a local orchard. Nevermind that the invitation came from a gal from church whom I've known for years ... this was our first social outing.

We had a great time. It was sunny and 70 degrees and the apples were delicious. Cal tasted quite a few, to be sure.

Unsinkable

Even if Calvin wasn't developing his pincer grasp or taking a stab at feeding himself I would still give three cheers for Cheerios. They keep him company while I prepare his meal, which is as good as gold.

A few Cheerios on his highchair tray keep him happy as a clam. And with three out of ten actually making it to his mouth, it's fun for all of us.

Table for Three

Since he was about five months old, Calvin has been eating the same foods that Eric and I do. Sweet potatoes, spinach, avocados, acorn squash, green beans, apples, rice, etc. ... just pureed instead of however the big kids eat it. I prepare these in things in bulk and freeze them, so although we eat the same food, it's not necessarily at the same meal.

As he has learned to chew (gum) things more, I've started course chopping food, and tonight we took a step even closer to dinner as a family.

Tonight's meal seemed like one that all three of us could eat. Tilapia (fish), boiled red potatoes, and broccoli. Yum! This meant that Cal tasted fish for the first time, but the other two are faithful companions, so away we went. http://www.vsocial.com/video/?d=46915

Somehow eating the same food at the same meal feels like a big step toward ... familyhood.

A New Bedtime Routine

I don't know if I can call these "routine" anymore, since they change just about weekly, but Calvin's latest bedtime behavior might be the best yet.

We still dance as he settles down to sleep, but this week I've picked up his blanket, too. He quickly grabs it with his right arm, sticks his trusted left thumb in his mouth, closes his eyes, and lays his head on my shoulder.

This kid ... he's too much. He's so cute, it's nearly impossible to put him down. Ah, the sacrifices I make ....

No Turning Back

Calvin is seven months old now -- seven and a half months for the kid in you -- and while he has probably made little developments each and every day so far, he seems to be working double time at this point.

I'm not sure if it's the time he has spent watching Friend Wil or Cousin Ava cruise around the room, or whether he is just reaching a point where he's ready to move, but over the past two weeks, he has gone from sitting happily in the same spot, to slithering backwards on his stomach, to twisting and turning and rolling all over the place.

He's not crawling yet, but he's starting to rock forward onto his knees. It won't be long, now ... and then we're really in trouble!

Did I mention that he awoke with a tooth this morning?! A TOOTH! (Bottom right.) But it's rather difficult to photograph ....

Reunion

We took advantage of Labor Day weekend to celebrate our best friends' return to the Midwest. Julie, Peter, and Wil have cut ties with old New York and settled back into Grand Rapids, MI. And we couldn't be happier.

Of course this visit was a chance for our growing guys to see each other, too. It's been six months since first (and last) they met and a lot has changed! At 10 months, Wil crawls with ease and stands with assistance. Cal (7 mos) mostly sits contently at squeals with delight at his friend's talent. He was inspired to join Wil from time to time, trying to pull himself upward. Not much success just yet.

We took them to our old stomping grounds, Hope College, for their first photo in front of the anchor. It's funny how life progresses ... Julie and I used to sit at JP's coffee shop to dish about relationships. Now we sit there with our husbands and dish up lunch for our kids. So cool.

On the way back to Wisconsin, we stopped for a cookout at my Cousin Colin and Corin's house. Cousin Allison and Jason came with kids in tow so everyone (4 cousins and 5 second cousins) could meet Cal. Sadly, I forgot to take pictures (!!) so you'll just have to trust me -- a good time was had by all.

Swim Lessons

Most days around here are filled with excitement of some sort -- a new chirp or squeal, a lengthy stretch for a wandering toy -- though they pale in comparison to today's adventure: swim lessons!

At the YMCA, Cal and I jumped in with three other moms and their daughters. We practiced blowing bubbles and "swimming" after floating toys.

Cal regularly plays in his bath, but I was surprised at how well he took to the pool. He actually kicked his legs and moved his arms breaststroke-style as I held his torso, and he squealed with delight as he captured his little gremlin floating about.

We have eight weeks of classes, and I expect each to be as fun as tonight was.

Building Blocks

Calvin has discovered his calling. When he grows up he'll either be a demolition dude or King Kong.

