tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23715183267289491412012-01-31T23:38:55.137-05:00Samuel Loren Thomas and the menagerie anxiously await a new arrival, Summer 2012.Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.comBlogger1381100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-70970092962762365102012-01-22T20:23:00.002-05:002012-01-22T20:32:53.711-05:00

Yeah, so without a computer for a couple of weeks, we missed 12. Anyway, here's 13:Fingerprints have formed on your baby's tiny fingertips, her veins and organs are clearly visible through her still-thin skin, and her body is starting to catch up with her head — which makes up just a third of her body size now. If you're having a girl, she now has more than 2 million eggs in her ovaries. Your

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-10765948323608724572012-01-06T19:11:00.004-05:002012-01-06T19:58:26.118-05:00

Our first Friday Foetus blogging!Your baby, just over 1 1/2 inches long and about the size of a fig, is now almost fully formed. Her hands will soon open and close into fists, tiny tooth buds are beginning to appear under her gums, and some of her bones are beginning to harden. She's already busy kicking and stretching, and her tiny movements are so effortless they look like water ballet. These

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-75953855558386155242012-01-04T12:05:00.004-05:002012-01-04T12:20:42.687-05:00

What an angel, right?Wish I were that flexible./daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-29414586892512087052011-12-30T20:44:00.005-05:002011-12-30T20:54:25.731-05:00

I have some show......and tell.I don't know what that alien thing is I'm holding, but Mommy and Daddy say that on July 27th, 2012, I'm gonna be a big brother!/samPS--The foetus is already 3 whole cm long. Gestation nickname TBD.

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-84143257628140862022011-12-26T11:23:00.003-05:002011-12-26T11:46:17.325-05:00

I should create a category just about your learning language since I seem to be writing about that a lot of late. Anyway, the most recent item of interest (to me)...With your self-directed play on the toy laptop I got you a couple years ago, you've really come a long way with the alphabet and associating letters with certain words. Probably your favorite character is 'O', which in one of your

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-60418671371881444322011-12-23T19:24:00.002-05:002011-12-23T19:59:50.036-05:00

I admit to not always being very careful about my language around you, but this story has nothing to do with my usual salty turn of phrase (think The Old Man in Christmas Story). This is about weird baby brains.A joke in the family has been--since before you were born--that your first word would be "shutthefuckupkayla" since she is extremely vocal and Daddy was oft heard uttering that phrase.

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-15636922338291420862011-12-19T10:03:00.003-05:002011-12-19T10:19:00.615-05:00

Following up on a post earlier this year about giving you guns, I see this sleek, soft weapon:The Nerf N-Strike Barricade RV-10 is a marvel of toy engineering. At just more than a foot long, it’s one of the smaller weapons in the Nerf armory, small enough that you can buy two and hold one in each hand, as the commercial suggests you do. Despite its size, the Barricade—which Nerf is positioning as

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-17625658673131381932011-12-16T20:15:00.002-05:002011-12-16T20:20:17.235-05:00

When you first started noticing my laptop during the summer of 2010, I bought you a crappy little 20 dollar toy computer for 3 years+ in the hopes I could redirect you. That...didn't work. But this autumn you started playing with it in earnest and apparently have been learning your letters all on your own.Just a few weeks ago you taught yourself how to play the Raining Letters game wherein you

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-24250338737441974902011-12-11T17:47:00.004-05:002011-12-11T21:23:02.313-05:00

Okay, your first Christmas was an astonishing two years ago, so this technically is our THIRD as a family. But this year is different: more than ever you are excited by the lights and songs and "Papa" Claus, and really want to help...Good thing these ornaments are unbreakable.I'm not entirely sure what that look means.Nicely done!A cornucopia of ornaments.Thanks, Mommy!This one goes riiiiiiight

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-31137127478029744672011-11-18T10:32:00.001-05:002011-11-18T10:35:43.825-05:00

Sam gets into the recycling basket./daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-66257110416689841402011-11-14T17:40:00.002-05:002011-11-14T17:48:35.875-05:00

Ludwig Wittgenstein and I are impressed with your language skills, Samuel. Or rather, your skills of communicating about classifications.Oft times they still fail in that you don't organize things in the standard way we adults do. For instance, you still think of vans as buses, which makes a great deal of sense but isn't quite how we do it. Also for the record, rabbits are not cats, squirrels

