FIERCE PIERCE

gibson said today

2010-12-22T14:54:00.000-08:00

Getting ready for tricks and treats

2009-11-17T09:52:00.001-08:00

IMG_6119
Originally uploaded by chelsealacatena

Halloween 2009

2009-11-17T09:51:00.001-08:00

IMG_6124
Originally uploaded by chelsealacatena

Gibson the friendly dinosaur!

MOM!!

2009-06-16T12:20:00.001-07:00

Its been forever since I have posted. I apologize but I do update my facebook often, if you want to catch me over there - http://www.facebook.com/gobosgirl

So, besides being utterly adorable and amazing and smart, Gibson has recently taken to calling me MOM. Not mommy, not mama, Mom. I do get the others occasionally, but, most often MOM is his preference. I know that my family delights in this news. Yes, it does come out MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM often. Yes, I do hear myself in his voice everytime. Yes, I hear you all laughing hysterically and thinking: "serves her right".
Thanks for the curse...its come true before he hit two.

Love and kisses to you all. Enjoy the photos from his Uncle Harry and Aunt Tami.

gibson loves dirt and bugs and all things

2009-06-16T11:36:00.001-07:00

gibson
Originally uploaded by thisistami

photo courtesy of Uncle Harry

gibson and chris

2009-06-16T11:34:00.001-07:00

gibson and chris
Originally uploaded by thisistami

photo courtesy of Uncle Harry

Serious discussion with daddy

is there a cuter kid anywhere?

2009-06-16T11:33:00.001-07:00

gibson
Originally uploaded by thisistami

photo courtesy of Uncle Harry

gibson sunscreen - oh no!

2009-06-16T11:31:00.001-07:00

gibson sunscreen - oh no!
Originally uploaded by thisistami

photo courtesy of Uncle Harry

Long Overdue Update

2009-04-13T13:17:00.001-07:00

Gibson still continues to amaze us every day. His vocabulary grows by the second...each morning he wakes up with a big smile and then usually asks for 'ilk (milk) or his baba (bottle) and then immediately requests to go to 'osh's 'ouse (josh's house). All cats are named ella and he loves to go outside to go for a walk and to play on the weeeee (slide).

We have had some really busy weekends filled with friends and fun. We celebrated Luca Van Palaitis' birthday a few weeks back, Joshua Ross' birthday last weekend and had some Easter fun with an egg hunt in Maplewood and Dinner at Chez Ross. And that is just the tip of activity iceberg. I have been sorely lacking in updating this but I will try to keep it at it more often. I have NOT been slacking at taking pictures, just go to the link at the right if you want to see proof of all the fun and festivities!

Griffin James Cook

2009-03-29T04:23:00.000-07:00

Well once again, the world just got a little cuter. On March 26, 2009 Griffin James joined the Cook family and I was so happy I got a chance to meet him this weekend. Congratulations to Alison, Jim and big brother Riley!!

Yes, I realize this is post #2 without actual updates on Gibson. It's coming...I promise. It's almost overwhelming all that's happened in just the past month.

And to explain the Tofu recipe below..well, actually, I don't feel like it. But its a good recipe. Go ahead, try it.

Tofu Pot Pie

2009-03-28T13:28:00.000-07:00

Combine in a small bowl: 1/4 cup flour, 1 TBSP nutritional yeast flakes (yes, these are important. They are a huge part of the gravy. You can buy these in bulk at most health food stores) , 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp garlic powder. Add 2 cups tofu (firm) cut into cubes. Stir to coat. Sautee in 2 Tbsp oil until lightly browned.
Pre-browned tofu

Lightly browned tofu

Add: 1 small onion, a couple of chopped celery...

Once onions start to soften add carrots:

Then add corn and peas:

Add salt and pepper to taste. You can add any other veggie as you see fit.

Now it's time to make the gravy...ready?

Take 1/3 cup flour and toast it over medium low heat until you can just start to smell it:

Stir in 1/3 cup nutritional yeast flakes:

Add 1/4 cup oil (hey - just cause its called tofu pot pie doesn't mean its entirely healthy):

Add 2 cups water:

Whisk as it thickens and add soy sauce and salt and pepper to taste. The recipe calls for 1 Tbsp of soy sauce but I double that and maybe even a little more. Taste it...it will go from floury-ish to more like an actual savory turkey gravy.

Finished gravy.

You can use any pastry crust recipe you feel comfortable with (if you need one I can provide one) or you can totally save time and just buy frozen or refrigerated pre-made crusts. Lets pretend I made my own.

Put a little gravy on the bottom of the pie crust:

Fill pie pan with vegetables and tofu:

Top with remaining gravy:Put second pie crust on top:

Bake at 375 for 30 - 40 minutes, until top is lightly browned:

I wish I could take credit, but alas...I thank the The New Farm Vegetarian Cookbook for the deliciousness.

Just to be clear.... I made two and doubled the above recipe. Enjoy!

Musical Genius

2009-03-05T07:04:00.000-08:00

No pressure or anything...

Not much to report. We have been keeping super busy lately. Playdates, new baby (Welcome to the world Cami!!) birthday parties (Happy first Abram!!), weddings (Congratulations Naumanns!) snowstorms. I am waiting for Spring and I am sure Gibson will be relieved to not have to wear long underwear every day. He is such a super duper smart little dude. He loves to sing, dance and play all musical instruments and often the first thing he wants to do in the morning is go downstairs to play the drums. He has a mouthful of teeth, he is calling me mommy now (as opposed to just mama) and his vocabulary grows weekly. Tons more pictures on the flickr site. Enjoy!

Happy St. Valentine's Day...or Just Valentine's Day...whichever...

2009-02-14T03:37:00.000-08:00

We really like 30 Rock.
Anyway, I thought I should update the blog today with some pictures of our little valentine. In true Gibson spirit, he woke up at 6 am to hang out with mom with a little milk and cartoons. We have a fun weekend ahead of us - including dinner tonight with friends/honorary aunts and uncle and the long anticipated Naumann wedding tomorrow.

He really enjoys running around naked after bathtime.

This kid is pretty much always smiling and ready to have a good time.

Playdate with Joshua Ross. Eagerly waiting the arrival of Cami Ross...who should arrive any second it seems.

Short update today as my lap is the seat of choice for Gibson and he is ready for a change of scenery now. Valentines hugs and kisses!

xxoo

Gibson loves bacon

2009-01-31T05:15:00.001-08:00

I realized that I never put up a picture of Chris' tattoo...and I might as well tell you how Gibson loves bacon. Well, not entirely. He loves to suck on it and chew on it, but has no interest in actually swallowing bacon. Usually he just hands it back to us when he is done, but every once in a while we find some delicious looking chewed bacon (shudder) on the couch or on the rug.
Gibson and his bacon.

Chris' new tattoo.

There are still so many things I haven't touched upon. Gibson's jam session with Riley, his playdate with Cali and 'Lize, and the rock show he went to with Deville and Luca (or d and cuca as Gibson said for the next few days). Of course, pictures of most of those are on the flickr account if you have a few hours to spare.

Daddy's new tattoo and a trip to the beach

2009-01-30T11:48:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday Chris started to use up the gift certificate for a new tattoo he got from Gibson for his birthay. We took a trip to Bradley Beach with Uncle Harry and Aunt Tami, had some lunch, and hit the beach. It was cold but so much fun and Gibson had an absolute blast.

