Along the Way

My Name Is Sam

2012-01-22T17:58:00.000-08:00

Airplane

2012-01-22T17:56:00.000-08:00

Sam has been learning what sounds certain automobiles make. Airplanes are her current favorite.

Rocking Baby Franklin

2012-01-16T18:36:00.000-08:00

Sam is learning to take care of her baby, Franklin (named by Adam). She can rock, and burp and be sweet to him. She is growing more and more loving toward him all the time which gives us hope for how she'll treat her baby brother.

A . . B . . C . .

2012-01-16T18:28:00.000-08:00

Sam is learning her ABCs. She can get through E on her own and repeat all the way to U before she usually looses interest. Not all the letters are pronounced properly but we think she's doing great. (Sam usually doesn't pay any attention to the TV but I guess the shiny wheel on The Price is Right distracted her this time).

Happy Birthday, Daddy!

2012-01-08T18:04:00.000-08:00

We had a great day celebrating Adam's birthday this year with lots of laid back family time, some good food, homemade cookies and shooting fireworks with the neighbors. Here's to another great year with more new adventures.

Helping Daddy blow out the candles on his cookie "cake."

Sam's not smiling because she has a mouthful of cookie.

If you see a croccodile . . .

2012-01-02T06:35:00.000-08:00

This is from about a month ago but this is still one of her favorite songs.

Moving the Fun Indoors

2012-01-01T18:56:00.000-08:00

It was cold and snowy outside, so Gramma brought the fun indoors. Sam spent a lot of time going up and and down the slide and swinging on the swing (that you can't see in this shot). Listen closely and you can hear Sam saying "Wheeee" whether she's going up or down.

Snow is Fun . . . and Tasty!

2012-01-01T18:54:00.000-08:00

Sam loved sledding- and eating the snow.

Sledding in Colorado- Oops!

2012-01-01T18:53:00.000-08:00

This was Sam's first time playing in the snow. She took a little spill but recovered quickly for more wintery fun.

Happy New Year 2012!

2012-01-01T18:05:00.000-08:00

We're all ready to ring in the new year- even if we don't make it to midnight.

"What's this thing on my head?"


Trying to figure it out.

Flashback to last year. Wonder what next year will look like.

Christmas in Colorado 2011

2011-12-31T10:40:00.000-08:00

We headed out to Colorado for Christmas this year. Sam's runny nose started the day before we left and turned into a full blown cold with fever and other fun ailments. She was sick for the duration of the trip. I think God was preparing us for a newborn again because we were up every three hours through the night and spent a lot of time rocking our fussy little girl. There were some shining moments. Sam loved the indoor playset Gramma had at her house. She enjoyed a couple excursions out into the snow and seemed to really have a great time being pulled around on the sled. Sam made friends with lots of cats and dogs on our trip with an special fondness for Bailey and Georgia at Great Grandma and Grandpa Braley's (sorry Uncle Philip but she really didn't care for Grady). Opening presents was fun too. Traveling with a small child is a challenge but we are really glad we got to see family and spend the holiday eating and playing games with loved ones. We do wish that they got to see the fun and silly side of Sam a little more, but sickness while traveling for the holidays seems to be a Braley family tradition.

Not sure about the shuttle to the airport

Checking to see if she'll fit.

Yup, she's good to go.

She fell out shortly after takeoff on the way out there.

Geared up for her first foray into real Colorado snow.

Snow is cold and hard to walk it, but she liked how it tasted.

Sledding is fun.

Needed Uncle Ben's help to stay upright.

Celebrating with Aunt Karlie.

Chilling in the snow.

Trying to master walking in the snow.

Shedding all the layers after playing in the cold.

Diaper!

2011-12-15T06:44:00.000-08:00

Sam usually exclaims, "Diaper!" in a very shrill voice when we ask her if she needs a diaper change. We've been trying to catch a good example on camera. This is a little weaker than her usual reaction but you get the idea. It is nice that she can tell us when she's ready for a diaper change now.

What does Smiley Say?

2011-12-15T06:42:00.000-08:00

Sam learned lots of new animals sounds during our Thanksgiving trip to Blakely. Smiley is Papa's dog that loves to run and then pants when he comes to see you. These are not her best efforts at a rooster and chicken or donkey but the best I could get on camera.

Santa's Workshop 2011

2011-12-15T06:36:00.000-08:00

We went to visit Santa's Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops this week. Sam loved watching the "Choo Choo" and the cars race around the track. She couldn't play the shooting games but enjoyed watching. She always loves seeing the animals and liked that there were some new ones, reindeer and real puppies. We were surprised she didn't have any kind of reaction to sitting on Santa's lap. She didn't fuss or smile. She just sat there chewing on one hand and waiving with the other. The picture that Bass Pro took has Santa trying to hold her waiving hand down but he didn't win that battle. We had a great time visiting Santa this year. We will see what kind of surprises are in for us next year.

Visiting the reindeer.


Checking out Santa.

See, no reaction at all.

Puppies!

Took Daddy to see the reindeer too.

This is the pic Bass Pro took.

This is the same pic from Bass Pro but uncropped- Mommy was close by in case of meltdown.

Photo Update

2011-12-15T05:44:00.000-08:00

Helping Daddy put her new chair together. Thanks, Gramma and Grampa.

Loves her very own chair.

Reading books with Daddy in her chair.

Pigtails. These didn't last past breakfast.

Likes to wear the tutu GG Braley sent- usually with only a diaper on but she elected to wear it with clothes this day.

"Sam, can you smile?"

Resemblance?

2011-12-03T19:30:00.000-08:00

On the left is Sam and on the right is me, both around 1 year old. See the family resemblance?

What She's Up To Right Now

2011-12-03T18:43:00.000-08:00

Its more fun to play in the toys than with the toys.

Didn't take her long to learn how to climb into the ottoman/toybox.

This is her sweet pose.

So excited to be pruning the dying mum.

Insisted on putting on her new shoes first thing the next morning- over her pajamas.

First pair of Nike's. Loves them just like her daddy.

"Yay for new shoes!"

Playing in the box from her new car seat sure is tiring.