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-11619955535042215332011-10-03T15:03:00.002-04:002011-10-03T15:04:22.553-04:00

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-10374900371441926012011-09-29T10:34:00.004-04:002011-09-29T13:15:34.937-04:00

Taking your first breath.And now you stick out your tongue like Lightning McQueen.Teeny boy meeting his parents.And now your feet are ginormous.Getting help breathing.And now you ignore offers to help with your birthday cupcake.All I can say is, "wow."/daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-21675354598034940732011-09-03T00:29:00.003-04:002011-09-03T00:45:53.977-04:00

Nothing better than falling asleep in Mommy's arms. Nothing better. /daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-89206380534300326422011-08-05T14:21:00.002-04:002011-08-05T14:24:01.665-04:00

Wearing Daddy's Indians hat after a shower before going to the doctor.Mommy thinks your eye is worse; Daddy does not. But just to be safe, we're getting your nasty bug bite checked out. So I hope that cancels out my posting another nekkid picture online./daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-85589497431898189562011-08-03T10:12:00.002-04:002011-08-03T10:15:10.610-04:00

We are really sorry, Sammy.

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-9809882536336209622011-07-23T10:29:00.004-04:002011-07-23T10:36:27.075-04:00

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-38028748545551145862011-07-17T19:20:00.003-04:002011-07-18T13:55:18.644-04:00

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-21071595430638095002011-07-03T22:06:00.002-04:002011-07-03T22:09:34.302-04:00

Apparently, a little Naked Time With A Red Balloon was necessary this evening."That pee on the floor is totally my bad."/daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-18366848405679783502011-06-07T12:02:00.002-04:002011-06-07T12:07:15.023-04:00

Last week, Sam requested a diaper while in the bath.This week, he needed some special Naked Time."Where did Sammy go?""THERE HE IS!"

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-45951633992730715062011-05-27T10:51:00.002-04:002011-05-27T10:57:20.494-04:00

Sunglasses. Check.Disheveled hair. CheckIronic T'shirt. Check.We draw the line at skinny jeans.

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-16624210370197758402011-04-22T10:38:00.005-04:002011-04-22T11:02:57.974-04:00

I took you to the mall last night and we sat on the couches and watched children meet and get their picture taken with him.You were very pensive. But interested. But only with the sunglasses.You must have felt safe watching the Easter Bunny through them.Eventually you started waving at him and when he waved back, you'd look away.So, this is as close as we got to a picture with the Easter Bunny:

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-50690456392964244482011-04-20T13:21:00.005-04:002011-04-20T14:34:04.607-04:00

Mommy, the kitchen's a mess. I'll take care of it.There sure are a lotta dishes over there.I better use this. I see them using it a lot.And start scrubbing. Easy peasy!Emptying this paper towel roll on the floor shouldn't be a problem.Who could be mad at this face?Not me. Next up shall we paint your toenails?Love,Mommy

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-21417722625152002992011-04-10T09:16:00.002-04:002011-04-10T09:19:44.704-04:00

Out running errands the other day.We're not accustomed to all the sunlight.Mommy's sunglasses really help./daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-25515186652510419282011-04-02T10:04:00.002-04:002011-04-02T10:09:31.678-04:00

Open wide!Mmm...cream of mushroom.Inscrutable.He likes it!/daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-83227052153708711852011-03-29T11:01:00.002-04:002011-03-29T11:50:56.967-04:00

18 months ago today.Started out so teeny!I cried because I had no hair until I met a man with no head.What's this? A Brain Sucker. What's it doing? Starving.In this family we bathe once a month whether it's needed or not.A brief period of chubbiness.The Youngest Campaigner is a little disappointed in Shummy right now.See? Very upset about the failure to raise taxes on the wealthiest.So much

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-19287879929423870302011-03-27T20:52:00.003-04:002011-03-27T21:04:24.696-04:00

Not sure who handed down the gas guzzler.About time you picked up some cooking duty."The stew is missing...something."The Special Ingredient.So sweet to offer a skillet dinner to Lola./daddyPS--An old song from when Daddy was in college.

