The Davolts

Nathan received a colorful gym mat from his Great-Grandma Davolt and Auntie Jennifer that my dad put together for us when Nathan was first born. Nathan spends some time each day watching the colorful lights and the animal mobile while listening to the music. As he gets older, he enjoys it more and more, smiling and laughing until I pull out the camera, of course. When he gets really excited his arms start swinging and his legs start kicking. The gym mat provides a great distraction for him while I am putting away laundry or cooking dinner. His cousin JD loved the music so much he turned it on every time he was in the room (and it usually stayed on even after he wasn't in the room). We use it so much I had to change the batteries this week.

Earlier this year, my cousin Annie suggested a reunion of the King family, my mother's family. Over the last ten years, we have become increasingly spread out over the west coast and unfortunately do not see each other often. I loved the idea and soon had airline tickets booked. As the trip neared, I began to feel nervous about flying with an infant and being "that parent" with the crying child. As we boarded the plane, fellow passengers gave us dirty looks as they evaluated their proximity to us. Fortunately, Nathan hardly made a peep the entire time and seemed angelic compared to the hysterical toddler a few rows ahead of us (definitely makes me want to avoid flying with a toddler)! Lilly swimming in the pool My Auntie Betsy and her husband were gracious enough to offer to host this first gathering at their home in Glendale, Arizona. Of course, Arizona in August is HOT but the pool in the backyard was convenient and refreshing. Most of the weekend was spent in t

Today was Nate's two month check up with his pediatrician. Dr. Chrissie was recommended to us by my OB-GYN. Dr. Chrissie's practice is different than the offices I've become accustomed to throughout my life. First of all, she is the only doctor in the practice which is located just a few minutes from home. She has a small office without a receptionist or waiting room. There is a cozy living room type feel to the office. Each appointment is scheduled for an hour should that time be needed. I first met Dr. Chrissie just two days before being hospitalized back in April and loved the personal feel to her office and the chance to build a relationship with a doctor. When we have questions about Nathan's health and care, she can be reached easily through email. My dad described her practice as "New Age" but honestly, it feels more old-fashioned to me; more like how it might have been a hundred years ago. Maybe it's a little of both. Sure enough, Dr. Chrissie co

I can hardly believe how busy we have been during Nate's second month of life. As each week passes, we become more comfortable as a family, pursuing more adventures and enjoying the summer weather that has finally arrived! Nate continues to grow beyond our belief (and nearly beyond his diapers). We decided to celebrate Independence Day at home this year, and were lucky to have many of our Portland friends come cook out and visit with us. Ever enthusiastic about hosting, Jeff bought thematic decor from the Dollar Store and created a patriotic themed soundtrack for the day. We had a last minute brainstorm to create a sample citizenship test for our guests (we are both social studies teachers after all). Unfortunately, most guests didn't make a passing grade (yikes!); but we had a good laugh and appreciate our friends putting up with us. Thanks to the collective contributions, there was a ton of good food and I probably ate three or four plates worth! Nap time with Grandpa Mur