Turned my back and she disappeared. Not sure if I'm ready for hide and seek yet.

Bah Humbug!

2011-11-27T18:40:00.000-08:00

Brooke Davis took our Christmas pictures and Sam's One Year pics this year. There are so many good ones but this one makes me laugh every time I look at it. Adam is responsible for the bow on top of her head but I'm not sure what the face is all about. Hope this gets you into the Christmas spirit.

Photo Update

2011-11-16T06:46:00.000-08:00

She's always been fascinated with Mommy and Daddy's shoes . . .

. . . now she wants to wear them all the time but doesn't like that it makes her immobile.

Our proud little firelady.

Not so wisely walking around with a backwards hat over her eyes.

Helping Mommy rake the yard (she commandeered the rake).

Playing in the leaves with Hunter.

Sam loves the fall just like her Mommy.

Sam's First Birthday

2011-11-04T07:53:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday was Sam's first birthday party. We were so happy to have family and close friends celebrating with us. Sam enjoyed the lollipops and balloons. We were surprised how much she enjoyed opening gifts but not surprised at how much she's enjoyed all the new toys since the party. The weather was great and the kids enjoyed some outdoor play time too. Here are some pics from the day. I hate that we didn't get pictures of all the friends and family that were there to make the day extra special. Most of the pictures are just of the birthday girl. But all in all, it was a wonderful day.

Sweet treats and sweet gifts for the birthday girl.

Big smile.

Loved the balloons.

Yummy lunch.

"Ooh, a lollipop."

Doesn't really like sticky stuff on her hands.

"This is pretty good, Mommy."

Loved making a mess.

Still loving the messy lollipop.

Its a boy!

Mommy wasn't fast enough getting the baby out of the box.

"Sam, are you ready for brother?"

She loves his eyes cause the blink.

Hugs for Daddy and the baby.

Loving the baby.

Have to taste all parts of the baby.

"What's under the hat?'

"Toes are good."

Playing on the deck with Gran.

Birthday kiss from Hunter.

Happy Family. Been a wonderful year.

Waiting on Daddy

2011-11-03T18:14:00.000-07:00

Sam likes to watch out the cat door when Adam's working in the garage or when she's waiting on him to come home. She doesn't know its a door because we don't have an animal that uses it. She just thinks its a little window down on her level.

"Where's Daddy?"

"Will he be home soon?"

"He's taking way too long."

Can You Say "Bubbles?"

2011-10-19T08:33:00.000-07:00

Listen closely and you can hear her say, "bubbles."

Sam's First Bubbles

2011-10-19T08:31:00.000-07:00

Can you see how delighted she is to be chasing and catching the bubbles?

First Trip to Auburn and Davis Turns 3!

2011-10-19T07:57:00.000-07:00

We can't believe Cousin Davis is already 3 (or that Sam is closing in on 1). We took a day trip to Auburn for Davis' birthday. Sam got to visit Toomer's, J&M and play on Samford lawn. And Davis' party was at a really cool nature reserve which, of course Sam loved. It was outdoors with lots of dirt and leaves and sticks and nuts. Davis and all the kiddos seemed to have a blast. Sam did really well for her first day trip until it was time to head home and we hit a little snag getting back into the car. Trip and Elizabeth were very helpful and our trip home went off without a hitch once we all got into the car.

Mommy's two favorite Tiger fans.

Finding giant acorns with Daddy.

Who knows if she'll be back walking to class in 17 years or so.

War Eagle!

Eating a giant acorn she found.

Climbing into the big eagle's nest.

Sitting on a stump with Papa.

Playing in the tunnel. Peek-a-boo, Sam.

Happy Birthday, Davis. She even enjoyed wearing the hats.

Here are a couple other pics from this last week.

Sam discovered the fun of bubbles.

Its been a little cooler lately, but Sam still enjoys our morning walks.

Sam's 11 Months Old

2011-10-11T07:36:00.000-07:00

We are in the final count down to being 1 year old. How did we get here already? As before, this photo session was difficult. Sam wanted to play, not sit still but we got a few shots that show her ever developing personality.

She loves getting to rock all by herself in the big chair.

So proud to get in and out of her chair without Mommy and Daddy's help.

Cheese!

She discovered markers but luckily doesn't know how to open them or what to do with them.

We're working on not standing in chairs, especially rocking chairs.

"I'll clean it up, Mom."


"Sam, where's your tongue?"

Sam is working on learning all her facial features and body parts. She knows head, ears, hair, tongue and toes. She gets eyes, nose, mouth and hands most of the time. Adam thinks its funny that she points with her thumb most of the time. We are learning that we need to watch what we say more and more because she attempts to say a lot of what we say. New words are spoon, diaper (pronounced baiper), and Papa but the list grows daily as we figure out what it is she's trying to say. Here are a few more pictures from the past week or so.

Little Miss Independent roams the yard, and our neighbor's, at her will.

Frolicking in her Auburn gear.

She discovered a hole in the back deck and how much fun it is to drop acorns down the hole.

Our sweet girl.

"Another acorn please!"

Success.

She walked around like this while I made dinner. Maybe she wants to be an astronaut.

Helping Daddy water the plants, and the driveway.

I think she got a little water on the plants.

Surviving Shutdown 2011

2011-09-25T18:54:00.000-07:00

Hello, Strangers. I know its been a while but we are almost through Adam's annual shutdown that requires he work 12-15 hour days for at least 10 days straight. This is our second non-weekend in a row but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. We are all glad this only happens once a year. Sam has really missed her Daddy. I didn't realize how much this would affect her. And I hate that Adam is missing some of her little milestones. But I try to fill him in on as much as I can remember when he gets home. She's becoming quite the talker and tries to repeat most anything we ask her to though it may sound nothing like the actual word. Here are a list of words she's mastered: ball, more, bottle, book, uh oh and bye bye. She knows what a tiger, cat, cow, dog, owl, fish and sheep say. "If you're happy and you know it..." is her new favorite song since she loves to dance. We are constantly impressed with what she understands. I can ask her to find most anything and she'll run off and get it. Outside is still her favorite place to be so we are looking forward to the cool weather coming back soon.

Enjoying the few days of cooler weather.