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-18152680115212505042011-03-14T23:18:00.003-04:002011-03-16T09:41:37.168-04:00

Wait, when did you get tall enough to peek over the bannister?Momentarily still and pensive.Back to being silly.I remember your first forays up the stairs.../daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-13926443937155455042011-02-13T13:25:00.002-05:002011-02-13T13:55:26.553-05:00

Wow, you really have come a long way.../daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-37624980212683965142011-02-09T08:26:00.004-05:002011-02-09T09:18:40.387-05:00

What about guns? When do we get guns? - Eugene TackleberrySalon has an interesting article about schools cracking down on kids and toy guns:I want my boys to learn the difference between pretend and actual violence. And by the way, if you deprive a little boy of store-bought toy guns, he'll make one out of a bar of soap. Like Dillinger did to bust out of prison. That doesn't mean he'll grow up

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-64104362730267601282010-12-24T22:35:00.002-05:002010-12-24T22:38:45.835-05:00

Slightly modified classic:Yes, SAMUEL, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no SAMUELS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-75744881734028670252010-12-23T16:21:00.003-05:002010-12-23T16:25:55.990-05:00

Note: I'm actually dancing to Beethoven's 6th. Yeah, weird./sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-32312621492335446782010-11-22T17:52:00.005-05:002011-11-22T20:10:29.605-05:00

On the Death of a Cat- Franz Wright (via a FB friend)Sam, this is Vinnie.In life, deathwas nothingto you: I amHe was Lola's little brother.willing to wagermy soul that itsimply never occurredHe learned a lot from his mentor, Sam the Cat (after whom you are not named).to your nightmarelessmind, while sleepwas everythingHe welcomed new arrivals.(see it raisedto an infinitepower and perfection)--no

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-45449161605777672172010-11-10T19:30:00.003-05:002010-11-10T19:57:03.126-05:00

Holding an ice cream cone by himself for the first time.Uh, no, Einstein, we don't eat from that end.Ah, that works much better!It's the little things we take for granted after we've mastered them.../daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-42238611083410627062010-11-07T16:44:00.003-05:002010-11-07T18:00:44.566-05:00

Just to remind you son, there are good days and bad days.You’re sad because you’re sad.It’s psychic. It’s the age. It’s chemical.Go see a shrink or take a pill,or hug your sadness like an eyeless dollyou need to sleep.Well, all children are sadbut some get over it.Count your blessings. Better than that,buy a hat. Buy a coat or pet.Take up dancing to forget.Forget what?Your sadness, your shadow,

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-88792197490734457632010-10-02T23:22:00.003-04:002010-10-03T00:14:21.649-04:00

I'm ONE, peeps!

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-4575550052834512852010-09-03T14:08:00.002-04:002010-09-03T14:13:10.902-04:00

What?Not sure how I would explain this to Child Protection Services.It's all good: I'm a gymnast!Getting better at waving.Is it tasty, Preciousssss?On to my next task.../daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-39977312769765946162010-08-30T21:50:00.002-04:002010-08-30T21:55:03.545-04:00

Sam loves baths.He crawls back and forth.Stops sometimes to giggle and shriek.Splashing is the best!/daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-10727542172181757002010-08-20T18:32:00.005-04:002010-08-20T19:25:32.866-04:00

This leaf is a bit dry for my taste.You every wonder where trees come from?Now that I have 2 teeth, I really need a miswak.Lookee, I throwed my hat down on the ground!Oh wait, I wanted that.Success!Hello, Daddy.Motorin'...What a lovely day. And now boy and mother are heading to visit a friend (no, not THAT one) in New York. Me? I'm taking a 3-day nap./daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-39199524483152061722010-08-12T07:58:00.002-04:002010-08-12T08:05:34.707-04:00

"What idiot put all the DVDs back on the shelf?""Let's crank the Ludwig Van up to 11.""Any requests?"/daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-91729684943734302602010-07-28T20:24:00.003-04:002010-07-28T20:49:34.241-04:00