Waiting patiently for his turn. He already has his first tattoo picked out.

Uncle Harry always makes Gibson laugh!

LOOK, THE OCEAN! I hope his always has this much excitement for the ocean and the beach.

His first sea shell. Which now lives in the back of our car.

I took about a bazillion pictures of him standing, walking, running, digging...that day. All on my flickr if you care to see more.

Running after birds with Aunt Tami. Aunt Tami has boundless energy and she has the ability to tickle Gibson from across the room.

One day at lunch, eating a grilled cheese sandwich. Chris mostly just wants to show off the ac/dc t-shirt he bought him.

NOT THE POX

2009-01-19T15:34:00.001-08:00

Well the Doctor says no to the pox, thank goodness, but is unwilling to confirm Roseola. But we are pretty sure thats what it was, er, is. The rash is getting worse but doesn't seem to be bothering him much. Today he ate more than ever, chowing on toast with cream cheese this morning and even loving the tempeh and the broccoli and cauliflower casserole daddy made for dinner. A few more pictures below because a post without pictures is like christmas without presents.

His artsy shot.

He still has those amazing eyelashes.

He is a helpful little dude too.

Project Chicken Pox

2009-01-18T08:42:00.001-08:00

So I would have liked to report that after our 'fun' with the haircut we came home to an uneventful evening...but alas...our poor lil dude seems to have gotten himself a case of the chicken pox.

We first notced these when he got in the bath last night.

Then we woke up the next morning with these on his belly.

And he would like to make it know that he is slightly feverish and achy today. Bummer.

Poor baby.

Gibson's second hair cut

2009-01-18T06:25:00.000-08:00

Gibson's hair was looking a little shaggy and needing something to do on a winter Saturday afternoon I looked into kids hair salons, which led us to Snip-Its in Princeton. It looked fun - all geared towards kids and Gibson seemed to be digging it. He got a real kick out of Mr. Snip-It and he had fun with all the other neat stuff not normally found in hair salons.

Gibson and Mr. Snip-It. Then...we put him in the chair. It was like the chair had hot coals on it. Bubbles barely even drew his attention (no bubbles was NOT the name of the stylist). He likes his hair long and he wanted the world to know it. He didn't stop screaming, not crying mind you, just screaming, the entire cut. At one point he started to shake he was so mad . I understand that this woman wasn't Jess (see haircut #1) who was loving on him like he was her own, but she was nice enough.

At the end his hair is much shorter but he was NOT stoked. Mr. Snip-It barely got a sideways glance as we paid, collected our toy for being a 'good' boy and left. All in all, it comes in second place in terms of cuts he's gotten, but at least I wasn't the bad guy for trimming his bangs and his hair is no longer in his eyes. No matter what cut, Gibson is one good looking little dude if I do say so myself.

New Year's Eve with the Pierce's

2008-12-31T15:55:00.001-08:00

There used to be a time when New Year's Eve would find us making plans days, perhaps weeks in advance wondering if we should have a party, go to a party or perhaps hit a bar. That time is not now. Today we spent the better half of the day painting the bedroom and now we are waiting for the likes of bbq ribs and bacon wrapped scallops to finish up. I can't say we are at all upset to hang up our NYE party plans. We have plans to see good friends tomorrow and we get to spend tonight cuddled up on the couch with delicious food, cold bubbly, seasons 1 and 2 of Extras, and the best company I could ask for. Happy New Year everyone!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

2008-12-25T05:06:00.000-08:00

Here it is, 8 am on Christmas, and Gibson is sleeping. He woke up briefly at 6:40 and we changed his diaper but he clearly did NOT want to get up. I mean, DOESN'T HE KNOW THAT SANTA CAME LAST NIGHT?! Yes I do realize that this is my christmas gift. Him sleeping in. BUT IT'S CHRISTMAS!! Now the scones are fresh from the oven and I am on my second mug of tea...waiting...staring at the tree full of gifts. Even though I know what is in most of them this year, I can't wait to get to some unwrapping.

Below are some more of the "photo shoot" now that most of the cards should be out by now. Merry Christmas to you all. We are very blessed to have such wonderful family and friends.

Update: 9am - still sleeping. ?!?

Christmas Card Teaser

2008-12-15T03:30:00.000-08:00

We finally decided to get Gibson's portrait taken. There is no possible way we could have chosen a busier time and we were a little nervous with our time slot;5:20 on a Saturday. That could be good or bad depending on the nap situation that day. Well Gibson took 2 great naps (we had to wake him up at 4:30 after sleeping for close to 2 hours) had a decent snack and filled his diaper right before heading out so we knew we were set. He ended up being the model model...(haha) and all the other moms and dads were showing him to their kids saying "look, he's having so much fun..." We are using some of the pictures for Christmas cards so you will have to wait to see the rest of the shoot, but below is a little teaser.

Seriously, the little drummer boy. He immediately took the only round package and started going to town on his new found 'drum.'
This one was called 'Santa Hand' and the photographer didnt get really why Chris and I think its creepy. Needless to say this one won't be appearing on the cards.

Gibson v Santa

2008-12-10T12:49:00.001-08:00

Christmas, how can we be talking about Christmas when I haven't even done a Thanksgiving post yet? Well Thanksgiving was wonderful and spending the time with my family should be done more often. There are about 300 pictures of that weekend up on my flickr for those of you that care to look.

But now onto Christmas. We took Gibson to see Santa this past weekend and surprisingly the line was NOT very long at all. Gibson loved waiting to see Santa, he made new friends and saw all sorts of cool things while in line.

Here he is checking out the snow globe and drums on display.

He was definately the cutest little dude in line, and he was in such a good mood.

Until we put him down on Santa's knee.

Then the screaming began. Poor little guy, usually he likes new people. However, new people usually arent dressed quite like this guy. But as soon as Santa's elf asked if he would sit on a drum, well things turned around.

As we know in our house, drums are NOT for sitting...they are for drumming! So thats just what he did. He sat right down and gave Santa a little concert to apologize for busting his ear drum with screams. All in all it was not the worst experience we saw that day and Gibson is hoping for a big haul come Christmas morning.

Gibson's First Haircut

2008-11-23T06:07:00.000-08:00

Among the other preparations for Thanksgiving, the entire family needed haircuts (some of us more than others, coughchriscough.) Who could we trust more than Jess at Sparks. Gibson was a trooper. He hadn't napped well that day and was up early so he was a little tentative at first, but then he got really curious looking at all the ladies with foil in their hair and bags on their heads. By the end he walked around like he owned the place. Thanks to Aunt Tami for playing with him while I got rinsed and Chris got chopped. You can see the entire experience here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/gobosgirl/sets/72157609786808405/

BEFORE

Meeting Jess

AFTER

Way to go Cali!

2008-11-21T09:18:00.000-08:00

6 weeks is a long time to be in a cast! Miss Cali was a trooper though, doing better than some adults I know would thats for sure. Here she is smiling and happy to be free once again. Gibson can't wait to tear up the town with you! Way to go Cali, you are a sweetheart and we love you.

Happy Birthday Papa!

2008-11-16T16:34:00.000-08:00

So these pictures may be old, but the message is the same. Happy Birthday Pop! We love you and can't wait to see you very soon.!!

Gibson's first birthday message to his papa. Today papa got kisses over the phone. In ten days he will get real kisses in person.

The first visit between papa and gibson.

The most recent visit. We can't wait to update the photolog!

