Tractor time

Stephie had some quality time today with Grandpa Roger on the tractor. Check out the super cool Elton John shades!Also, happy 92nd birthday to Grandma Lois! We love you!

18 months old!

Happy 18-months old to Stephie! It's hard to believe that Stephie is a year and a half! This month Stephie has become obsessed with stairs (even more than usual), as is showcased by these photos. She now knows the signs/words for up, down, ball, doggy, cat, more, milk, airplane, car, tired, bed, eat, water, please, and thank you. She also is the most agreeable baby ever; she responds "yeah, yeah" to anything you ask her. "Stephie, want some ketchup? Yeah. Stephie, want a beer? Yeah."

Brookfield Zoo

Today Stephie and Grandma Julie went exploring at Brookfield Zoo before meeting Mommy in Hinsdale for lunch. Check out those elephants.And giraffes too! They're funny.And oh boy, another carousel?!?Those are the best!

Cantigny Gardens

Oooohhhh, pretty! A new garden paradise in nearby Wheaton to explore!And they do wedding receptions! Might come in handy for Stephie in, oh, 30+ years if Daddy has his way....

Kiddieland...past and present

Grandma Julie and Mommy...approximately 1980.Grandma Julie and Stephie...2009.Stephie and Mommy...2009.Mommy in the purple car...approximately 1980.
Stephie in the purple car...2009.
A few more favorites from the day: On-board the Little Dipper roller coaster!More Dumbo rides:
Riding the big train!

Carra's baptism

Today we went to Muskego for baby Carra's baptism. Stephie was much more interested in giving Connor kisses, much to his dismay!

Kiddieland!

Kiddieland is a Chicago icon which is sadly closing its doors permanently next weekend. Mommy used to go to Kiddieland every year with Sarah and Ryan. Today we took Stephie and Connor for their first (and unfortunately last) Kiddieland adventure. Stephie was a very brave girl. She first rode the same carousel horse that Mommy rode 30 years ago......and then braved the Dumbo ride (poor Connor was not amused)......and drove the same purple car that Mommy drove......and finally took on the Little Dipper rollercoaster (Stephie is hidden two cars back from Grandpa Allen and Sue)! It was an awesome trip down memory lane for Mommy and the rest of the family. Stephie definitely confirmed her daredevil status! Much better pics to follow later this week from GrAllen....