Exploring and playing with her ball.

Playing with Dottie at Gran and Papa's.

Getting brave with Joseph, Papa's donkey.

Sam enjoyed watching all the animals: goats, horses, and chickens (but not the rooster).

Early morning bike ride around Gran's house.

Such a big girl.

Who needs extra hold hair gel when you have teething snacks.

She walked around with this silicone lid in her mouth. It looked like giant red lips.

So proud to be wearing Daddy's Auburn hat. She put it on herself.

War Eagle!

Shake, Shake, Shake

2011-09-04T11:13:00.000-07:00

One day she'll be saying, "War Eagle, Hey!" but for now we're happy knowing what a tiger says.

Our Little Tiger Fan

2011-09-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

Sam is learning how to use a shaker. Right now she just likes to dismantle it.

10 Months Old Plus One Week

2011-09-04T10:44:00.000-07:00

Well, Sam has had a bout with a virus. She's had a mild fever on and off for a week to go with her runny nose. Its been a rough week with not a whole lot of sleep for any of us. But it looks like we are through the worst of it and Sam is finally getting her appetite back. Though we are struggling to get her to eat much more than cheese, crackers and oatmeal. And I know it is a week late, but I finally got her 10 month pictures taken. She wasn't very cooperative but I got some decent shots with the aid of an Auburn shaker, a pop gun and her pacifier. It seems that these photo sessions are getting harder and harder with each passing month.

"What is this thing for?"

"Ooh look, it comes apart." (There are now blue and orange streamers all over our house.)

We told her to shake it, so she shook just one piece.

Daddy hasn't had a chance to go over gun safety yet.

Sweet Sam.

"Say 'War Eagle,' Sam"

She really didn't want to take any more pictures. I am such a mean mom.

Striking a pose.

This looks like "Cheese," but it is really her fake cry face.

Fun with a 9 Month Old

2011-08-26T04:19:00.000-07:00

Sam is officially walking. She rarely crawls at all any more and she's fully into everything. Its lots of fun and lots of work. Her favorite activity right now is to play outside. She finally gets to walk around the yard all on her own as long as she doesn't eat the leaves and grass that she finds. Sam loves to show off for the neighbors who get a kick out of seeing her move around at her will. She's not a big fan of eating right now but we are blaming that on congestion due to allergies. Hopefully we'll get over them soon.

Drinking from Daddy's cup.

"I see you, Mommy."

Showing off one of her Halloween costumes.

"Don't I make a cute strawberry?"

"Really Mom, more pictures."

"You want me to crawl through where?"

We made her a tunnel with pillows and the ottoman.

"Peek-a-boo!"

Our little sumo wrestler.

Visit from the Braleys

2011-08-26T03:55:00.000-07:00

Last week, Mom, Dad and Sarah made a pit stop in Macon on their way to take Sarah to school in Charleston. We had a good couple of days and they really got to see Sam and all her personality.

Reading with Grampa

Playing with Gramma.

Modeling one of her Halloween costumes for Aunt Sarah. She's a sweet little chick.

Gramma brought Sam her own camera so she'll stop chewing on Mommy's.

She loves her new birdhouse.

Where are the birds?

Sam won't look.

She finally looked but not going to smile.

Our Little Girl's Walking

2011-08-18T18:26:00.000-07:00

She started off with just a few steps here and there and is now walking pretty much everywhere she wants to go. Sam especially loves getting to walk around outside with her Daddy and play in the grass.

Dancing and Walking

2011-08-18T18:25:00.000-07:00

Sam started walking this week. She's also started dancing, well more like bouncing, but she does it when she enjoys the music.

Upside Down Sam

2011-08-18T18:24:00.000-07:00

Sam loves to bend over and look at us through her legs. She finds it very amusing- as do we.

Sam's 9 Months Old

2011-08-02T08:32:00.000-07:00

Sam turned 9 months old last Thursday. We went to see Dr. Ford today and she's doing great. We thought our picky eater might have dropped in the weight percentile but she's obviously getting enough. She weighs 19 pounds and is in the 63 percentile. She's 28.5 inches tall which is in the 80th percentile- still our tall little girl. Her development is right on track- if not a little ahead. Last night she couldn't quite reach the couch from the ottoman so she took two steps and got to where she wanted to go. And she can stand for a while on her own if she doesn't realize she doing it. Sam really loves books about animals right now, especially her Doggies book. Her bark sounds more like a grunt but we're working on it. We'll let you know when she starts walking all over the place, that is if I have time to blog amid chasing her all over the place.

Holding her hand so she'll leave her bow alone.

Obviously she'd rather be crawling off to play than sitting still for photos.

Showing Albert her two teeth.

This is her serious face.

The bow lasted all of 1.5 seconds.

"Here, you can have this back now."

So excited that Mommy quit trying to put the bow in her hair.

More Splashing Fun

2011-07-26T16:01:00.000-07:00

Sam really enjoyed splashing around on the steps in the pool too.

Splish Splash

2011-07-26T16:00:00.000-07:00

This is Sam's second time in the pool. She really had fun. While out in the deep water, she'd kick and kick like a frog. I think we have a little water baby on our hands.

What Does a Horse Say?

2011-07-26T15:59:00.000-07:00

Moving and Shaking

2011-07-26T15:58:00.000-07:00

Sam will shake her head from side to side when she gets really excited. She's started doing it while walking too. We think its really funny.

What Does a Fish Say?

2011-07-26T15:57:00.001-07:00

Sam's Push Toy

2011-07-26T15:57:00.000-07:00

With as much as Sam likes to walk, our backs are grateful that she can now push her toy around some. She doesn't have much control over where she's driving so she crashes every few feet if we don't walk with her to guide it. But she keeps getting better and better.

Walking's So Fun

2011-07-26T15:54:00.000-07:00

Sam walks/runs with Adam all over the house. You can hear how much she enjoys it.

A Visit from Uncle Ben

2011-07-25T18:21:00.000-07:00

Ben came for a visit over the weekend and finally got to meet Sam. He got to witness, or endure, the boring life of a baby. We did go swimming one morning and took a trip to Bass Pro Shops too. Sam saw Ben first when we picked her up from the nursery on Sunday morning and she smiled and waved at him. They did have some fun together. She liked when Ben would walk her around the house. She even gave him some kisses before he left which she reserves for very special folk. Can't wait to see him again around Christmas.