Is it Thanksgiving yet?

2008-11-16T03:48:00.000-08:00

I don't like wishing my days away, especially when its heading towards the colder months of the year...but can Thanksgiving just GET HERE ALREADY? I am so looking forward to spending an entire weekend with most of (my side) of the family and for Chris to NOT have to work on black Friday. So this means 20 of my family members will be under one roof. Imagine that. It's going to be great!!
On the Gibson front, he is walking pretty well but still prefers to use his walkers if he can (hey its faster and it doesn't end with a fall on his bottom), he kisses (which is pretty much the cutest thing ever), he's becoming a more picky eater (lucky us) and he is the smartest little dude (go ahead, ask him where his nose is, haha). He continues to amaze us more each day.

These pictures have nothing to do with anything, but what is a post without pictures right?
Baby jail for Gibson...really he is saying, Can't we go to Aunt Tricia's NOW?!
He got himself in, he can get himself out.

My little artist, really gets into his masterpieces.

Charlize Ellen Cotterill

2008-11-08T15:26:00.001-08:00

Welcome to the world Charlize Ellen Cotterill! Weighing in at 6 lbs 12 oz and standing (ok not so much with the standing YET) 19 inches long. She is a super cutie and didnt cause her mom a lick of pain. Can I get three cheers for the epidural??

sweetie face

Relative Size - so later we can look back and say, you were as tiny as this penguin!

nose to nose. Love at first sight for sure.

Congratulations to Kathy Jo, Paul and big sister Cali!

EDIT: Due to early misinformation from the dad, the middle name Cassia was not given the seal of approval from the mom. Charlize's middle name is Ellen, a family name. I don't expect her name to change again.

Trick or Treating

2008-11-05T09:47:00.000-08:00

A few actual trick or treating pictures...it goes without saying that Gibson thought trick or treating was the best thing ever. People giving him treats, all the kids outside, CHOCOLATE. Yeah, he had a blast.
hugging a fire hydrant

more treats mom?

Justin and Chris - they were not in costume...haha.

Taking a stroll to work off those halloween calories! He is just as cute going as he is coming.

BLUE TUBE - Gibson loves this tube at the playground.

In other news, Gibson started walking - like Frankenstein, but walking nonetheless. He thinks its so much fun to hobble over to us and fall into our arms. We think its pretty fun too. He also, unfortunately, is still having problems with allergies so we will have him on the nebulizer for a few more weeks, and the Doctor said that he will most likely need it thru the winter. But he is pretty used to it and loves to watch Yo Gabba Gabba while sitting in our laps while we use it.

Lastly, and in non-Gibson related news....Kathy Jo, Paul and Cali will be welcoming baby girl #2 to their family this Saturday and Cali is scheduled to get out of her cast on 11/20. I can't wait to squeeze the new baby (gently of course) and to run a race with Miss Cali!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T13:38:00.001-07:00

What a day so far! We haven't even stated trick or treating yet and we have had so much fun already. Channeling my inner Martha Stewart, in our family we call it channeling our inner Tricia, I tried my hand at making Gibson's costume. Bam Bam if you can't tell, haha. He acted like a pro and would even bang his club when we would say bam bam. I suspect Martha would cringe if she saw the costume, but I'm pretty sure Tricia would be proud. We spent the day with bff Cali and Mom at the Turtle Back Zoo and it was a beautiful day spent in great company.

Our little caveman

Bam Bam

Cali-roo

The guy at dunkin donuts gave each kid a munchkin. It was like handing Gibson the winning lottery ticket. He ate it up in about 3 minutes.

And then fell immediately asleep for the rest of the car trip.

At the zoo - this pose started a whole set of pictures. They are on the flickr account.

Buddies share their goldfish

Cougar playing with a pumpkin

Otter playing with a pumpkin of a different sort

Having a bit of lunch

Watching "It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown" with dad. Now Gibson is planted in front of the window waiting eagerly for more kids to ring the bell. (which started ringing at 4 pm if you can believe that!) Just wait til we suit back up to go hit up the neighbors. He is going to love it.

Happy Halloween everyone!

worst updater ever

2008-10-20T12:45:00.000-07:00

I KNOW I KNOW! I am the worst. Life is so busy. Work is so busy. I keep thinking I'll have a moment, and then another day is over and so it goes. I manage to get pictures up on flickr (hint, there are tons of new pictures on the flickr) but that seems to be it. Oh and then my new camera broke, and then poor miss Cali, Gibson's bff, fell off a chair and broke her leg, and things have just been crazy. Ok I don't mean to compare my broken camera with sweet cali's leg, please don't get me wrong. It's just been busy.

Have I mentioned Gibson's love of socks? He really loves his socks. He loves holding them, he sleeps with them, and sometimes he takes a bath with them too.

Playtime at the Pierce's.

Time for a little arts and crafts.

My drooly boy. He has at least 10 teeth now and his molars are coming in as I type. He makes drooling look, well, wet.

I will do my best to at least stick pictures on here on a more regular basis. Love to all our family and friends!

We interrupt the long overdue vacation finale for this special announcement...

2008-09-07T15:32:00.000-07:00

TODAY GIBSON IS ONE YEAR OLD!!

I have no idea how time went so quickly but I do know that he is the best thing to ever happen in my life. Every day he amazes me more and more and just when I think he can't ever get any cuter he up and does just that. On top of it he is super easy going and smart as can be.

This weekend was filled with fun, parties, friends and cake. Lots of cake. I will put up more pictures soon but we are pretty tired in this house today. Happy Birthday Gibson Pierce!! And many many more. Your mom and dad love you tons.

The bib don't lie.

Pretty much the best cake ever. Chocolate frosting would have tasted better but then it would have been hard to see the guitar. Delicious sans chocolate frosting nevertheless.

Cake for dinner. Birthdays are awesome.

Thanks so much to everyone who put up with the rain on Saturday and came by to wish our little dude a happy birthday. Special shout out to Mr. James Cook for going above and beyond the call of friendship. You, the Mrs. and Riley were missed all weekend.

Vacation Update - Part Three

2008-08-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

Friday. Friday was super special. For the first time in 6 years all 5 Shone siblings were together and it was a BLAST. Yes it was very very busy and loud but it was still the best day all year.
Gibson woke up and had an early morning "air drumming" contest with his cousin Joe.

And then Mike, Mary, Jessica, Nick and Chris showed up.

This is my beautiful niece Jessica Shone. I have waited a very long time to meet her and I can't wait to see her again. She was pretty much smothered with kisses by all her aunts and uncles.

This is Nick and Chris Shone, the youngest twins in the family. Besides being absolutely adorable, these two are BUNDLES of energy. It was hard keeping up, but sure was fun trying.

Cousins at play. (and an aunt or two)

Gibson and his Uncle Mike.

Finally, the Van Rheenens joined the party. Soon after TnP and family arrived and we were finally all together.

Aunt Judy and the Jacob.

These are the most beautiful women that I know.

The Shone men. The only bad part of the entire day was Pop getting hit with a baseball. You can see his shiner get better and better in pictures that will follow, but that is the only part of the day I would change. First there were this many.

Then we added this many.

And now we have this many. (and we are still missing a few in this picture)

Seriously, even with the 2 am bedtime and the constant activity, Friday was amazing. The entire week/end was great, but Friday is a day I will never forget. I love you family!!

Vacation Update - Part Two

2008-08-18T11:52:00.000-07:00

So onto Thursday - Gibson got to spend some good quality time with Papa and the Weates.