He loves his blocks (thanks Allison) but is completely intolerant of stacks. When placed on top of each other he immediately swipes them down, making sure they're all on equal ground.

Note the "roar" captured in this photo. I have loosed the beast within ....

A Step in the Wrong Direction

During lunch today, instead of his thumb, Cal put his foot in his mouth between bites.

Think it was a statement about my cooking, or is he just showing off his newest trick?

Dancing Cheek to Cheek

Now that Calvin is upright, we play away most of our days. It's lovely. But I'm glad that bedtime still provides an opportunity to cuddle.

Just before he retires to his crib, we do a little dance. Holding him close to me, Cal sucks his left hand thumb and twirls my hair with his right hand. It's divine.

This kid has more than just my hair wrapped around his finger ....

GO CUBS!

You can take the Andersons out of the North Side (of Chicago), but you can't take the North Side out of the Andersons.

Regardless of where we reside, we'll raise our kid right. Loyalty and team spirit, hard work and humility ... the Boys in Blue teach a kid all he needs to know.

GO CUBS!

Chloe Belle

Cherith's brother, Chris, and his family took advantage of Calvin's baptism to come for a visit. This meant that the adults could have some face time, but perhaps even more importantly that Calvin could get to know his cousin Chloe a little better.

Chloe visited Cal when he was just a month old. But now that Calvin is more alert, they can interact playfully. http://www.vsocial.com/video/?l=42817

Watching Chloe run around made Cal laugh until he almost burst. Click here if you want to hear the tail end of it: http://www.vsocial.com/video/?l=42992

Children of the Heavenly Father

Calvin was baptized at Covenant Harbor Bible Camp, a special place for his parents.

Eric and I both attended camp here as kids, and it was here that Eric came to a faith of his own. Harbor has been a constant throughout our lives, and currently employs both of us!

So when our pastor suggested that we have our son baptized here, we jumped at the chance.

We had intended to wade into the lake with him, but rainy, unseasonable weather called for Plan B. We found shelter in the historic boat house, and gave our guy a hearty church welcome.

Calvin was joined by all of his grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as many good friends. It was a loving and special day.

In the Swing of Things

Calvin has his first tree swing.

Eric hung it from a giant walnut tree out back so we can play all day if we want to.

There's nothing that says, "A Child Lives Here" like a swing in the yard. It makes me smile every time I see it.

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.)

This Bag IS a Toy!

When Calvin was born I vividly remember thinking, "I'll never go to the grocery store again". What had been an effortless weekly trip became an insurmountable feat overnight.

Somewhere I had acquired a vision of needing to abandon my hand-chosen veggies and melting ice cream as I rushed my screaming baby to the car. And somehow this vision took hold for nearly five months!

Oh, we've been other places -- restaurants, even -- but always with someone who could tend with the merchandise while I dealt with the child, or visa versa. And I did return to the grocery store, but on my own, before Calvin was up for the day or after he had retired for the evening. That is, until this week. This week we took the plunge.

Satisfied that Cal was tanked up, dry, and well-rested, we were off. And we had a ball! Cal enjoyed all the new turf to take in and I loved showing him a few of my favorite things. We found some apples for him right off the bat, which he carried through the rest of the store, happily -- and safely -- chewing on the bag as we went.

The meltdown may happen someday, but for now I have a new vision of grocery shopping with my little guy.

On Solid Ground

At his four month check-up, our pediatrician said that Cal could start on solid food at any time. I found that he was still okay with a dairy diet for the moment, but within a few weeks he was asking for more.

A few days in Chicago provided the chance to test these new waters. I took some rice cereal with me and that went down so easily that I just had to try more. Ignoring the common practice of starting slowly, Calvin enjoyed banana, sweet potatoes, avocado, and pear before returning home again.

He took to the spoon very well, opening his mouth when presented with it. And he consumed most of what was offered with the help of his trusty thumb, which he sucked with such fervor we wondered if he thought it was providing these tasty treats!

Wanna see for yourself? http://www.vsocial.com/video/?l=34982

Taking Care of Business

Calvin I ventured north to Door County, WI on our first business trip with my new job. We spent two days driving around the peninsula, checking out lighthouses and art galleries for current and future Elderhostel programs.

