This webpage is for Colleen, Chase, and Blair to share photos, memories, and fun times with our family and friends. We hope that you enjoy our musings and will check back often. Thank you for everyone's love and support as we continue our family's journey. Read more...
Two weeks ago, we finally caved in and took Blair for her first haircut. I really wanted to wait until her first birthday, but as you can see this child’s hair was out of control! Kudos to the little one because she didn’t cry at all. I’m sure the mirrors, tv, and cool chair helped.
Whew! I can’t believe the holidays are over already. We had such a nice time with our family and friends these past few weeks. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to end to 2009 and to welcome the new year.
Blair has grown – and matured – so much in the past few months. November and December were full of “first” moments for our daughter. She started crawling November 1st, said a legitimate “Da-Da” on November 13th, met Santa on December 1st, opened her first Christmas presents on December 19th, and had her first plane ride on December 27th… the same day we discovered her very first tooth! She is a very active and curious girl. We are so proud of her.
Blair’s First Christmas began with 2 special stockings made by her Great Grandma Nan. She also had an early visit from Aunt Shannon & Uncle Michael. They must have ran into Santa along the way because, in addition to lots of cuddles and kisses, they brought Blair a music table (and several other toys) that she LOVES.
On Christmas Day, Grandma & Grandpa Gillingham, Uncle Paul, and Miss Brianna came over to celebrate with us. Blair received many wonderful gifts, including a handmade wooden scooter from Grandpa. She loves it. It’s made from the same wood he used for her cradle and it has jingle bells inside the wheels. Thankfully, there is a way to take the bells out – which is an extra gift for Mom & Dad.
Next, we headed to Florida to continue the festivities with Chase’s family. Much to my relief, Blair handled the flight like a champ! We had a wonderful Christmas together and I think everyone was thrilled to spend time in the sunshine. Blair was also eager to show off the skills she learned in swim class as often as possible.
And then, sadly, we had to come home. It’s cold and snowy in Michigan, but we are certainly glad to see our friends and get back into the swing of things. So, here’s to 2010. We wish you many blessings and happiness in the new year.
Love,
Chase, Colleen, & Blair Elizabeth
So it has been a long time since I have posted on the website. Just over a month actually. So much has changed in the last month. I know we have been pushing out emails to most of you reading this about what Blair has been doing, but I also know that we should be keeping this up to date as there are some of you who check out this website for news, etc.
Well, let me see if I can sum everything up. Blair is a tadpole in swim class, a lobster on Halloween and a crawler as of Sunday. Blair is definitely on the move.
There is a video of her crawling.
Otherwise we had a great time at the Otrembas for a fun Halloween party. Blair was a very cute little lobster.
Everything else has been going well. My school work has been very busy lately and I am looking forward to the holiday break. Blair’s Uncle Paul is due back from Afghanistan soon and we can’t wait to spend more time with him. Colleen has been taking great care of Blair everyday and Blair seems happier than ever.
Colleen signed Blair up for swim classes and they went to the first one last week. Blair loved it! The classes take place at Utica High School on Saturday mornings. Last week Blair was introduced to the water and practiced splashing around. The classes are less about learning how to swim and more about being comfortable in the water.
Above all, Blair was happy to be able to model her swimsuit!
We took Blair for her six month checkup at a new pediatricians’ office. Blair is doing great and is very healthy. Here are the big stats everyone wants to know:
Weight: 16 lbs, 4 oz (54th percentile)
Height: 27 inches (90th percentile)
She had to get a couple of shots which went over pretty well all things considering. I have my own hypothesis on why the shots were easier this time.
Here is a pic from this weekend:
Blair and the Polar Bear
This morning, Blair and I went to the Macomb Clinton Public Library for a playgroup. We sang songs, read a few stories, and then let the babies play together. Blair isn’t crawling yet, but she’s sitting up very well. Some of the other babies could crawl around, so it was fun for her to see that and interact with the “big kids.” She isn’t far behind them though!
Children's Area @ Clinton Macomb Public Library
I also have to praise the Macomb Clinton Public Library overall. It’s incredible! A far cry from the stuffy old places I remember as a kid. Everything is very modern and the children’s area is outstanding! It’s a very large and colorful room with several play areas, a puppet theater, tons of books and various other extras to engage little ones. We can’t wait to go back next week!
Last week, Great Grandma Fisher came to visit for the first time. She has been living in Florida, so this was her first chance to meet Blair. As you can see, they had lots of fun playing together. Grandma even brought Blair her very first Bible. It was a very special gift for our little girl. Blair is certainly looking forward to seeing her Great Grandma again!
Blair’s Aunt Beverly made a special blanket for her to use at Grandma Nancy’s house. It’s soft, cuddly, and (most importantly) says “I love Grandma” all over it! Blair tested out this beautiful blanket today and as you can see, she loves it! It’s so thoughtful of you to make this for Blair, and I know she (and Nancy) will use it often. Thank you Aunt Beverly!