Waking up with Sammi.
Morning time with the Jacob.

Morning juice with the Weate cousins.

All together after breakfast.

Papa decided to take us on a tour of the local Alpaca farm. Here we are on our way to the farm.

Mom? What exactly is an Alpaca anyway?
Gibson got a chance to ride in a "big boy" car seat in Aunt Tricia's car. He liked it WAY better than the backwards view he gets in our car.

The Alpaca Farm (http://www.lazyacrealpacas.com/index.htm) was very cool. Mark, the owner, gave us an extensive tour and we got to walk right around with the animals. Everyone got an alpaca kiss or nibble and honestly, Tricia and I could have pulled up a lawn chair and stayed there all day.

There are over 90 alpacas on the farm and it seems like we got to meet them all (almost).
Gibson LOVED it. He was chattering away with them and even learned to cluck a little to get them to come closer.

Later that evening, Gibson got to meet his Uncle Tim for the first time. Needless to say, after a brief warm up period, he loves his Uncle Tim.
Last but not least on the "Rochester" Shone side - he got to meet his cousin Brianna. Brianna and Hannah spent countless hours playing with their little cousin. (there are even bathtub pictures coming!)

Vacation Update - Part One

2008-08-18T10:54:00.000-07:00

To talk about the past 2 weeks in one post seems daunting. So much fun and so many pictures. I've decided to go day by day. Starting with our brilliant idea to drive at night on Tuesday so Gibson will sleep in the car. Yeah, no. That did not work one bit. Our normal 5 hour drive to Rochester took over 7 hours, putting us at Papa's house sometime around 2 am. Gibson screamed about 45 minutes out of every hour (it at least seemed this way) and it pretty much sucked the entire time.

But then - it started.

Family time.

It was amazing. I am going to sound like a broken record before this update is over because this weekend again solidified how wonderful my entire family is.

We woke up on Wednesday and Gibson and Papa shared some morning sun on the back deck. They were both very happy to see each other again.

Chris and Gibson share a swing the day before Daddy's birthday. Chris flew out to Seattle to rock while the boy and I got to hang out with family.

Meeting Cousin Alyssa for the first time.

Meeting Aunt Peggy for the first time.

Meeting Cousin Richie for the first time.
I wonder if Alyssa ever got that $4.50 from Richie for picking him up. (haha)

Time for VACATION!

2008-08-05T12:49:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I haven't updated this in over two weeks! Well the flickr link (to your right) is full of about a million new pictures of our little man and I just uploaded a new CRAZY LEGS video on youtube (link is also right down there on your right...for those of you that need a little extra help around the blog)

We are off to visit family in about 3 hours or so. Gibson and I will spend the rest of this week and weekend with my siblings (and families) and my father while Chris is rocking away on the wrong side of the country. Then, if travelling goes well, we are planning on spending a few days in the mountains to see Grandma June.

Gibson v Nectarine. He comes RUNNING - ok CRAWLING when he sees me bring one of these out. And he does a pretty good job of eating it all!

Yes this is SO WRONG (you can't see, but the can is UNOPENED) but my kid does pretty well with the pictures and product placement.

More new friends

2008-07-18T11:08:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe its the middle of July. We spend every minute we can at the pool. Gibson loves the water and surprisingly, it seems, so does Chris. We have a beach date tomorrow with Chelsea, the Pearson's, the Cook's. I absolutely can NOT wait to get my feet in the sand and see how Gibson takes to it. Hopefully he'll take after me more on this one.

Recently Gibson got to meet two more new friends:

Uncle Nicky - he held Gibson twice in the 30 seconds or so that we saw of him.

Austin - the last Marxist to meet Gibson. How did Gary beat you over to our place Austin? hmmmm. Anyway, we are happy you finally made it over.

I cant wait to update with beach pitcures. With my luck I'll drop the camera in the ocean.

Happy Birthday Cali!

2008-07-13T04:53:00.000-07:00

Miss Cali Scott Cotterill turns 2 years old. It's hard to believe that it was 2 years ago that I watched helplessly as her mama brought her into this world. It's even crazier to think that in just a few months we will get to welcome Cotterill babygirl #2 into our lives. We can't wait to meet little Gracie (not really her name, but its one that I'm pulling for.)

Yesterday we got to spend the day celebrating with Cali and a bunch of wonderful friends. Such fun on such a beautiful day. After crunching my camera on July 4th, my new camera showed up 15 minutes before we jumped into the car for the party. There are some fun videos that will be posted soon and there will be about 100 more pictures on our flickr account. (Link to the right)

Getting ready for the PARTY!

The BIRTHDAY GIRL!! Enjoying a dip in the pool.

Two more water babies.

Cali's cousin Kaitlyn, who is such a beautiful and sweet girl.

Mama Cotterill

Gibson and Alison have a LOT to catch up on.

Playing house

Riley and the girls.

I just LOVE this picture.

Alison, Kathy Jo and Jude.

Now its time for Gibson and Riley to catch up on the past week. Or maybe Riley is filling Gibson in on all the gossip he got from the girls. That's probably it.

Picking up change with Uncle Jim.

Group shot in the Cotterills "new" yard. Paul did a CRAZY amount of work on their yard (previously known as the doggie pen) and now its a family paradise.

Eagerly (?) awaiting cake.

Cake face. Gibson had his first ice cream cake. I think he's in love.

Oops...

2008-07-06T16:48:00.000-07:00

How could I forget?! Gibson placed 4th - honorable mention - in the baby contest. You can see below his reaction. Is it wrong to mention that the winner had a unibrow? Clearly someone paid off the judges. Haha. Really though, I no sooner posted the last update when I realized there were no pictures of my newly hairless (sort of) husband. Look at that handsome face! I might as well post a few more pictures while I'm here.

Gibson chilling at the pool. I love his sillly faces as much as I love the smiley ones.

He loves to eat nectarines and sometimes he goes in for a bite at the same time as I do. He does NOT want me to give him a piece that will fit in his mouth already, he wants to get his whole face sticky and run his teeth up and down. It's really quite cute.

Proof of the aforementioned morning banana mashing ritual.

Look at what a little man he looks like here. He looks like he's about to ask to borrow the car keys.

Fourth of July Weekend

2008-07-06T16:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Belated 4th! Such a fun weekend. Somehow long weekends never really feel long, they feel like the right amount of time, its the other weekends that feel short. Anyway, Gibson and Chris both got to experience their first Milltown 4th of July parade. Uncle Harry and Aunt Tami joined us and then Auntie Chelsea, The Cook's and new neighbors Casey and Rob all hit up the festivities in town and then back to our place for a little bbq. Good times, good friend.

Gibson is wondering why these men are all in skirts.

The only candy he kept from the parade, he didn't get to eat it, but he liked chewing on it for a few minutes.

Free hotdogs? WHERE?!
Gibson and Aunt Tami. He can't wait til next year when he can join in the kiddie fun some more.
Uncle Harry? What is a firework?

CHOMP! Gibson looks so cute in this outfit, and as you can tell here, he loves to play with balls.

This is how he looks after breakfast clean up. He loves to mash bananas all over - he does eventually get some in his mouth too.

Family Portrait

2008-06-25T12:48:00.000-07:00

I adore Gibson's sweet sweet face in this picture. It makes me want to lean in to my computer screen and kiss his virtual cheeks. Thanks Rob for sending it our way!

ps - chris shaved - I'll get pictures asap. Hooray!