My predecessor, Laura Lombardo, was our guide, and my mom was along as Super Nanny. The trip was a blast for the women, and Calvin seemed to enjoy himself, too. He came home with the "Best Traveler" award, "Best Laugh", and "Best Boy on the Trip".

Funny Face

We can only post a select few of Calvin's pictures, so we select the cutest one, of course. But among the scads taken, there are naturally some that shouldn't see the light of day, and a few that downright hilarious.

This one makes us laugh every time we look at it -- his version of squinting at the sun.

Sleeping Beau

Confession: I watch Calvin sleep.

But I'm convinced that you would, too, if given the opportunity. He changes so quickly that he's different after every nap. (See attached evidence.)

Exhibit A: Before Nap Exhibit B: After Nap









The difference is striking, isn't it?

Thumb Sucking

Ladies and Gentlemen, Calvin has found his thumb! Though at first he didn't want anyone to know about it.

He would find and suck on it for a while, but only when he thought no one was looking. He has since decided that it's okay to indulge in public.

It seems that he prefers his fingers as a chew toy, but sucks his thumb for comfort.

Eric's Birthday

A birthday around Memorial Day (May 31st) always provides a great excuse to take a trip. This year we went to Galena, IL for a few days.

We've been there often, but generally lay low and skip the tourist traps. This time we approached them head-on. And, of course, although we were celebrating Eric, we couldn't help but enjoy all the "firsts" for Calvin, too.

Among the highlights was a Mississippi River museum and aquarium in Dubuque, IA, (surprisingly impressive) a ferry boat ride on Old Miss herself, and some time at the local swimming hole, Cal's first time in a pool!

Our first family vacation ... priceless.

This is the Life!

Memorial Day weekend meant yard work at the Anderson abode; Calvin joined us outside.

When he wasn't sitting on my lap pulling weeds, he laid comfortably in the shade on his play mat. With an umbrella set up for extra protection, he played comfortably until the breeze lulled him to sleep.

All weekend the boy took his afternoon nap lying in the yard. It doesn't get much better than that.

Lucky boy.

Two Boys

Cal made his first trip to the big city (Chicago) this week. We returned to Covenant Retirement Communities for a farewell party (A.K.A. "We want to meet Calvin and we'll feed you if promise to come.").

Among the friends he met was Elijah Ferguson, son of my former co-worker, Marina. He's 6 weeks older than Calvin and the last time they were in such close proximity was last November, before either was born.

Cal seems to be following closely in Elijah's footsteps, sharing many of the same interests (fingers, changing tables, footy pajamas ....), though Elijah has gone for the popular shaved head look, and Cal's sticking with his hair ... at least for now.

Fortunate Son

Calvin is a fortunate boy to live so close to his grandparents.

Eric and I have been intentional about living close enough for an afternoon visit. It's important to us for Cal to know and be known by his extended family.

My Grandfather was born in 1886, and my Grandma in 1903! Needless to say, they weren't quite the young, active grandparents that Cal has. His have so much to teach him and, God willing, so much time to do it.

Miracle Grow

At Calvin's 4-month check-up, he weighed in at a healthy

17 pounds
27 inches

That's averaging in the 90th percentile for kids his age. So far he's a straight "A" student!

This Little Piggy

Even more than with his sweet smile or his little voice, I have a special bond with Calvin's feet. I knew them before he was born. Each night as I laid down to sleep, he would stretch out and make contact using his feet. In fact, at about the 6-month mark, his foot stuck out far enough for Eric and I to grab it! A 3-dimensional foot from within -- pretty cool. I often fell asleep with my hand on Cal's foot ....

I recognized them right away. They were long, like him, and I understood why he was always looking for someplace to put them.

It's All Relative

Mother's Day weekend provided a chance to meet some family from afar.

Eric's dedicated Grandma and Grandpa Anderson have made the trip from Waterford, PA nearly every spring for one family celebration or another. We especially appreciate them coming this year, because they met their great-grandson when they arrived.

Cal also met his second cousin, Emma Joy Nordquist. She's the daughter of Eric's cousin, Jeanine, and is just two and a half months older than Calvin -- a great playmate!

Peter and Jeanine gave us their cat, Jake, when they moved to Tennessee, but that's the extent of their generosity. They plan to take Emma when they head to Malaysia in a few weeks ....