What's grass taste like?What THE...?Hmm...I think he likes it!(All shots, including this one of Neptune guarding his charge, by Mommy)/daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-46511880669621814022010-07-13T09:49:00.004-04:002010-07-13T18:47:53.668-04:00

hipster babies!i dunno. i think this dude is way more hip.but i gotta give props for that 'stache. i barely have eyebrows.SAM

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-35468791410698957702010-07-06T10:08:00.002-04:002010-07-06T10:36:18.837-04:00

Check out Samuel Loren Mozart's first keyboard composition! I think this will be my campaign's theme song.../daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-25777191680516173172010-07-03T11:24:00.002-04:002010-07-03T17:22:06.150-04:00

I'm very good at playing on the floor now.My favorites are still the rings that Auntie P sent me before I was even borned.Still haven't figured out I can't stuff too much into my mouth at one time.TA-DAH!/sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-60531265537131632082010-07-01T10:24:00.001-04:002010-07-01T10:27:06.221-04:00

In honor of Nonna and Plum P./sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-33357246791354747562010-06-25T20:08:00.003-04:002010-06-25T22:29:26.745-04:00

Karin sent us this cute little 19th century poem, A Parental Ode to My Son, Aged Three Years and Five Months: Thou happy, happy elf!(But stop, - first let me kiss away that tear) – Thou tiny image of myself!(My love, he's poking peas into his ear!) Thou merry, laughing sprite! With spirits feather-light,Untouch'd by sorrow and unsoil'd by sin –(Good heavens! The child is swallowing a pin!)

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-14683136077532959202010-06-24T21:04:00.003-04:002010-06-24T21:18:00.110-04:00

I got a letter from my Grammy today, and she gave me some interesting information about Daddy:March 10, 1970 (7mos, 5days) - 1 tooth, weight 16lbs, 9oz.May 24, 1970 (9mos, 19days) - 2 upper eye teethJune 2, 1970 (9mos, 28days) - German measlesJune 23, 1970 (10mos, 18days) - took first stepsJuly ???, 1970 (11mos) - first pair of shoes [presumably these]At 8mos, 26days, I still have no teeth,

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-41726730342221087462010-06-22T17:08:00.003-04:002010-06-22T17:17:53.646-04:00

Auntie T and Nana acknowledge it's not entirely age appropriate, but dig the little buggy they sent me:What the heck am I supposed to do with this?Oh, this is cool. Charge it up, Daddy!I'll be able to go canvassing the neighborhood all by myself on this beauty.../sam[Daddy's note: we still need a play yard and we end up with something to make Sam even more mobile. We're in trouble.]

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-43130908798590579852010-06-18T13:15:00.000-04:002010-06-18T13:17:47.048-04:00

Hung out with my parents and their friends last night. Wicked fun!/sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-25072656082919993572010-06-07T15:13:00.004-04:002010-06-07T15:27:56.693-04:00

Well ninety nine years is such a long long time...Hang in there!A little help here?So it's official: I'm pretty much too big for my gym and need more room to safely move around (inside and outside). Sure would be handy if I had this and this off my wishlist. *coughcough*/sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-71231795262874510672010-06-03T19:36:00.001-04:002010-06-03T19:49:49.048-04:00

I'm all gussied up for the campaign!/sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-36911419350619449142010-06-03T11:46:00.002-04:002010-06-03T12:09:26.628-04:00

This is my very first portrait (not counting a very early ultrasound where I look like a sugar packet-sized alien). It was taken one year ago today--Mommy and Daddy had an appointment at the hospital before they drove to Boston so Daddy could go to Palestine and get attacked by the IDF. Anyway, that was the day my family learned I was a boy name Sam.I was already a wriggly little pip, making it

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-54199765641277325412010-05-17T17:25:00.000-04:002010-05-17T17:26:42.444-04:00

And I hepped!/sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-62661144942017771652010-05-16T20:16:00.002-04:002010-05-16T20:22:15.783-04:00

He does love to laugh:Giggle!/daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-843918077677343252010-05-10T17:11:00.002-04:002010-05-11T09:43:35.911-04:00

LO +.9pl,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,kkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkp\ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\b h-;'?????????????????????????????????????????????-p*+988888888888888888\12222220/n nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn&(*

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-10024957601535121382010-05-06T20:38:00.005-04:002010-05-06T23:39:35.528-04:00