Finalist

2008-06-23T12:50:00.001-07:00

You did WHAT?

Ok so on a whim I entered Gibson in the NJ State Fair Cutest Baby Contest. We just found out today that he is a finalist! woo hoo! Someone else, besides our family and friends is very very smart and has great taste in babies! haha. So anyway, next Sunday will find us at the State Fair. If nothing else, he won us free admission to the fair!

Onto the weekend update. Gibson and family were very busy this weekend. Swimming, barbequing, standing, scootching backwards....you know, the usual!

Gibson's favorite position is upright. He thinks that standing is super cool.

Sunday breakfast - pancakes and strawberries. While he is still eating baby food, he would rather feed himself.

At the pool on Sunday with Dad. Gibson, Auntie Jini and I went on Saturday and it was PACKED but we still managed to have a great time. Gibson loved the water - I hope we can keep it that way.

On Sunday we went on a playdate with the Porters. Rob and Jen had twins Lindsey and Charlie a year ago (this week! HAPPY BIRTHDAY KIDDOS!) and I think Gibson found his two newest best buds. Above it was bottle and noggin time. Gibson dug it.
Kiddie Pen. Hey doing time isn't so bad when you got friends in there with you.

Cupcakes - I couldn't resist posting this picture - so clever. I wish I could take credit for making these. They tasted even better than they looked.

Our hosts on Sunday, the fabulous Porter family.

Fathers Day Weekend

2008-06-16T12:47:00.000-07:00

We had such a busy busy weekend, its sort of hard to believe we crammed it all in in just a few days. Earlier in the week Grandpa and Grandmama Pierce came in for a visit and lets just say that Gibson was more than a little spoiled! In between visits, we barbequed with the Abigadors, saw Iron Maiden, (which i might add was NOT relaxing and there were NO cats - two separate inside jokes there, sorry) tried our luck at some ponies (lady luck was NOT on our side, neither was mother nature come to think of it) and both Chris and I each got one good nights sleep each, not the same night mind you, but lets not get picky. Happy Belated Fathers Day to all our Dad Buddies out there!! (and OUR DADS too, but we called them!)

Coffee anyone?
Having fun with Pop.
Chillin'.
So happy to be back in Grandma's arms.

Having fun with Uncle Harry. Really, never mind the somber expression.

NYY SUNGLASSES!! WOOHOO!

New pool, compliments of his grandparents. He LOOOOOOOOVES it.

swimming with the ducks.

Swimming makes him sleepy, thankfully Aunt Tami was there to lend a shoulder.

Post bathtime in his robe - that finally fits!

For Chadd

2008-06-10T12:23:00.000-07:00

Special Request. For the record, Chadd was amazing with Gibson, and Gibson couldn't get enough of Chadd.

Also, the video of Chadd and Gibson playing is to the right, under the boy in action. Sorry it wasn't better lighting, the video on my camera stinks.

Now Chelsea, the only comment you have to make is to post pictures of Chadd? GEEZ!

Fifth Schmith

2008-06-09T13:44:00.000-07:00

My poor little guy, he's got a cough, he had an ear infection, and now, after getting a gnarly rash over the weekend, we find out he's got Fifth Disease. Something else we can't do anything about. Apparently by the time the rash shows up he is no longer contagious.

"I've got WHAT NOW?!!"

"UGH"

Crazy hair after bathtime.

Despite all his viruses, he is still our fun, happy little guy. He is dealing with the 100+ degree weather a LOT better than his mom and dad. We are thinking onsies for adults may be the way of the future.

Anyway, we are looking forward to seeing Grammy and Grampy Pierce this week and spending the entire day with Daddy for Fathers Day!

Gibson goes to the Zoo

2008-06-04T09:48:00.001-07:00

At the suggestion of Auntie Kathy, we decided to take Gibson to the Turtleback Zoo. We had such a good time checking out all the animals and, as usual, Gibson was such a good boy.

Here he is having a good breakfast so he can get ready for some zooish fun. yeah thats right, I said zooish.

I'm not sure if he liked the animals or the scores of kids walking around the most, but he had a blast.

He is even getting better in the car seat, sometimes.

We stopped for lunch as a great diner, and Gibson loved sitting up at the table with us. We even shared our crab, which he LOVED. no real surprise there.

He's such a big little guy!

Gibson will be 9 months old on Saturday. He had a Doctor appointment on Monday due to a little cough he can't seem to shake, and unfortunately we found out that he has a little ear infection. We caught it really early, which is good, but the antibiotics he is taking make him a little loopy. Which, lets face it, at times can be funny, but mostly I feel bad for the little dude. But he still manages to smile and laugh and play with us to let us know he is going to be just fine. He is weighing in at 18 pounds and 9 ounces and he is 27 3/4 long.

Quick Update

2008-05-28T14:02:00.000-07:00

I will update everyone on our fantastic trip to Maine when I have more time, but here are some pictures to feast your eyes on!

First Hotel Room - Hanging with his fraggle buddies.

Tickle time with Grammy!

Gibson and his Grampy taking a walk.

He is now a pro flyer!

And this is just a super cute picture...so I couldn't resist.

8 MONTHS!!

2008-05-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

Oh my big little man. Growing growing growing. Now if we could just master the sleeping sleeping sleeping part. Oh well, that too will happen when he is ready. There really IS a lot to see, I don't blame him for not wanting to miss anything.

Gibson's 5th tooth made an appearance this morning. Soon he won't just have fangs. He is adapting well-ish to daycare. Poor Chris still has to hear his cries in the morning when he drops him off, but he likes all his new friends and his "teachers."

Getting smothered with kisses by mom. As usual.

Favorite pasttime #1. For both the Pierce boys.

Hey when you are tired, you sleep right? Even if you have your favorite toy in your hand and you dont want to let it go.

Playing in Hoboken - where Gibson got to see his first live Monkee.

Mickey Dolenz - you didnt think I meant a real Monkey, like in the zoo, did you?

Best of both worlds. (and the bat can double as a mic)

NUDIE SHOT! Gibson loves to be naked!!

Posing with the flowers. I am trying to get a nice shot of Gibson with the Wisteria in our back yard for Grandma June.

Swinging away - oh yeah there is a new video up of Gibson in the swings. Careful, this one makes me a little dizzy!

Batting practice with Uncle Joe.

Gibson v Strawberry

2008-05-01T08:53:00.000-07:00

Gibson loves his fresh fruit.

Strawberries are so delicious when they are mashed all around our face.

Looking to daddy to see if he wants some strawberry mush too.

Maybe the strawberry won.

Daycare and Agfield day

2008-04-25T09:54:00.000-07:00

Lots of news to report. Sorry we have been slacking on the posts. We have had such busy weekends. We helped celebrate Atticus and Circes birthdays. We went to a soap party where we got to see Deville and meet his cute little brother Luca. We started daycare (insert crying here.) And we went to Agfield day. And that is just the past few weekends!

Here are my boys looking TOUGH at Atticus and Circes party.

Gibson is checking out the balloons.

The morning of the first day of "school"

On our way to "school" he looks less than thrilled.

Happy to be home!

Walking around town. Soon he is going to run this place.

Backyard fun with mom.

Gibson loves the baseball set that he got from his cousing Jake.

Gibson and curious George.

The farmer in the Dell.
The Palaitis family at Agfield day.

