Talia at 7 months

Our youngest is well into the 2nd half of her first year. Hard to believe for us. She recently decided that food was okay. Still not passionate about it, but a bit more willing to eat a bit, especially if she can hold it. She may just be our little independent one. Already insisting on feeding herself cheerios, bread, bananas, avacados and whatever else she can get her little hands on. Much as mommy is trying to advance her one simple food at a time, she is proving to be the typical 3rd child who eats more adventurously than the tenious first child (due to what is provided & "at hand").

She is now 15 pounds and just about 26 inches. Mostly a content little girl with big squeals, grins, and giggles. Of course, Talia has also learned how to show her frustration and voice her disapproval. Better to get those emotions out than bottle them up!

She is pretty confident in sitting independently and has started trying to transition into positions more conducive to crawling. Always trying to learn (and maybe keep up with those two older brothers). Jadon's nickname for Talia is "TuTu" and has kind of stuck. This little shirt saying "Tutu cute" makes us smile thinking of the special bond of siblings.

Raabe Staycation

May brings the annual Science 10 "Edventure" to Orlando. Brent has taken Best students (where he works) for the past 5 years. I have been able to join him for 3 of those years, but this year with a new little one (plus 3, honestly who is going to want to look after 3 little rascals for a whole week!) I stayed home. With Daddy being away and knowing all the fun he was having, we attempted to have our own mini vacation right in our own home. We went on expeditions of our own on the sky train and sea bus, toured the Aquarium, went to parks, rode our bikes, played at various indoor/outdoor playgrounds, ate at the golden arches likely too often, and had an indoor campout. I didn't pack the camera on our outings. Kind of figured navigating the crowds with 3 little people was likely enough action for me (and likely for those around us). Setting up the tent in the basement was a lot of fun and a big hit. We slept in there one night after having a movie night too. Tried to make smores in the microwave. We made it through one and then the boys requested just to eat marshmallows plain. The microwave adds a significant "chew" factor to a marshmallow! We tucked in to bed and finally fell asleep around 8:30ish (significantly later than a normal night, but quite expected for a camping night!). Morning came early around 5:30 (again, quite an authentic camping experience). The boys had a great sleep and so did Mommy (shh, don't tell, but I snuck out of the tent at 8:32 until about 4ish). Talia stayed tucked away in her crib as I couldn't think of a safe way to keep her from being trampled. She still seemed to enjoy her moment in the tent.

The boys also had treasured sleepovers at Grama and Grampa Raabe's, plus a special visit from Grandma and Grandpa Penner to keep them very entertained (with the side benefit of Mommy retaining a wee bit of sanity).

At the end of the week as I was tucking in the boys before Brent returned, Nate commented that he wished he could have stayed at Grama's from when Daddy left until when Daddy came back. Hmmm. I'm choosing to believe that he just really feels special and loved with his grandparents and was reminiscing from last year. I'm certain he had a really great week with Mommy too. Right!

Happy Half Birthday Talia

Wow! 6 months old! Talia recently started rolling from her back to her front. We were able to capture some of her new abilities. The beautiful afghan was knit for her by Grama Raabe so is extra special. As you can see, Jadon just can't get enough of his sister. Both boys LOVE her, but Jadon just can not leave her alone. Mostly very cute. Sometimes a bit too enthusiastic!

Talia also had her very first taste of rice cereal. She didn't necessarily love it, but was wanting in on the action. She gave a few smiles for her first experience with food.

Talia turns 5 months old

Our delightful young daughter keeps us smiling. This month she started to giggle in response to the boy's goofyness. Too cute. Of course, the camera is never handy when everyone is giggling away. One day. Her hand-eye coordination has developed so we have to be careful about what is within her reach. Recently she found her toes which seem to her to be a tasty snack. This little one seems eager to try food. Can't believe that next month I will likely be documenting her progress in that department!

Easter

We enjoyed several Easter celebrations this year. We had brunch with the Penners (even if we don't have pictures to prove it). Good Friday has become a traditional time to spend with the extended Raabe clan (again no pictures to prove it). It was a great time to catch up with family and sample (OK, overindulge in) Aunt Cheryl's amazing food. Easter Monday was spent in Tsawwassen (this time WITH the camera) celebrating Easter, family, and even some egg finding, swimming pool and tree climbing fun.

Having a little girl adds another element to Easter (although completely unrelated to anything about Easter). Bonnets, frilly dresses and tights. This year, a little sweater and bonnet was knit for Talia which was too adorable not to use for Easter. (Thanks Marsalie for the rest of the outfit!).

4 months old

Talia has been part of our family for 4 months already. She continues to bring us so much joy. Her smiles and giggles come more easily and completely delight all of us.

Grama gave these adorable little crocs to Talia as she knows how much the rest of the family enjoy wearing them. Sadly, they are quickly becoming snug.

Talia "breezed" through her 4 month immunization and check up with few tears and mostly smiles. She keeps growing at a steady rate and now weighs 13lbs 4 oz and is 23 3/4" long.

She has discovered her voice and loves to "sing", "talk", basically make noise. Nate especially loves to talk to her with the hopes that she will answer him. We have a few cute little videos that I can't seem to load. Maybe next month!?!

Talia at 3 months

Our little girl has blessed us with her life for 3 months already. Where has the time gone? Likely you will hear that every month! She continues to grow & develop & charm us. Her eyes are so bright, taking in all around her. She speaks volumes with her eyes, but has started to coo with her voice as well. So sweet to watch Nate especially talk to her and for her to respond. When Jadon was asked what she was saying, his response was, "She's saying 'ho, ho, ho', I think she was talking about Santa Claus." OK, so maybe a bit more literal than what was expected. The boys just love spending time with her and of course fight over who is closest, etc.

Talia is stretching her wakeful periods during the day and has gained much more control over her limbs. Her hands are either clasped or in her mouth, still her favourite "thing" to play with. Her smiles are becoming much more plentiful and easy. So many delightful moments which shamefully have not been captured on camera.