Her Newest Tricks

This weekend I had the chance to catch some of Addie's newest tricks on video. Below you can see her imitation of animal noises, her response to "How old are you?" and her successful completion of her ball/hammer toy. Not that her first year of life was boring, but she is so much fun now. Dan and I constantly find ourselves laughing with her.

The final video is of her giving kisses to everyone. I hope you enjoy!

Addie's First Medal

Addison had her final gymnastics class of the semester this morning. Dan was able to go in to work late and join in as a witness of the fun. From jumping around on the tumble track to flipping on the beam, I think "Da Da" was impressed with Miss Addie's talents. (Check out the videos below!)

There was a cute little medal ceremony at the end where each child's name was called and they were given a small gold medal. While Addison went up readily to her teacher Ms. Liz to receive the medal, she looked less than thrilled when she had to sit next to her friends. At first Dan and I laughed because she seemed angry. Then she seemed like she was going to cry. Then back to angry. She sat there not moving as the other kids were honored, and yet, did not seem pleased with the situation. Maybe she's a fierce competitor like her parents - and thought she got silver or something!

All in all though, gymnastics has been a wonderful experience for her. She loves the other kids, and is fearless in her exploration of the gym and its various pieces of equipment. I have loved going with her too, meeting other moms and watching her development from a baby who barely crawled to a running toddler.

I'm excited the new semester starts next Friday!

First Sledding Trip

Minus my Freshmen year winter at Notre Dame, this weekend in Chicago was the snowiest two-day period I've ever seen!

Literally the snow started Friday morning and continued almost non-stop through Saturday night. All in all, I'd say we got well over a foot, and this led to perfect conditions to take out Addie's Christmas present - a sled from Grammy and Grampa!

As you can see, we bundled her up well, and ventured out. The park district building right east of our townhome has a large field, and as it turns out, a handicap ramp, that were perfect places to take Addie. She didn't seem to mind the cold - especially when Dan or I would run with her so she could go fast in the sled. Even the snow hitting her face didn't phase her - in fact a couple times, she opened her mouth in attempts to catch a snowflake. It was a beautiful afternoon - and while I'd be ok if the weather warmed up, it was fun to spend a family day outside in the brisk, cold air!

Quality Time with the Godfather

Over Christmas Break, Addison was able to spend a lot of time with her Godfather, Anthony. Anthony was in for a week from California and had recently proposed to his girlfriend Kit. As you can see from the photos, Addie enjoyed partying in their honor at Grammy and Grampa's.

However, I think her favorite time with her uncle was meeting Tommy, the Blackhawks' mascot. We went walking around Wrigley on New Year's Day when the Winter Classic was being held. There were thousands of people out, and it was fun to be part of the excitement. Upon spotting Tommy, Anthony took charge and carried Addison over for a photo opt. We had a great time milling about, and it wore Miss Addie out, as she promptly fell asleep on the walk home!