The Hollemans

18 December, 2012

15 December, 2012

14 December, 2012

13 Months

I feel like we JUST celebrated Luke's first birthday, and here we are, already a month later! Luke, you have learned LOTS of new things in the past month. We finally found a sippy cup you like, so no more bottles!

So cute...you fell asleep drinking your milk, and big brother had to scootch in beside you to get in the picture!

I picked you up and tucked you into bed and you didn't even flinch.

You are really starting to show us that you understand what we are saying. Whenever you need something (usually your milk), you crawl over to me and pull yourself up, practically climbing me, until I pick you up. Then I ask, "Do you need a baba, your diaper changed," etc. and your whole face lights up when I say whatever it is you want. I'll ask you, "Where's Joshua, Momma, Daddy?" and you look at the correct person I'm asking about. You kick your little feet and clap your hands when you are excited about something.

You play well by yourself, but much unlike your brother, you don't like to go very long without a little snuggle time. You will play for a while, then come looking for me and demand that I pick you up and just hold you. Then you are content to go back to whatever it is you were doing. I love the extra cuddles, too. :-)

You are into EVERYTHING. You love cupboards and drawers, and taking everything off shelves and the coffee table. I am shocked (but thankful) at how little interest you've shown in the Christmas trees.

You have added a couple new words/phrases to your vocabulary this month. "Eat" & "Ah-dah" (all done) are a couple of your favorites. You don't always use them in context, but it's still so cute!

We have discovered that you bust up laughing at the words "gross" and "moo." Anytime someone says one of those words, you have a fit of the giggles.

We have been working so hard at getting you to feed yourself, and a couple of days ago, Momma discovered a new trick! You still will not pick up food with your fingers and put it into your mouth, BUT if I put the food on a spoon and hand it to you, you will feed yourself! HOORAY! Who knew, all you wanted was a spoon all along!

You have really taken off with eating this month, and sometimes eat as much in one sitting as your big brother does. He had better watch out, or soon you'll be as big as him!

Woohoo! Such a big boy!

No walking yet, but that's ok. I have a feeling one of these days you'll just take off and never look back. You have speed crawling down, though - we can't believe how fast you are! Your other preferred modes of transportation are bouncing across the floor on your bottom (I have GOT to get a video of this!) and walking on your knees. You are getting pretty good at standing, too.

Luke Brennan, what a fun month it's been! Your little personality just shines through more every day! It is so fun to watch you learn new things. We thank God for you, sweet boy!

On a side note, PLEASE keep the friends and family and all affected by the horrible shootings in Newtown, CT, in your prayers. God be with them. I know I am hugging my babies extra tightly today.

13 December, 2012

Christmas Concert

Last night I had the privilege of performing in a local church's annual Christmas concert. I sang two solos, "O, Holy Night" & "Breath of Heaven." There were many talented musicians there! What a fun night!

12 December, 2012

A Visit From Auntie Alice

One of my best friends from college came to spend a couple days with us this week. I love and miss her so much...it was so nice to be able to just relax, play with the boys and catch up!