Happy Birthday, Cruz!

Cruz's first birthday was on the 21st.We had Nonnie and Poppy over and Aunt Michelle, too; And Walt was able to make it in time for cake and presents. It was so nice to have a party where we felt like we didn't miss out on anything. It was very low key, and totally focused on Cruz. It was so fun to watch him experience his first taste of sugar. I made a butter cake with chocolate frosting, and it was everywhere! Once he played with it for a while, he got his first taste, and he just continued to shovel it in, until it was gone. Why do we get so much joy out of these types of things? I don't really know, but I'm kinda glad that it's the simple things in life that make me the happiest. Experiencing the milestones with your kids, and being there to watch them grow up is such a blessing.

Thoughts on the second child

I was thinking today, when it was Cruz and I alone in the house, how different he would be if he was the only kid in our family. I noticed that the way he stood, the expression on his face and the way he looked around were all a little different when he knew that the house was his to explore on his own. It was as if he knew that he was not going to be interupted with showerings of love (and toy cars, blankets or whatever else could be thrown). He really was a totally different baby. It is so interesting to me that who our kids are is influenced so much by what is around them. Even the small things. I can't wait to see who they both turn out to be.

Finally well!

Our family got that horrible flu that was going around. First Joe had it, then the boys, then me. It lingered the longest with Cruz and I. I thought we were gettting better after feeling good for a couple of days, but we both relapsed with a really bad fever and more sinus congestion. It was really bad. But thankfully we are all on the mend. Now we just have to get through this run of new teeth with Cruz and I think everyone in this house will be happy!