The Pierce family at Agfield day.

Agfield day makes us sleeeeeepy.

Lunch Hour

2008-04-16T11:27:00.000-07:00

Talking with the Taxman about Poetry

2008-04-15T13:53:00.000-07:00

Just taking a walk with dad on Tax Day.

7 months +

2008-04-11T10:06:00.001-07:00

We have been so busy lately! Sorry for the lack of pictures and posts, but this one should catch you up on the past few weeks. Gibson turned 7 months old on 4/7/08 and he now has 4 teeth (#5 is on the way) and he looks like he has fangs since its the cuspids that came thru first on the top. He definately gets cranky when teething but it thankfully only lasts a few days.

I still take a ton of pictures every day. He totally caught me trying to get a shot of him thru the mirror....

... and so he politely turned to give me full view of his adorable face. So helpful!

A quick nap on our way into NY to visit with Aunt Tricia and Cousin Sammi.

Chris, Gibson and "his sam" as we like to call her! Gibson LOVES HIS SAM! (so do I!)

Aunt Tricia and Gibson - he was so very happy to see AT again.

A hello and goodby picture. I couldnt decide which was better!

The family saying goodbyes. (really we were trying to convice Chris to lengthen the visit!)

My boys - they make the same faces...

...see?

On our way to Princeton. I took a half day last week and the weather was beautiful so we took a trip to Princeton to walk around in the sun. This was the first time we opened up all the windows in car as we drove. Gibson LOVED the wind in his hair!

It was so nice out, and I forgot to bring a hat, so here we are hat shopping in Princeton.

It was worth the $26 hat to get these two shots.

I think he likes his new hat!

Pantless and sockless in Princeton.

Playing with the wipes. They make a good noise.

Sweaty and sweet. I love this kid.

So Daycare offically starts next week. It will only be 1/2 days next week and then 3/4 days the week after and then full time the week after that. I am going to be a MESS!

Oh yes, one more thing, a few more videos are up now. I can tell that Gibson is going to be a summer child just like his mom.

Having Fun while Moms at Work

2008-04-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

Gibson's first time in a swing. Stupid work for making me miss it!

Friday Update

2008-03-28T08:06:00.000-07:00

I have no real GIBSON news to report - He is as amazing as ever. So cute, fun, vocal - all the good stuff. Here are a few photos to make up for my two consecutive non photo posts.

Getting ready for BASEBALL! We hope to take him to a game this year so we can tell him that he went to this stadium. I wonder if he will care!

Identity Crisis - thanks to Auntie Chelsea

Semi Nude - He loves being naked!

Brittney moment #1.

Brittney moment #2

Visit with Uncle Harry and Aunt Tami. Congratulations Aunt Tami on your new job! We are all so happy that you two will be moving back closer to us.

Toe Sucker - apparently one of the reasons he likes to be naked is so he can put his toe in his mouth. mmmmmmmmmm.

Rock Star in Training

2008-03-27T06:19:00.000-07:00

Enough posts without pictures right? Well here is our little rock star in training. He really loves his guitar. And he is so attentive to Daddy when he plays, like he is studying.

phone troubles - not so much and other good news

2008-03-21T09:37:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my wonderful brother and sister in law I now have a working phone. I dont have anyones phone numbers at this time, but my number is the same and hopefully I can transfer over my phone book later this weekend.

Now on to the congratulations...
1 - Erika, Mark and Jonah welcomed Abram David into their family on February 29 (thanks jim - i swear i knew that) - hes a super cutie...
2 - Karen, Dave and Deville welcomed Luca Van into their family yesterday...I can only assume hes as cute as his brother, and we are all eagerly awaiting pictures.
3 - Tim Naumann finally took the plunge and asked Liz Sheridan to marry him! Hooray!! What fun this wedding will be.

Congratulations to you all...your news makes us very happy.

Phone Troubles

2008-03-17T12:51:00.000-07:00

My phone broke. And by broke I mean in half, literally. So you might call, I won't know its you, I might be able to answer, but I won't be able to actually hear you. Our home phone is plugged back in (don't ask - its been unplugged for weeks) so please try that line or Chris' cell if you need me. Hopefully I will have a phone again in the next few days, if not it wont be until June. UGH!

Six Month Checkup

2008-03-11T17:05:00.001-07:00

Today Gibson had his six month check-up. He weighed in at 17 lbs and 4 oz and is 26.5 inches long. 50% percentile for those of you that know what that means. He got through his third round of shots like a trooper and he recovered much quicker than his mom, as usual.

Such a handsome drooly guy...

This is a good picture of his two teeth.

Who is wearing the cooler sweatshirt?

My boys.

Happy Family - ok so its not a good picture of me or Chris really, but Gibson looks so cute, and that's what you want to see, right?

Mom is always behind the camera...clearly I took this one myself. Gibson was actually in a great mood no matter what it looks like in this picture. So serious.

Being naked (or close to it) is one of Gibson's favorites. He is his Daddy's son...

Half a Year

2008-03-07T12:48:00.000-08:00

"That's right, I'm adorable."

I know I sound like a broken record, but when before in my life did 6 months ever go so fast? My little angel face, every day he learns so much and he teaches me things too. Like how much fun it is to bounce on the bed and just how interesting our neighborhood is when seen through new eyes, and yes, our cats ARE hilarious and facsinating. The best feeling in the world is walking into a room and having him bust out a wide smile and laugh welcoming me. Six months....holy cow.

Prunes

2008-03-06T12:41:00.000-08:00

The boy likes prunes.
And sweet potatoes and carrots. But he HATED acorn squash. You dont really have to ask how I knew he hated the squash do you? Oh yeah and he discovered his feet and he can now roll from his back to belly either way like a pro. And he laughs all the time. Finally someone who thinks I am hilarious AND an amazing singer. Such a smart boy.

SO MUCH SO FAST

2008-02-28T06:46:00.000-08:00

How did my little boy become not so little so very fast? Teeth, turning over...he changes daily! He has mastered the turning over from front to back (right side only.) He eats rice cereal, peas, green beans and avocado now too. So far the avocado is his favorite. Just like his 'rents. Tonight we will try carrots, which means there will be little orange specks all over rather than green.

Its dinner time in this picture, who do you think is the hungriest? I know some of them are hard to see but there are four hungry bellies in this picture.

During the snow "storm" (Lets face it, NJ doesnt really know what a storm is. Live in Rochester or Maine for a few years and you'll see a real storm for sure) last Friday we decided to take Gibson out to check out the snow. He was less than impressed. In fact he screamed at us and wouldn't give us a smile until we got him inside again. (just like his mom)

Play date with the Cooks! I love how Riley and Gibson are totally checking each other out in this picture.

Riley is my kind of guy. Cupcakes make me happy too.

Riley sure does have some cool toys!

And cool parents too. Gibson loved visiting with Uncle Jim.

And Auntie Alison!

Driving home, dreaming of new buddies while holding onto an old buddy.

Sunday brought a welcome visit from the Cotterills. Uncle Paul is ready to start his daddy daycare. HAW HAW. But I do love this picture of him with Gibson and the lovely miss Cali.

Two Brown Gibsons. It looks like he is ready to pick it up and play...well if it weren't twice his size that is.

ROCK STAR - and he is ready to go...

TWOothy McTWOtherson!

2008-02-18T08:29:00.000-08:00

Yup thats right, we got TWO teeth now! One week later our second chomper arrived. Mommy and Daddy were very excited while Gibson was very drooly.