All smiles for Uncle Ben.

A rare shot of her with a bow IN her hair.

Watching TV with Ben. "Here you can have this bow back now."

Mmmm, Sam likes the new horsey Uncle Ben brought. It tastes good.

"What does a bear say, Sam?"

Testing out the ATVs. Fun for babies and 15 year old boys.

July Update

2011-07-25T18:12:00.000-07:00

We've had a busy couple of weeks. We've done some traveling and had visitors. Teething has proved to be quite trying and sleep depriving but we'll get through it- since we've decided she really does need teeth. Sam now knows what a tiger, fish and horse say. She even shakes her head when she makes the horse sound. Sometimes she only shakes her head. Sam is babbling a lot and her favorite strings of consonants are "mamamama," "dadadadada," and "bababababa." After months of wrestling her while trying to read to her, she has developed a liking for books. Opening and emptying the kitchen cabinets has become a daily exercise. And she really likes to switch off the lights as we leave a room. She walks, or runs, while holding our hands and has even begun walking while only holding onto one hand. She's growing up so fast and we can't believe she'll be nine months old this week.

Reading all by herself.

A cow says, "moo," even upside down.

Buckets go on your head, right?

"Here I am"

Loves to play and jump in all the pillows on our bed.

Pushing her toy all over the house. . .

. . . and crashing into everything. Haven't mastered turning yet.

Cheese!

Playing in all our new big-girl bows.

She likes to play with them but not wear them.

Emptying the cabinet (notice the bow not in her hair).

Look at all the noisy pans to play with.

Clapping in admiration of her accomplishments. Yay, Sam.

Walking With Daddy

2011-07-07T19:03:00.000-07:00

This video is rough and dark but I thought I'd share anyway. Sam is not only walking with Adam's help but she now enjoys running. We'll see how long it is before she's walking on her own.

More Fun With the Chicken.

2011-07-07T18:58:00.000-07:00

We wore the batteries out on Papa's chicken.

Dancing With the Chicken

2011-07-07T18:57:00.000-07:00

Sam loved dancing with Papa's chicken. The hardest part was sharing with Cousin Felton who also likes the chicken.

Laughing at Mommy

2011-07-07T18:56:00.000-07:00

Sam finds shooting a ball out of your mouth at her quite amusing. Sorry it is so dark but Sam really enjoyed this and I thought you might too.

Sam's 1st Bike Ride

2011-07-07T18:53:00.000-07:00

Sam and Daddy go for a ride everyday now but she wasn't so sure on this, her inaugural ride.

Playing with Uncle Philip

2011-07-07T18:51:00.000-07:00

Uncle Philip and Aunt Karlie came for a visit a few weeks ago. Sam played coy with Uncle Philip and dropped her head whenever he'd ask her to do anything.

Laundry Day Fun

2011-07-07T18:49:00.000-07:00

Sam likes laundry day when she can play in her hamper. Some times she just lays in it or we play peek-a-boo or she rolls in it like its a tube.

Sam's 1st Baloon

2011-07-07T18:48:00.000-07:00

Also almost a month old but she sure had fun with her first balloon.

Tiger's Roar

2011-07-07T18:46:00.000-07:00

This is almost a month old but thought I'd share it since it is when she started growling like a tiger.

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-07T18:44:00.000-07:00

We spent the holiday weekend in Blakely playing with Gran and Papa. Sam especially enjoyed the swing and the pool though she always enjoys watching all of Papa's animals. We finally got down to Lynn Haven to see Cuz and were excited to spend some time the Grandmama and Aunt Angie too. We came back to Macon for the 4th. We grilled and shot fireworks with our neighbors and their boys. I don't know who was more excited about the fireworks, Adam or our 4 year old neighbor, JD. Hope y'all had a wonderful Independence day too.

"Thanks GG Braley for my flag dress."

Thumbs up for Uncle Andrew and the rest of our Armed Forces.

This is her "Cheese" face.

Finally comfortable enough to play in a splash pool (with Mommy of course).

Must chew on everything.

Water's water, right?

"I even left my sun hat on, Grandma!"

So happy to be outside.

"Hi, Mommy."

Sam's 8 Months Old

2011-07-03T16:50:00.000-07:00

Sam turned 8 months old on Tuesday. We are constantly amazed at her development so far. She is crawling all over the place but really prefers when her Daddy holds her hands and she gets to walk where ever she wants to go. Adam lets her make several laps around the house at night to wear her out. Gran and Papa say it won't be long before she's walking on her own. We've been working on waving. Sam's favorite person to wave to is Sam and she can't go by a mirror without greeting herself. But, the concept of "bye bye" is still lost on her. While she's always been a "bouncer," she's started squatting down and jumping while holding onto something. Sam now has two teeth on the bottom and based on the continuing excess of drool, she's got more on the way.

Sweet Sam.

Sitting on the chair like a big girl.

Daddy's making Sam smile.

Huh? Don't eat the monkey?

Cheese.

Loving the bike seat Cousin Davis loaned us.

Likes bike rides with Daddy but not so sure about the helmet.

Playing with Uncle Philip and Aunt Karlie

2011-06-22T15:27:00.000-07:00

We were so excited to have lunch and get to play with Uncle Philip and Aunt Karlie today. Sam took a few minutes to warm up to the strangers but soon was crawling all over them, telling them what a tiger says and putting on a show. She's changed a ton since they saw her when she was two months old and has a lot more personality. Even I was surprised by the way she played with them. Uncle Philip drew out her shy side, or at least she pretended to be shy by ducking her head when he'd speak to her. We've been working on waving and it seems that she's been waiting to break it out for special visitors since she continually waved at Aunt Karlie. Who knows what she'll be up to when they see her again in another six months.

"Ta Da!"

Hi, Aunt Karlie!"

Playing coy with Uncle Philip.


"What are these crazy people doing?"

High Five

Ooh, more hair to pull.

"What's that funny stuff on your face?"