Mommy and Daddy tell me I haven't been to the hospital since I was 9 days old. I don't really remember, and didn't see much because I spent most of it in some Skinner Box contraption with bright lights.So I decided it was time to go back.I admit, I've been having a rough time over the last week or so. Teething so bad that more drool's coming out of my mouth than oil is gushing from Deep Horizon

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-59182348774492040072010-05-01T21:12:00.001-04:002010-05-01T23:14:30.069-04:00

Been a rough couple days./daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-32935770737285681382010-04-29T17:53:00.002-04:002010-04-29T18:35:39.168-04:00

Still messy on our road, so no walk to the mailbox. Sam started to get a little stir crazy.There heeeeeeerrrrrrrrrrre!/daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-48638363009437794192010-04-24T11:37:00.004-04:002010-04-24T11:48:51.214-04:00

Bubsy switched from just holding my hair for safety to grabbing my lower lip--I think he's been talking to Mommy about labor pains...This summer is going to be fun, rolling Sam around in his pimped up stroller and carrying him on my shoulders. I'll just have to be careful about the drool in my hair when we're canvassing.Apropos of nothing I once again have changed my profile pics. I loved our "

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-26232384224512181262010-04-09T20:36:00.006-04:002010-04-09T22:36:55.238-04:00

Our first week of the New Era is over.For a long time I've wanted this situation, and a long time ago I pretty much gave up on ever getting the chance to actually live it. So far it's met expectations, both the upside and downside, and I couldn't be happier.Today was a bit challenging for no apparent reason.We all went to bed at a reasonable--hopefully soon to be the new normal--hour last night,

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-25099857570158169372010-03-29T11:24:00.003-04:002010-03-29T18:15:25.803-04:00

Yesterday I was 180 days old. A little earlier this month I was 24 weeks old. Both of those could count as being six months, but Daddy tells me we're purists in this family--we also obey the laws of thermodynamics--and while we celebrated those other milestones, today's is the most important and official.A whole half-year ago, I was borned.I met some really nice people in Labor & Delivery, NICU

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-65882073797508134052010-03-28T09:29:00.002-04:002010-03-28T09:36:09.645-04:00

Mommy won't let me get a Facebook account, but let Daddy set up a fan page for me! So go be my quasi friend and help build my self-esteem... /sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-16433661249469342732010-03-24T14:18:00.002-04:002010-03-24T14:22:29.854-04:00

Daddy helped set me up, but I did all the typing:45214015041045345534444444045037543755553022222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222222\7111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111uusdiudfhu\222222222222222222222222222222220444402\42402\4440\410101\4012\4\2\7712222\111110\/533+96+896988*+-411000|[ed note: this is Sam's account of

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-35698666649622091062010-03-17T14:42:00.003-04:002010-03-17T14:57:06.629-04:00

I already pine for the days when the biggest mess at feeding time was a chin needing some milk wiped away.Well, it is Mud Season.../daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-79597321611737848092010-03-14T12:12:00.003-04:002010-03-14T12:42:28.586-04:00

Mex has been pretty good about reining in his rather dangerous paws around the boy.Get all that milk off his face!Here, taste my drooly fingers!BFFs./daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-71445621715801904472010-03-04T18:10:00.007-05:002010-03-04T18:54:21.410-05:00

It was a big day for me today!Mommy took me over to Jacob's house. He's about a month and a half older than me. He can sit up and everything!I had a little trouble sitting up and so we played on our tummies:We had some good face-to-face time.We enjoyed babbling at each other and touching each other's faces.After we got acquainted we played with our blocks and had a snack. Then I was pretty much

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-80151704769009218642010-03-03T18:30:00.003-05:002010-03-03T19:27:27.306-05:00

The Beard Grabbing Game has become a new favorite. For Sam.Sometimes in all the excitement, a lip or nostril is grabbed instead.How else are you supposed to get to know each other better?\daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-33169921959885910332010-02-17T11:54:00.004-05:002010-02-17T12:28:50.353-05:00

Playing with the rings that Aunti P got me.Mmm...cherry!Okay, bored with red.Whatchoo lookin at, Daddy?Lime's now my favorite./sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-6503764206435742342010-02-12T09:53:00.005-05:002010-02-12T15:09:00.178-05:00