Mother's Day

A year ago I was pregnant, but didn't yet know it. I recall wishing that I was part of the lucky crowd being celebrated. It's amazing how much can change in a year.

Ironically, I don't feel worthy of being honored this year, either; it feels like I haven't earned my stripes yet. The arguments over household chores and body piercing are yet to come.

Nevertheless, today I have a good excuse to snuggle with Calvin. It's a day to say thanks for my son. Afterall, without him, this would just be a Sunday like any other.

Footed Sleepers

There's nothing better than a footie.

Every night after his bath Cal snuggles into his PJ's, a footed sleeper, and I could just gobble him up, he's so cute.

I think I'd like him to wear one until he leaves for college, at least. We might need to make this one of those, "As long as you live under my roof ..." rules.

Crazy Baby Hair

Calvin was born with a full head of hair (see first entry for proof). Really, he was due for a trim right away.

However, as with most babies, the majority promptly thinned. All but three patches, that is, which have continued to grow.

The longest stems from the crown of his head. It lays flat, unless provoked. But the other two hang directly over his ears, resembling that of an Hasidic Jew. And although I love the Chosen People, Cal's hair is kept tucked neatly behind his ears. Well, most of the time.

Shalom.

More More More!

When Calvin's getting hungry he sports a new dance, a la Kanye West's "Gold Digger".

(For those of you not as hip to the hip hop as I am -- thick sarcasm -- Kanye is the hottest rapper about town these days.)

With form worthy of a back up dancer, Cal arches his back and throws his head off to the side, as if to say, "Broke, broke".

Get down, Cal, go head get down ....

More New Territory

Swedes, boats, and golf.
What do these three things have in common?
Calvin experienced all of them for the first time this past weekend.

Johan, a friend and former schoolmate of Eric's, paid us a visit with his girlfriend, Karin. The meeting seemed like a great time to take the pontoon boat for the first voyage of the summer ... and the first ever, for Cal.

If anyone asks, the official story is that he LOVED it. Didn't mind the wind a bit ....

And he liked the round of golf we played the next morning even better. I envisioned sitting in the cart with him, but since the crew carried their clubs, Cal rode in style ... in his stroller! Have you ever seen a stroller on a golf course? Me either. Still makes me laugh -- we were quite a sight!

Good times, good times.

Guilty Until Proven Innocent

I don't live with a great deal of guilt. At least I haven't until now, when my 14-week-old son has been clobbered by a cold! He awoke in the night with a phlegmy throat, and by 10 a.m. he was leaking from every orifice.

Now, I know what the books say: Calvin's immune system benefits from illness and he will rebound stronger than he was before. But somehow that doesn't suppress my desire to wrap him in cellophane and put him in a bubble.

When weepy eyes sealed themselves shut with yellow puss, the doctor recommended eye drops. EYE DROPS! For my BABY!!

This is when Mother Guilt kicked into gear. It's my fault. I know it. I exposed him to the big, bad world too young. I wiped his eyes with a dirty finger. I ... don't know what it was, but I'm sure it was me who caused what will certainly result in irreversible corneal damage. I don't care what the courts say, I'm guilty until proven innocent....

It's at the height of my irrational ranting that Calvin brings me back to reality with one of his winning smiles. Even with one eye half closed with puss, he's fine. In fact, in the midst of his first illness, he has learned to laugh out loud. Sniffles and wheezes can't keep this kid down. He's like Cheerios!

(Still, I can't bring myself to take or post a picture of my sick child. Surely there's someone dialing DCFS already....)

A Bottle for the Baby

As I prepare to return to work, it's time to get cozy with the breast pump. Blah. We all know that I love feeding Calvin, but feeding a machine is a different story. Nevertheless, I do it for my boy.

The books give all sorts of tips for how to help a baby adapt to a bottle, but our little guy will apparently take food from wherever it's offered. We'll probably have to work hard on the "no candy from strangers" rule down the road.

Still, we started early. At six weeks of age we had a long, "But I don't want to go to sleep" day. Mom gave in first and took a nap, so Dad prepared a bottle for the evening meal. We were visiting with Grammy and Papa Anderson, so it was actually Papa who dispensed the goods. Cal sucked it down so easily, it was as though the bottle and I were one in the same.

Lesson: I could be getting more sleep if I would adapt to the breast pump as easily as Calvin adapts to everything else!