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-20T12:27:00.000-07:00

Sam loves her Daddy. She gives him the thumbs up.

Adam is a great father. Sam and I are blessed to have him.

Haircut 2011!

2011-06-20T12:23:00.000-07:00

Finally, I cut it off. After a 10+ inch haircut, I am so happy to have short hair again.

Bye, bye ponytail.

Before . . .

After.

Sam says short hair isn't as fun to pull as long hair.

Yay for short hair.

Recent Milestones

2011-06-20T12:15:00.000-07:00

Sorry its been so long but Sam has kept us quite busy and on our toes. She finally got her first tooth. We can feel it on the bottom but she won't sit still long enough for us to see it. My day is spent chasing her all over the place as she crawls from room to room, walks around the living room holding onto the furniture and even climbs up the stairs. Yes, she's made it up to the third step all on her own and lightening fast too. She knows she's not supposed to be on the stairs so she tries to sneak over there when I'm not looking (scary for mommy). Her current favorite activity is flopping around on mommy and daddy's bed, rolling around and pouncing on pillows. Sam is starting to "talk" more though only she knows what she's saying. We aren't sure where she got this but she has started growling, usually when she's excited or really happy. Now we ask her, "what does a tiger say?" and she'll respond with an oh-so-cute growl. Today, she finally got a cheerio in her mouth by herself so hopefully we will soon be entering the world of feeding herself. When we meet people while running errands, most of them comment on her "silly" hair that stands straight up or her precious smile. And she smiles a lot now that she's a big girl and can ride sitting up all by herself in the grocery cart. Adam and I are in awe of all Sam is learning and can't believe she's already almost 8 months old.

New favorite place to play.

Discovered what standing over the vent can do to your dress.

AC feels so good.

All tuckered out.

Turned her laundry basket into a tunnel for hours of fun.

Where's Sam?

"Please, Mommy, let me out!"

"Can I go with Daddy?"

Earned her first balloon for being such a good girl at Publix.

Not quite sure what to do with a balloon.

"Oh, you chase it!"

So proud to be standing up under the table.

First ponytail. Didn't last long.

Helping Mommy with the dishes.

Watching Daddy mow the grass and desperately wanting to help.

Boing Boing Clap!

2011-06-09T07:18:00.000-07:00

Sam has started to clap when she enjoys something. Don't know which she likes more: playing with the door stop or our response to her playing with the door stop.

Ta Da!

2011-06-09T07:15:00.000-07:00

Gran and Papa kept Sam for the weekend and she learned all kinds of new tricks. Adam loved to play with door stops so its no wonder that Sam does too. We noticed she started throwing her hands in the air after she'd get the door stop to make noise as if to say, "Ta Da!" We don't know if Gran and Papa taught her that or if that is something else she's discovered on her own.

Morning Mirror Time

2011-06-09T07:12:00.000-07:00

Sam loves to play in front of the mirror while I wash her face, brush her teeth and get her ready for the day. Yesterday morning she kept giving herself kisses and growling at herself. (She pretty much growls at everything that amuses her- I think the growling itself amuses her.)

Playing in the Water

2011-06-09T07:10:00.000-07:00

Sam had a blast playing in buckets of water in the front yard. Here's a small clip of her playing.

Chasing Her Shadow

2011-06-09T07:07:00.000-07:00

This is from a few weeks ago when Sam first started crawling. She's much better at it now but I thought it was funny that she chased her shadow down the wall. Which led her to the speaker cord and me to more baby proofing.

Summer Fun

2011-06-05T20:00:00.000-07:00

Sam loves to be outside. Since its so hot, we've had to introduce water into our playtime. Our first visit to the pool was a success and I feel sure we will spend our fair share of time there.

Sporting her Auburn dress before she grows out of it. Check out her tiger bow too.

We love our little tiger fan.

War Eagle!

Modeling her new swim suit.

Her toy bucket doubles as a teeny pool.

Is it redneck to let your kid play in a bucket of water? She loved it.

Jumping in the water.

Very serious play time!

She's so proud to be into everything.

Loves the pool, despite her lack of smile in this picture.

New favorite place to play. This is before she "rearranged" Mommy and Daddy's closet.

Watching the big kids play tennis. So jealous.

JD's showing Sam how to splash in the pool.

Having fun surviving the Georgia heat.

7 Months Old

2011-06-05T19:38:00.000-07:00

Sam is seven months old, crawling all over the place, pulling up on anything, showing more personality every day and keeping Mommy and Daddy on their toes. We are in the throes of teething and this is one stage that's not as much fun as some of the others. But even on our bad days, Sam makes us smile as she seems to be learning something new all the time.

Another photo shoot? Do I have to?

Sweet Sam.

This is her "I'm teething" smile.


Wish I knew what she's thinking sometimes.

Our Little Tennis Player

2011-05-26T07:45:00.000-07:00

Too bad they don't make teeny tiny tennis racquets. She's ready!

Mommy's Little Sailor Girl

2011-05-22T19:21:00.000-07:00

Sam wore her sailor dress to church this morning and let us snap a few pictures.

She wasn't too sure about the hat.

Here are a coupole other pictures from the week.

Playing with ALL her toys- and loving it.

Another favorite activity, playing with the wind chimes on the back deck.

Indoor Activities

2011-05-21T19:17:00.000-07:00

The middle of May was unseasonably cool (but its gone now) so our mornings were spent indoors until it warmed up and we could go outside. Here are some photos from our indoor playtime. I'll also post some videos.

Riding (sitting on) her toy car.

Changing gears.

She uses her feet to push it from side to side.

Who needs toys when you have a box.

So much fun!

Tastes good too.

This one makes me laugh because I kept asking her to look at me but she refused.

Who's That?

2011-05-21T19:13:00.000-07:00

Sam was excited to see (or angered by- couldn't tell) her reflection in the mirror. Sorry for the bumpy camera work but it's hard to film and keep her from falling all at the same time. This went on for quite a while but I've only posted a little clip of it.