I thought I'd blogged last year about the SHOCKING discovery that Baby Einstein and other video products that allegedly make your kids smarter actually don't, but in all the excitement of The Bed Rest Era it seems I only thought about it or talked about it. Whatever:Videos like Brainy Baby and Baby Einstein have been marketed to parents since 1997. They feature simple lessons in music, math, and

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-7058283298478072332010-02-09T21:06:00.000-05:002010-02-09T23:26:52.812-05:00

Go figure:Parents who want their children to discover a passion for music, sports, or other hobbies should follow a simple plan: Don't pressure them.By allowing kids to explore activities on their own, parents not only help children pinpoint the pursuit that fits them best, but they can also prevent young minds from obsessing over an activity, a new study finds."Passion comes from a special fit

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-58616131465498918762010-02-06T18:28:00.004-05:002010-02-06T19:50:03.766-05:00

Mommy's visiting Auntie C after her surgery, and Daddy took some pictures so she wouldn't miss me too much:Back in my gym for some exercise.Remember my snail nemesis? Mr Monkey provides new challenges.Gotcha!Steve Holt!I don't mean to be greedy, but can I grab the giraffe, too?This is the first time ever that Mommy has spent away from us. Daddy and I are having a lot of fun, but we both can't

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-63522234264154176092010-01-29T16:31:00.003-05:002010-01-29T17:38:27.192-05:00

The boy is pretty much always in motion these days.He generally doesn't get very far yet.Did you say something, Daddy? Don't drool on the blankie Auntie Athenae knit me?Perhaps looking at Mommy will inspire me to crawl out of the boppy for the 2nd time in a row.I'm just so tickled that I can hold my head up and pull myself around.All that working out has Sam just plum tuckered. Not a bad day to

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-46277550944609633102010-01-29T08:13:00.002-05:002010-01-29T08:29:46.712-05:00

I think I'm finally figuring out your private language, Sam. I know I'm slower than you: it's clear you understand my words and gestures better than I understand your vocalizations and cues, and I appreciate your patience. While I look forward to your signing and talking, I have to admit I'm enjoying the mutual learning process itself. It seems like you do, too, when your face lights up and you

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-53381596062906689662010-01-24T14:29:00.005-05:002010-01-24T14:37:02.133-05:00

This family is becoming more and more like the Bluths every day.Not only does Mommy blame me for her migraines, she accidentally posted her grudge diary on my blog. IT'S MY BLOG! Soon as I can figure out the whole money thing, I'm ordering her a #MommyFail coffee mug from Cafe Press.And yes, this is going in my grudge diary. Can't wait until I'm a teenager.../sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-66451684342064216862010-01-23T17:55:00.003-05:002010-01-23T19:46:58.793-05:00

After running some errands, I'm pretty happy.Contemplating just how handsome I look in my turtleneck.Uh-oh, I'm starting to fade.Looking to Mommy and self-soothing.Things can take a nasty turn rather quickly.I want to assure everybody that Daddy did not poke me or anything to get my sad face. I actually don't cry that much, but I can flip the switch easily if I suddenly feel tired, like during a

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-41975236319738098162010-01-21T18:52:00.011-05:002010-01-21T19:57:19.792-05:00

I wake up and chill with Ted while I contemplate my big day out.I'm dressed and ready to go. But, first: i will try to fit my whole fist in my MOUTH!Okay, NOW we can go.After we drop Daddy off to at Champlain, I entertain Mommy with my drooling and shreiking.WAIT, I have more.I can do Brando. Also.Here I lunch with Daddy where I voice my opinion on today's SCOTUS decision.I'm up way past my

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-65541455804985223532010-01-08T15:42:00.013-05:002010-01-08T19:44:33.756-05:00

Have I got a little story for youWhat you thought of your daddy...I'm glad we talkedWhile you were sittin'ALIVE.Many thanks to woofnet for the Pearl Jam onesie.

