Being a big sister has not come naturally to Eleanor, but she is really starting to enjoy the role. She has learned to stop Gemma from crying by playing "Peek a Boo". She also knows which toys Gemma likes and will bring them when asked (usually). She'll push Gemma in her swing outside. Today, it broke my heart to see her assuming the role of big sister by gently holding Gemma in the wagon as we picked apples in an orchard. What a sweety.
I don't know about everyone else, but Alice in Wonderland is a big hit in our home. For awhile, Eleanor would run around saying "I'm late, I'm late, for a very important date..." I must say, with all her quick dashing she did a smashing impression of the white rabbit.
I remember the first time Eleanor crawled forward. It was at Grandma Eleanor's house in Michigan. She needed some real incentive, something she really loved to get her moving. For Eleanor, it was the TV remote. Several nights ago, Jud and I watched Gemma crawl forward for the first time to reach the Justin Timberlake picture on the cover of Rolling Stone. And, she's off. Wish us luck...
Tomorrow, Gemma is 7 months old. Time really flies. She's still a smiley little girl, though she prefers to be cuddled while sleeping or becomes grouchy. Her language is limited to "da-da", playing with other random syllables, and making razzes. She sits very independently and lunges forward, but no major crawling. She will pull herself to standing when a good support is around and loves to jump in her "Johnny Jump Up." As you can see, Gemma is now taking baths in the big girl tub with her sister, who willingly dowses her sister even without a request. Foods are still pretty limited - baby food of the fruit in veggie type along with nursing. But we're not rushing her.
Little girls are mostly angels, but there is a bit of devil in them. Eleanor and I found angel wings and halo at Target (our favorite store). When I tried to put the wings on over her clothes, Eleanor insisted she first needed to remove all her clothes to make the costume work. And I do mean ALL of her clothes. This is the "G" rated version.
I had my first official day back at work on Thursday. I knew that I left the girls in good hands with their father. When I returned, I held Gemma in my lap as I talked to Jud about their day. Gemma clearly said "Da-da" and turned to look at her dad. That girl is a quick study with her father. I've been working on "Ma-ma" with her for months!
Auntie Joey arrived the next day and Uncle Matt (Goozer Guy) made lots of time to hang out with the crew. The guys found a couple chances to play vids and Jud was able to conquer "Snood". Gemma, for some reason, enjoys Snood and continues in Maine to fall asleep on daddy's lap while he is playing.
We had a great trip to the zoo where Eleanor was somehow able to put aside her deep seeded terror of sheep and pat both sheep and goats in the "petting zoo". The older girls, Mars, Grammy, and Joey were able to pet and feed the more exotic rays and sharks. We had a picnic in the middle of several flocks of geese and ducks without attack or mess. Eleanor enjoyed the otters and the "acheetah".
Mom hosted a "music and game" night on Tuesday that was a fun way to visit with folks and gave them an opportunity to hear some of Jud's music. Jud had a successful gig in Saginaw at a venue to which he will return in December.
We also made at least three trips to the beach. We tended to favor the North Shore Park as it is easier to get to the water and more family friendly. Eleanor was in the water for hours, with the adults taking turns swimming with her, playing with Gemma under the umbrella, or taking a nap. (It takes a lot of energy to load up MINH and get the show on the road to the beach). Another fun water excursion was the Rycenga cousins pool party hosted by Aunt Carol.
On one night we had some great Mexican and Cold Stone Creamery. The performance of the West Shore Symphony that we caught at Spring Lake Park intrigued Eleanor, who listened intently on my lap. Jud and I also had several nights out, including an anniversary outing to watch the sun set, walk the beach, and see the full moon rise.
Michigan always involves at least one shopping trip, a visit to Dairy Treat, a night of Chinese food, late night euchre games and lots of visiting time. We missed Rachel and Joel very much, but they needed a chance to catch up after Joel's extended stay in Uganda. Of course, Thom was missed as well, but we didn't expect him to make the trip from Papua New Guinea.
I had lots of fun details about the girls and the visit that are now evading recall, but suffice to say, it was a very good vacation and we miss everyone in Michigan terribly.
Well, here you have it: Gemma has started pulling herself up in her crib. Gotta lower that bed or she'll be swinging down to the ground and chasing the cat around like her sister does.