New Things to Play With (or destroy)

2011-05-21T19:12:00.001-07:00

It didn't take long for Sam to discover the newly installed hearth cushion. She thinks we put it there so she can figure out how to remove it. I didn't get it on tape but she pulls up on it and proceeds to yank and pull trying to get it off. It amazes me how quickly our very curious little one finds new things to explore.

Peek-a-Boo

2011-05-21T19:12:00.000-07:00

I thought I was going to get footage of Sam crawling but she turned it into a game of Peek-a-boo.

Sam's Car

2011-05-21T19:11:00.000-07:00

Sam has this toy that can be a walker or a car to ride on. Until now she's just played with the parts of it but I put her on it the other day. She loves to ride it (she's really just sitting on it). But she does push it from side to side with her feet. She laughs and giggle when I push her back and forth, but I can't do that and film at the same time.

Lots-O-Videos

2011-05-12T09:38:00.000-07:00

Sorry that its been so long but its taken me a while to sort through all the videos. I've done my best to only post the ones with some entertainment value and not the ones only Adam and I would appreciate. For some reason I can't get them all in one post like I normally do so there are lots of individual posts. Here's what she's up to.

Where's Sam?

2011-05-12T06:38:00.000-07:00

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Sam loves to play Peak-a-boo. She will cover and uncover her own head until we exclaim, "There she is!" On a special occasion, Hunter, her friend next door will cover her head and then she'll uncover it. They have a blast playing.

Trying to Crawl and Telling Us All About It

2011-05-12T06:36:00.000-07:00

Okay, this one is a little long but she's getting closer and closer to being on the move. She's also getting more vocal. I wish we knew what she was talking about sometimes.

Singing

2011-05-12T06:35:00.001-07:00

Sam has a lot of extra slobber now that she's teething. Most of the time she dribbles it out of her mouth or paints the furniture with it but sometimes she'll sing with it.

Giggles

2011-05-12T06:35:00.000-07:00

Sam's Daily Workout

2011-05-12T06:34:00.000-07:00

Sam spent an good hour yesterday trying to stand up by using the footstool as a prop. She wore herself out doing but I was grateful that I wasn't the jungle gym for just a little while.

Bucket

2011-05-12T06:33:00.000-07:00

Sam is still working on crawling and pulling up on things. She tumbles a lot but at least this time something was there to catch her.

Felton's One and other Blakely Fun!

2011-05-11T18:33:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went to Blakely to celebrate Felton's first birthday and see other friends and family. Sam loved playing on Papa's playground and watching all the animals (except she didn't care for the rooster too much). All the cousins had a good time "sharing" toys and playing. Felton and Sam even got to bathe together which went well since Felton's so easy going. I love getting to see Davis, Felton and Sam playing more and more as they each get older.

Conversations with Grandmama.

Getting some sugar from Grandmama.

Watching the chickens with Papa.

We love all of Papa's animals (except that noisy rooster).

Learning to swing and we liked it.

Happy Birthday, Felton!

Mmmm, cake!

Felton shared his Mama and his new toys.

Gran and Papa and all the grands.

Cousins (best we could do with three young'uns).

Davis is sharing his snack with Felton.

Alexander kids and their babies.

Felton loved playing in the sprinkler with Papa.

6 Months Old

2011-05-05T18:41:00.000-07:00

Some new and exciting things she's started doing include giving hugs and kisses (sort of). Just ask Mr. Clink. She shared lots of sugar with him the other morning. She started eating some puffs while I get her cereal prepared but I wouldn't say she loves them. I guess she's just getting used to them. Everyday she gets closer to crawling so we should have some videos for you soon. This month's photo shoot was even more active and all over the place. She doesn't like to be still but she was all smiles- especially in the rocking chair Papa made her.

I knew the bow wouldn't last too long.

This is what your hair looks like when you rub your head all over the upholstery. And yes, she's eating the bow.

She had fun at her six month appointment with Dr. Ford until she had to get her shots. She's a trooper though. I wish that there was something to give her as a prize for doing so well, and though I'm sure she'd enjoy it, she's not ready for a sucker just yet. She weighs 16 lbs. 3 oz. and is 26 inches long. Even with all her exercising, she's made it to the 50th percentile in weight and holding strong in the 70th percentile in height. Sam's favorite part about doctor visits is the paper on the table. Dr. Ford says that 6 month olds have the most fun with the paper, as you can see.

On the Move . . . almost.

2011-05-04T19:09:00.000-07:00

Sorry its been so long since my last post but Sam is keeping me busy. She is trying her hardest to get mobile and super frustrated that she can get very far. She's started pulling up on toys and the furniture, though she can't stay up very long before she loses her balance. And I no longer have to use the bumbo seat for support, but I do use it for containment when I need her to stay in one place for a little while. Sam is getting more and more expressive every day. And she's curious about everything. Currently her favorite toy is a tube of chapstick and favorite activity is pulling out Mommy's hair or watering the plants outside with Daddy. Tomorrow is her 6 month check-up so stay tuned for her new statistics to come.

Pulling up on her big girl toys.

Loves playing with Gran.

Conductor of the laundry locomotive.

Loves to play with parchment paper in the kitchen (until she gets bored with it).

Guess its time to drop the mattress.

I gave her an empty sippy cup tonight to see what she would do with it. She thoroughly inspected it but quickly figured out what to do with it. She really enjoyed chewing on it and making loud noises by spiking it on the counter top. And it can always double as a teether if she doesn't want to drink from it.

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T14:53:00.000-07:00

We've all been sick with the stomach bug this week so we stayed home from church to spare others the possibility of getting our funk. Sam was feeling okay so we took a few pictures in her Easter dress with her Easter basket. Hopefully we can get some family pictures next week when we wear our Easter clothes to church. Years from now, no one will know we took our Easter pictures a week late. Hope everyone had a happy, and healthy, Easter!

Happy Hair!

2011-04-19T18:36:00.000-07:00

We let Sam style her own hair after her bath tonight. It is growing in so funny and Adam wants to cut it but I think we'll wait to see what else it does.

Here are a few pictures we took after church this week. Sam loves her Daddy.

Giving Daddy a hug.