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-41108997356549500722010-01-04T19:31:00.004-05:002010-01-04T21:40:52.617-05:00

I'm a daddy, so am somewhat reticent to wade into this, but hey, I love Mommy and we're trying to do whatever we can to help you be a little less part of the patriarchy as you grow up. I'm sure it will arguably be a losing effort, if we measure success by the complete removal of all inequality. Better to suffer defeat than not to make the attempt.We were watching Home Alone last night while you

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-16044324630867100792010-01-03T16:56:00.005-05:002010-01-03T17:38:07.831-05:00

Todd and Lola model the sling extended for Sam's new height and weight.Since Sam was sleeping at the time, Lola was chosen to be the stand-in, mostly because he's probably the most in need of payback. That cat is nothing but mischievous. Even Vinnie, his own littermate, will not stand for his antics, man.I snapped this with my blackberry last night. I know cats want to be close to warmth, but

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-8248756594883503852010-01-01T15:17:00.018-05:002010-01-01T18:40:19.595-05:00

2 chins! I really must lay off the holiday treats. But YUM!I dance a little jig in Daddy's lap adorned in my Christmas Hat.Jocularities! Jocularities!(20 Shrutebucks to whomever knows who said this and in what TV show)Nap time.We went to visit Aunt Stef. I met my cousin, Will. He's a lot bigger than me - a high-schooler!This is Dennis. He's my favorite colors.Daddy and I watch coverage of #

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-74060436280557519282009-12-27T01:23:00.011-05:002009-12-27T11:54:12.286-05:00

I took my first plane rides. And only melted down right at the very end of the 16 hour trip. Not too shabby for a 12 week old. I also may have spit up my entire stomach on Daddy's pants on the San Francisco to Portland leg. Oopies!I'm having the funnest time here in Portland. Lots of family, sparkling twinkly lights and shadows.Here are some highlights of my first 36 hours:We're going up in the

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-10244723826906863652009-12-25T00:00:00.004-05:002011-12-11T18:51:54.577-05:00

Peace and love from Sam, Ericka and ToddBelieve it or not, we haven't gotten all the cards out yet. I lost my contacts on the old laptop (not synced with Google) and am still recovering some. Many apologies to people waiting with bated breath. Daddy Fail.\daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-2901135479322412712009-12-24T14:54:00.001-05:002009-12-24T14:56:53.897-05:00

I hope Santa knows I'm in VT and not OR as planned!/sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-77736086423018766202009-12-18T21:26:00.017-05:002009-12-19T00:42:39.716-05:00

The kid loves shadows. He's very easy to entertain.He's so busy Boppy Climbing, yelling, smiling and carrying on that his sleep patterns are improving. This is good news for his bleary-eyed parents.He enjoys blowing spit bubbles and sticking out his tongue. Sam sits up for the very first time! No doubt he's aided by his bear outfit, a milestone nonetheless. Doesn't he look like a little sad sack

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-27429492836707141992009-12-16T23:29:00.003-05:002009-12-17T12:29:21.532-05:00

In a modest effort to heal the world, The Online Mom is holding a fundraiser:As some of you may know, one of our dearest friends Shellie Ross lost her beautiful 2 year old son Bryson to a tragic pool accident.Although the outpouring of support has been heartwarming, a few people chose to attack Shellie in the cruelest of ways by questioning her honesty and fitness to be a mom at the worst

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-14345180440066044212009-12-15T17:33:00.004-05:002009-12-16T00:50:29.819-05:00

The world is full of assholes. Never forget that.And this Internet thing? I'm not sure if the Asshole Density Quotient is greater than the world at large, but it sure does give assholes a platform (example: my blog). So when you put yourself out there, you're taking a big risk that somebody will find offense or something to attack in what you post.Really, any time you're in public, whether it

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-56318768865443433922009-12-13T19:50:00.006-05:002011-12-11T18:50:06.602-05:00

Samuel, I hope you don't inherit Daddy's eyesight--this is what the Xmas tree looks like to me when I don't have my glasses on.You've been mesmerized by this scene out back, which helps when trying to get you to sleep.In the Spirit of Giving this season, you've let Lola sleep in your chair, Gracey sleep in your boppy, and now Pearl sleeps in your bassinet.The dogs don't steal your stuff, they

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-52667798261050162662009-12-08T23:15:00.003-05:002009-12-08T23:57:31.164-05:00