Valentine's day - Daddy and Gibson visited me at work. These two, dressed alike in their Moxie shirts, were way better than any roses!

Daddy already has Gibson on a tight band practice schedule. But all he gets to play so far is the tamborine. Daddy is nervous that Gibson will already be better on the drums than he is!

Thanks to our fun new webcam, we got to see and talk to Cousins Alyssa, Richie and Brianna and Uncle Tim this weekend. Oh why did Aunt Peggy have to be shopping? :-)

Our little Valentine

2008-02-15T05:52:00.000-08:00

Gibson was in a great mood yesterday (as he is most days.) He was very excited to have his first valentines date with Auntie Chelsea. Not only did she bring food and wine which made mommy and daddy happy, she also happens to be one of the best raspberry blowers around, as you can see from the video. Uncle Joe and Miss Steph also brought delicious food and sangria (which just about knocked mom on her butt and daddy is sporting a lil headache today) and we can't thank them all enough for the wonderful valentines day treat.

AND in other news, we had our first front to back roll over yesterday. He only did it twice but its just a matter of time before hes a pro.

Toothy McTootherson!

2008-02-10T06:38:00.000-08:00

Big happenings in Gibson's world. Two days ago he decided that he LOVES his rice cereal now and he really likes chewing on the spoon. Dinner time just got a whole lot more fun and a whole lot more messy.

Yesterday marked the appearance of tooth #1 and its a sharp lil' sucker. All of a sudden he grew up a little. I am not ready for him to not be my toothless little guy anymore. Anyone know how I can slow this all down a little?

We also got a webcam because I am crazy and want to be able to see him once in a while when I am at work. So go download yahoo messenger (its free) add me as your friend (gobosgirl) and check out mr. chompers over here.

ALSO ADD CHRIS - christophergobopierce because he is home with the boy during the day and gives me peeks sometimes!

5 months!

2008-02-07T10:01:00.001-08:00

I call this his 5 month face since its his new favorite facial expression.

It is absolutely amazing to me how time has flown. Gibson is 5 months old today and he is such a smart lil dude. He is so close to turning over. Any day now... oh I hope it happens on a weekend because I started back at work this past Tuesday and Daddy now gets to play mr. mom. So far he is doing a bang up job but I sure do miss spending all day long looking at, playing with and talking to the boy.

Everything goes in his mouth.

Except maybe rice cereal. We've tried it a few times and he is less than stoked.

We bought Gibson an activity center (kind of like a walker but without wheels) and he LOVES it.

So many things to play with!

My how he grows

2008-02-01T12:31:00.000-08:00

Long legs do run in the family...

Gibson loves his cousins

2008-01-31T14:17:00.000-08:00

We spent the past week with the Weate's in Virginia, and oh how we didn't want to leave. Gibson (and his mom and dad) had so much fun with everyone and we can't thank them all enough for taking such good care of us. Daddy flew out to Colorado for the majority of the week and we missed him very much, but the time did go by fast as our days were filled with cousins and new friends. Now we are lonely at home just the three of us. (but the cats sure are happy to have us home) Gibson and his Uncle Andrew. Spaceman Spiff ready for takeoff!

Oh how happy he was to be back in his Aunt Tricia's arms...he always sleeps so soundly on her shoulder.
Cousin Hannah
Cousins Sammi and Hannah
Cousins Joey, Sammi and Hannah the morning we left.
Cousin Jake.

Gibson's first real laugh

2008-01-13T11:56:00.000-08:00

We've had little laughs before, but nothing like this. I suppose the lack of naps and playing with Auntie Chelsea got him in the perfect mood for a good laugh. Stupid mom for yelling for dad in the middle, but I really wanted him to hear this first hand.

One Third of One Year (Esta Loco)

2008-01-08T05:28:00.000-08:00

Yes it's true that time does fly. Gibson turned four months old yesterday. He had a doctors visit today (shots = uck)and he now weighs 15.2 lbs and is 24.5 inches long. It's crazy how much he changes each day and how smart he is. He can't wait to be crawling and he already talks as much as his mom. Every day we think he is the cutest boy ever and then he goes and gets cuter the next day. He really is amazing.

To the White Family

2008-01-05T15:30:00.000-08:00

Dear Aunt Kristen, Uncle Jody, Cody and Lily,

Rumor has it that you are toying with the idea of moving to the east coast. We would like to put our plea in for you to move to New Jersey. Below is our top 5 reasons for you to come here to live.

Gibson sure would love some cousins nearby to play with! And we all sure do miss you. Think about it ok?

Love your family

Happy and Merry

2008-01-02T12:44:00.000-08:00

Hello hello and Happy 2008! December was a busy month with Gibson growing and changing by the day. It's hard to believe that its Jan 08 but the calendar does not lie. The Pierce family had a great Christmas and a nice quiet New Year's Eve. Thanks to everyone who remembered and made it over for the pot luck on New Years day. So nice to see everyone, have some good grub and have all the kids play. We need to have "walkers" over more often so our cats can get exersize with all the chasing. Ella could stand to lose a few pounds.

We have the four month checkup next Monday so we'll get the update on his weight and length then. This also means shots. I hate the shots...Gibson is so much braver than his mom.

Here's to good things in 2008.

Mama and babe

Santa came!!

Visit with Auntie Alison

First thing New Year's morning. Neither of my boys look thrilled to be awake.

Gibson LOVES his new toy!
It's all smiles, until it isn't anymore. Thankfully it's still MOSTLY smiles.

Three months!

2007-12-07T14:34:00.000-08:00

Gibson isn't so new anymore, he's a big boy weighing in a little over 13 lbs. Happy three monther little man. We love you so!

Santa Baby

2007-12-05T13:49:00.001-08:00

Hat and booties compliments of Aunt Tricia. Gibson did really well on Santa's lap this year. Santa warned us not to expect the same reaction next year. He was a really good Santa. I think maybe he was the real one.

Family

2007-12-02T16:46:00.000-08:00

We spend every Thanksgiving with our Aunt Lou and Uncle Dick and our wonderful cousins. As to be expected, everyone was waiting for Gibson to arrive as eagerly as we all wait for Aunt Lou's turkey every year. Yes I just compared my son to a turkey, but I mean it in a delicious loving sort of way.

Aunt Lou and Gibson

Timmy and the boy bonding

Emily and Caroline - Gibson loved all the attention from all the pretty ladies!

Catherine patiently waited her turn to get her hands on him.

The day after Thanksgiving Aunt Judy and cousin Moniek arrived for a visit. As always the time flew by and I can' t thank them enough for the naps they let me take and all their help with Gibson.

This picture is Daddy showing the boy the first snow fall of the year. The flakes were the size of pancakes, so after watching it fall for a while, we ate some pancakes.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-21T08:41:00.000-08:00

We have so much to be thankful for this year. Happy Thanksgiving Family and Friends. We love you all!

Happy Birthday Papa and Aunt Tricia!

2007-11-16T12:36:00.000-08:00

Our internet has been less than useful as of late, sorry for the late post.

Happy Birthday Dad and Trish. We love you!

We had a visit from Aunt Tricia two weekends ago. We all wish she could have stayed longer!

They are both so happy to have their arms around each other.

In other news, Gibson weighed in at 11 lbs 9 oz last Tuesday, and he is 21.75 inches long. We love every drooly bit about him.