What She's Up To Now

2011-04-16T06:40:00.000-07:00

Sam is 5 1/2 months old going on 3 years. I feel like she's advanced beyond where she should be. I wasn't expecting her to be giving me such attitude or to be so strong willed but, based on her parents, I guess I should have been prepared for it. Sam knows what she wants and let you know she's upset when she doesn't get it. Right now she wants to be outside or in Mommy's bathroom playing countertop hockey with the floss (I made the game up since there is only so much I can do in my bathroom). She's a good eater when she wants to be. Currently we like rice cereal, oatmeal, bananas, apples, sweet potatoes, carrots, and green beans (when mixed with apples or bananas). She has also discovered that blowing raspberries is more fun with food is in your mouth which means I end up wearing her lunch most of the time. You should also know that Sam is a full-on drama queen. She will make sure that I am looking before flopping over on her side and fake crying to let me know she's unhappy with her current situation. If I'm not looking, she'll wait until I do and start it up again. She does this in her pack'n play during independent play time. She can play independently but prefers someone to be watching in close proximity.

Our neighborhood is full of babies and we've all just started getting together for "official" play dates. We are so looking forward to these little ones growing up and playing together and becoming fast friends.

Independent play time while Mommy works on chores.

This is right before her super dramatic melt down.

Love playing outside.

So excited about the beautiful weather.

New favorite toys: balls and Cousin Davis's cell phone

Loves to watch the balls roll away but hates that she can't get to them any more- also likes to chew on them.

Hanging out with Emilyn from across the street. (4 months apart)

Meeting the neighborhood cat.

Obviously Sam's not afraid . .

but I think Simon is.

Trip to See Gran and Papa

2011-04-15T14:34:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we ventured to Blakely for a quick visit. Sam got to spend some time walking around in the yard with Papa and getting loved on by Gran. We got a glimpse of how much fun Felton and Sam are going to have together (when they are just a little bit older). Sam tolerated the traveling pretty well but found there was too much to look at during feeding time to bother eating. But we've gotten back on our routine much more quickly after this trip so we are encouraged since we have some more weekend trips coming up in the future.

"Felton, give me a hug" (She really just wants to grab his face)

Learning to play nicely with each other.

Loving her Papa.

Being sweet with Aunt Whitney.

Serious discussion with Blue Bear.

Still love to wrestle with him.

Sam's showing her Papa how to blow raspberries.

Giggles and Bedtime Stories

2011-04-05T08:20:00.000-07:00

Sam is starting to giggle for us, usually when we bounce her up in the air. This isn't the best example but, as you know, she is camera shy.

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We don't tell bedtime stories to Sam yet. But she is beginning to tell us some. After we say our prayers, I lay her down. Lately, I get downstairs to hear this, or some version of it, on the monitor. This is just a small clip because she can go on for a while.

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Sam has become enamored with her own hands. She will stop mid activity and study them intently. I've tried to catch her doing it but this is all I could get.

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I can't believe how big our little girl has gotten. She can no longer lay sideways in her Pack'n Play.

Around 4 weeks old

5 months old (not sure why she looks so scared)

Sam used to cling to me but lately she's become a real Daddy's girl. She loves to play in the yard with him and he's been really helpful at getting her to eat.

Playing with Daddy after work.

They have such a good time together.

We don't normally dress her like a boy, but she got hot in her pretty sweater with all that playing.

5 Months Old

2011-03-31T18:36:00.000-07:00

Sam turned 5 months old on Monday. The photo shoots are getting harder as she is getting more mobile and willful. I always think I only get one or two good shots but then end up having a hard time picking which ones to post, which is why there are always too many and I am sorry for that. You'll notice that we had an accessory change mid photo shoot since the orange bow didn't make it. I would have a picture of her stretching it 8 inches from her face but I thought I'd save her from popping herself with it and thus ending the photo session for good.

As for what we've been up to, we were very glad to see the sun come back out today. Our days go much better when we can get out for a walk or go play in the yard. Sam didn't take too well to avocado but does like bananas and sweet potatoes. And she finally ate the green beans once I mixed them with bananas- doesn't that sound appetizing. Sam is rolling all over the place and really frustrated that she can't always get to where she wants to go. It shouldn't be long before she's are scooting and then crawling though I think she'd really rather jump right to walking. Mommy's not ready for that. She's still blowing raspberries all the time but is now sticking her tongue out while doing which increases the amount of slobber that goes flying. Oh the joys of parenthood. I keep telling her that we don't spit on or yell at Mommy. Nor do we hit her in the face (which she does when she gets really excited). I look forward to when she understands what I'm saying.

Studying her feet.

Huh?

She wouldn't quit playing with her pretty dress.

Beginning of the end of the bow.

This is the only time she stayed still.

Playing with her ball.

I keep telling her ladies don't lift their dresses up.

But ladies do cross their legs when they sit.

It took her a minute but she finally got over to Mommy's computer.

Wearing the crocheted hat Gran gave her. Sort of looks like a swimmer from the 40's.

Gramma and Aunt Sarah Visit

2011-03-27T18:00:00.000-07:00

My mom and sister Sarah came for a short visit on Thursday night. Friday we did some shopping but spent most of our time playing with Sam since they had to leave Saturday morning. Sam showed them how she eats her cereal, rolls all over the place and blows raspberries. I was worried about whether Sam would go to them and play with them since she's very leery of folks she doesn't know too well, but she was very friendly and let them hold her, most of the time. In the video with Aunt Sarah, listen carefully and you can hear Sam mimicking Sarah's raspberries.

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Here are some other pictures from their visit.

Playing with Gramma.

Getting to know Aunt Sarah.

Gramma brought me a new bow that makes me look kinda like a bunny.

Aunt Sarah can make me smile.

Reading with Gramma.

Gramma teaching Sam how to fly,

"Why do I have to go to bed already?"

Sam loves her Gramma.

Hugging Aunt Sarah goodbye.

Smiling for Mommy.

Don't know what Sam thinks is so funny.

And here are some random other pictures.

Playing with her caterpillar is serious business.

She's mastered getting her pacifier from and to wherever she wants it.

Happy girl.


All dressed up and no where to go.

Trying green beans

Not a fan.

Uncle Ben won Sam a blue bear.

We've been letting Sam watch Ultimate Fighter with us.

