Grammy and Other Random Thoughts

My mom came to visit last weekend and we had such fun - I meant to post pictures but went to upload them and found out the camera was dead. So...just know we had a great time - I so love getting to spend time with our family! We just hung around the house, and Grammy (my mom) gave me some great alone time so I could go to aerobics, nap - and just catch up - it was great! I miss you already mom and can't wait for October!

In other news, Kingston is one BUSY little man. He is constantly on the move - so much so that his little knees have red callusses from his speedy crawling! If he were just crawling I wouldn't be worried about supervising him so closely, but he is pulling up on EVERYTHING. Nothing is safe. In light of all the baby movement we have started using the word "no" more frequently - to which he sometimes responds immediately with obedience, and other times he smiles at us (not even kidding - the toddler years could be rough!). He has also been working on getting his two bottom teeth in for some time. Like two weeks. Only one of said teeth has broken the surface - so I think I have a long road ahead of me. Oh well - this too shall pass(or so I tell myself on the days of 3 hours of sleep or less!!)

Finally, I have already been thinking about Kingston turning one for two reasons - one, the birthday party. Many of my friends (and blogging buddies) are inherently and fabulously creative and have had super cute birthday ideas. I am NOT inherently creative or crafty - so events where these skills are needed require a great deal of planning for me so I can either learn the necessary crafty skill - or find someone to help me! Right now Kingston LOVES Elmo, so we are considering a Sesame Street theme, but who knows what he will like in October. I have mixed emotions about him turing one as well - I love each new stage and the fun developments it brings, but I am soaking up every last moment of his baby stage as well (he turns 10 months in 10 days - yikes!). My second reason for all the birthday contemplation is related to some recent boredom here at the Jones home. We returned home from weeks of summer travel to discover that Kingston had outgrown most of his toys. After a trip to Toy's R Us that nearly resulted in a heart attack via sticker shock, I set out to check garage sales and consignment shops (along with pleas to friends with older babies) to look for some new toys. Our sweet friend Amanda (and fab photographer) has been a lifesaver - she has passed on many of her kid's toys so Kingston (and I) continue to be entertained and challenged developmentally (Kingston - not me :) I also have to admit a bit of covetousness standing in the isle of TRU looking at the Fisher Price Laugh and Learn Home and Farm. Who would have thought my greatest shopping adventures would no longer include the Buckle, but would focus on toys that sing/light up/move and bring delight to the face of my child! So, I have repented of my covetousness and have made a list of "must have" toys for K's birthday that I am so excited for him to play with (and I'll admit - to play WITH him as well). Unfortunately, I have the feeling that an Elmo doll is in my future. Oh well - if you can't beat em, join em! Finally, the above pics are from our 9 month photo shoot- more will be posted on FB later, but we LOVE the new pics - Amanda does such a great job (her website is www.solakphotography.com)! More soon!