Streeeeeeeeetch!I still love my boppy, but I'm starting to outgrow it just like my preemie and newborn clothes.\sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-57376414440143286162009-12-05T23:51:00.017-05:002009-12-06T02:13:14.770-05:00

We started out the week with a trip to the vet for Neptune. Mommy coaxes a smile.I listen intently to Daddy.We bought our tree, because SANTA is coming soon!And what a good boy I've been...Lola, on the other hand, is very mischievous.Before tree-trimming, I grab my blanket and nap with Mommy.I love the twinkling lights.Here Daddy explains our picture-taking strategy.Parent FAIL.Mommy and Daddy

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-68484216021769234972009-11-28T23:34:00.002-05:002009-11-28T23:51:21.221-05:00

I sure love my mommy./sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-56357605629995027062009-11-19T17:10:00.003-05:002009-11-19T17:19:49.051-05:00

I'll give ya somethin' to cry 'bout...I can't wait to fit into my red karate pants!

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-91281216906894722712009-11-18T10:04:00.002-05:002009-11-18T10:08:22.339-05:00

Thanks for all the visits and comments yesterday! It was all very inspiring to this little early bundle of joy, plus it raised 175 dollars for the cause. Daddy wrote about it on his blog (he won't put his post here because he's jealous of all my traffic)./sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-8134525372548789442009-11-17T18:47:00.004-05:002009-11-17T18:57:50.702-05:00

This hat from a blog friend just arrived today and I've actually grown big enough to wear it!When I was first borned I swam in preemie outfits but now fit into them and even don't look so small in the newborn clothes people sent for me.I've got more to say about #fight4preemies after I let Mommy and Daddy have some dinner. In the meantime, check out Bloggers Unite and the March of Dimes!/sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-43850391376282644362009-11-17T10:20:00.007-05:002009-11-17T10:54:49.006-05:00

Fight for Preemies Day means a lot to our family. We are offering a dollar for every hit Sam's blog gets after 10:08 a.m. EST. to the March of Dimes.Please leave a comment if you'd like us to add a special preemie's name you know to the donation. Or share your story of your preemie.Thanks for the hits!

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-81257797871926012472009-11-13T21:01:00.002-05:002009-11-13T21:24:36.319-05:00

Being alert more makes me so tired.Time to get dressed up for a walk!Check out my new wheels!Hey, it's Neptune's cousin.This little punk is still bigger than I am.I'll bet this is one of the friends Mexico visits when he runs off for a midnight jaunt.Okay, that was a fun walk. Now back to what I do best./sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-43915315613473600752009-11-10T17:56:00.004-05:002009-11-10T18:00:32.986-05:00

Say, who's that handsome fella?I. Can. Al. Most. Reach./sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-41614155771386784902009-11-06T22:51:00.003-05:002009-11-06T23:12:45.591-05:00

In which I reach out to The Psychedelic Snail in my bouncy chair (courtesy of Auntie JG).I have been captivated by Snail for a significant portion of my life.I sized up The Problem: grabbing Snail.Missed!I became rather frustrated.Okay, let's try careful aiming.Success! [many other failed attempts omitted]Quite frankly, I'm as shocked as you are.Time to celebrate with a bit of the moloko.For my

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-58408138326974270812009-11-04T23:13:00.002-05:002009-11-06T22:56:09.443-05:00

Boppy time after a long day running errands.\daddy

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-16990144956612055482009-10-30T08:53:00.004-04:002009-10-30T09:23:26.132-04:00

Dear Sam,Yesterday, you were a month old. My, how it flew by. In the evening, I took this picture of you in your Boppy. You were enjoying very much sitting and facing Mommy and Daddy. You're learning to turn your head and lift it up during tummy time! You're also working on using your voice and vocal chords so are grunting, sighing and cooing. It's adorable. You also seem to work out facial

Erickahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18252535211571744355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2371518326728949141.post-52142128971309353722009-10-26T23:18:00.002-04:002009-10-26T23:23:34.016-04:00

A few Zs in the sun with Mommy.Finger sucking time with Daddy.For the skeptics: more and more alert every day!/sam

ntoddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01068160577299501895noreply@blogger.com0