She's showing Blue Bear how its done.

All her fancy toys and she likes the stuffed animal won out of a machine.

Bad Mexican Food

2011-03-25T19:07:00.000-07:00

Sam tried avocado the other day and was not a big fan. Adam said he doesn't blame her for not liking "bad Mexican food". I guess Adam considers avocado Mexican food, which he doesn't care for. We will give it a try again in a little while but we have discovered that she likes bananas- as long as they are heated. Sam requires all food to be heated. But I guess I don't care for cold food either.

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We have a quiet house no more. Evenings have become quite noisy as Sam puts on a nightly show in her bouncer. She sounds angry but we thinks she's just telling us about her day.

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Sam has kept us laughing lately by blowing raspberries, or attempting to blow raspberries. She's not very good at it but is getting better since she spends a lot of time practicing. I woke up this morning to her blowing in her bed and she did it for a good 20 minutes before hollering for Mommy and Daddy.

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Here are more random pics of our little one.

Being sweet with Mommy in a rare moment of stillness.

Her hair gets a little unruly at times (still has her long tendril on the left).

Playing outside while Mommy and Daddy work in the yard.

Loving the warm weather.

New Toys and New Tricks

2011-03-16T11:54:00.000-07:00

We have been up to all kinds of new things lately. Among them is getting over colds. Adam and Sam have been a little under the weather so that is why its been a while since my last post. Sam had her first fever last Friday and hasn't been sleeping too well (thanks to the time change) but it looks like we are coming out of it. But being a little under the weather hasn't kept her from all kinds of fun new things.

Our neighbors let us borrow their bouncer since Hunter grew out of it. Sam is not really sure what to do with it but I know she'll be bouncing around in it soon. She picks up on things pretty quickly.

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Another new development is whining and pouting. Sam now lets us know when she is unhappy by pursing her lips and making raspberry sounds. Whether it makes me a bad parent or not, it makes me laugh when she pouts so.

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Sam can now find her pacifier and get it back in her mouth. I've seen her do it during nap time in her bouncy seat but I'm looking forward to her being able to find it in the dark when she wakes up at night.

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And the biggest trick of them all, she can now roll over from her back to her front. She's been able to go front to back for some time. As you will hear, this is the first time she's ever done it and I caught it on tape. Pardon the excitement.

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And here are a few more pictures from the past week.

Trying out my new bouncer in my new boots.

"Huh? Bounce?"

Starting to have fun.

She gets to play with the spoon when the cereal is gone.


Though she can't say it, I hear, "I do it, Mommy!" when she shrieks and grabs the spoon.

I love it when she falls asleep with her hands folded on her chest. She's done it since we came home with her.


1 week old

19 weeks old

She likes it, she really likes it!

2011-03-07T20:21:00.000-08:00

I thought that this blog would begin that we tried feeding Sam rice cereal on Sunday, but there was no trying about it. Sam ate every last bit of the cereal and only fussed when I neglected to get it into her mouth fast enough. Our second "meal" of rice cereal went just as well today but she wasn't happy when it was gone yet again. If this is any indication of what it to come, I think we'll have a good eater on our hands. And just to warn you the following videos are uncut and my get a little boring, but I posted them in their entirety for the grandparents.

First taste.

Mmm, yummy!

Upset because I'm not getting it in her mouth fast enough.

Yay for rice cereal.

She was almost attacking the spoon.

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Our evening have become quite entertaining as Sam has become more active and more vocal. She usually won't perform for the camera but we caught a little bit of her antics. She crawls (more like scoots and wiggles) all over us when we sit on the couch or big recliner. It seems to delight her when we respond to her squeals and yells in kind.

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Daddy's Little Girl

2011-03-05T20:31:00.000-08:00

We went to see Dr. Ford on Thursday for Sam's 4 Month check-up. She weighed 12 lbs. 9oz. and was 25 inches long. This put her in the 73rd percentile for height and 17th percentile in weight. No need to worry. Our healthy little girls is simply long and lean like her Daddy. This is why her clothes are too big around but the legs and arms are all too short. Sam got another round of immunizations but she's doing all right. She's sleeping better at night even though we are slowing phasing out swaddling her. Currently she sleeps with both arms out but with her body still swaddled tightly. Hopefully she'll be sleeping with all her limbs free in the next week or so. As you can see in the pictures and video, Sam is starting to sit up on her own. She does well until she gets excited and flops backwards or to the side. I also posted a video of what we call "Sam's angry talk." She argues with her toys when they don't do what she wants them to. We will be starting to feed Sam rice cereal really soon so watch for that post here shortly.

Sitting up like a big girl.

Concentrating really hard on not falling over.

Sporting her outfit that Great Grandma Braley sent.

Had to wear it at least once before the cooler weather ends.

Thanks, Great Grandma!

This is what happens when I leave Sam unattended. I left the room and came back to find her playing pirates.

Playing peek-a-boo with herself when I left to get her some more diapers.

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4 Months Old

2011-03-02T18:30:00.000-08:00

This was a tough photo shoot. She was really uninterested in getting her picture taken or smiling but I managed to catch a few good shots. However, Sam was highly interested in hanging over the side of the chair and chewing on the armrest (I had my hand on her foot the whole time). Here are some of my favorite pictures- the good, the bad, and the unhappy.

"Really, Mommy, another photo session?"

There's a smile.

I have lots of shots of her hiney like this.

Looking out the window.

Refusing to sit up.

This is her ornery face.

She's 'bout had enough.

One last smile- kind of.

Hanging out with Daddy

2011-03-01T18:48:00.000-08:00

Sam and her Daddy have been having some sweet time together lately. As strong as Sam is, she hates tummy time on the floor. Adam has discovered that she enjoys tummy time in his lap (and that Sam is not afraid to lick on his legs- clothed or not).

Notice Adam's wet knee from Sam gnawing on him

Tummy Time

"See how strong I am."

You should hear her growl as she attacks her Daddy's leg.

"Why can't I lick Daddy?"

Playing on the computer

Look at those cheeks (Sams).

Bath time- she loves to suck on the wash cloth

She really does like bath time.

Clean baby.

Happy baby!