Bath time

2007-11-02T08:59:00.000-07:00

Bath time used to be Gibson's least favorite time, but as the days go by he is finally starting to enjoy himself. Or just not scream the entire time.

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T09:34:00.000-07:00

Halloween is Chris' favorite holiday and I suspect that in the coming years it will be Gibson's as well.

Autumn Fun

2007-10-31T07:47:00.000-07:00

We go out exploring with the boy whenever its nice out.
The first few pictures are of us at Hacklebarney State Park. Thanks to the suggestion of Bill Gerber, we stopped at the Cider Mill first and enjoyed hotdogs, ciderkraut and baked beans cooked in apple cider, and of course, apple cider before going for a walk thru the park. This is also the first time we used the baby bjorn. As usual, Gibson slept through most of the experience but we like to think he had fun.

Below are some pictures of our day with the Cotterills at Terhune Orchards. Best cider donuts....mmmm.
Corn maze fun.
Cali and Poppa Cotts

Gibson Rocks - part two

2007-10-23T05:24:00.000-07:00

Daddy already has Gibson learning guitar.

He makes the same faces as Daddy does!

Updates at last!

2007-10-21T15:55:00.001-07:00

After having lots of trouble downloading pictures to our computer, we finally found a way. We've had a very busy few weeks. The best part so far was the visits with family. Papa Shone and Grandma June came down for a few days and we loved every minute of it. We even got to go visit Aunt Lou and Uncle Dick, so much fun. Thanks Pop and June, for coming to visit and for all you did for us while you were here. Coming back anytime soon?

Meeting Papa for the first time. Gibson spent many hours sleeping on Papa's shoulder over the next few days.

Another new favorite place to hang out, Grandma June's arms! Gibson would like to apologize to Grandma about the rather loud walk around the block, he was just a little cranky that day.

Auntie and Unc. Gibson is really looking forward to Thanksgiving to meet the cousins!

Two of his favorite ladies.

Saying Goodbye. This is before the tears...there are always tears with goodbyes.

Gibson ROCKS!

2007-10-21T14:38:00.000-07:00

My co-workers at Guitar Center got together and bought the boy a welcome-to-the-world gift (project spearheaded by Hosie...)
He may never know how cool he is...

Look boy, nature!

2007-10-21T14:20:00.000-07:00

Poor slow plastic children...

So we've been taking Gibson pretty much everywhere we can think of. Perhaps he will have vague and fond memories of trudging through pumpkin patches and corn mazes with his pal Cali. He may retain distant images of rocks and waterfalls and apple orchards and cider and Daddy sprinting to the state park restroom after ciderdogs with ciderkraut, cider baked beans, and well, plain cider. I'm sure it was humorous to someone else.

So far so good

2007-10-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

Gibson has been such a good boy. We wouldn't mind a few more hours sleep but we are working on a schedule so we each get a few consecutive hours each night. Gibson was born weighing 5 lbs 12 oz. When we brought him home he weighed only 5.5, but by his first visit to the doctor he was up to 5.8, then 5.14 and as of one week ago he was 6.5. He already looks so different than when he born. Here are a few random pictures of our boy.

Gibson at his first beer garden with Pop on 9/29/07.

First introduction to "nature." Pop needed that burp cloth.

Sleep is their favorite activity.

Aeeehhh -thats how he gets our attention.

His first walk around Milltown.

His first backyard picnic.

Outside makes him sleepy.

My most recent favorite photo.

Uncle Jimmie.

Bonding with Uncle John.

Uncle Fid, he didn't break him or anything.

Let's Go Yankees!

2007-09-22T06:30:00.000-07:00

Of course its a Jeter shirt.

Gibson baby I love you, you're the best. (thats for Auntie Kathy)

My boys

2007-09-16T16:37:00.001-07:00

My lil' sweet pea

Sleepy boys

He loves his pop

I'm the luckiest girl in the world.

Can't forget the other boy in my life. Mingus is getting used to Gibson.

More Buddies!

2007-09-16T08:43:00.000-07:00

Uncle Harry and Aunt Tami!

Gibson was so excited to meet his first family members. He feel in love with Uncle Harry and Aunt Tami immediately. He can't wait for them to have a baby so he has a cousin close by to grow up with....no pressure though.

Auntie April made her first visit.

Jennifer and Jesus, er, I mean Brian.

Miranda was a natural.

Happy Birthday Aunt Peggy!!

2007-09-15T13:37:00.000-07:00

He made the sign himself, he's very talented.

So many new friends!

2007-09-13T08:52:00.000-07:00

First up to visit was Auntie Kathy of course. Gibson can't wait to get some play time with lil' Cali.

Uncle Paul can't wait to help out with changing some diapers!

Joe, Chelsea and Mikey all fought over who got to hold Gibson first.

Gibson already loves his Uncle Carrot.

Mikey also can't wait to help out with the diaper changes!

Joann, and soon to be "best big sister ever" Christina.

Good ole Pops Naumann is a natural with the babies.

BEST NEIGHBOR EVER!!! And Gibson can't wait to try out some of her baked goods!

Gibson is really in there, and Justin really is thrilled to be holding him.

TEAM AWESOME! We totally smuggled in new bff Riley.

We got a late night visit from Uncle Slover....ok it was 9 pm but it seemed like the middle of the night to us.

Veteran Mom - Carrie Davis

Janelle - Next on the list of moms to be....

The lovely Mrs. Maria Crocco - or is SHE the next on the list?

John's favorite food, Baby Burritos!

Somehow I missed taking pictures of Julie, Karen and Rob....I thought I did but man I was so tired most of the time. Many thanks to all of you who came by to visit our new lil man. We are so thankful for our friends.

Here I am!

2007-09-11T13:17:00.000-07:00

After scheduling the c-section for 3:00 on Friday, 9/7/07, Gibson decided to let us know that he approves of this date by having my water break shortly after midnight on Friday. We still went ahead with the time of the surgery and he appeared in the world at 3:42 p.m. We love him so much it hurts. I am healing quickly from the surgery, and after getting treated really well by all the staff at St. Peters, we came home yesterday and even managed a few hours of sleep last night. Many more pictures to come including tons with all the new friends he has met in the past few days.

C you in one week

2007-08-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

We got the word from the Doc that I'm going to have a c-section one week from today. Seems as if Gibson is in a breech position and plans on staying that way. 9/7/07 has a nice ring to it but it sure seems awful close.

Here is his room as of now

His crib all dolled up

Changing area Toys, books, stuffed animal, and one kitty

Best shower decorations ever!

Song for Gibson

2007-08-18T15:19:00.000-07:00

Longtime buddy, Jon Snodgrass, wrote a fantastic song for our boy. Check it out here: http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=211961703
We love this dude.

Getting ready for the boy

2007-08-17T16:19:00.000-07:00

Gibson made us make three trips to get these 3D pictures done. The last visit took over 3 hours (we had dinner during that time too) and he finally moved his arms and legs away from his face long enough for us to get a few decent shots. He has his soon to be BFF Cali to thank for these pictures. I worry for her parents because she's only one but yet knows their credit card number already!

Papa Pierce is putting the crib together. Previous inhabitants of this crib include Gibson's three cousins Alyssa, Richie and Brianna. I know he is very excited to meet them and his Aunt Peggy and Uncle Tim so he can thank them for the comfy bed.

Feeling trapped?

So proud!

NO KITTIES IN THE CRIB!!